HELP! Good Beginner Dog For These Conditions?

[Noccy]

This is a very specific thread, so those who are experienced dog owners would be best in answering this.

I live in a very bad part of town, with soon to be only my dad and myself, and lately, my dad and I have been entertaining the thought of getting a dog for possible protection while I'm alone in my house. I'm a homeschool student (a junior to be exact), and am gone for only a period of about three hours, two times a week, so I figure I should have a lot of time to train a puppy if I get one. I understand the responsibilities of having a dog, so I'm trying my best to get a dog that would fit well in my household, as I don't want to get a breed of dog that's too much for me to handle, and end up spoiling the dog because of it.

These are some of the things I'm looking for in a dog... As I said, I hope to be able to get a breed of dog that would do well as protection. A medium sized dog preferably, maybe around rottweiler sized, and a dog that isn't too high energy. My dad and I don't do a lot of going out, and I am not a naturally active person, so unless I exert myself to try and satisfy an energetic breed's needs, a more tame, though playful breed would be nice. Again, this is my first time owning a dog, so a dog that a new owner could adapt to easily is preferred. A breed that does well inside, with exception to being taken out for walks and the like, as my house doesn't have a fenced yard. And, last but not least, I hope to get a dog that could do well with smaller animals, such as cats. (I have a cat... Would raising a puppy with the cat be a smart idea? I don't want a breed that has a tendancy to be small animal aggressive!) Also, I live in the city, so a dog that does well in the city would be a help.

I'm not looking for appearance. I'm looking for loyalty and trust, and a good sense of protection, mainly. It puts my dad at ease, leaving me here alone, to have a dog around that could help protect the family.

Any breed suggestions would be appreciated!

[Lizmo]

Good place to come for sound advice. Welcome :)

For starters, any dog, by bonding with it's owner, will naturally protect when really needed.

For specific breeds, I would suggest a LARGE breed over something of force, like a GSD or Rottie. Most people -who are trying to hurt you- are going to be scared of a 200lb dog standing next to you growling. He's not using *force* but presence. Does that make sense?

I would suggest a breed like Newfie, St. Bernard, Mastif, or something of that sort. These dog's don't need many hours of walking/running like a GSD or Rottie would. They WILL protect when needed but just by having that SIZE dog standing next to you would scare anyone.

All of these breeds are lovely dogs and huge lap dogs with their owner. And I would assume, if raised properly and from puppyhood with cats, would do just fine.

[corgipower]

Most dogs begin being protective somewhere between one and two years old, so depending on the immediacy of your needs, you might not want a puppy. If you are going to train him to do protection, you don't want him to be low energy.

The first breed that comes to mind would be a german shepherd. A doberman is the second breed. Either one though will need a fair amount of exercise, but they're not typically inclined to be bouncing off walls.

I would suggest having him trained in protection, and having yourself and your dad trained as well in handling. A protection dog needs to have obedience control and needs to be socialized so that he is accepting of friendly strangers. As for being good with cats, that depends on the individual dog, not on the breed. Raising him as a puppy with the cat would help, but isn't a necessity.

[Tankstar]

I agree size will scare some one. Also to mention normally black dogs are more scary looking. I wouldnt get somthing like a german shepherd or rottie as they do tend to need alot of excersise. If you dont mind drool and grooming a newfie or a mastiff would be a good choice i think. They still need walks, but not as much as a golden retriver or another high energy breed would.

[bubbatd]

You wouldn't believe how many people have been afraid of my Goldens !!!! Here you would have a pussycat whose bark would make anyone think twice !!! Personally I like a dog that will bark and alarm .....over an aggressive dog . They are loving family members first .

[Julie]

Considering all the info you posted, I would consider looking for a "watch" dog, not a "protection" dog. Maybe a dog that would bark at strangers, or abnormal sounds?
Don't exclude smaller dogs, as they can give you warning and usually the bark of any dog is a deterrent.
Good luck in finding a great dog.... Just don't "bite" off more than you can chew... :D

[FoxyWench]

just as a general side note, even my 3 lb chihuhaua can be protective when he wants to be.

my 10lb chinese crested can be down right scary when she shows those teeth (shes only ever done it once to a man that was making me very uneasy...men tend to back off when a gorwling dog is staring at their crotch.

a rescued greyhound might be great for you if you have a securly fenced dog park locally, they are 40mph couch potatoes in the home, and a good walk with a nice offleash run in a securly fenced area (never let a sighthound offleash in an unfenced area) greys are a large breed but slim, they are quiet indoors but form height alone can be VERY intimidating, they are sweet natured and rescues are pretested for their reactions to cats, i know of many rescued greys that are living happily in homes with cats! they are sweet natured and very loyal and loving to THEIR people. sometimes they seem like there not listening, but there realy just either too lazy or too smart. and a growling grey is definatly something to be aware of.

ive heard alot of good about schnauzers, but im not sure of the energy needs of the breed, i do know however they are very family protective

Staffordshire, american staffies and "pitbulls" (apbt's) can be wonderfull dogs for beginners IF they are bred right and raised properly, they might be a little high energy for you, and while they are certainly not a protective breed (a well bred bully by nautre should love everyone) the shere fact that they are a bully breed and their unfortunate reputation most people would think twice beofre trying it with anyhome with a pit in in...
i only have experience with staffordshire bull terriers from the UK, and i LOVE the breed...

just some suggestions to look into..

[corgipower]

I live in a very bad part of town, with soon to be only my dad and myself

I would go with a dog that will back up his threats if need be, and be sure to get adequate professional training for him, but that depends on just how bad the neighborhood actually is.

[Lizmo]

Personally I like a dog that will bark and alarm .....over an aggressive dog .

I think you've hit the nail on the head here, Grammy. I would, if ever needed a protection dog, get a dog that had more of a bark and presence than over an aggressive dog. So many "bad" people are used to Pit Bulls, Rotties, ect. But when you have a HUGE dog standing next to you barking in a VERY deep tone, it makes people think twice.

