I'm getting ready to purchase a German Shepherd (I know I'm spelling that wrong). I want to train him or her to be a guard dog while also training him or her to be social and good with kids. Where can I get informational books or DVDs on how to do so?

Albert I hope you're rich because a guard dog will cost you so much money it's scary. 1. Liability for bites - to you, your children and your friends. Even if it's a bad guy - your guard dog will cause liability problems in some communities.2. It will be impossible (or too expensive) to get home owner's insurance because of a "guard dog." And even if you get rid of the dog - you'll have difficulty getting home owner's insurance.3. You will have to spend daily time training the dog, walking the dog, telling people to leave the dog alone, etc. etc. And again, even if you tell your neighbor's bratty nasty kid to leave dog alone, and he doesn't and gets bitten - you're the one in trouble. No. A guard dog is too much trouble. Go play with nitroglycerin on a trampoline. Just about as smart.Of course, if you WANT to be a social pariah...Now, if you want a companion, friend, pet, loving member of your family - by all means get the shepherd. They're wonderful dogs. Smart, easily trained in obedience, loving, loyal, happy, playful, gentle with children - a shepherd is a joy to own. And I would recommend obedience training - as in a class - for all dog owners, regardless of breed.but if you want a guard dog - you're MUCH MUCH better off buying an expensive alarm system for your home - one that calls the police etc. in emergencies. Don't get a guard dog.Besides, with the alarm system, insurance premiums often go down.