Your Pets Daily - Security dogs

Security Expert Issues Warning For Homeowners With ‘Beware of the Dog’ Sign

Tom Stone — Mon, 26 Feb 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Home burglaries in the UK are on the rise, with over 525 reported every day. In response to this trend, many homeowners are resorting to old-school tactics like the "Beware of the Dog" sign. But, a new warning from a leading security expert suggests this popular approach might be counterproductive.

Crime Guard provides security solutions ranging from smart home alarm systems to K9 teams. Here, General Manager Sue Titley, explains why the sign may do more harm than good.

“The image of a ferocious canine guarding your property might seem like a deterrent to potential intruders, but homeowners should reconsider the "Beware of the Dog" sign. While it may discourage some burglars, it can attract others who are experienced with dogs or view it as a challenge.”

False Sense of Security: “The "Beware of the Dog" sign can create a false sense of security for homeowners, leading them to believe their property is adequately protected when it isn’t. This misconception can make them complacent, less likely to invest in more effective security measures, and ultimately leave their homes vulnerable to burglaries.”

Experienced Criminals: “The “Beware of the Dog” sign alerts passers-by that there's a protective animal on the premises – which could mean you have valuables in your home worthy of stealing. This could attract seasoned thieves who are experienced in handling or neutralising dogs, or who are willing to take risks to break into the property. Relying on a dog for security might also indicate that there's no alarm system in place, as pets often trigger alarms, thus making the property an easier target.”

Desensitisation: “Over time, the effectiveness of "Beware of the Dog" signs may diminish. If these signs become commonplace in a neighbourhood, burglars may start ignoring them altogether, assuming they're merely a precaution without an actual threat behind them.”

Five Security Tips, Approved By Experts

Lock Up: “It may seem obvious, but nearly a third of UK homeowners forget to lock their doors or windows when going out, making it easy for thieves to enter your home.”

Lighting is Key: "Motion-sensor lights are a great way to catch intruders off guard, leaving them feeling exposed. Solar-powered pathway lights can also deter thieves before they even reach your door.”

Fake It: "Fake security cameras are surprisingly effective in deterring thieves. Though they don’t physically prevent break-ins, realistic-looking cameras create the illusion of monitored property. According to the Home Office, 95% of burglars actively avoid homes with visible security systems.”

Social Media Savvy: "Avoid sharing holiday updates or geo-tagged photos while you're away as this signals your home is unoccupied. A 2023 study by Aviva found that 1 in 5 people had been burgled after posting holiday details online. Research also indicates that 43% of burglars know their victims, so be wary of who you share your posts with.”

Secure Your Garage: "Garages are overlooked entry points, with a worrying 27% of UK burglars gaining entry through garages or sheds. Secure garage doors with strong locks, and consider adding motion sensors or an alarm system within the garage itself.”

The Four Best Guard Dogs to Protect Life and Property

Tom Stone — Sat, 27 Jan 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Following several years of lockdown periods, burglaries have dramatically risen in 2022 - with a burglary now taking place every 106 seconds in the UK! A study conducted by Compare the Market has since discovered that burglaries are set to rise by an average of 24% between now and 2026. The need for home security is resultantly at an all-time high.

K9 Patrol trains a variety of dog breeds for security purposes, with well-trained security dogs an excellent way to protect your commercial or domestic property. Whether you need to deter intruders, prevent break-ins or guard your family, your canine companion can do it all.

Our team has resultantly looked at common breeds renowned for making good guard dogs. Samantha Davy, the Senior Manager of K9 Patrol, had the following to say about four of the most popular security dog breeds:

The Four Best Guard Dogs to Protect Life and Property:

1. German Shepherds:

“We like German Shepherds because they are easy to train and totally fearless as well. They’re big, bold dogs that ooze confidence and they’re very intelligent which means they are very easy to train.

Used by police forces and countless security companies, a German Shepherd also makes a very loving and devoted family pet.”

2. Rottweilers

“People can be intimidated by the sheer size and scale of a Rottweiler but with the right training, they can be putty in your hands. Just like the German Shepherd, you’ll find a Rottweiler is an intelligent dog that’s very loyal to its owner.

They are naturally wary of strangers - so if somebody is foolish enough to break into your home your ‘rotty’ will soon send them packing.”

3. Doberman Pinschers:

“This breed is great for large areas because a Doberman can cover a large amount of land in record-breaking time.

