Investing in a protection dog is a significant decision that comes with both emotional and financial commitments. These incredible animals provide unparalleled security and loyalty, but choosing the right dog requires careful consideration and due diligence. Based on insights from the experts at Full Contact K9, here are the key things to know—and ask—before you decide.
Things to Consider Before Buying a Protection Dog
- Breed Selection
The breed determines not only the dog's temperament but also its suitability for your needs. Full Contact K9 specializes in working bloodline German Shepherds, known for their intelligence, loyalty, and aptitude for protection work. - Training Quality
Protection dogs require much more than basic obedience. They undergo rigorous training in threat detection, deterrence, and defense. Ensure the dog’s training has prepared it for real-world situations. - Matching Your Family
Not all protection dogs are the same. Temperament, energy levels, and adaptability are factors that must align with your lifestyle. The professionals at Full Contact K9 excel at matching dogs to their future families. - Transparency in Pricing and Process
Fully trained protection dogs can be a significant investment, with prices up to $150,000. Reputable sellers will be upfront about costs and clear about what you’re getting for your investment. - Ongoing Support
Protection dogs and their owners require professional support. You’ll need a provider who offers comprehensive guidance after the purchase to help you and the dog adjust to life together.
Now that you know what to consider, here are 15 questions you should ask the seller to ensure you're making the right choice.
15 Essential Questions to Ask Before Purchasing a Protection Dog
1. What breeds do you specialize in, and why?
Answer: Most reputable sellers specialize in proven working breeds like German Shepherds and, in some cases, Malinois. These breeds are ideal because of their intelligence, loyalty, and natural protective instincts. If a Poodle is being advertised as a protection-trained dog, your common sense should step in.
Why It’s Important: The right breed ensures your dog is well-suited for protection training from a genetic standpoint.
2. How do you assess a dog's temperament for protection work?
Answer: Dog providers should be able to thoroughly demonstrate the dog's social behavior, ability to handle stress, nerve strength, and performance capability.
Why It’s Important: A sound temperament ensures the dog will react appropriately in high-pressure situations without becoming unpredictable.
3. Where do your dogs come from?
Answer: Reputable dog providers, like Full Contact K9, source dogs from European working bloodlines with strong genetics that are ideal for the rigors of protection work.
Why It’s Important: High-quality and proven bloodlines are crucial for the health, working ability, and performance of protection dogs.
4. What kind of training does the dog receive?
Answer: Protection dogs should receive specialized training in obedience, threat detection, and defense of their handler.
Why It’s Important: This ensures the dog is highly skilled and reliable when responding to threats while remaining safe around family and friends.
5. How do you match a dog to a buyer's needs?
Answer: Sellers should assess the buyer’s home environment, daily routine, and specific security needs to recommend the right dog.
Why It’s Important: Proper matching ensures a seamless fit, both in terms of security and day-to-day compatibility with the dog.
6. Can we meet the dog before purchasing?
Answer: In some cases, yes. In other situations, no. If you need a dog that the provider doesn't have on hand, the dog will have to be sourced specifically for you. However, all reputable dog providers should be able to provide you with more than enough videos of the dog(s) they recommend for your circumstances.
Why It’s Important: This allows you to gauge whether the dog feels like a good fit for your family.
7. What is included in the price?
Answer: The price should cover the dog, training, health certificates, and ongoing support.
Why It’s Important: Transparency helps you understand exactly what you’re paying for and ensures you’re getting value from the investment.
8. What health guarantees do you provide?
Answer: Sellers should offer a health guarantee that outlines the dog’s fitness and any genetic concerns.
Why It’s Important: Health guarantees protect your investment and ensure the dog is in good condition.
9. How does the dog behave around children and other pets?
Answer: Sellers should confirm and demonstrate the dog’s ability to interact safely with children and other animals.
Why It’s Important: A protection dog must be family-friendly and not pose a risk to others in your home.
10. Do you offer ongoing training or support after the purchase?
Answer: Many reputable providers offer handler training to help the dog transition and bond with their new owner.
Why It’s Important: Ongoing support ensures the dog continues to perform well and integrates smoothly into your home.
11. How do you test the dog's protection skills?
Answer: Testing involves simulating real-life scenarios to evaluate the dog’s ability to deter, defend, and respond appropriately.
Why It’s Important: Proper testing ensures the dog’s reliability and effectiveness in actual situations.
12 What is the typical lifespan of a protection dog?
Answer: Protection dogs typically live 12 years, depending on the breed and overall health.
Why It’s Important: Knowing the lifespan helps you plan for the long-term commitment of owning the dog.
13 Do you offer trial periods or money-back guarantees?
Answer: Dog providers should offer some type of replacement option as a part of a complete sales agreement.
Why It’s Important: These policies provide peace of mind for buyers who want to ensure the dog is the right fit.
14. What is the dog's daily care routine?
Answer: Sellers should explain the ideal feeding, exercise, and training routines for the dog.
Why It’s Important: Understanding the dog’s needs ensures you can maintain their physical and mental health.
15. What makes your program unique?
Answer: Trustworthy sellers, like Full Contact K9, highlight their personalized approach, rigorous training methods, and exceptional customer service.
Why It’s Important: Choosing a program with proven methods and strong client relationships sets you up for success.
Feel Ready to Buy?
When purchasing a protection dog, information and trust are your most valuable tools. Asking the right questions helps you ensure that the dog’s breed, training, temperament, and care align with your needs. Full Contact K9 stands out for its expertise in matching families with the perfect protection dog, and grooming dogs to provide both security and companionship.
Want to make the best choice for your family? Speak to Full Contact K9 today and explore your options with confidence. Security and peace of mind are just a call away!
EVAN DUNBAR
Evan Dunbar is the President of Full Contact K9 and ProK9 Equipment. At an early age he was inspired by his uncle who introduced him to work-oriented dogs. Since that time, Evan has had the opportunity to study from and train with the “who’s who” of the working dog world.
His areas of expertise include advanced obedience, personal protection, service K9, and pet instruction. He is also an active participant in Schutzhund and French Ring dog sports. A modern and dynamic trainer, Evan’s unique style is technical and combines elements of both positive methods with classical approaches.
Full Contact Canine LLC is the culmination of a lifelong respect for animals, his passion for dogs, and Evan’s personal beliefs which emphasize ingenuity, integrity, and continuous learning in the world of professional dog training. He earned his B.B.A from Mercer University.
Evan has assembled a team of some of the most respected trainers in the industry to offer Full Contact K9 clients unparalleled experience, skill and service.