picking a breed of puppy

Question
I am trying to choose a successor to a German Shepherd guard
dog we've had for 10 years. I want to get a puppy that can learn
from
him, but that will be much more socialized. Although part of it
was
our fault, the G.S. is way too fierce for a neighborhood that is
getting more suburban. He is an entirely outside dog with a
house
and a 100-yard run. Although we'll keep him until he dies, I now
need a breed that will grow to be a good size and will bark and
whose presence will discourage burglars, but isn't so much of a
liability. He will be both inside and outside. I'm thinking of a
shepherd mix, a lab mix, or even a golden, but can goldens be
taught to guard? Thanks for your thoughts on my problem. Anita  

Answer
Hi Anita,  No goldens can not be taught to gaurd, they really don't have the natural instinct for it. Some Labs can, but your best bet is to stick with GSDs.  They have the natural instinct for it and can easily be taught it.  Hope this helps,

Dawn