Damn, I can't even take a nap without the bad vibes of someone talking about me disturbing my slumber. (Oh, and you'd be surprised how quickly this crippled up old man can move when he has too... just can't do it for long.)
About your little rat dog. Once again I'm going to be the contrarian and most probably be made sport of. I have more than a little bit of experience when it comes to handling dogs and investigating burglaries. There is a distinct difference between using a working dog on patrol or for personal defense. They serve a dual purpose, the first and foremost is actually as a psychological deterrent. Most people will do what you tell them to do when you have a highly trained working dog sitting next to you. I think it has something to do with a fear of being eaten alive. If for some reason they don't do what you tell them to do the size and temperament of the dog comes into play. (that's the fun part. Violence may be crude... but it works.)
A dog for home protection is a different matter entirely. (This is where I'll get verbally abused.) Home burglaries, (with rare exceptions), are acts of opportunity. Vacant house, (except for cat burglars), lots of cover around doors and windows, unlocked doors and no signs of alarms. (That's why people put up alarm company signs in their yard even though they have no alarm system.)
The first and foremost thing burglars tend to avoid are houses with dogs... small, yappy, neighbor alerting dogs. Big dogs, no matter how potentially aggressive are easily killed, (a simple wrap of leather around your forearm and a knife in your other hand pretty much guarantees you're not going to get a scratch). A small, yappy dog on the other hand is quick, mobile, can race from bush to bush, under a porch, or just keep running in circles if out in the yard all the while making enough noise to raise the dead. If confined inside the house they hide under chairs, couch, coffee table, etc., while sounding the alarm.
Take the time to talk to enough burglars and you'll notice one common denominator... they don't like noise, they'll always move on to a house with no alarm and no dog.
Cats are even harder to catch but they don't make as much noise... unless you're swingin' 'em around your head by the tail.
Get a rat dog, or
buy a gun and stay home.
(Where the hell are my candy bars?)
Jack