Size can be a deciding factor, but look at breeds that were created for the sole purpose of alert dogs. Believe it or not, the Shih Tzu was bred not only for food (hope you're not with PETA...) but as an alert dog. If you know a friend with one, you know the thing barks if it hears a fly.
Shih Tzus were kept around Chinese palaces to alert people if they heard a noise. If you're looking for something that's going to take out a robber, something like a German Shepherd would be excellent BUT it would need to be very well trained (so it doesn't turn on any family members). I would visit your local humane society and talk with one of the folks there... they'd be able to give you excellent information AND lead you to a dog that might be the perfect choice for you!
Well, according to the AKC, the most popular breed of dog are Labrador Retrievers.
I cant really gove you an answer,but what I can give you is a way to a solution, that is you have to find the anglde that you relate to or peaks your interest. A good paper is one that people get drawn into because it reaches them ln some way.As for me WW11 to me, I think of the holocaust and the effect it had on the survivors, their families and those who stood by and did nothing until it was too late.