I was told by a so called expert that he does not recommend true personal protection dogs, training for that end, or having PP training done by a professional. He cited liability reasons, and crooked trainers.

I understand, and agree to a certain degree, but questions remain which go unanswered. Therefore, I need some input.

I understand prey, defense and fight drives. The training of pups emphasize prey drive, biting, tugging etc... But my question is if as this expert does not recommend PP dogs for 99% of the population, why the bite training at all? I can understand for sport. But, for someone looking for personal protection, he said that just having a GSD will be deterrent enough. Why bite train. His videos emphasize bite training, but then he says NOT to get my pup professionally trained in defense........I expressed my questions, and asked how does one then train your dog to bark, in an intimidating fashion on command and never got an answer.

Bottom line...I want to have the deterrent factor, which I do. I want to be able to give a command and have the dog bark like heck until told to stop. Is bite training necessary only for sport, but not for a dog that is not professionally trained in PP, as this expert recommends.

Thanks.

I'm retired from a state agency after 25 yrs in a k-9 unit as the head trainer. owning a PP dog takes a commitment of on going training. that also applies to K-9 units, sport etc. i seen plenty of so called PP dogs and service dogs out of control( a lawsuit waiting to happen) Your on the right track with this website. the videos and knowledgeable member's to guide you in the right direction good luck john

 Quote: john axe

I'm retired from a state agency after 25 yrs in a k-9 unit as the head trainer. owning a PP dog takes a commitment of on going training. that also applies to K-9 units, sport etc. i seen plenty of so called PP dogs and service dogs out of control( a lawsuit waiting to happen) Your on the right track with this website. the videos and knowledgeable member's to guide you in the right direction good luck john

Thanks, that is encouraging.

I am fine with the deterrent factor. I am becoming more comfortable without a full bore Personal protection dog as explained. However, I am trying to figure out why or if I need to do all the puppy rag work, tug, sleeve and etc...if we won't do sport, and ( I suppose I wont have the dog trained by a pro). But, I need help better reconciling that, and recommendations on how to get a dog to bark, vociferously on command. This should get the job done in 99% of all situations.

Chad,
Is there a link to the website of said expert?

Also, we have "stickies" of some posts that might be worth you viewing in the "Personal Protection Dog training" area of the forum:
http://leerburg.com/forums/ubbthreads.php/ubb/showflat/Number/279075/page/1#Post279075

http://leerburg.com/forums/ubbthreads.php/ubb/showflat/Number/279074/page/1#Post279074

http://leerburg.com/forums/ubbthreads.php/ubb/showflat/Number/279071/page/1#Post279071

Hope that helps!

 Quote: Chal Curtis

 Quote: john axe

I'm retired from a state agency after 25 yrs in a k-9 unit as the head trainer. owning a PP dog takes a commitment of on going training. that also applies to K-9 units, sport etc. i seen plenty of so called PP dogs and service dogs out of control( a lawsuit waiting to happen) Your on the right track with this website. the videos and knowledgeable member's to guide you in the right direction good luck john

Thanks, that is encouraging.

I am fine with the deterrent factor. I am becoming more comfortable without a full bore Personal protection dog as explained. However, I am trying to figure out why or if I need to do all the puppy rag work, tug, sleeve and etc...if we won't do sport, and ( I suppose I wont have the dog trained by a pro). But, I need help better reconciling that, and recommendations on how to get a dog to bark, vociferously on command. This should get the job done in 99% of all situations.

No, you really don't need to do the rag and bite work if you just want a deterrent. However, you need to be careful on what type of dog you get. Most people in this forum want working dogs. Working breeds are usually some of the more intimidating types, but their main attribute is their intelligence and drive.

If you do not want to do sport work with your dog then I would recommend looking at a show lines or even a large breed rescue dog would likely be trainable and serve as a deterrent. Heck, my beagle would scare away most intruders. He barks loudly at anyone near the house who he doesn't know unless I tell him to stop.

If you try to get a working line dog and only train it to act as a deterrent you are going to have a real problem on your hands. It needs more mental stimulation than that.

I'll also just reiterate that I strongly feel that if you are just looking at a dog to deter intruders and maybe some companionship I really think a rescue is the way to go.

Will:

I don't feel comfortable sharing names. I sent an email explaining I was getting a DDR puppy for my daughter which we would do the puppy obedience and etc...until such age that the dog could be evaluated if it had the true defense drives to be professionally finished as a PP dog for her. It was at that point he said what he did about professional trainers, and how he thinks individuals should not have PP dogs. Of course that totally confused me, as he has videos/DVD teaching puppies, prey drive, all the things you are familiar with. Never got a straight answer upon follow up.

Will,

Thanks for the links. I will look at them all.

Michael,
I understand and appreciate your comments and advice.

However, I am a life long experienced dog (hunting) owner and have had DDR / Czech GSD before as family pets only.

This new pup is for my daughter for her pleasure and security. I am well aware of the drives, nature, physical challenges of working dogs, believe me.

How old is your daughter? Does she live with you?