Ill have to look into a swiss mountain dog, the only thing that would steer me awaY is the reluctaqnce to bite, I already have a dog who is all bark I would like one who is willing to bite should the need arise (which of course I hope it wouldent). About the predators in my area I think its mostly bears are the biggest problem but I believe there are wolves in the area to but can't be certain on that. And the tempature is mild so it wouldent be a problem I mean we have warm summers cool falls and cold winters we don't really get the extreames to the point they'd affrect the dog like arizona would with the heat which is nice.