While firearms can be a powerful deterrent, they are not always the best solution. A well-trained German Shepherd can be invaluable in situations where non-lethal force is preferred.
A life with German Shepherds
With over 40 years of experience raising and training German Shepherds, I have come to appreciate their exceptional versatility. They excel in a variety of roles, including personal protection, hunting, search and rescue, and service work. Although intelligence is not necessarily their defining characteristic, German Shepherds from reputable breeders with strong bloodlines exhibit impressive trainability.
The ideal protection partner
After experimenting with different breeds for personal protection, I have come to the conclusion that German Shepherds are the most versatile option. While they ran a K9 safety patrol service, they were my favorite canine companions. Their resistance and training capabilities also make them excellent companions for police work.
The foundation for a successful protection dog lies in obedience training. Once a solid foundation has been laid, personal protection training can begin. This ensures that your dog understands commands and responds appropriately.
Socialization: building trust
From the day they are born, all our puppies undergo extensive socialization. This involves interacting with people on a daily basis, exposing them to different sights, sounds, and experiences. Good socialization promotes trust, a crucial quality for a protection dog. An insecure dog will have difficulty providing effective protection.
Living with guardians
Because we live in a rural area, our family brings a German Shepherd with us when we go out. Their inherent protective nature makes them guardians of our home and family. Interestingly, we have seen a trend in women to be more family-oriented protectors, while men prioritize property protection
This natural protection became apparent when a suspicious ‘roofer’ approached our house. Even from far away in the driveway, my dog instinctively identified the threat and charged toward it. If he had not intervened, the situation could have worsened. This experience highlights a dog’s remarkable ability to sense danger before humans can. Never reprimand your dog for alerting you to possible threats; They simply act based on their natural instincts.
An unbreakable bond
An additional layer of safety comes from training my German Shepherds to respond to commands in languages other than English, such as German or Slovak. This ensures that only authorized persons can operate them during critical situations.
Although I carry a firearm for self-defense, having a well-trained German Shepherd by my side provides an unparalleled sense of security. Their heightened sense of smell allows them to detect threats much earlier and their imposing presence serves as a strong deterrent to potential aggressors. When I travel by car, I often have two or more German Shepherds with me in the SUV.
Choose the right partner
If you are looking for a loyal and vigilant companion for your personal protection, consider the German Shepherd breed. Avoid puppy mills and pet stores, and remember that AKC registration alone does not guarantee quality. Always research multiple generations of lineages before making an investment.
High-quality German Shepherds from reputable breeders typically range from $1,500 to $4,000. Although it is a significant investment, the safety of you and your family is priceless.
Beyond protection
German Shepherds offer much more than just protection. They are loyal companions who can form deep bonds with their families. Their intelligence and training ability allow them to adapt to different lifestyles. By choosing a responsible breeder and investing in proper training, you can get a devoted protector, a beloved companion, and a valuable addition to your family.
