Guard dogs are a particularly useful deterrent for robbers and home intruders, but there are instances when a criminal might get the upper hand. There are measures to safeguard from these types of situations.
1. When to Train a Guard Dog
First of all, a dog that’s 6-16-months-old is the most important time to start training. Younger dogs are far more easy to train than older ones.
At this age, dogs know how to keep their guard up. They understand what territory that they’re suppose to protect, which is your home and front and backyard.
2. Train Dogs for Specific Situations
What about those treats burglars may use to sneak past your protection dog? Part of this is included in the dog’s training so that they understand they must be weary of food from strangers. They’re given treats ONLY when performing specific instructions. If robbers and burglars encounter a well-trained dog, they won’t have a chance at sneaking past the dog.
A huge tip in preventing an intruder from getting past your dog is to reward the animal repeatedly for responding to an alarm. They associate this reward with knowing this is the behavior of theirs you want from them.
Be sure the dog is trained to bark at any suspicious noise, activity, or people. You’re home is far less likely to be the target of a robber.
A burglar should be turned off by a watchdog being on the property. Have “Beware of Dogs” signs posted around the yard or fence line.
3. How Does Your Dog Interact with Strangers?
The key factor here lies with having a dog to not be easily swayed by strangers. Be sure they’re safe around people in general, but are on their guard enough to know that they shouldn’t be targets for intruders themselves.
Start training your dog to guard in certain situations. Start early and stay consistent. A great dog not only makes a great companion, it can protect your property like nothing else.
