Mitch asked:

I just rescued a mixed breed puppy, part lab, maybe shepherd, maybe maybe part pit bull… i am wondering, when wanting a dog who cheap prescription drugs without prescription will bark at intruders and generally guard the house, but, also be a good friendly and trustworthy dog, is that something you can train them to be or is it something they are born with? like, do they have to have a guard dog personality to be a good watchful dog?

I was only wondering if you want the dog to be a guard dog, does that take training or is it natural? maybe it makes more sence because i absolutely did not mean that i was going to train her as an attack dog… ok… thanks

Reply:

Most dogs will protect their territory by barking at intruders. It’s an instinct. You shouldn’t have the dog trained as a personal protection or guard dog, as it’s a liability nightmare and your homeowners insurance (or rental insurance or whatever) will go sky-high. Once he’s nearing adult hood, if you have developed a bond with him and he is comfortable in his home, he will likely guard the home. Make sure you socialize the dog with strangers outside of your home so you don’t end up with someone being bitten while you are walking down the street. Mine will bark at people at the door they don’t know, or people in their front yard, but are fine in other locations, which is perfect for me. They’re tiny, so wouldn’t scare off many intruders, but at least they serve as alert dogs. It doesn’t need to be taught, it’s instinct, and if your dog doesn’t become watchful and protective on its own, you will likely not be able to train the behavior.