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

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.”