Many homeowners recently have opted to purchase a guard dog in order to protect their homes. While this can be an effective means of , failing to understand which breeds are the most compatible for this kind of work can result in injury or even tragedy if the dog should attack a child or other family member. In order to understand how a guard dog would best benefit their property and their families, homeowners should educate themselves about the breed they are considering and know the difference between a guard dog and watchdog.
Nicole Pajer, a contributor for renowned dog trainer and behaviorist , notes that “Owning a guard dog comes with added responsibility. [. . . ] Owners must take into consideration the fact that these dogs can tend to possess more aggressive natures than other breeds. In order to ensure the safety of family members, guests, and neighbors, guard dogs must be properly socialized and trained.”
While guard dogs such as the Rottweiler, pit bull, German Shepard, Doberman, and even recently introduced breeds like the Kuvas and the Malinois can all be effective guard dogs, they are not instinctively obedient and will require a great deal of training. If these dogs are purchased without the owner understanding the temperament and history, the results can be disastrous.
Before any homeowner buys a guard dog or considers any breed of dog with a guarding history, they must first educate themselves and then find a reputable breeder who has a good history of breeding dependable, stable animals.
If homeowners want a dog that will enhance their but have littleexperience with guard dogs, then a watchdog may be a better choice. Watchdogs differ from guard dogs because they are friendlier, easier to train, but are still highly alert and loyal to the family. Some good watchdog breeds that will alert you to trouble or intruders are most terrier breeds, poodles, Chihuahuas, and Dachshunds.
While these dogs are not as reserved with strangers, homeowners should still keep in mind that any fearful or unsocialized dog can and will bite, so they should have their dogs trained and exposed to as many people as possible while they are still puppies. In fact, a fearful or anxious dog will bite faster than an aggressive dog, so if homeowners want an effective watchdog that is also good with people, they should seek a professional trainer.
Emily Stevenson
Author – Emily is a 10 year veteran of the home security industry working in sales. She was a top sales person at leading home security companies, but has shifted her focus to working on helping consumers make the right decisions.