As a dog trainer with years of experience in protection training, I’ve never seen such a surge in demand for personal protection dogs in Australia. My phone rings daily with inquiries about these incredible animals.
With violent crimes and thefts on the rise in recent years, Australians are seeking personal protection dogs more than ever. In Victoria, for example, a home invasion is reported every hour, every day. So, let’s dive into what you need to consider when looking for a dog trained to guard and protect.
There are several reputable vendors in Australia, including myself, who train and sell protection dogs. Expectations vary, but price often reflects quality. In the USA, professionally trained protection dogs can cost between $120,000 and $180,000 USD. Here in Australia, prices vary, but investing in a well-trained dog is key.
Many people want their pet dogs trained for protection, but not all dogs can handle the pressure and confrontation required. A common misconception is that a dog’s love for its owner guarantees protection. Sadly, this isn’t true—countless videos online demonstrate this.
Certain breeds excel in protection work due to their genetics and temperament. Here’s a breakdown of the top four: German Shepherd, Rottweiler, Doberman, and Malinois.
Show/Pet Lines: These dogs are great for barking and alerting to strangers but often lack the drive for real protection.
Working Lines: These are purpose-bred for protection and are far more reliable in high-pressure situations. These guys also make great family dogs.
Considerations: Hip issues are a well-documented concern. Despite being a fan of the breed, I’ve avoided owning one due to these health risks.
A fantastic family dog, loyal and trainable. I’ve owned one myself and would again.
Considerations: Like GSDs, joint issues can be a problem. Temperament varies widely, so research breeders carefully and consult trainers experienced in protection work.
Highly trainable with tons of energy and drive, the Doberman is one of only two breeds specifically bred for human protection. Therefore they also make great family dogs.
Considerations: Heart issues are a concern, so choose a dog from bloodlines free of these problems. Show/pet lines make great pets but aren’t ideal for protection—opt for working lines. Separation anxiety can also be an issue, so work with a trainer familiar with the breed.
My personal favorite, but not for everyone. These dogs are intense, high-energy, and require committed owners. They also make make for a great family dog.
Show/Pet Lines: In Australia, these often appear nervous or scared, which is heartbreaking.
Working Lines: Extroverted and impressive, they excel in protection but need daily exercise and training. They’re best for enthusiasts willing to invest time in training and bonding. Special care is needed, as they lack strong self-preservation instincts.
Protection isn’t just about a dog’s love for you—it’s about genetics, confidence, and training. Most pet dogs won’t protect, even if they act aggressively (often out of self-preservation, not loyalty). A genetically tough dog with high drive but no training is like a fast car with no brakes—fun at first, but a liability as it matures.
Protection dogs are working dogs, and working is their way of life. They need daily exercise, training, and mental stimulation. Their trainability makes them cunning—they notice everything. Like a high-performance car, they require ongoing maintenance of their skills, and owners must learn to reinforce training.
For first-time owners, there’s a learning curve, but with a good trainer, it’s a rewarding journey that strengthens the bond with your dog.
Shop around and talk to professionals. Unfortunately, some vendors may oversell a dog’s abilities, only for it to falter when you need it most. I’ve seen this too often.
I’ve had personal protection dogs for nearly 30 years and will always have one. They keep me safe and share a bond like no other. If you’re considering a protection dog, do your research, work with experienced working dog trainers, and choose a dog that fits your lifestyle.
Have questions about protection dogs? Drop them below or DM me—I’m happy to help!
📸 Picture credit: Double B kennels. Kaitlyn Wadey
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