Best dog for family and protection: 25 Best Guard Dogs — Good Guard Dog Breeds
The 13 Best Guard Dogs — The Best Dog for Home Protection
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Sometimes the best security system is a four-legged friend.
By
Colleen Stinchcombe
Purple Collar Pet Photography
Smart, loyal, and courageous — if you had to narrow down traits for the best guard dog, these would likely be them. Nobody wants their dog to have to put up a fight (putting up a cuddle is much preferred), but if you want a dog who’s more likely to run at a problem than away from it, a little research helps.
Although some dogs might be preferable based on their size and personality characteristics, any dog can be trained to help protect your home and family, Patrick Mahaney, V.M.D., a veterinarian in Los Angeles, tells Woman’s Day. A lot of potential owners looking for a guard dog turn to large dog breeds, although they’re not the only ones who put up a fight. Medium-sized dogs and herding dogs are also protective and known to ward off bad-intentioned folks.
That said, you can’t rely on breed alone. “The degree to which a dog breed will protect is individual to each dog,” Dr. Mahaney says. “There are occasions where a particular breed that would otherwise be known as a guard dog will not exhibit a natural protective tendency.”
It’s worth checking in with your veterinarian or trainer about the behaviors you’re hoping to see, Dr. Mahaney explains. Fence running, for example, might strike you as a good offense against intruders, but it can become an obsessive habit that leads to fence chewing or excessive barking, which can lead to health problems.
Not to mention, training is a huge part of any dog’s performance and personality. Especially when it comes to larger dogs, Dr. Mahaney recommends working with a trainer on the behaviors you’re hoping to see as well as on obedience, which is crucial when your dog is half your size and on the chase.
These are some of the best guard dog breeds out there.
Elva Etienne
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Boxer
Boxers can be super affectionate, and they’re very loyal according to the American Kennel Club. And their high levels of intelligence mixed with their loyalty means that with some training, a Boxer can be great as a guard dog.
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Akita
Akitas are also known for being profoundly loyal dogs. They’re big dogs (100+ pounds) and natural born protectors.
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Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Staffordshire Bull Terriers are known for being brave and tenacious, according to AKC. They’re super muscular and could definitely intimidate anyone who wasn’t welcome in your home.
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Chow Chow
The Chow Chow is a muscular, stocky breed whose history goes all the way back to ancient China. Once companions to Chinese nobles, the breed eventually gained a reputation for guarding and hunting, which makes them an excellent guard dog to consider today. They do tend to be aloof and anti-social except for the people closest to them, so if you’re wanting a crowd-lover, this might not be the pet for you.
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Shar-Pei
Another dog that is affectionate with their family but not interested in strangers is the Shar-Pei. At home, they’re pretty calm and quiet. But if something’s amiss, you can bet the Shar-Pei will want to investigate. Because of their loyal-to-a-fault temperament, they need careful, early training to be properly socialized and behave well in the company of non-family.
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Australian Shepherd
One of the most recognizable ranch dogs, Australian Shepherds are good at, well, shepherding. These smart dogs want to corral anything they can, including your family. This habit makes them super protective and also keenly observant, both critical traits in a great guard dog. But their background also means they need plenty of mental and physical activity to keep them from acting out.
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Border Collie
If your “home” happens to be more of a homestead, you couldn’t ask for a better protector than a Border Collie. Fueled by regular activity and wide open spaces, the Border Collie has been used by sheep farmers for ages as an excellent herder. Their whip-smart intelligence makes them great dogs for training — so you can instill the behaviors you need in a guard dog, and not the ones you don’t.
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Bernese Mountain Dog
Part of the Bernese Mountain Dog’s appeal is just their sheer size — this pup can get up to 115 pounds. They love their family deeply and are generally a gentle giant, although they take a while to warm to strangers and they often alarm bark to warn them away. This may make them a better watch dog than guard dog, unless they’re specifically trained for what to do in the event of an intruder.
