Anyone who has spent time in a garden knows the importance of keeping intruders out. Even something as simple as a watchdog can make all the difference when it comes to security.
Training a guard dog is not cheap, and neither is the cost of raising and training one. But, if youג€™re looking for security rather than luxury, then this might not be such an issue for you.
Here are some costs involved with raising and training your own guard dog:
How long does it take to fully train a guard dog?
The time it takes to fully train a guard dog depends on the individual dog. Some dogs will be fully trained in as little as three weeks, while others will take longer. With the average training period being seven months, you’ll want to be prepared for some initial expenses, because your guard dog will need things like food and toys.
What is a Level 4 protection dog?
According to the American Kennel Club, a level 4 protection dog is one that has an ג€_x009c_unconditional biteג€_x009d_. This means the guard dog will attack and bite without warning for any perceived threat.
This type of dog also has other abilities, such as guarding property and chasing away humans or animals. Level 4 protection dogs may also be used for search and rescue operations.
The AKC states that “Level 4 protection dogs are rarely found in the general public because they are not suitable for most people.”
What age should you start guard dog training?
The age at which you start training your dog will have a direct impact on the cost of your pet. If you wait until your dog is fully grown and well-behaved, then the cost will be much higher. Youג€™ll also want to make sure that youג€™re ready for the responsibility that comes with caring for an animal.
Training a healthy, adult dog can cost between $600-$800 per month. Raising and training a puppy can cost up to $350 per month. The total cost of raising and training a guard dog averages somewhere around $7,000-$8,000 over its lifetime.
Can you train your own dog to be a guard dog?
Yes, many people are able to train their own guard dogs. However, this takes a lot of time and patience.
If you’re not willing to put in that time and effort, then consider getting your dog from a reputable breeder or rescue shelter.
It’s also possible for you to get some training yourself if you know someone who has experience with guard dogs. Many organizations offer training services specifically for the purpose of teaching dogs how to be guard dogs.
Typically, it costs around $3,000- $7,000 per year to raise and train your own guard dog. So be ready for some cost involved!
