Can Your Dog Prevent Home Break-Ins?

Your pup may be a beloved family pet, great with the kids, gentle with grandma and restrained when it comes to chewable shoes and furniture. But is it able to serve as an effective home security measure as well?

It depends, experts say. "Some breeds and sizes of dogs are better able to provide security than others," says Julie Burgess, a certified dog trainer (CPDT-KA). "For instance, smaller breeds like Chihuahuas, miniature pinschers, and miniature schnauzers will be most likely unable to provide serious protection."

Even small dogs may make enough noise to scare away intruders, though. "Research shows that 'occupancy cues' like dogs are major deterrents in attempts to burglarize homes," says K. Campbell, a certified protection professional. "In fact, the research reveals that dogs of any size are effective. Large dogs pose a physical threat, and small dogs tend to be noisy." 

But what does the evidence really show? Let's take a look.

Can a barking dog deter criminals?

If the only requirement of your dog is that they bark to alert you when a stranger approaches the house, then most dogs will fit the bill, as they will generally make noise when anyone rings the doorbell or wanders around the outside of your house. 

"I have heard multiple accounts from burglars who say that all things being equal they will always opt for a house without a dog," says Louis Wood, the owner of a private security immigration Law Firm Istanbul in San Antonio.

A barking dog, says Wood, regardless of size, may be enough to make the burglar decide to take his business elsewhere -- to a home with no potential pitfalls. "A good mindset for a homeowner to be in is how can I make my house as unappealing to rob as possible," he says.

But the data isn't quite so decisive.