[fostermom]

I found a website once that rated dogs for their guard ability...shepherds rated high, rotti's barely made the cut because of their "wait and see" temperment, they also tend to not be barkers, whereas gsd's tend to more reactive (and vocal!). I foster for a german shepherd rescue and the gsd's I fostered drove me nuts...my rotti's would be snoring happily in the livingroom while the shepherds would CONSTANTLY patrol the house. I also read on another site that shepherds were more likely to bite than rotts which, after having fostered both breeds, I tend to believe as all the rotts I've had the pleasure to own, foster or meet have had wonderfully stable temperments. I absolutely agree with the earlier poster...I think simply owning a rotti irregardless of it's guarding ability is a great deterent...I have a rotti crossing sign posted on my gate...in case anyone thinking about breaking in doesn't know I have four black and tans (who would probably happily lick any intruder to death).
They can be headstrong and do best in a home where consistent rules are established and obedience training is employed. These dogs adore their family and NEED to be with them, preferably in the same room....they are not dogs that do well as back yard dogs.
I lived for quite a few years in MD and agree that finding a good breeder can be quite daunting. I considered breeding a golden I had (many years ago) and checked out several large, show kennels. One had a very aggressive male they were studding out, another had a female with hip dysplasia they kept breeding because she "threw such nice pups". Look for someone who considers the entire package (health, temperment as well)! Or you might want to consider rescue where you can see what the dog's temperment is. Best of luck in your decisions and search.