Why Dogs Fail as Home Security Systems

Your dog's bark may be fierce, but it's probably not enough to stop a burglar.

If someone wants to break into your house, there’s not much that can stop them, and certainly not your pup, no matter how protective he is.

Here’s why you can’t rely solely on your dog to protect your home:

1. Your dog’s bark is worse than its bite.

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Most of us don’t have the type of dog that instinctively knows how to stop a bad guy. In fact, many of our pet dogs don’t look or act intimidating, and are easily tamed by offers of treats. You could go out and pick a dog from world-renowned dog trainer Cesar Milan’s list of canines that make the best guard dogs, but even then you wouldn’t end up with a description of your perpetrator.

2. Chances are yours is not adequately trained.

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Guard dogs are trained to protect, not bark until the intruder goes away.

But how many of us take the time or pay the money to put our furry best friends through Guardian Doggie Camp? All a savvy burglar needs is some distracting dog treats or—worse—tranquilized dog food. Your dog goes for a little nap and off goes your hard-earned cash and valuables.

3. Your dog can’t alert law enforcement of a threat.

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Burglars move fast. A dog’s bark alone is usually not enough to quickly stop someone in the act. And it’s certainly not enough to alert the authorities.

Compare that to what happens if you have a security system. When an intruder kicks in the door, shatters a window or sneaks in while motion sensors are activated, the alarm company immediately notifies emergency dispatch. With just a dog’s bark, you’re at the mercy of your neighbors to notice and react to the noise.

4. Your dog doesn’t provide video surveillance.

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We suppose you can hook up a webcam to your dog’s collar, but there’s a much easier, more reliable way to catch perpetrators in the act.

5. When your dog is away, the home isn’t protected.

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Smart burglars wait until you’re not around and then pounce. If you’re on vacation and your canine companion in tow, you’re hanging out with your home’s only protector.

Another Option

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Your dog doesn’t need the pressure of being a loyal companion and a guard against all bad guys too.

Home security systems can help protect the creatures in your house and its valuables as well. It’s also a potential money saver in another sense too: According to Realtor.com, you can save as much as 15 percent on your homeowner’s insurance premiums by having a home security system installed.

Ultimately, a trained guard dog and a home security system is a security match made in heaven.