by Wendy Pettit

Created on: January 27, 2008   Last Updated: April 09, 2009

Safety and security for home and family is the number one priority in our lives. Having said that, there are other ways to provide protection besides installing a home security system. Dogs are a great way to keep your home safe.

A barking dog is the last thing a burglar wants to hear. Whether you have a German Sheppard or a Tea Cup Chihuahua, the barking alone will send your offender in the other direction. However, if the criminal wants to get into your house, they may take their chances on defeating your dog. In cases like these, a more qualified dog would be a better choice.

Guard dogs and watchdogs are not the same. Watchdogs alert you when there is danger. A guard dog will take action to protect you and your home. Here are a few dogs you may consider as guard dogs.

Fila Brasileiro- These are short-haired large dogs. They stand up to 30 inches tall and can weigh anywhere from 90-140 pounds. Some downfalls to consider with this breed are drooling, shedding, and aggressiveness toward unknown guests. Your Fila Brasileiro will protect you at all costs. Self-confidence and courage dominate their personality. They do not trust others outside of their family, so it is best to keep them in a separate room when guests arrive.

Akita- Akita's are beautiful dogs that resemble a wolf. Imagine an Alaskan sled dog and that will give you an idea of what they look like. These wolf-like dogs are very clever and rational, more so than most guard dogs. They will plot out the best way to tackle a situation. Once they size up the enemy, the attack will begin. Akita's do not bark much so the intruder will be in for a rude awakening once they enter your home. Your Akita will require lots of exercise and attention to keep them happy.

Ca De Bou (Mallorquin Bulldog) - The name stands for "dog of prey". They have a strong instinct for prey, have a specific bite, and usually will not let go until you tell it to. Therefore, like the Akita, it is best to keep them away from visitors. Mallorquin Bulldogs make good pets and are gentle with the family, but dangerous and deadly to an enemy.

Komondor- A Komondor is usually not recommended as a family pet. However, if introduced and raised with children, they can become a beloved member of the family. The coat of these dogs is always white, and never to be brushed. The cord type fur never sheds and is trimmed when needed. This particular breed is meant to protect herd and will get the better of even the strongest intruder. Great for protection but not for families that entertain on a regular basis.

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