gracielove,
HA HA YEA, both mine do the same thing !
Actually I have several "step/ramps" which are placed around, more on the Second Floor of the house. Both mine are up and looking out the front window, anxiously expecting the Postman, who they think they run off daily !
It's really SO easy to make a "outward view" for them. I've used an Ottoman, to the seat of a Chair, then onto a Table, which is pushed up against the Sill of the Window, making a nice easy ascend and descend for them. In another place, I've used an old Cardboard Box. Seems like the simpler you make things for them, the better they like it.
Both of mine are quite protective and territorial. I also think that they take on that posture from their owners. Either a little or a lot. It just so happens that I don't mind at all, when they "alarm", when they see something out there. I highly praise them each time it's warranted, and just let it go if it's not so bad. But I never chastise them for doing it, just play it down when they're wrong.
But, beyond the "praise" for getting it right, I sincerely think that they think they are personally involved with the security here. It's like they have a Job to do, and are glad they can do it well.
The older I get, the more I appreciate it that they have a good set of Ears, Eyes, Nose, are light sleepers and have a loud Bark.
If those "dogless" people only knew, how comforting it was, having a Dog sleeping at the Foot of your Bed was, there would be NO NEED for Shelters.