Nonprotective dog, runs away

[Kaynah]

Hi, I have a 5-6 month old rescue Cattle Dog mix, spayed, etc. I was told these dogs are great for farms (which I have) & great guardians.

Well I've had the pup 2 1/2 months & she hates it here! She wants to be an indoor lap dog. She will woof at other dogs & stray cats, but bolts when people are around (ie coming into the property). She wrecks the carport she's bedded in. She has acres to play in & doesn't, only hides. When we go for walks she is very insecure wants to be held.

I can tell she's really bored but I cannot give her "pet" attention, she is to guard the yard & relax here, not be overly pampered. I don't know what to do to get her to like this arrangement. Did I choose badly? Did she?

Thank you for any advice! (btw there is only me & 2 cats, no kids, etc)

[TykoPups]

Cattle dogs were not really bred for protection. They are a herding breed.
I would look more to the mastiff breeds if your looking for a 'guardian'
You have to think back as well, the dogs really weren't alone back in the days as people worked the farms during the day. If no one is out in the yard for most of the day of course the dog is feeling bored and feeling like it is being secluded. Dogs are pack animals. If you are out during most the day with the dog, why not have the dog in at night and then out during the day. With their hearing they will be able to alert you to anything strange going on, even from inside.