If you’re interested in owning a guard dog for protection, you may be doing some research on them. Unfortunately, there can be a lot of misinformation and false ideas that have been passed around. It’s important to be educated when considering buying a protection dog and there are several common myths and misconceptions surrounding owning a protection dog. Because of this, we’ve compiled a list going over a few of them:
Myth 1: Owning a Protection Dog is Like Owning any other pet
The primary purpose of a protection dog is to provide security and protection. They are trained to respond to threats and potentially dangerous situations. On the other hand, pets are primarily companions and may not possess the same level of training or protective instincts. A protection dog’s training and purpose revolve around using its natural abilities, instincts, and training to assess and respond to threatening situations. They can be trained to bark, hold a threatening stance, or physically intervene when necessary, but their actions are typically focused on neutralizing a threat and ensuring the safety of their handlers or the protected individuals or property.
Myth 2: Protection dogs are always aggressive and dangerous to everyone except their owners.
Reality: Properly trained protection dogs should exhibit controlled behavior and be able to differentiate between potential threats and non-threatening situations. They should be obedient, well-socialized, and able to interact appropriately with others when not in a protective mode. A well-trained protection dog can be friendly and sociable in appropriate contexts.
Myth 3: Protection dogs are unmanageable and require harsh or aggressive training methods.
Reality: Effective training for protection dogs relies on positive reinforcement techniques and building a strong bond between the dog and handler. Harsh or aggressive training methods are counterproductive and can harm the dog’s well-being and reliability. Training should focus on clear communication, reward-based methods, and consistent reinforcement of desired behaviors.
Myth 4: Protection dogs are only suitable for experienced handlers.
Reality: While experience in handling dogs can be beneficial, reputable trainers provide guidance and support to owners of protection dogs, including handler training. With proper training, education, and ongoing support, responsible individuals with a willingness to learn can successfully own and handle a protection dog.
Myth 5: Owning a Guard dog automatically guarantees personal safety and security.
Reality: While a well-trained protection dog can provide an added layer of security, owning one does not guarantee complete safety or eliminate the need for other security measures. It is important to have a comprehensive security plan in place, which may include alarms, surveillance systems, and professional security services, in addition to a protection dog.
Myth 6: Protection Dogs are the exactly the same as weapons
Reality: Depending on the meaning, this one can be considered true in a certain sense. While a protection dog can act as a deterrent and respond to potential threats, it is not a weapon in the same sense as an inanimate object designed solely for causing harm. A protection dog is a living animal that is trained to provide security and protection through its presence, instincts, and trained behaviors. However, they should be treated with respect and care just like you would an actual weapon.
Myth 7: Attack Dogs and Protection Dogs are the same thing
Reality: “Attack dog” is a term that is sometimes used interchangeably with “protection dog,” but there are some distinctions between the two. While there may be overlap in some aspects of training and behavior, the main distinction lies in the intent and focus of their training. A protection dog is trained to assess and respond to threats, whereas an attack dog is trained to actively pursue and engage targets. Additionally, attack dogs may undergo more specialized training and have a different set of commands compared to protection dogs.
It is crucial to approach the decision of owning a protection dog with accurate information and realistic expectations. Consulting with experienced trainers and professionals in the field can help dispel myths and provide a clear understanding of what it entails to responsibly own and care for a protection dog.
