First, one question I have is are you looking for actual guard dog, or are you looking to create the impression of security. There's a difference, and I would think the answer would depend on the actual risk you're dealing with. Is it protection of life & property, vs. providing a sense of security for your wife and kids?

In my case, our neighborhood is generally a good urban neighborhood, but has been targeted by petty criminals for B&E for the last couple years. And by petty criminals I mean younger kids who are very likely armed. According to the police even one dog is a good deterrent whether trained as a guard dog or not. Even putting a "Beware of Dog" sign on the gate to the alley will make someone looking for an easy target move on.

I ask because I'm not sure how having one dog who serves as a family pet, while living with another that is a pure play guard dog will work. Dogs pick up the energy of the rest of their pack, so while I disagree with madman in general, I will say that having one guard dog living with a family pet could create some weird dynamic - at least between the two dogs. Maybe not, so I'd talk to a trainer to see what he or she says.

Whatever you decide, let the Vizsla pick the companion if you move forward with getting a second dog. Do a "meet and greet" at a neutral location and if the Vizsla reacts badly, I'd recommend moving to the next option. I had that experience once and while it eventually worked out, the two dogs were never "best buddies". For your own emotional well-being, I'd also suggest having the dogs be a couple years apart in age.

The classic breeds for guard dogs seem to be German Shephards and Dobermans, but if you have tolerance for a big dog / big hair, you might also check out the Saint Bernard / Great Pyrenese. As herders they are protective, but not necessarily in the 'hard edge' way you can get with shephards and dobes.

Lastly, unless you want a puppy that you raise from scratch, talk to the REPUTABLE rescue groups in your area, particularly one that specializes in the breed you pick. They are typically run by people who know the breed inside and out, and will be very clear about what the breed's capabilities as a guard dog (and, just as importantly, what you need to do to create a suitable environment).

Good luck!
[Post edited by Upwind of uva at 02/17/2016 06:24AM]