[Breeds] [Help] I know nothing, and I need to find the right dog

I'd cross Ridgebacks off your list.

They are not very biddable (eager to please) dogs. Although they are "velcro dogs" and may enjoy cuddles, they are not "attentive" like herding dogs and retrievers. They show their love by being close to you, not by being eager to respond to commands.

They are also challenging to have as off-leash dogs. This does not describe them:

Does not get distracted and run off.

It's something you have to be vigilant about all the time.

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A note on guard dogs.

The training required for this is a way of life. This is not something you can do by attending weekly classes. Every interaction and experience is a lesson. Crucially, their handler must be able to remain calm. This is a tall order as often people who seek the comfort of a guard dog (and many who don't!) are not able to keep their emotions in check. So, for example, feelings of fear and anxiety over noises outside when there is actually nothing to be concerned about, sends the wrong signals to the dog and results in the opposite of what you're looking for.

The good news is that a large sized dog who alert barks is often as much as most people need. Black or dark dogs are usually "scarier" to people than their lighter counterparts.

Good luck with your research! : )

/r/dogs Thread