Dobermans are moreover one of the smartest dogs you can buy, a fearless animal that will fight to the death to protect their owner. Again, proper training is required, but if you are prepared to put in the effort the rewards are plentiful.”

4. Staffordshire Bull Terriers:

“Sadly, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier receives bad press because of its negative portrayal in the media. The problem lies with the ownership and the training of the dog, or rather, the inappropriate training the dog receives in the wrong hands. These breeds are often sought out by owners that train them for fighting or to use them as ‘status’ symbols.

Despite this reputation, ‘Staffies’ are known as the original ‘nanny dog’ because they will sit by prams and protect the baby inside. They’re not naturally aggressive, make good family pets and will certainly keep your home safe!”.

Man’s Best Friend: The Six Benefits of Using Security Dogs

Your Pets Daily Editor — Fri, 26 Jan 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Burglaries are on the rise in the UK. Individuals are now having to invest in security measures for their home and belongings, and it isn't just businesses investing in canine patrols. Several footballers, including Raheem Sterling, Jack Grealish and Paul Pogba have invested in security dogs, while Tyson fury recently purchased a £20,000 guard dog called 'Cash'.

K9 Patrol, a Yorkshire based security firm, has extensive experience in training a variety of dog breeds for security purposes. From dogs specially trained to search people, vehicles and buildings to drug detection, the canines we work with are capable of protecting your family, home and more. But how is your four-legged hero trained, and why are so many big names investing in security on paws?

Samantha Davy, the Senior Manager of K9 Patrol, has provided information regarding the benefits of using security dogs to protect your property, belongings and family.

1. Reaction Times

“There’s no denying a dog’s ability to react quickly which can prove particularly useful if they are working dogs in the security field, especially if you chose the right kind of dog. Whilst all dogs are known to have quick reactions of barking or snooping to see who’s around, there are certain breeds that are infamous for their protective qualities.

These kinds of dogs have the ability to be security alarms, but with the fur factor. A dog’s natural curiosity means that any strangers, unusual noises or movements will be immediately sniffed out and barked at if necessary. The right breed can be incredibly reliable and intelligent enough to evaluate situations properly.”

2. Canines Are Natural Weapons

“Even if it is a case of the dog having a bark worse than its bite, dogs still provide a threat of physical harm with their intimidating blend of growls, strong jaws and sharp claws. Criminals won’t be able to differentiate between a guard dog that’s ‘all talk’ and a guard dog that will bite or attack, so they will naturally assume the latter.

There really is no doubt that dogs act as effective deterrents to criminals. Not only do these dogs look and sound quite intimidating, but trained security dogs are also fit enough to outrun most people. There’s very little point in attempting to run away from a security dog as this will only enhance their suspicions and perhaps their aggression, and they will run faster.”

3. Loyalty

“They’re not called man’s best friend for nothing: dogs are incredibly loyal creatures, which is why they are such popular house pets as well as guard animals. With this loyalty, comes a protective quality – a combination that is rarely matched in other animal species.

Dogs are great for personal security and property security, as well as detection thanks to their extraordinary sense of smell. There’s no doubt that they make fantastic companions for pet owners and police guards alike.”

4. Intelligence

“Dogs are incredibly intelligent animals. They have the ability to pick up on our voices and body language to translate a situation or emotion and are even more capable when they’ve been trained properly.

They put this skill of theirs to good use, and are able to sense when things are not quite right, whether with a person or with a situation. Dogs can detect danger, and the breeds that are chosen to be security dogs aren’t afraid to do something about it.”

5. Motivation

“Of course, there are privileges for the dog’s owners too. Not only will the dog handler (whether that be for domestic or professional purposes) feel confident and less vulnerable with them by their side, but the dog’s upbeat and proactive ways will also have a positive effect on them.

Owners will start to pick up on the dog’s ways; the ability to read their dog’s actions as well as picking up on their energetic ways. All dogs – particularly security dogs – have to be fit and exercised regularly.”

6. Stress-relief

“Another definite plus point of any dog handler is the stress relief attained by simply having a dog around you. Petting your furry friend can boost endorphins in your body, enhancing your mood and reducing your stress levels.

It’s not only the comfort of feeling safer with them on a lead by your side but dogs are also proven to scientifically aid your health by lowering your blood pressure and cholesterol.”

Your Pets Daily - Security dogs

Security Expert Issues Warning For Homeowners With ‘Beware of the Dog’ Sign

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The Four Best Guard Dogs to Protect Life and Property

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Man’s Best Friend: The Six Benefits of Using Security Dogs

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