According to a new study out of Columbus, Ohio, neighborhoods with more dogs seem to have lower crime rates, including lower homicide and robbery rates. The reason is more residents are walking their dogs and that puts more "eyes on the street," making it less likely crimes will occur.
This is particularly true in areas where there is a high amount of trust between neighbors. Having more dogs also helps decrease property-related crimes like burglaries because barking and the sight of dogs will keep criminals away
Source: Ohio State News