Pets at night time?, camping or otherwie?

We use to have a really big rottie and if anyone got to close to set up camp my hubbie would give a whistle and he would come out from beneath the kombi shaking it in the process no one ever camped near us or came near the kombie he could have been easily bribed with a smoch or a mars bar, a gentle giant - sadly missed.

We had a Kelpie/Collie (profile pic at bottom), when she was a handful of Pup I would show her to people and until she got to know them the teeth would show and she would growl, I was told on many occasion that I had a very dangerous pup, well she was the most gentle natured dog I have ever known, absolutely loved kids, but low and behold if a stranger came near us. She slept on our bed every night and let us live in her 'kennel', but if there was anyone outside we would know about it. Even though she passed on a few years ago I still shed a tear for her every now and again.
Now we have her niece, once again a beautiful nature, loving, always wants to be near or on you, when I'm working at the sink in the kitchen she has her head or paw on my foot, a lovely dog, destructive pup but we are just about through that but a watch dog, heaven help us, she doesn't know the meaning of barking or strangers, they are all people to play with. She is definitely not our security. The only thing we can hope for is that the fact she is black it might scare someone off at the sight of her, not likely though. I am hoping in the very near future we can introduce her to traveling through the country. We are aware that traveling with dogs is restrictive but most of the big National Parks we have done, the others there are kennels to leave the dog while touring them.
Cheers
Deanna

Our Jack Russell sounds like an Alsation when she does bark! However she is really a very quiet and friendly dog - welcomes everyone and great with kids. I do think having a dog with plenty of teeth is great while you are travelling though. I am sure it deters prowlers and thieves- they don't want the noise or the risk of a bite! We have never had a problem anyway.
Of course, you really wouldn't want to travel and camp with a dog which might actually be very territorial and viciously attack anyone walking near your van. Imagine! Lynne

Hey Axle,

Couple of 60kg Ridgebacks, the girl would have to chose between running and hiding or licking you to death, the boy looks out for his pack (especially our 3 year old!)

They travel everywhere with us and I reckon it's 50/50 our/their security!

Cheers.