Small handguns..

[Cappster]

My dog is a Chow mix...presumably a chow and lab mix. He rarely ever barks and if he does, I know to check it out. I have an alarm, a 60 pound dog, and .40 Springfield XD (among other weapons of choice). I am not a paranoid person; however, I do know that someone breaking into my house is a possibility. I am not concerned with myself, per say, but I am totally for the safety of my child and will take measures to protect him the best I can. Responsible gun ownership is a positive thing, IMO. If someone tries to break into my house, they better be prepared for a battle on three different levels. A multilayered approach to security gives one the upper hand to deal with those who are not concerned for your safety.

[Cappster]

I will also add that you need to identify your target first and foremost. I remember when I was about 13 or so, my brother came sneaking into the house about 7am after my dad left for work. I remember my mom saying, "You almost got shot" when he came upstairs to use the bathroom as she had heard him coming in the house and pulled out my Dad's gun. If she hadn't identified her target before pulling the trigger, she would've shot my brother. Always identify your target before you pull the trigger as it may be a loved one who is looking down the barrel of a gun.

[Countertrey]

I will also add that you need to identify your target first and foremost. I remember when I was about 13 or so, my brother came sneaking into the house about 7am after my dad left for work. I remember my mom saying, "You almost got shot" when he came upstairs to use the bathroom as she had heard him coming in the house and pulled out my Dad's gun. If she hadn't identified her target before pulling the trigger, she would've shot my brother. Always identify your target before you pull the trigger as it may be a loved one who is looking down the barrel of a gun.

True, that.

[welch]

I will also add that you need to identify your target first and foremost. I remember when I was about 13 or so, my brother came sneaking into the house about 7am after my dad left for work. I remember my mom saying, "You almost got shot" when he came upstairs to use the bathroom as she had heard him coming in the house and pulled out my Dad's gun. If she hadn't identified her target before pulling the trigger, she would've shot my brother. Always identify your target before you pull the trigger as it may be a loved one who is looking down the barrel of a gun.

Yep. That was my Dad's lesson when he "cornered" me with a gun that night.

Somehow, dogs with guard-dog breeding seem to hear or smell or otherwise sense a person who does not belong within the dog's territory. Then they snarl and bark, and most burglars seem to have a dog-avoidance instinct. If the burglar wants a fight (unusual, but criminals don't do things because they are smart) then the dog can lead the way.