Choosing the right breed

GUARD DOGS BREED

Looking for protection? Guard dogs are loyal,smart and obedient breed. They are different from watchdogs in that they take care of a problem whereas watchdogs will only alert you on strangers on your property. Early socialisation is important so your dogs can learn how to recognise friendly strangers and to distinguish them from threats. You must also be sure your dog will obey every command from you. Many of the most effective guard dogs are actually silent when approaching a potential threat.

Boerbel

WATCHDOG BREED

Watchdogs are smart, loyal and vocal. They will alert you to the presence of threats to your person or property so can take the necessary steps to avert attacks. The size of the dog is irrelevant here. Your dog also must be able also to distinguish between normal noises and threatening noises.

Chihuahua

Lhasa Apso

Dalmatians

FRIENDLY DOG BREEDS

A friendly dog is a dog that follows you around, wanting nothing more than a pat on the head or a belly rub. He is just as likely to follow strangers as he was to follow you home. When you find a friendly dog, you must keep him in a secured area.

DOGS FOR KIDS

Dogs watch infants grow into toddlers, wait anxiously for kids to return home from school and say a bitter good bye when their best friend leave home for school.

While the emotional ties are strong, dogs are animals and will always be and need to be understood as such especially when kids and dogs are together.