Home Security Solution – Using Man’s Best Friend

I’m not really a dog person.  I’ve had dogs and I like them but when it comes to having pets, I am a cat person.  I seriously doubt that either of my cats would do anything to protect the house from a burglar.  In fact, Happy Cat would be the first to run and hide from an intruder during a home invasion. 

My neighbor, however, has a couple of dogs and I have to tell you that there isn’t anyway that you are getting near that place without getting those dogs to bark.  It just isn’t going to happen.  They aren’t large dogs.  In fact I doubt very much that they would even bite you but they are very loud when they get to barking and I don’t know of too many burglars that want the attention that a barking dog can bring to them. 

Giving what I just described,  it would look like man’s best friend would be a good home security system.  But as with any security system, there are to be pros and cons and you should know what they are.  Can a watchdog be used as a home security system?

The Pros of using a dog as a home security system

  • Dogs are very quick to let you know that something isn’t right outside.  Of course, that isn’t always a good thing.  The dog that I had would bark at his own shadow.  It’s kind of like the boy that cried wolf.
  • Dogs are a great show of force.  Most dogs will naturally do anything to protect their humans.
  • A barking dog can alert others in the area that there is a problem.  Dogs are excellent at alerting others with their vigorous barking.

 The Cons of using a dog as a home security system

  • Dogs have to sleep too.  My neighbor’s dog is a serious napper.  Nothing seems to bother him when he is taking his afternoon nap.  The point is that they can’t be on duty all day everyday.
  • Dogs can be bribed into staying quiet.  There are some dogs that will be the burglars best friend after getting a treat.
  • Dogs can be overcome physically or even killed by a burglar that doesn’t want to be found out.
  • Dogs make great companions and can make you feel more secure in your home.

There you have it those are the pros and cons of using a watchdog as a home security system.  As with any security system, you have to know it’s limitations and decide if you can live with them.  In my opinion, dogs are great companions and can be a great addition to your home security solutions but they should not be used alone.

When it comes to home security, you should never rely solely on one security method. For other DIY home security solutions, you may want to check out these other articles:

Home Security Solutions – Door Security

Home Security Solution – Remove the “Break In Here” Sign Painted on YOUR Home

Home Security Solutions – Make Your Windows More Secure