Guard Dogs

Guard Dogs

Guard dogs are a popular choice amongst animal lovers looking to add some extra security to your home. While a dog may not completely replace the benefits of a home security system and plan, training guard dogs can be help keep not only your house safe, but your family safe when you're out with the dog.

According to The Personal Security Handbook, the best guard dogs are Chow Chows, Doberman Pinschers, Rhodesian Ridgeback, Bull Mastiffs, Rottweilers, and German Shephers. The reason these dogs are superior choices is because they have built-in instincts for guarding the home. Their size and deep resonant barks make a great burglar deterrent.

Training Guard Dogs

Since guard dogs are potentially dangerous animals, they need special training. Breeds that make the best guard dogs have a strong self-preservation instinct which makes them likely to attack if they feel they are being confronted. They aren't as tolerant of teasing or abuse as other breeds. For this reason, your guard dog should have professional training. Ultimately, you want an animal that you can easily control but that is territorial about your property.

Start at the beginning by buying a puppy from a breeder with a good reputation. Gender doesn't matter. Both male and female dogs can be trained to make good guard dogs. You'll want to start socializing the dog early on, both with other people and with other dogs. They should also become accustomed to traffic and the noises of your neighborhood. Regular walks will take care of that.

Trainers usually prefer to work with dogs that are 6 to 12 months old, though older dogs can still learn new tricks, despite the old adage. The first training a dog should receive is basic obedience training. Here, the dog learns to obey your basic hand and voice signals, and to walk at your side on and off lease. For guard dogs, there is additional training called Controlled Aggression Training which will 3 to 6 months. This is where the dog learns to attack on command and its instincts to protect your home are honed.

It's important to remember that owning a trained guard dog is just like having a weapon. You must take responsibility for it. Make sure friends and relatives don't come over unannounced, and if strangers are coming over to work on the house, you'll want to warn them of the dog's temperament.