Dogs have been man’s best friend for thousands of years, providing love, companionship, and security. In today’s world, dogs can play an important role in protecting your family and home. Your city, like any other city, has its share of theft and burglaries, and having a guard dog can help reduce the risk of falling victim to these crimes. In this article, we’ll look at seven reasons why you should consider getting a dog to protect your home.
1. Theft Deterrent
Dogs are naturally protective of their family and territory, and their mere presence can be a powerful deterrent to potential thieves. For example, in 2019, there were nearly 35,000 arrests for theft in Pennsylvania, and having a guard dog can help reduce the risk of becoming a victim of theft.
2. Alert System
Dogs have a keen sense of hearing and are quick to alert their owners of any strange noises or activity. This means that if a thief does try to break into your home, your dog will bark and alert you, giving you time to take action.
3. Physical Deterrent
If a thief does manage to get past the barking, a guard dog can provide a physical deterrent to prevent them from entering your home. Many breeds, such as German Shepherds, Rottweilers, and Doberman Pinschers, are large and intimidating, and the mere sight of them can cause a thief to think twice.
4. Strong Bond
Dogs form strong bonds with their owners, and a guard dog will become a loyal and dedicated protector of your family. This bond also means that the dog will be less likely to bite or attack a member of your family, making them a safe choice for home protection.
5. Easy to Train
Guard dogs can be easily trained to protect your home, and many breeds are naturally protective. Training can include obedience training, guard dog training, and socialization to help the dog become well-adjusted to their new role as a guard dog.
6. Reduced Risk of Break-Ins
The FBI reports that 34% of burglars get through the home through the front door, and a guard dog can help reduce this risk by alerting you to any intruders and deterring them from entering your home.
7. Cost Effective
Compared to other security options such as alarm systems, cameras, and security guards, getting a guard dog can be a cost-effective way to protect your home. Once you have a dog, the main ongoing costs will be food and veterinary care, but these expenses are small compared to the peace of mind and security a guard dog provides.
Feeding Your Guard Dog
Depending on your feeding schedule, you may want to split the amount between two to three meals a day for your dog. Feeding them smaller meals more frequently can help regulate their energy levels and prevent them from getting too hungry, which can lead to behavioral problems. It’s also important to feed your dog a balanced diet that meets their nutritional needs, so be sure to consult with a veterinarian to determine the best diet for your dog.
In conclusion, having a guard dog to protect your family and home is a smart choice. Not only do they provide a deterrent to potential thieves, but they also serve as an alert system, physical deterrent, and are easy to train. Furthermore, their strong bond with their owners and reduced risk of break-ins make them a cost-effective option for home security.
