I can see 360 degrees out of my house, without exposing myself. Also, I know the difference between an "alarm bark" and a "someone new is here" bark. But, to answer your question, If I HAVE to check outside (I have outbuildings (Barn) and always several vehicles around, I would, arm myself, then get the "big dog" (115 lb GSD, with a BAD attitude, and VERY well trained) and turn him loose on "search mode", while I stayed back. If there's a BG around, the dog will go to "hold and bark" IF NOT THREATENED, until I call him off. OR, if the BG acts in an aggressive manner, he'll get chomped (badly). In the meantime, I'm calling 911, and stay on high alert(in case of multiple BGs), usually w/ backup from my (armed) sons still in the house. They also can release one of the other 2 trained dogs, if needed)