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Doberman Pinscher
Beyond their undeniably intimidating look, the Doberman Pinscher also has an excellent temperament for guarding. They’re loyal, hyper alert, and scared of nothing. All of the traits that make them an excellent guard dog have also given them a bad reputation as dangerous. Owners should be diligent with training so that their pups only represent the breed’s best qualities when out in the neighborhood.
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German Shepherd
Perhaps one of the first breeds that come to mind when you think “guard dog,” the German Shepherd has an excellent reputation for a good reason. Loving, smart, and brave, this is a dog as perfect for families as it is for police officers. Just make sure you’re working on obedience, too, so that you can effectively command your pet if they guard unnecessarily.
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Bullmastiff
Originally a cross between Bulldog and Mastiff and bred to hunt down poachers in the late 19th century, the Bullmastiff is equal parts relaxed homebody and cunning worker when on the job. Smart, confident, and alert, the American Kennel Club (AKC) calls the breed a “world-class protector. ” Because of their size — they can reach 130 pounds — these dogs should be trained young, while they’re still small enough to handle.
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Rhodesian Ridgeback
Once used to track lions in Africa, the Rhodesian Ridgeback is now a happy family dog — except for their fierce independent streak and chasing instinct. But their long history of working for humans and protecting homesteads makes them obedient, loyal, and ready to stand up against anyone interfering with their pack. Best for experienced dog owners, though, since their stubbornness requires extra attention in training.
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Rottweiler
The Rottweiler is everything you could want in a great guardian: alert, aloof with strangers, and happy to serve humans. They were even some of the first guide dogs for the blind, according to the AKC. But what makes the Rottweiler even better is that, when they’re not on duty, they’re silly, playful, fun-loving dogs that don’t take the world too seriously.
25 Truly Unique Dog Names
Colleen Stinchcombe
Freelance Health Writer
Colleen is a health and travel writer in Seattle, Washington.
Best Dog Breeds for Home and Family Protection | Blog
When it comes to choosing a dog to add to your family as a companion and home protector, one of the first questions you’re probably asking is “Which breed should I pick?” Every household is a little bit different, as are the potential scenarios you’re protecting against, so while there isn’t necessarily a single “best” breed for home protection, there are a number of breeds that have risen to the challenge through careful selection, responsible breeding and specialized training, making them well-suited for the job.
Gold Coast K9 has over thirty years of experience training world-class protection dogs, and during that time, we’ve found that the following five breeds excel as home protectors and loyal family companions. These breeds not only have a lot to offer their families by way of vigilant protection and heightened awareness, they also provide loving, well-adjusted companions for both adults and children alike.
German Shepherd
As one of the most popular dog breeds in America, German Shepherds are seen as some of the most versatile family dogs. They are a medium to large sized dog, with an average weight between 60 to 100 pounds, and a short to full plush coat. They make some of the best guard dogs because they are very receptive to training, naturally intelligent, alert, confident, and obedient. You may also see them being used as service dogs for individuals with disabilities, with police and military for protection and detection, or even herding. A properly selected and trained German Shepherd is responsive to commands, a vigilant protector, and is also a relaxed, loving, and gentle family companion.
Malinois/Belgian Shepherd
The Malinois, which may also be referred to as Belgian Malinois or Belgian Shepherd, is often mistaken for a somewhat smaller German Shepherd. They are a short-haired, medium to large sized breed ranging from 55 to 100 pounds. They are very intelligent, watchful, driven, alert, hard-working, and confident. They are typically lighter and nimbler than a German Shepherd, with a strong athletic build. When properly selected, they make an excellent family companion and protector due to their willingness to please, along with their physical prowess and confidence in their ability to guard. Their energy and enthusiasm make them a great choice for an active family or high-valued clients’ security detail as well.
Dutch Shepherd
Originally used for farm work in the Netherlands, the Dutch Shepherd is highly trainable, and shares a striking resemblance to German Shepherds and Malinois. They are a medium to large sized breed, weighing from 55 to 100 pounds, with a short to full plush coat. They are extremely obedient and intelligent, allowing them to be a loyal companion with a natural instinct to keep an eye on their surroundings to ensure safety. This easygoing and friendly breed plays well with kids and other pets, displaying plenty of love and affection. Some experts claim that Dutch Shepherds are among the smartest shepherd breeds.