[Noccy]

I would go with a dog that will back up his threats if need be, and be sure to get adequate professional training for him, but that depends on just how bad the neighborhood actually is.

Thank you corgi, hah hah.

Every house around me has gotten broken into and multiple murders have occured over the passed five years in neighboring streets. It's only due time before my house is targeted as well. (It has been actually. But none of the break ins were successful.)

What you said is actually what I meant. I'm not saying I want some vicious mean guard dog and that's all I want, but I don't want a dog that's just standing by and barking while someone is trying to harm me. Every dog is protective and I know this, but some only vocally. I guess I'd kind of like a dog that could take someone down if need be, even if not of any particular breed. I was just wondering if there were any dogs that were inclined to be protective. (Not vicious.)

[Julie]

I would go with a dog that will back up his threats if need be, and be sure to get adequate professional training for him, but that depends on just how bad the neighborhood actually is.

In my opinion a person shouldn't get a dog for "protection" only... there is much more to owning a dog than, "he will protect me"... Especially for a first time dog owner... You are asking for problems. I can see wanting a dog to alert to strange activity, but from there on you should be the one protecting. And to put a protection dog into a bad neighborhood is really asking... "how will my dog die?"

Why don't you and your father go to a firearms class? Protect yourself, and get a "watch dog", almost any dog will alert to something strange going on.

[corgipower]

I'm not saying I want some vicious mean guard dog and that's all I want, but I don't want a dog that's just standing by and barking while someone is trying to harm me.

A protection dog is not a vicious mean dog. He is well adusted, friendly towards friendly strangers, and responds to a threat by barking, and if necessary by biting.

I guess I'd kind of like a dog that could take someone down if need be, even if not of any particular breed. I was just wondering if there were any dogs that were inclined to be protective. (Not vicious.)

If you want him to be willing and able to take someone down, you definitely aren't looking at low-energy. He needs strong prey drive, as well as defensive to balance it. It's not easy to explain on a forum, so I urge you to find someone who trains protection dogs, and not someone who trains "junk yard" protection, but someone skilled in personal protection, police dog training, or someone who specializes in sport protection but has experience with personal protection as well.

I also would suggest getting a dog either through a protection trainer or from a breeder.


Every house around me has gotten broken into and multiple murders have occured over the passed five years in neighboring streets. It's only due time before my house is targeted as well. (It has been actually. But none of the break ins were successful.)

:yikes:
I also would suggest moving!!

[FoxyWench]

ive yet to meet a dog that wouldnt back up the growl IF it truly felt it needed to...

even my dodger man who is all talk mostly would fly at anyone threatening me...true he probably woudlnt last long but hed get a few good bites and tears in there before hand...
Ruby who loves everyone has provel that 10lbs can be enough to ward off those with ill intent...

as a general rule of thumb, big dogs are visual deterents, ANY dog that barks is an audial deterant (statistics show that homes with ANY dog that might make a ruccous and draw attention is more likely to be passed over than a home with no dog) Small dogs tend to be the best watch dogs, i can never remember but the lhasa or shitzu was developd as a temple guard dog...they are small...

it realy depends on what you can handle personally a reactive dog is definatly not a good choice for a beginner, professional training of a breed like a gsd or rottie ect is expensive and those dogs tend to be high drive and require alot more excersize than many other breeds (a gsd or rottie or dobe would simply be very unhappy with a couple walks a day)
there are plenty of dogs that will provide a visual and audial deterant for general living purposes and if push comes to shove instinct for most breeds is to switch from "warning" to "protect"

live stock guardian breeds are bred for the purpose of being protective, however i doubt im alone when i say i dont think ANY of the LSG breeds would be suitable for a beginner or lack of activity...

as i said, my 3lb chihuhaua would TRY and protect me if push came to shove...so will my 10lb crestie, and my parents 25lb cocker, doesnt matter how big or small any dog that bonds with their person is likely to know when the situation calls for that change from companion to protector...
Even the people lovers seem to know if the time arises.

[bubbatd]

Really any big dog who warns is protection . I just wouldn't want a dog that
I couldn't trust with friends and family .

[showpug]

I would recommend based on what you said, a bullmastiff. Since you aren't naturally active, this would be a great breed to consider AND they are wonderful companions along with having a strong protective drive once they reach maturity at about 2 years of age. An added bonus is their appearance. Honestly, while a lot of dogs can be protective, if you are looking for a dog specifically for that purpose, I would pick from the working group.

[HoundedByHounds]

Actually an Akita female might be a good choice. They require structure and obedience training...but NOT protection training. They do that naturally. They are independant dogs that do not need an owner around 24/7 and are usually very quick to bond with one or two people...but seldom welcome strangers without proper introductions.

I would trust my life to an Akita...but you need to be aware that they are a thinking breed, and very powerful too. You must think ahead of them and keep things in order at home with a good leadership program. They do not typically like other dogs or small animals so if you have plans for a lot of pets in future they'd be a poor choice.

BUT if you find a nice one in rescue..which I know there are a TON of young sweet adults in rescue right now...you might have a nice match for your situation.

They do not require a bunch of exercise but they do shed...heavily...twice a year.

ETA: An Akita will act if necessary. A friend of mine has an extremely sweet bitch that she came home to find stabbed several times after a failed break in...nothing was taken and the dog lived...but the point was...most of the wounds were in the face and neck of the dog...she acted. And this is a dog that plays with kids and is trustworthy around other animals as well. Akitas are not window dressing...they will act.

[corgipower]

I just wouldn't want a dog that I couldn't trust with friends and family.

There is no reason not to trust a protection trained dog with friends and family.

[elegy]

i hate to say it, but i wouldn't recommend most of these breeds of dogs to joe average dog owner, and as a junior in high school, the OP doesn't have a lot of dog experience. dog ownership, especially of an "aggressive" breed, is a huge responsibility, and, well, it's not for everyone. these kind of dogs in the hands of people who are not prepared to deal with them end up in trouble, and then there are more breed bans and stupid laws.

i love the idea of a greyhound, personally. or a mixed breed of suitable energy level and size from a rescue. any dog is going to be a deterrent when it comes to keeping people out of your house. and any medium to large breed dog is going to be a deterrent on the street.

