re: Suggestions for dog breed. Needs to be good for families and protection.

If you're familiar with how to raise/train a dog then it's hard to beat a German shepherd. However, if you aren't experienced with dogs and/or will not have a lot of time to spend with the dog I do NOT recommend getting a German shepherd or similar working dog. They require a lot of both physical and mental stimulation. In fact i'd say the mental stimulation is almost more important. They're really fricking smart and will find a way to entertain themselves if they get too bored. And you will not be pleased with how they go about entertaining themselves


If you can't deal with a high energy dog then an English bulldog should do the trick. They're lazy AF, cuddly and friendly, but also mean looking and protective. Similarly you can get a big arse mastiff. Another low energy, gentle dog that absolutely no one will frick with. Be prepared for a big dog food bill and giant dog turds. Great dogs though. Slow moving and as gentle as can be for an animal that doesn't realize how big it is.

Or just get a wiener dog or two. They won't do shite to an intruder but they're annoying enough to make even the most committed criminal just look for another target.