Doberman Pinscher
The Doberman Pinscher can credit its origins to the dedicated efforts of a tax collector from Germany who bred dogs to create the perfect guard to protect himself and his livelihood back in the 1800s. Since then, Dobermans have branched out to other lines of work including search and rescue operations, general service and emotional support, police and military protection and detection work, in addition to being used as loyal family protectors.
A properly trained and socialized Doberman Pinscher makes for a clever, attentive and fearless guard dog, who can also turn off the “tough” attitude while at rest or play with their family and are known to be gentle and friendly with children and other pets. They are medium to large in size, weighing anywhere from 50-100 pounds with a sleek, short coat that is easy to groom.
Giant Schnauzer
The Giant Schnauzer is a medium to large sized breed, weighing between 55 to 110 pounds. They make great protectors and pets for people with allergies specifically, as their wiry coat hardly sheds and they’re one of the largest breeds known to be hypoallergenic. Giant Schnauzers are also receptive to training, obedient, and very affectionate.
Much larger and stronger than the standard Schnauzer, the Giant Schnauzer is a highly intelligent, agile, and independent spirit. This independent thinking when coupled with proper socialization, training and their innate drive to protect makes them fearless protectors, and a great choice for families who are looking for an affectionate, loyal and playful companion. Giant Schnauzers typically do best in single-pet households, where they can be the pride of their family.
Getting Acquainted Period
It’s important to keep in mind that regardless of the breed you choose and the level of training they’ve received, your dog will require an acclimation period in order to settle in to their new home and role. This “getting acquainted” period can last a couple of weeks and allows your dog to grow accustomed to the new sights, sounds and people that will make up their new day-to-day routine.
Due to the influx of new stimuli, this transition period can cause some stress and anxiety for your dog, so it’s important to remain calm and patient with them and to reinforce any commands or training they received prior to coming home with you.
To help ease this transition, Gold Coast K9 trains owners on how to reinforce obedience with a clear and consistent management program and provides you with a manual for everything you to need to know regarding your new companion.
Gold Coast K9’s Home Protectors
While breed is just one factor to consider when purchasing a home protection dog, it’s an important step in determining the right match for your protection needs and household. At Gold Coast K9, we hand select the best protection dogs from around the world based on the specific needs of each client. Those home protection candidates go through an extensive screening and evaluation process prior to training to ensure they’ll not only be the best match for a particular client, but also a loving and loyal companion.
Our dogs are the gold standard in home protection and each Home Protector receives the following overarching training and development before being placed in their new home:
- Socialization
- House/Kennel Training
- Pressure Ready
- Environmental Confidence
- Obedience
- Bark on Command
- Threat Protection
- Search interior residence and exterior for intruder
In addition to the training above, Gold Coast K9 also offers the option for custom training for dogs based on the security requirements of each client. This could involve anything from livestock socialization or odor detection to helicopter/plane socialization or tracking capabilities.
To learn more about how Gold Coast K9 provides best-in-class canines for home protection, call us at 805-400-3967 for information or to schedule a tour.
description, character and main features
Content:
- What can be called service dogs?
- Australian Shepherd (Aussie)
- Akita Inu
- American Staffordshire Terrier
- Beagle
- Boxer
- Border Collie
- Welsh Corgi (Pembroke & Cardigan)
- East European Shepherd
- Golden Retriever
- Doberman
- Caucasian Shepherd Dog
- Labrador Retriever
- Moscow watchdog
- German Shepherd
- Rottweiler
- Black Russian Terrier
- St.
Bernard
- Terminals
Dogs are man’s best friends and faithful helpers. Representatives of some breeds steadfastly serve on a par with people, participating in search and guard activities. A sharp scent, a strong psyche, courage and endurance are the qualities that a real service dog should have.
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Of course, these dogs can also be kept as companions. Cynologists recommend that owners of service dogs take at least a general training course (OKD) in order for the pet to become obedient and well-mannered.