[corgipower]

ive yet to meet a dog that wouldnt back up the growl IF it truly felt it needed to...

I've seen many who wouldn't back up the growl. But if they have the right balance of drives, they will most likely act. With the right drives and training, they definitely will act.

[Julie]

I just talked to a bull mastiff owner a couple days ago. He got "rid" of his dog because it killed every cat that came into his yard. I also know another bull mastiff owner, not a dog I would reccommend to a first time dog owner regardless of the person's needs.
Just my opinion.. no offense SP. :)

OP... Why don't you move into a better neighborhood?

[HoundedByHounds]

MOST breeds that are inclined to protect are not for the first time owner I think that's fair to say. But the question was posed and I made a recommendation...because if someone is GOING to have a protectively inclined dog for their first...they ARE and th least I can do is educate them on the needs of the breed and how to find one from a reputable source.

[corgipower]

because if someone is GOING to have a protectively inclined dog for their first...they ARE and th least I can do is educate them on the needs of the breed and how to find one from a reputable source.

Very true. I have seen first time dog owners successfully own, train and handle a protection dog. But not without a lot of professional assistance and guidance.

[HoundedByHounds]

;) I said protectively inclined...not protection dogs. IMO one is not equal to the other. My Akitas did just fine on their own as far as judgement calls.

[HoundedByHounds]

Ahh to the OP I also forgot...the Chow and SharPei both are a bit smaller but also a naturally protective breed.

Many can be sweet and kind with people and other animals if purchased from a reputable source and raised properly. Mixes of these two breeds are also quite common in shelters and that's an option to explore...as is rescue.

Neither is particularly gaga for exercise...but there are some pretty common health concerns like eye skin and ortho things.

More I think about it a nice Chow mix could fit your needs quite nicely...and don't think of Shar Pei as those cute wrinkly puppies...they are quite a lot of dog when grown and can be very headstrong...as can the Chow...so be aware! ;)

[Noccy]

OP... Why don't you move into a better neighborhood?

Gotta love lack of funds. :P

[Noccy]

To HoundedByHounds.

I actually adore Akitas. There's one breed I know a thing or two about. (Most spitz types I do.) And I've helped friends who had behavioral problem Akitas and spitz types to make them behave. I've never had dogs before, but I do know how to train them, because I do behavorial training at humane societies, ironically. But spitz type dogs just aren't right for my home environment. I'd feel horrible keeping a high energy level dog inside all the time, and only out for walks and that's it. That'd drive the poor pup bananas. I'd at least want to get the money for a fenced yard before I get a spitz.

[HoundedByHounds]

LOL no Akita I have ever owned...could be described as high energy...lol. Totally laid back in the home and even too long a walk would annoy them, esp if it were above 75 degrees out!

[RD]

How about a livestock guardian like a Pyrenees? They're not extremely high energy dogs (the adults that I know are laid back, but still respond quickly to a potential threat) but they're naturally quite protective and working-bred Pyrs don't need to be trained to do so - though obedience training to keep them under control is a MUST.

I don't know a lot about protection training, but I've noticed that a lot of the high-drive dogs (not just shepherds and dobermans, but any high drive breed) require a ton (and I mean a ton) of training and micro-managing. Maybe you don't have the time for that? As a senior in high school (homeschooled also) I don't have all day to make sure my dog isn't out of control and a danger to someone. I really think that a naturally mellow dog equipped with protective instincts is the best way to go, personally.

But either way, getting the dog will be the smallest part of the equation - the big deal will be you and your dad learning how to handle the dog. :)

[Noccy]

HoundedByHounds:
I've seen Akitas that act both ways. Some were really laid back, but others were driven so mad because walks and play time just wasn't enough. They were quite destructive! (Not an Akita, but I knew of a Siberian Husky who chewed through a door once because it wasn't being exercised properly. Hah hah!)

RD:
That's actually what I'm really looking for. Perhaps I didn't express myself correctly in the original post.

[showpug]

I just talked to a bull mastiff owner a couple days ago. He got "rid" of his dog because it killed every cat that came into his yard. I also know another bull mastiff owner, not a dog I would reccommend to a first time dog owner regardless of the person's needs.
Just my opinion.. no offense SP. :)

OP... Why don't you move into a better neighborhood?

Interesting point of view. My very close friend breeds and shows bullmastiffs and I have spent a lot of time with her dogs and learning about the breed. They can have a high prey-drive, but not all of them do, you would have to know the line and the individual temperament. They definitely need a strong leader, but if the dog owner is committed to learning and obedience training there is no reason why a bullmastiff couldn't make a wonderful first time dog. It all comes down to how serious the new owner is and how they research who to get their puppy from. I have known many incredibly docile and loyal bullmastiffs that children can control.:)

[DanL]

ive yet to meet a dog that wouldnt back up the growl IF it truly felt it needed to...


Sorry, I gotta disagree here. Most dogs will not back up a growl, and if they do bite, it's a fear bite. A fear bite is done to try and get whoever/whatever is bothering the dog to go away. The dog does not want to engage in a fight, they simply want the problem to cease. They posture and growl, and then maybe take a cheap bite as a last resort. In reality, a lot of dogs that are protective breeds will do the same thing. In just the last 4 months at our dog club I've seen a half dozen GSDs, Rottie mixes, big American Bull Terriers who wanted to join us, and none of them would engage a person who was making threats towards them or their owners. Most showed total avoidance. The rottie mix even laid down as a simulated attack on his owner took place. ALL of these people thought their dog would protect them, and none did or showed any desire to. Imagine the lady who was having a simulated attack done on her and she's watching her trusted protective pet lay down and not even pay attention to her screaming. She got a dose of reality real fast.

