Dogs are a deterrent for burglars, nothing more.
It is true that most dominicans seem to be afraid of dogs, but don't let that give you a false sense of security.
Robbers that want to get into your house will get in, dogs or not.
More than once, i know of people who have trusted too much in their dogs.
Their maid, gardener or whoever, who are usually trusted both by the family and the dogs have pressure put on them (by the robbers) to distract the pets and give them doctored food (to put them to sleep - not permanently). While the dogs are gone the robbers show up in their police/dncd uniforms and have their way.
Obviously, if this happens, just do everything they tell you. They'll probably take your car as well. The dogs will appear a short time later. Usually the 'trusted' employee will not. If they do, they are the first to be arrested.
The dogs should appear a short time later.
Won't help if you keep yoir dogs in at night. The professionals prefer to see what is going on in daylight.
No, it has not happened to me.
Have to agree with some posters, if you think you are going to be in a place where you will be living in fear all the time, then look for an alternative.