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, thanks for your question.
I think you should stick with a GSD. You already know the breed. But this time socialize. Lots. A good gaurd dog will know th difference between a "bad" guy and someone who is harmless. Make sure you get the puppy from a good breeder with very friendly parents. A dog that lives inside and is attached to you and your family will protect you from anything. I'm not usually a fan of a GSD but thats because they shed and many have been horribly bred. Try finding a dog from Schutzhund(sp?) lines. Then train. Lots. This pupy will need to be well behaved and mannered. Again you must also socialize. This dog should be familiar with every age, gender, ect. of person. This way he wont attack someone he see's as "bad" just because hes not familiar with a guy in a unifrom/little girl running/woman in a weelchair/ect. If you want another choice, look at all the other guard breeds. Do some research and see which breed would suit your lifestyle.
A neighbor had two gaurd dogs. They were perfectly reasonable dogs, and would not attack just anyone. They listened well and if I was going in the yard for the wrong reason, I would rather face a huge mastiff. They were both 16 inch tall Jack Russel Terriers. The owner taught them that she loved them, and out of loalty alone they protected her. But if you want a deterent, get a big dog, but socialize. A police dog can be trusted in any situation, yet it will protect and attack in the right situations. It can also be trusted to stop when called off. If you are willing to do the training and socializing, you can have a social, loving, pet. Who will also take down invaders if nessesary.
Good luck and come back if you need anything else.

Emily