Dogs aren’t called man’s best friend for no reason. They not only provide companionship, but can also protect you when your personal safety or home security is threatened. In fact, the primary duty of the first documented domesticated dogs was to protect their owners and their property.
Before we discuss the benefits of real watchdogs, let’s clarify the difference between watchdogs and guard dogs. Almost any barking dog can be a watchdog. These dogs, such as poodles or cocker spaniels, are generally kept indoors and only alert the owner of an approaching stranger. Small, excitable breeds make the best watchdogs because of their high-pitched, incessant, piercing bark.
However, guard dogs are not capable of fending off any intruder or protecting their owners. A guard dog, on the other hand, can be trained to contain or attack any unwanted visitors to your home. Perhaps the best dog home security feature is that his barking could stop the intruder in his tracks and scare him outright. But, if necessary, watchdogs will do whatever it takes to protect their owners. If they are well trained and well cared for, they are even more loyal.
Choosing a watchdog can be a difficult choice. You want to do extensive research on a variety of breeds to see which one is best suited to your home, family, and lifestyle. For example, Rottweilers are genetically more likely to become aggressive than most dogs. German Shepherds are used by police K-9 units around the world and are particularly good with children. Dobermans, like German Shepherds, are known for their superior intelligence. While these are common breeds when it comes to home security, there are a variety of other options. Just make sure you make an informed decision.
However, don’t stop there. If you’re looking to really keep your home protected, a security system is also a great addition. Not to mention, it will take a bit of time to train your guard dog. However, when the dog is fully grown and well trained, the combination of the two should scare off any would-be intruders. The guard dog’s stature (most guard dogs are of considerable size and weight) and his bark should scare off most intruders. Also, if you have your security company’s warning signs and stickers, a thief would be a fool if he broke in.
You would spend whatever amount of money it takes to make sure your furry best friend is in good health and eats well. It goes without saying, then, that he can’t put a price on his family’s safety. Fortunately, you don’t even have to worry about breaking the bank when it comes to home security systems. Sometimes you can find the system or the installation or both for free. Then all you have to pay is a monthly fee of less than $50. Homes protected with alarms are not only statistically less likely to be broken into, but you can also get certain companies to lower your home insurance premiums, due to its higher security.