Does your heart belong to the service breed? On the eve of the holiday – Defender of the Fatherland Day – we have prepared material about the most popular of them.
What kind of dogs can be called service dogs?
Service breeds are divided into:
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1. Hunting. Their task is to hunt down and pursue prey.
2. Shepherds. Help to graze livestock in all weather conditions.
3. Security. Guard objects and people.
4. Investigative. Carry out a search for people in danger, prohibited substances.
5. Customs. Find objects and substances that cannot be brought into or taken out of the country.
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6. Bodyguards. Dogs guarding people.
7. Search engines. A keen sense of smell helps to find people who are missing, trapped under rubble, etc.
8. Guards. Protect the borders of the state.
9. Riding. Designed for transporting people and goods in difficult weather conditions.
10. Sappers. Find explosives, help clear the area.
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11. Assistance dogs for people with disabilities (guide dogs, rehabilitation dogs, therapeutic guard dogs).
Australian Shepherd (Aussie)
Good-natured dogs that, despite their mischievous nature, will never offend themselves or family members. They prefer to dominate, so the owner will have to be patient to find a common language with the pet.
Australian Shepherds have historically been used as herding dogs, making them responsible babysitters. They are often recruited into the border guard and also trained as guide assistants.
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Akita Inu
These people from the land of the rising sun are owners of a difficult character who need training skills. It is impossible to bring up a “plush toy” from an Akita Inu – a proud and independent disposition will not allow this.
They do not like the presence of strangers, and they will growl at other dogs, clearly marking their territory. Spending time in nature, chasing a toy is their favorite pastime. The dog of the Akita Inu breed will become an excellent guard, to whom you can safely entrust your home and family.
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American Staffordshire Terrier
Strong and hardy staffs are distinguished by high intelligence. Despite the formidable appearance, this dog never attacks just like that – it is quite difficult to get him out of himself. Aggression will be manifested only in case of a clear danger.
The training of the Staffordshire Terrier should begin at a very early age – the dog must be clearly aware of how to behave with family members and with other people. The character of the guard, laid down by nature, makes representatives of the breed reliable companions with whom you can feel completely safe.
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Beagle
The Beagle is a hound breed, so the presence of a small fidget in the house is guaranteed. The activity of this dog can only be envied. Beagles adore a large number of people, whose attention is attracted with pleasure. They do not like to be left alone, in the absence of the owners for a long time, they can begin to destroy the house, expressing their extreme indignation.
They get along with other dogs, but cats are not respected – the hunter’s temper affects. The Beagle is an ideal breed for a large family, which will delight owners with optimism and inexhaustible energy until their advanced years.
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Boxer
Fearless boxers are excellent watchdogs, therefore they are often used by law enforcement agencies as service dogs. These are dogs that will be faithful to their owners until their last breath. With the right upbringing, a reliable family member, active and friendly, grows out of a boxer.
Another distinctive quality is increased alertness towards strangers. However, you should not be afraid of a boxer: he always feels those who pose a real threat. Boxers love children, they are happy to participate in their games, and in case of danger they will be the first to come to the rescue.
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Border Collie
Border collies are considered to be the smartest dogs in the world. They are easy to train and able to learn complex commands. These are workaholic dogs who need someone to take care of all the time.
The ancestors of modern border collies were herding small livestock, so watchdog skills predominate in them at the genetic level. They will surround the whole family with their care, especially small children. These four-legged friends require constant exercise – a passive lifestyle is not for them.
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Welsh Corgi (Pembroke & Cardigan)
“Big dog in a small body.” This is exactly what the owners say about the Welsh Corgi. Active and cheerful shepherd dogs conquer with high intelligence and amazing artistic abilities.
They perfectly feel the mood of their owner, understanding when to insist on communication, and when to step aside. They need to keep abreast of events all the time, because they don’t want to miss something interesting! Corgis are inherently fearless, so if necessary, they will engage in a fight with an enemy that is significantly superior to them in physical data.