Put one of the dogs you were talking about- cockers, chis, crested, whatever, up against someone like me. Let it growl and posture and I'll make one assertive, quick, menacing move to that dog and it will most likely pee itself. It's not going to attack me. And if it does, it gets punted, and I guarantee it isn't coming back for more. This is what someone who is determined to get you or your property is going to do, a little dog is one small obstacle in their quest. In turn, show me a GSD, a Rottie, Dobie, Bouvier, Mal, that is silent and is standing it's ground with confidence, I'm not going to test that dog. That's the dog that will have no problem taking the fight to you and who won't give up.

I'm not sure what to tell the original poster. A dog that will really protect you is not a dime a dozen dog, it has to have the right genetics, the right training, and is going to be a LOT of work. For a dog like that 99% of it's life is training, and maybe once does it get to prove it can do what it was trained to do. There is really no way around it. Maybe getting a giant dog like a Mastiff is best because they are a great deterrant, but they still require a lot of training and won't be mature enough to really do anything protection wise till they are at least 2 years old.

The main point of my post was to try and quell this myth that any dog will protect, it's simply not true.

[RD]

Noccy, a lot of the livestock guardians and mastiff breeds have lower exercise requirements. If you're okay with a really big dog, why not look into a female English Mastiff? They're obviously a lot larger than a Rottweiler, but they're generally rather agreeable dogs and the ones I've been around were not difficult to control, despite their size.

[showpug]

Sorry, I gotta disagree here. Most dogs will not back up a growl, and if they do bite, it's a fear bite. A fear bite is done to try and get whoever/whatever is bothering the dog to go away. The dog does not want to engage in a fight, they simply want the problem to cease. They posture and growl, and then maybe take a cheap bite as a last resort. In reality, a lot of dogs that are protective breeds will do the same thing. In just the last 4 months at our dog club I've seen a half dozen GSDs, Rottie mixes, big American Bull Terriers who wanted to join us, and none of them would engage a person who was making threats towards them or their owners. Most showed total avoidance. The rottie mix even laid down as a simulated attack on his owner took place. ALL of these people thought their dog would protect them, and none did or showed any desire to. Imagine the lady who was having a simulated attack done on her and she's watching her trusted protective pet lay down and not even pay attention to her screaming. She got a dose of reality real fast.

Put one of the dogs you were talking about- cockers, chis, crested, whatever, up against someone like me. Let it growl and posture and I'll make one assertive, quick, menacing move to that dog and it will most likely pee itself. It's not going to attack me. And if it does, it gets punted, and I guarantee it isn't coming back for more. This is what someone who is determined to get you or your property is going to do, a little dog is one small obstacle in their quest. In turn, show me a GSD, a Rottie, Dobie, Bouvier, Mal, that is silent and is standing it's ground with confidence, I'm not going to test that dog. That's the dog that will have no problem taking the fight to you and who won't give up.

I'm not sure what to tell the original poster. A dog that will really protect you is not a dime a dozen dog, it has to have the right genetics, the right training, and is going to be a LOT of work. For a dog like that 99% of it's life is training, and maybe once does it get to prove it can do what it was trained to do. There is really no way around it. Maybe getting a giant dog like a Mastiff is best because they are a great deterrant, but they still require a lot of training and won't be mature enough to really do anything protection wise till they are at least 2 years old.

The main point of my post was to try and quell this myth that any dog will protect, it's simply not true.

^^^I really agree!

[Herschel]

Sorry, I gotta disagree here. Most dogs will not back up a growl, and if they do bite, it's a fear bite. A fear bite is done to try and get whoever/whatever is bothering the dog to go away. The dog does not want to engage in a fight, they simply want the problem to cease. They posture and growl, and then maybe take a cheap bite as a last resort. In reality, a lot of dogs that are protective breeds will do the same thing. In just the last 4 months at our dog club I've seen a half dozen GSDs, Rottie mixes, big American Bull Terriers who wanted to join us, and none of them would engage a person who was making threats towards them or their owners. Most showed total avoidance. The rottie mix even laid down as a simulated attack on his owner took place. ALL of these people thought their dog would protect them, and none did or showed any desire to. Imagine the lady who was having a simulated attack done on her and she's watching her trusted protective pet lay down and not even pay attention to her screaming. She got a dose of reality real fast.

Put one of the dogs you were talking about- cockers, chis, crested, whatever, up against someone like me. Let it growl and posture and I'll make one assertive, quick, menacing move to that dog and it will most likely pee itself. It's not going to attack me. And if it does, it gets punted, and I guarantee it isn't coming back for more. This is what someone who is determined to get you or your property is going to do, a little dog is one small obstacle in their quest. In turn, show me a GSD, a Rottie, Dobie, Bouvier, Mal, that is silent and is standing it's ground with confidence, I'm not going to test that dog. That's the dog that will have no problem taking the fight to you and who won't give up.

I'm not sure what to tell the original poster. A dog that will really protect you is not a dime a dozen dog, it has to have the right genetics, the right training, and is going to be a LOT of work. For a dog like that 99% of it's life is training, and maybe once does it get to prove it can do what it was trained to do. There is really no way around it. Maybe getting a giant dog like a Mastiff is best because they are a great deterrant, but they still require a lot of training and won't be mature enough to really do anything protection wise till they are at least 2 years old.

The main point of my post was to try and quell this myth that any dog will protect, it's simply not true.

Well said!

[Bahamutt99]

I would feel very safe with an Akita as well. My only concern would be the potential for small animal aggression. And also, how does the OP feel about a heavily-furred dog blowing its coat twice yearly? I also wouldn't consider an Akita much of a watch dog due to the rarely-barks factor, but they are a very intimidating presence. My old Pit Bull/Akita mix was, if nothing else, an excellent personal protector and a great deterrent. You do need to heavily socialize them, IMO, because it is easy for them to go from protective to over-protective, suspicious, potentially aggressive.

ETA: What about something like a Rhodesian Ridgeback? I have no personal experience with them, but I've heard they're good protectors.

[bubbatd]

Personally I feel that the first thing an intruder would do would be to shoot any dog .

[RD]

I think they would, too, Grammy. But most intruders with half a brain would pass over a house where a dog resides, particularly a dog that would bark when anyone gets close to the house.

