Peace and protection through a strong appearance.I have Dobermans
Not necessarily for protection. I just like them.
Speaking of .22 A few years back, I bought a Heritage Rough Rider. It came with 2 cylinders .22LR and .22 WMR (which is what I leave in it. ) Yeah, it's cheap, it's not an heirloom pistol etc. but it's fun, and in a pinch those .22 mags are underrated.
My wife had an American Bully when we first met and for a few years after we married. Nicest dog I have ever met. But at around 90 pounds she commanded respect and fear when my wife took walks with her. People would just cross the street to avoid being close. Right now, I am getting ready to take my daily walk with what I call the monster. She is an Anatolian Shepherd/Pyrenees mix that is 140 plus pounds. People do the same with her when we walk.