Apologies in advance if I have misunderstood but why would 2 dogs be more of a deterrent to burglars ? Why would you feel safer walking two dogs in remote woods with a baby? Surely managing two dogs plus baby would be more distracting or challenging?

I think you have the right reasons for wanting a dog, but are looking at certain breeds for the wrong reasons.

I would reverse it - look at all the other aspects, such as exercise, grooming and training requirements, general breed traits, etc and narrow it down to a few breeds that are totally suitable. If one of them happens to be a "deterent" breed then great, otherwise I wouldn't go for a scary / guarding breed for that reason alone.

The working breeds are some of my favourites - rotties, dobermanns, etc. but I love them for the whole package. Their guarding instincts (and reputations in the Sun!) do not put me off, but they are certainly not the reason I like them.

I would also look at the potential downsides / risks. Many of the guarding breeds need extra socialisation and training compared to other breeds so that they don't perceive everyone as a theat.
The last thing you want is to be out with your children trying to control a large dog who doesn't know the difference between a mugger and a little old lady with her shopping; or thinks your friendly visitors are evil intruders.

You need to seriously consider whether you actually want one of these breeds (aside from being a deterent) and if you have the time and capacity to properly rear one.

There is also the breeds reputation to consider (something I feel strongly about). If you get a breed deemed "nice" and have a few problems with it, no one will think twice. If you have issues with a "scary" breed you only add fuel to the anti-dog, BSL brigade and reinforce the opinions that certain breeds are just bad.

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Thanks everyone for your replies. Its given me a lot more to take into consideration and the process will not be rushed. When we had all 3 labs together I took them and my daughter (18 months) all out together with no problems. I understand that a powerful breed can/will take more work than a lab in some areas though. When we fostered the little staffy pup we had to work on socialisation with her too so its not a completely new territory for me. I do think I have what it takes to have a powerful breed and to make it an upstanding canine citizen but like I said we wont be rushing into getting any dog, its a long comittment so we want to get it right first time.

Thanks again!!

Just saw this, and thought I would add my bit of wisdom.

I would recommend a Staffie. They will be fab with your kids, are smart, and have minimal grooming requirements.

As far as the Hovawart is concerned: They have a strong guarding instinct. I used to walk one with our Golden Retriever and a little Heinz. She was the loveliest, softest dog, but offlead she never veered far away and, God forbid, some stranger would have approached me. She always positioned herself between me and other people when out and about. And she made a lot of noise.
They are gorgeous but A LOT of grooming so maybe not very sensible with 2 small children.

I can totally understand why you want to feel safe. Sometimes I walk Terence and I feel there is some crazy person lurking behind every tree.
Hope you find a suitable dog for you and your family.

I can totally appreciate why you've been considering a guarding breed, and if you are set on getting a second dog anyway, maybe a rescue would be the answer? That way you could end up with a nice, calm, well socialised member of a breed that would act as a deterrant if anyone had malice in mind...!

There are lots of GSDs, Rotties and Dobermans in rescue, and a really good rescue would find you a dog that would be a great addition to your 'pack'

Best of luck

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I personally think any dog will naturally protect their owner in certain circumstances, I can understand that you feel nervy alone but you already have a dog that I am sure would protect you if need be

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