If you have been thinking about getting a dog for security purposes, then you may have considered buying a guard dog and training them to protect your property. But is it really a good idea? Is it better to get a regular dog with the hope that his or her instincts will naturally kick in and protect you? Well, this article will cover the most important things to consider before getting a guard dog. See here for 'pet home visits'.
Should You Purchase or Adopt a Guard Dog?
Training a dog to protect you and your family by being vicious towards intruders while making sure they are friendly to your family, friends, and strangers is no walk in the park. In order to find the right balance, your dog will require advanced training and you may not like the strategies that some trainers employ. It can be extremely hard to watch your new pet subjected to painful activities through shock collars and other strategies just for the sole reason of keeping you safe.
Also, there is the possibility that puppies that have undergone guard dog training will warn you of things that aren't threatening simply because they were startled. For instance, you do not need them to warn you every time a family member enters the property. If this becomes a nuisance, it could affect your life's quality and even call for more money to train them out of such habits.
Still, you may feel that you need a trained guard dog and find that it matches your needs. Like all dogs, guard dogs can also form great bonds with their owners. They can be playful, loving, and fun to have around even if their primary role is to act as protectors. For most owners, they serve as both a form of security and a loving companion.
What are the Best Guard Dog Breeds?
Some dogs are natural guard dogs. This means that they're born with instincts to protect their homes, owners and families. These types of dogs are usually smart and trainable, making them relatively easy to adapt to your home and needs. However, in order to get the protection you need, they need to be kept in good health condition. That said, here are some guard dog breeds you may want to consider:
-Doberman pinscher
-Belgian Malinois
-Akita
-Bullmastiff
-Rottweiler
-German Shepherd
Also known as guardian breeds, natural guard dogs alert you when there's a dangerous situation or an intruder in your home. They may also take steps to protect you, including attacking the individual attempting to hurt you. A good guardian dog should also be obedient so that you can gain control over a misjudged situation. The Belgian Malinois is an example of an obedient and loyal dog, making it one of the best breeds for protection. It makes a perfect companion for women who need to feel safer at their properties.
While you may want to settle for a guardian dog breed that is known for its protective instincts, it is also worth learning about the common health issues with some breeds. German shepherds, for instance, usually have hip problems that can lead to arthritis and ultimately, paralysis when not addressed. However, that does not mean you should not settle for the kind of dog you want or like. It is just that you should be more aware of potential health issues that may arise in the future.
Also, it is advisable to work with a dog breeder that gives you the right documentation. If the dog's parents did not have health issues, then there are few chances the puppy will develop them. Knowing this kind of information is vital in picking the right breed to guard you and your property.
