Liesje
Posted : 8/4/2009 7:36:41 AM
See there is a huge variety in breed and in task. For example, GSDs are the most popular choice for an executive security dog (a dog that protects a family or person) but not because they just do it, because they are very trainable, key word there being "train". Even if someone can afford an adult that is pre-trained, you can't just expect to buy the dog and have it work for you, you have to develop a bond and continue with the dog's training and proofing. The ideal would be a dog that is trained by the owner/handler with the help of a great club/helper.
A more independent, instinctively protective estate guarding dog might guard a home/property with less training, but may not have that bond with the family or be reliable around kids.
I've seen Boxers used in sport (Schutzhund), but never seen one trained for protection. However I don't know much about the breed so maybe they are out there.