I agree with Dan about a dog backing up a threat, but at the same time I think 99.9% of intruders, no matter how determined, will be deterred by any threat made by a dog - even if it's a fear-based growl. They probably don't know the motivation behind the aggression, they just know that a big angry dog is coming after them and it's human instinct to either run away or fight back. Unless armed and trigger-happy, most people will retreat.

[Saintgirl]

Sorry, I gotta disagree here. Most dogs will not back up a growl, and if they do bite, it's a fear bite. A fear bite is done to try and get whoever/whatever is bothering the dog to go away. The dog does not want to engage in a fight, they simply want the problem to cease. They posture and growl, and then maybe take a cheap bite as a last resort. In reality, a lot of dogs that are protective breeds will do the same thing. In just the last 4 months at our dog club I've seen a half dozen GSDs, Rottie mixes, big American Bull Terriers who wanted to join us, and none of them would engage a person who was making threats towards them or their owners. Most showed total avoidance. The rottie mix even laid down as a simulated attack on his owner took place. ALL of these people thought their dog would protect them, and none did or showed any desire to. Imagine the lady who was having a simulated attack done on her and she's watching her trusted protective pet lay down and not even pay attention to her screaming. She got a dose of reality real fast.

Put one of the dogs you were talking about- cockers, chis, crested, whatever, up against someone like me. Let it growl and posture and I'll make one assertive, quick, menacing move to that dog and it will most likely pee itself. It's not going to attack me. And if it does, it gets punted, and I guarantee it isn't coming back for more. This is what someone who is determined to get you or your property is going to do, a little dog is one small obstacle in their quest. In turn, show me a GSD, a Rottie, Dobie, Bouvier, Mal, that is silent and is standing it's ground with confidence, I'm not going to test that dog. That's the dog that will have no problem taking the fight to you and who won't give up.

I'm not sure what to tell the original poster. A dog that will really protect you is not a dime a dozen dog, it has to have the right genetics, the right training, and is going to be a LOT of work. For a dog like that 99% of it's life is training, and maybe once does it get to prove it can do what it was trained to do. There is really no way around it. Maybe getting a giant dog like a Mastiff is best because they are a great deterrant, but they still require a lot of training and won't be mature enough to really do anything protection wise till they are at least 2 years old.

The main point of my post was to try and quell this myth that any dog will protect, it's simply not true.

One more time this has to be quoted! Very well said Dan!! And I agree with what RD said aswell. If a random attacker or intruder is targeting a place, they are looking for an easy target, and a dog immediatley takes things to a new level. They do not know whether the resident dog will act out or alarm their owner. Often the very presence of a dog will act as a deterrent. Now whether the dog will truely act out is another question. Most owners would like to believe that their dog would step up to the plate and protect but very few actually will.

To the OP, first and foremost any and all puppies will have lots of energy. The first year they WILL require lots of daily walks, good runs, and lots of play time. Are you prepared to provide the adequate excersise that a pup needs, or are you willing to look into a more mellow adult dog? Personally, I think a pup does not suit the requirements that you are searching for.

Yes, there are several breeds that have a natural protection drive, but many of these breeds have very high prey drive, high energy levels, or higher than daily walks anyhow, they require good runs. If I had to pick a breed that would suit you I would suggest again an English Mastiff, but they aren't for every dog owner. They have large vet bills, drool alot, and are VERY big. However, an adult is very layed back and content to lay on the couch all day long. Their size alone will make any intruder rethink facing up to a 200 lb dog and testing whether or not they will react. A mastiff was originally used for guarding, although the temperment is much more relaxed than it once was, they still have the instinct to protect if they absolutley must. Typically a Mastiff will get in between you and whatever is causing the threat thus causing the threat to leave before they have to become reactive.

Alot of people over look the giant breeds because they say theat they don't have enough room in their homes for one. Anyday my Beagle takes up more room than my 190lb Saint. The beagle is active, on the go, following from room to room, while my Saint is happy on his own couch or laying at my feet.

[Punkygirl0101]

my dachshunds would attack someone if they were trying to hurt me. My dog Lucy, a chihuahua, knows I hate my brother's girlfriend..so everytime she comes into my house, or leaves..or walks into a room I am in, Lucy jumps off whatever piece of furniture shes on and starts barking and "nipping" her heels. My dogs scare people off with their barks.

Dachshunds have a very deep bark, almost sound like large dogs. That alone scares people away from my yard.

[Dekka]

Dan that should be framed ;) I have had a dog who would protect me. (A JRT) and was a little to good at it. If I felt threatened at all he went from calm happy dog to full launch. It was scary, and a good thing he was only 25 pounds (he was a massive JRT) But that dog was uber confident even for a JRT

Dekka, I doubt would protect me. I think in her mind, I am here to protect her. Kaiden might, but the rest would likely wonder why I wasn't taking the person down myself.

[DanL]

What RD said is true - most people looking to break into a house don't want to deal with a barking dog. It's going to attract unwanted attention, so they move on to the next target. So in that respect, our Pug is a great protector because he barks at anything out of the ordinary. If someone decided to come in anyway, he'd bark at growl at them but he'd never get closer than 15'. I'm not sure that someone would shoot a dog either. Gunshots usually attract attention. Of course, if someone is under the influence of something, shooting a dog or having a dog barking at them is not going to matter much.

My wife and I were talking last night. Daisy was barking at something outside. She says "someone would have to be nuts to come into this house after hearing her". I agree. And if they did, not only do they have to deal with her (not that she'd bite anyone, but she is very intimidating with her size), then you have Gunnar waiting in the wings. A bicep bite or a frontal bite on the pectoral at the armpit from him is going to tear the muscle right off the bone, and at that point, most intruders are not worrying about anything but getting the heck out of there.

[HoundedByHounds]

ah see Akitas are not a spitz breed, to me any more than a Chow is...they are Primitive breeds.

One way to avoid destructiveness is to get an ADULT rescue rather than a pup. They are past all that...and if they are not...you will know RIGHT AWAY.

