think we want a terrier

Question
Hello
My wife and I are researching our first pet.  We will hopefully also be having children soon.  We have a house with about a quater acre.  We want something friendly and good around people, especially children.  But we want the dog to be protective and a good watch dog.  We don't want a large dog or something that will shed alot or make a mess in the house.  We have done some research and think a rat terrier sounds good for us.  Do you have any advice? thanks

Answer
Dave -

I'm sorry I'm a little late getting back to you. I just got home from vacation and then the power cord to my laptop stopped working !

Anyway, I am not particularly familiar with rat terriers since they are generally considered one of the toy breeds as opposed to the terrier breeds.

However, you may want to consider adopting an adult dog with children experience rather than having to raise a puppy and babies at the same time.

I'm truly sorry I can't be of more assistance.

-Beth