Hate to belabour this subject since so many people have answered, and there are a couple of issues (the latest two) that I haven't read yet for lack of time, but in case no one's mentioned it yet, it's been my experience that the best rule of thumb besides getting a puppy who is not too timid (but not too aggressive, either) and quite suggestable, as most puppies are, is to avoid terrier breeds. These were mostly bred for hunting small ferret-sized creatures, and many (*particularly* Jack Russell Terriers) just can't seem to fight that instinct -- I've seen more than one who started to attack first and ask questions later -- our clinic mascot, Houdini (at Dr. Kawasaki's), the world's sweetest, most adorable male silver mitt (okay, to avoid ruffling any feathers -- the sweetest one I've had the pleasure to meet! ;) ) was maulled by a Jack Russell who did just that. Houdini was out running around while his cage was being cleaned, and an unsuspecting receptionist brought back the dog -- Houdini ended up with a bite right under his eye and a really deep one under his chin -- he felt lousy for days because it got infected and it hurt to eat. Not trying to scare you -- I've also seen dogs *great* with ferrets, including the 70# boxer/shepherd I used to talk about last year who *delighted* in playing with and being teased by my older one, Trella. Just watch out for dogs with strong small-animal hunting instincts. This might include dachsunds, come to think of it -- I believe that's what their short little legs are for -- going into burrows. Sorry, Tarra -- your dachsund is obviously the shining exception! :) Hope this helps. Oh yeah, by the way, could somebody send me a copy of the whole Kansas scenario, too? I missed it during a busy streak and I can only seem to piece together bits and pieces. Thanks! Laura Laura L'Heureux, Trella, and Tribble, too U. of Illinois Vet Med Class of `96 [log in to unmask] [Posted in FML issue 0732]