What a trained protection dog claim should prove

It is one of the most common phrases in dog ads and one of the least defined.

German Shepherd lying in grass looking at the camera

Start with control

Rhode Island makes a dog owner strictly liable for injuries outside the dog's enclosure, and doubles damages after a repeat incident. Ask first how reliably it stops on cue.

Levels of readiness

Reliable manners indoors.
Steady nerves in busy places.
Structured protection work by a credentialed trainer.
A live demonstration for you.

Reasonable requests

Look for a demonstration, paperwork on the dog's training and a customer who will talk to you.

German Shepherd resting its chin on a smooth floor — A dog at ease with its handler is the thing to look for.

Promises to question

Behavior cannot be promised, so a guarantee should make you ask what stands behind it.

Live in Rhode Island and want to ask about a dog?

Send your Rhode Island ZIP code and what the dog would protect. A partner company that places protection dogs follows up.

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