A family protection dog is a specially trained dog whose primary role is to defend and safeguard its owner, family, or property from potential threats or danger. These dogs undergo rigorous training to recognize and respond to various situations, including intruders, assaults, or other perceived dangers. Their training typically focuses on obedience, protection commands, and socialisation.

A well trained protection dog is much safer than a dog that has had no training. This is due to the fact that much like every human can punch, every dog can bite. However, a trained family protection dog understands right from wrong, and when biting is or is not allowed. A trained protection dog will understand that biting is only allowed when their handler gives them permission to do so, and will also reliably release on command. In contrast to this, an untrained dog will bite on impulse. If effectively trained and handled, a protection dog is very safe.