I am an experienced dog owner and currently have a super-intelligent and high-drive dog. But she's not a pet. Can't be allowed loose with the kids unsupervised. Has strong fear-bite drive. Is a "one-person" dog (although she has bonded with 3 or 4 adults).

If anybody is interested, I can probably provide more info or pointers, but in general, I think a good rule is to equate protective dog breeds with firearms. It's that big of a deal.