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Schutzhund vs guard dog?
When I move out I would like to get a "guard dog" like a Dobie or GSD, not just for a guard dog, I have always wanted one of those breeds anyway.
I was just wondering if a Dobe or GSD would be a good protection dog just raising it as you would any dog, socializing etc or should it be trained to bite/growl on command or be Schutzhund trained?
Thanks!
ETA: I know that protection training can backfire, and would work with a trainer if I did any kind of "bite-on-command" or Schutzhund. I also know that the dogs mere presence (regardless of size or guarding ability) is a great protection.
Asked by
Zackintosh CJ
on Apr 23rd 2009
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in Other Behavior & Training
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Answers
A large member of a breed known for security work can be very intimidating even if just socialized to be friendly. If you do decide you need more than that, find a good trainer. An improperly trained dog can lead to big problems.
Aster
answered on 4/23/09.
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If you are going to get a Dobie or GSD for a "guard dog" I suggest you get a good trainer. I wouldn't advise bite/growl on command. Leave that to the law enforcement officials. If your dog did bite someone you would be responsible.
Just having a large breed and training him you should be fine. The key is finding a good trainer and be consistent.
The Pawsee
answered on 4/23/09.
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If safety is your primary concern, be aware that most crime is opportunistic. Being aware of your surroundings, locking your doors and closing your windows are much better defenses than having a large dog in your home.
Truth is, only a dog that is trained to be a personal protection dog is a dog you can actually count on to protect you. While most breeds are protective to some extent, it's your job to protect your dog, not your dog's job to protect you. If you're truly worried about safety when living alone, a $200 shotgun purchased from Walmart will be better protection than a 70lbs German Shepherd. IF you know how to use it.
Schutzhund dogs are NOT guard or personal protection dogs. Schutzhund is a SPORT comprising obedience (on lead and off), tracking, and protection work. The dogs are trained ONLY to bite a sleeve, not a person on command, and are rewarded by being given the sleeve to carry off afterward.
Schutzhund dogs are raised exactly the same way pet dogs are raised.
Ronja Rövardotter
answered on 4/23/09.
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I understand, I am a female and when I lived away from home (away from family and friends also) I felt unsafe even though I always had my doors locked. I had the wonderful oppertunity to take in a pit mix that weighed 90lbs, we only he had him for a year maybe(it was temp) but he helped me a lot. To look at him, he was very scary and his bark was also scary. Just having him around made me feel safe and I felt safe enough to walk him around or neighborhood and not have to worry about someone approaching me.
I would not recommend any type of aggressive training, If you get a pitt, of GSD they are naturally protective dogs and with proper training (sit/stay/down etc) you should feel safe enough.
I would suggest taking a self defense class rather then training your dog to be a gaurd dog, and soley relying on his protection. Dogs can be unpredictable at times despite what training they have, So just get a big scary looking dog and love him and let him be a dog.
Max (aka Sebastian)
answered on 4/24/09.
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It is best to get a can of pepper spray, security company to install a system, or some other means.
Most dogs are shot or stabbed to death by a real professional or non prof. robber.
It is best to lock yourself in the bedroom with the dog.
Most schutzhund dogs don't know how to bite an intruder. No sleeve, no game. I wouldn't want a bad guy to shoot, stab or even swiftly kick my dog hurting her or killing her.
Dieta
answered on 4/24/09.
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A Dobie is a guard dog, dog. But if you want one that will be more protective of you, get a female. I've heard females are more protective than males. Just make sure to socialize her and treat her good. Getting a professional trainer couldn't hurt either because you're training the dog for a specific purpose.
Chloe
answered on 4/24/09.
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With a comment like that these two dogs are not suitable for you all should l say the other way round l am a k9 officer and let me tell you if you are not a good pack leader or have know idea about the breed you are going to have a very dangerous dog,if you are looking for a gurad dog they are heaps of breeds you can choice from. all are you one of these people who think they look good with a germ or dob???
Diva
answered on 4/28/09.
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