[bubbatd]

Ollie's bark sure is greater than his bite !!!!

[Lizmo]

Great post Dan!

I agree with what RD said. Most intruders are not going to wait to deal with a barking dog -especially if it's a very deep, long bark. Like a bigger dog (English Mastiff, Pyr, Newfie, ect.)

[AgilityPup]

I might seem crazy for this, but I would have a Great Dane. I've got Sasha, who is a dark brindle, and is VERY house/Shay protective.

Now, I couldn't tell you if she actualy WOULD bite, but I CAN tell you, she will NOT let a strange person into the house without me telling her it's okay. And she is very good about "You get in the other room!" When I am trying to open the door to let the person in.


But as they have said, I don't think you want a dog that IS going to bite right off the bat, but something that gives a warning, then if the person is still taking steps forward, is willing to protect if necessary.


I know what you mean, I live in a place with quite a few creepy drunks, kids who think it's "cool" to throw a rock through someones window... Or chase our stock to the point of death, and I tell you, having a dane that weighs more than I do, and me telling people I know "Oh yeah, we weighed Sasha, and she weighs more than I do!", just loud enough for the people who do all this to hear, has kept us pretty safe. Even during halloween!

I hope you find the right breed for you, however, PLEASE get this dog proper training, because, with Sasha, she didn't have it, and we went through a stong problem when she "bit" a woman (who we hadn't let in) who was trying to open our door to get in.

[pafla]

I cant think of a breed that would be good in doing actually protection without it being high energy,in need of lot of training and who doesnt ask for experience in handler.I can understand the desire to have a dog for protection.I spend each year two-three months at seahouse part out of season.Since most house around us belong to turists I would never feal comfortable without my dogs.My dogs are very territorial but in little one it isnt what you desire.I got her as 15 year old and when she was three months old we had my brother girlfriend visit-she was the first visitor-she barked,growled and attacked her leg.She is a terrier-daschund mix and she is fear aggressive from the day I got her.I spend a lot of time doing desentization,socialization and training and made big steps with her.But she is still a dog who by my opinion on her own teritory if pushed to far would be a potentional biter.My other girl is shepherd mix who is confident and well socilazed but very territorialy protective.In sea all visitors are halted in midle of yard dogs circle,growl,bark and prety much treat people like intruders.they stop on command.Both dogs are not really high energy level but somewhere in the middle are walks are around three-four hours a day in open woods.And they still dont have the energy level of GSD-s,belgians or dobermans.They are obedience trained and work competative obedience and rally obedience.What I am saying is that for me a dog who has potentional to bite is for most people to much to handle.My dogs are never left unsupervised in yard,if we have visitors when I am not home they are removed to my room.I always watch them.They are pack and act as pact and for all obedience a dog who would back up a bark isnt supposed to be in hands of unexperienced owner.You may pull it through it all depends on your character and how much time and money you are willing to invest in dog,and the said dog temperament.
Bulmastiffs sound like good choice-those I have met are gentle giants who scare people of with they looks,but not all dogs off same breed have the same temperament.But they still ask for a firm but fair handling,and need to be obedience trained.Some of the other giant breeds who are actually very sweet in character woul also probably be a good choice.

[noludoru]

To the OP, first and foremost any and all puppies will have lots of energy. The first year they WILL require lots of daily walks, good runs, and lots of play time. Are you prepared to provide the adequate excersice that a pup needs, or are you willing to look into a more mellow adult dog? Personally, I think a pup does not suit the requirements that you are searching for.

Yes, there are several breeds that have a natural protection drive, but many of these breeds have very high prey drive, high energy levels, or higher than daily walks anyhow, they require good runs. If I had to pick a breed that would suit you I would suggest again an English Mastiff, but they aren't for every dog owner. They have large vet bills, drool a lot, and are VERY big. However, an adult is very laid back and content to lay on the couch all day long. Their size alone will make any intruder rethink facing up to a 200 lb dog and testing whether or not they will react. A mastiff was originally used for guarding, although the temperament is much more relaxed than it once was, they still have the instinct to protect if they absolutely must. Typically a Mastiff will get in between you and whatever is causing the threat thus causing the threat to leave before they have to become reactive.

Noccy, a lot of the livestock guardians and mastiff breeds have lower exercise requirements. If you're okay with a really big dog, why not look into a female English Mastiff? They're obviously a lot larger than a Rottweiler, but they're generally rather agreeable dogs and the ones I've been around were not difficult to control, despite their size.

Agreed! Especially the bolded parts, lol. I think an English Mastiff would be a VERY good breed for you to look into, especially an adult or older rescue. Chances are if you get the dog from a rescue (VS a shelter) they will already be housebroken, basic obedience trained, and the foster parents should know the basics of the dog.. whether he/she is good with cats, destructive, low or high energy, etc.

I also think a retired racing Greyhound would fit the criteria you are looking for, possibly even more so than the Mastiff. They are smaller (but still LARGE dogs) and admittedly Greys aren't as much of a visual deterrent, rescues have many of them so there will be plenty of dogs that will fit in with your lifestyle. While Greys aren't nearly as intimidating as, say, a Doberman, one snarling and/or barking certainly will be equally intimidating. I would back off from ANY dog snarling at me, regardless of size--because even a small dog can do considerable amounts of damage if they are determined--and your average robber would, too.

Both have low exercise requirements and you can get both as adults. Saintgirl pretty much covered the WHY of getting an adult vs a puppy, but I'd like to bring in one other facet of that... it's HARD to find a good breeder. Unless you want to monetarily support abhorrent establishments such as puppymills (and pay thousands in vet bills later, especially with large breeds) and further their exploitation and irresponsible breeding of more dogs, it's not going to be easy or (relatively) cheap to get a puppy. Most well-bred medium-to-large breed dogs are 1,000+ and even after you've found a great breeder you will most likely have a wait of at least several months for your puppy, if not far longer. If you go to any old Joe Schmoe who bred Fifi to the neighbor's Rex because he wanted some cute puppies, that's not applicable. But, once again, you don't have a good chance of getting a healthy dog because god knows where Fifi and Rex came from, and their parents before them. Probably no health testing at all, and who knows about temperament.

