If I was ever going to get a dog, it would be for protection as much as companionship, and my choice would be a toss-up between three breeds, dobermans being one. I know that the big, standard poodles are VERY cool dogs, very smart, and capable of being very protective. I also like German Shepherds -- a very dear friend of mine has had several, and one of them very probably saved her from some bad dudes once.
Dogs are a blessing from God, even pit bulls and Rottweilers, and my Granny's ridiculous little miniature poodles that were like perpetual beebees in a shoebox. :^)
In 1982 I was pregnant with my son, about 8 months. I was expecting my sister in law to come keep me company. I heard a knock & opened the door. A man had opened my screen door & was holding a 6 pack. He asked for some guy & I said wrong address. I lived in the swamps then & there was nobody by that name in the area. He pushed me backward & I fell into a closet. My male dobie had his mouth around his throat while my female stood over him. They didn’t bite but just held him. My SIL came & we called the police. 45 minutes passed & we let him go. When the police finally came they informed me he could press charges on me. Even though they saw the bi-fold closet door was smashed. Only in NJ!! I truly believe those dogs saved my life. Funny thing about them was they would let you in but they wouldn’t let you out. A good doberman is almost like a gun or was back then. The police never came to my door after that. If they wanted me they honked the horn. I would have another one as they are easy to care for & very devoted to the family. When I finally open my horse rescue I plan to keep one in my barn tack room with a dog door. Too many darn horse thieves around stealing horses to send to Canada for slaughter.No Frenchman is getting my horses for their dinner!.