Dogs and Home Security Part 3

Picking a dog for home protection.  There are many variables, as well as opinions, to picking the right dog for you.  But, after doing a bit of research and finding a dog that you really like, it isn't that hard and it can be a lot of fun.  Some of the things to consider are:
1) The dog is not a liability - not really very aggressive.
2) It will be a loving and trustworthy member of your family.
3) Should be suspicious of strangers, yet willing to accept someone whom you say is okay.
4) Mentally strong and confident enough in his/her opinions to decide when a stranger is a threat, and to back up that threat with growling and possibly attacking if necessary.
5) They would be willing to do anything to protect his/her beloved family.
The dog should have the bred-in instinct to be suspicious and alert. It is willing to be a part of your pack and accept you as pack leader.  What you are looking for is achieved by breeding, not by training. Picking the right dog for you and your home is the first step. As for training, it is important not to use a harsh method of training where you destroy all the dog's initiative. The training methods should encourage the dog to think and make decisions. Remeber, to make sure that you are always the 'alpha' [pack leader], the "loving dictator."