I have two 45s, a Sig and a Dan Wesson. But I think the wife would find it easier to use a shotgun should the need arise.. and other people are in other parts of the house.
where we live and with a dog this is probably an over reaction a bit. but better safe than sorry should it come to that...
I thought about using the 30/30 but because of other people in the house decided against it.
I hear where you’re coming from. I have kids elsewhere in the house. We also have a black and tan coonhound. Right now I’m in town, but usually I’ve had acreages in the sticks.
You’re right to take precautions. I know I sleep better being prepared.
If you’re insisting on a shotgun, I would go 12 gauge with 18 barrel and a 7 or 8 round tube. Throw some tritium sights on it so you can get target acquisition even in the dark. I always go with 00 buck.
You’d have to take your wife to the range and see what she’s comfortable handling. Just keep in the back of your mind that if it’s needed, then it needs to drop the target. I’m a former soldier and I know what 00 buck does in close quarters. It’s devastating.
That being said, I wouldn’t limit a weapon to one area. It’s always a good idea to have a few placements.