[DryCreek]

Before you decide on any breed, I would suggest finding out if there are any Breed Specific Laws where you live and if your insurance company has a banned breed list that they won't cover. It may end up limiting your choices.

Talk to a few local Vet offices and maybe the police station as well. They may be able to steer you in the right direction towards finding reputable breeders or trainers.

Gives you an opportunity to check out your options for which Vet Clinic you will be using and it's never a bad idea to meet your local police as well!

Good Luck!:)

[Lilavati]

My experience is that ANY dog, other than a toy, is something of a deterrant. I feel safer with Sarama with me (and she's only knee heigh and 50 lbs) and most of the people I've talked to say things like (you're going out after dark, bring that dog . . . meaning Sarama).

That said, your neighborhood sounds scary enough that I'd lean towards a large dog . . . but again, I think ANY large dog is a deterrant, except perhaps a golden retriever. And black dogs to seem to me more frightening, followed by brindle. My mother had a standard poodle when she lived alone in a bad part of town, because she was kept in a puppy clip, no one realized that big shaggy dog was a poodle . . . so they just thought big dog and kept away. So, I think any big dog would work.

I would hestiate on any of the guardian/protection breeds, because it sounds like YOU are scared. The dog will pick that up, and act (in its mind) appropriately. You don't want a dog that thinks that everything around is a threat (because no matter where you live, that's no true) and worse you might move somewhere safer and be left with a dog that many would consider dangerous. Since you are a beginner, I'd lean towards something large, dark and looks more scary than it generally is (though most dogs will move to protect you if you are threatened): a big black lab or black standard poodle (though neither is low energy), a dark colored great dane, a Newfie, or a number of other breeds that I don't know enough about to name.

You might also think about one of the bull breeds (absent BSL) but if you do DON'T get them from someone who claims they breed great guard dogs, etc. You're too likely to get sucked into the 'pit bulls are vicous/macho dogs crowd of breeders. But they are powerful dogs, and many, many people are afraid of them, even if they are complete lovebugs. Get one from a respectable, responsible breeder who breeds for some other purpose (or from a shelter, lots of nice ones need homes).

Keep in mind its better to frighten people off than hurt them, especially if they aren't actually dangerous (you don't want a lawsuit on your hands!).

[Bahamutt99]

Before you decide on any breed, I would suggest finding out if there are any Breed Specific Laws where you live and if your insurance company has a banned breed list that they won't cover. It may end up limiting your choices.

:hail:

[Boemy]

Also, since you're a high school junior, what will happen when you go to college? Is your dad really prepared to take care of the dog all that time?

[mrose_s]

I havn't read gthe entire thread but i was also thinking some sort of Mastiff breed, I'm not familiar with a lot of them but I think I've read that a lot of work has been put into bullmastiffs and they are a great family dog and an exellent judge of character.

Several things though, if you can't move due to lack of funds, what if the dogs gets very hurt or very sick and requires urgentand expensive medical assistance?
What will happen when you got to college?

My boy is ACD/kelpie. I would trust him with my life, you'd have to be an idiot to come near someone with a blue dog so he allows me to walk at night. No way would I suggest him to a first time dog owner, he is high prey drive, high energy, stubborn and difficult when he wants to be. He has issues with other dogs but thats my own fault.

Our best girl is Sophie, 40kg, white and brindle. Her shoulder is almost to my hip. She's protected us when needed numerous times but she is still the only do I leave out when I know the Pizza man is coming, she doesn't have to bark. I go over, open the door, start sorting out food/money and she will usually wander over and look the pizza guy up and down, wait by my side for me to finish then go back to bed as I get dinner ready. I like having her there, I know if need be she'll look after me but she's the perfect lady when there is no threat. I would trust her with dogs, kids, adults and the elderley. I would also trust her to help me when I needed it.

Sophie is a BoxerX (maybe some mastiff in there somwhere - and a lot of other things)
harry is ACD/BC, suspicous of everyone
Buster is ACD/kelpie, completley aloof untill needed
Mac is whippet/kelpie/foxy. She just reads off the other dogs and reacts the same as them. But when out alone with my sister at night and she spots a suspicious person she hnkers in close and gets quite suspicious.
Everyone of them exerts themselves when needed.

I personally would pick a relativley easy breed atfirst, perhaps an adult shelter dog.

[maybe532]

Well, since you don't have a yard and therefore will have to walk the dog I'd go with a larger breed since you'll need a sense of protection when out and about. I would look into rescuing an adult mastiff or any of the giant breeds mentioned. Pure breed rescues should be able to tell you if they are good with cats or not. Their bark should deter any intruders and they tend to have lower energy requirements than the smaller protection breeds. You could also consider english bulldogs. They look fierce yet are low energy and I don't think they are too much for a first-time dog owner. They cost quite a bit but you should easily be able to find an adult rescue. They do have some health concerns but most breeds seem to.

What kind of dogs do your neighbors have? Have those dogs helped deter break-ins?

I was reading last night that an untrained protection dog (such as a german shepherd) will usually go for the leg on an intruder, making it easy to kick them in the head or shoot/stab them. That alone makes me think those types are a bad idea unless you have the funds to train them properly. But if you are just looking for a dog that intimidates other people and therefore keeps them away then you have more options. Any giant dog or any large-sized dark dog is pretty intimidating.

[showdawgz]

Maybe, an untrained protection dog is more dangerous than a trained one. Through training the dog learns self control and to hold the bad guy at bay rather than going in for multiple bites to undesignated areas. They learn to target the bite. They is no telling where a dog will bite if they have a strong civil drive, so may go for the leg others for the neck, others for the hip (i've seen them all). My young male (never done formal protection training with him) went for the throat when my friend decided to run up behind me screaming and yelling when he knew that dog was very suspicious and sharp (thankfully I am always on guard when I'm walking my "sharp" dogs) and pulled him back, but he targeted the neck/face area).

This is NOT the kind (sharp/suspicious) of dog the OP wants, because you have to be very careful with these types of dogs who will bite with very little agitation. You need a very confident environmentally sound dog. A dog that will sit back and wait until they need to bite, not just jump in a bite. Mace is that type of dog, he will just sit back and wait for the situation to get bad. Anyone can run up behind me but Mace will only warn them to back off and trust me his presense is enough to make people think twice, and then if they proceed he will bite. But I have yet to meet someone stupid enough to overlook Mace's bark/growl.

[Amstaffer]

For the Beginner I would say the Newfoundland. Newfies are very big and usually all black (some people find that more scary) and have very deep barks and growls. However unlike Mastiffs they are IMHO more stable and more forgiving of the inexperienced owner. I think Mastiffs are great dogs (EM) but I don't think they are really what I would call a "beginner" dog. Mastiffs are guardian dogs where Newfies are rescue dogs; being a rescue a dog gives them a "softer" outlook on the world.

I would go to a Newfie rescue or Petfinder.com and see what you can find.

Goodluck and keep us posted on what you end up doing

[ihartgonzo]

The main point of my post was to try and quell this myth that any dog will protect, it's simply not true.

I totally agree... with your whole entire post.

One really good example, is a Chow/GSD mix who belongs to family members. This dog (Bruno) barks menacingly at ANYONE who enters the house; even me, who he has known since he was a puppy. He even acts kind of scary sometimes... lunging to get to you, roughly mouthing you if you're playing with him, and pretty unpredictable behaviors. The owners liked it that way... they always bragged that, for sure, Bruno would protect the house.

Well, a few months ago, their house was robbed. I don't even think they locked the door, they thought Bruno would scare away anyone. They found Bruno just hanging out in the garage... the robbers obviously had no problem putting him in the garage, and going about their business. I definitely was not surprised, he's pretty much a "dumb", unreliable dog, to be perfectly honest. I would not trust my belongings or my life to him, ever!

My BC, on the other hand, can be very intimidating to suspicious strangers... and I have actually witnessed him protecting our house, when a flower delivery guy decided to walk in! He didn't touch the guy, but he was about and inch away barking his head off, and if the man hadn't frozen in his tracks, I'm sure Gonzo would have acted on it. I would trust Gonzo to protect me, if I did live in a sketchy neighborhood, but I don't feel he's quite "the norm" for his breed. He's extremely drivey.

I also agree that very large breeds with a predisposition to protect, like Newfies or Mastiffs or Great Pyrenese, would be a very good option. Most of all, you want a dog with a stable temperament, who is loyal and bonded to you... that will almost guarantee protection. I don't recommend typical working protection breeds, like GSDs or Mals, unless you're willing to dedicate a LOT of time and work training, working, and exercising it.

[milos_mommy]

i don't often recommend a puppy for a first time owner. also, with an adult dog, you can be sure he's okay around cats. Most shelters and rescues will cat-test dogs to see how they react.

A lot of very large dogs are not high-energy. Obviously they need exercise, but nothing strenuous. A large dog that's very mellow will be just as intimidating to a predator as a collie or something.

Rotties are pretty high energy. I immediately though bull-mastiff, when reading your post, but they can be a bit difficult for first-time owners.

Boxer fits perfectly, but they do need a bit of exercise. Depends exactly how much time and space you have for exercising.

Breeds such as St. Bernards, Bernese Mountains dogs, Newfoundlands, Great Danes, etc. aren't as high-energy as some smaller breeds. Even though they're massive, they do well in apartments.

[milos_mommy]

For the Beginner I would say the Newfoundland. Newfies are very big and usually all black (some people find that more scary) and have very deep barks and growls. However unlike Mastiffs they are IMHO more stable and more forgiving of the inexperienced owner. I think Mastiffs are great dogs (EM) but I don't think they are really what I would call a "beginner" dog. Mastiffs are guardian dogs where Newfies are rescue dogs; being a rescue a dog gives them a "softer" outlook on the world.

I would go to a Newfie rescue or Petfinder.com and see what you can find.

Goodluck and keep us posted on what you end up doing

couldn't have put it better myself!

[Boemy]

I definitely agree, a lot of people find black dogs scarier. I had a ridiculously friendly black lab mix and people would still fearfully cross the street to avoid us.

I would go to a shelter and look for a medium to large adult dog with a laidback temperament who's good with cats.

[Renee750il]

To an experienced, highly confident owner, I'd say an adult rescue Fila. Obviously, that's not practical AT ALL in this case.

Hounded's Akita suggestion has, I think, a lot of merits. One of the best protector/guardians I've ever had was the Bear, the adult GSD/Akita mix I got from the pound. He was also steady and reliable enough to be certified as a therapy dog. He and my big blue cat, Gonzo, were totally companionable from day one.

It does sound to me like an adult rescue could be the perfect choice.

[maybe532]

showdawgs, That's what I meant, I guess I didn't make my point clear. Thanks for clarifying my thoughts.

[darkchild16]

How about a livestock guardian like a Pyrenees? They're not extremely high energy dogs (the adults that I know are laid back, but still respond quickly to a potential threat) but they're naturally quite protective and working-bred Pyrs don't need to be trained to do so - though obedience training to keep them under control is a MUST.

But either way, getting the dog will be the smallest part of the equation - the big deal will be you and your dad learning how to handle the dog. :)


That is what i was thinking too RD. Walker my dog is a mix from a sheltar but because one of the breeds is a livestock guardian (Anatolia Shepard) he is protective when he needs to be and downright the biggest marshmallow when he and I are relaxed and not threatened. But it takes alot to push him to bite. He was relativly easy to train adn doesnt require alot of excercise either. Another thought if you dont mind hair and drool is a St. Bernard. Ours is the biggest baby and i mean BABY. She pushes people over to be petted but when two rotties came charging my mom she was not going to let them by. Her protective instincts were on all the way. Plus her bark alone scares people on the road ;)