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East European Shepherd
Our “compatriots” – East European Shepherd Dogs – are born guards and watchmen. With such a dog, you don’t have to worry about your own safety. If you decide to get an East European Shepherd, be prepared for the fact that you will have to go through a training course with it, and more than one – they need to periodically consolidate the acquired skills.
Friendly to children and wary of strangers, this breed makes excellent companions.
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Golden Retriever
The breed was popular among the English nobility, who spent their free time hunting. The dogs carried shot game, and it was not difficult for them to climb into thickets of thorny bushes or a cool pond.
To this day, many hunters choose a golden retriever as a four-legged companion. They also train search engines, rescuers and guides.
Doberman
Graceful Dobermans only seem dangerous. A properly trained dog will never show aggression. The breed is highly intelligent and easily learns commands.
A distinctive character trait of any Doberman is vigilance. He is always on the alert, so you can not be afraid for the safety of the home. Attacking without warning is not about the Doberman: nature has endowed these dogs with a strong and balanced psyche.
Caucasian Shepherd Dog
They are also called wolfhounds – they are ready to defend their master to the last. The nature of Caucasians is complex, sometimes aggressive, so they need a firm hand. Despite the harsh temper and external brutality, these four-legged pets are infinitely devoted to their family, they treat children with sensitivity and care.
They are quite loyal to other pets, especially representatives of miniature breeds. They are wary of strangers, but they will show aggression only in case of a real threat.
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Labrador Retriever
One of the most popular breeds in the world. Labradors are suitable for keeping in a large family where there are other animals and small children. Aggression is alien to them, and the positive disposition of the pet is able to cheer up anyone.
These dogs have innate hunting instincts, but in the modern world they are widely used as guides, searchers and rescuers.
Moscow watchdog
The name speaks for itself – this is a guard dog that will steadfastly carry out guard duty. The blood of St. Bernards and German Shepherds flows in their veins, so the character is quite controversial: sometimes “Muscovites” show ferocity, sometimes they amaze with their phlegm.
These large quadrupeds are hyper-responsible nannies, but kids need to be careful. A wild dog can accidentally knock a child down.
German Shepherd
They are distinguished by high intelligence, excellent security and search qualities. That is why representatives of this breed are most often used by government services as assistants. They are easy to train and enjoy learning new commands. The character is loyal and balanced.
Rottweiler
The Rottweiler is a guard dog that requires responsible maintenance. A dog that has not completed a training course can grow aggressive and attack not only other animals, but also people. It takes a long time to raise an obedient dog. Recognizes the authority of only one owner, treats other family members friendly.
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Black Russian Terrier
A hardy and prudent dog, bred by Soviet cynologists as a service dog. At the moment, representatives of the breed are used as rescuers, searchers and security guards. These are calm four-legged animals with an excellent memory. Responsibly protect their home, family members.
St. Bernard
Calm St. Bernards have historically been used by humans as rescuers – they easily found people under avalanches. Dogs are good-natured, peaceful, therefore ideal for keeping in the family.
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Their character can be called imperturbable – they are indifferent to strangers, however, as well as to other animals. The Saint Bernards, despite their outward melancholy, love games and take part in joint fun with pleasure.
Terminals
Our advice to future service dog owners:
1. Carefully study the information about the breed: character, features of maintenance and care, etc.
2. Buy a puppy only from trusted kennels that have the necessary certificates.
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3. Prepare your home for the arrival of a new family member: purchase food and water bowls , bed or bed , toys .
4. Feed your dog only quality food premium, super premium and holistic . Such diets are fully balanced and have a high protein content.
5. You will need 9 for walking0003 Collar, leash and ID tag .
6. Consider who will train the dog. If you decide to train your dog yourself, take care of the appropriate equipment and accessories .
7. Do not forget to treat your pet regularly for parasites .
8. To prolong your pet’s life, once a year go through a comprehensive examination at a veterinary clinic.
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9. Follow the vaccination schedule.
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Top 20 best dog breeds for families with children
The dog is a full member of the family. Nobody seems to doubt it. But there are breeds that are ideal for single owners, and there are those who give a big family, a noisy company and a bunch of children who will certainly become members of a dog pack. Thinking about which breed is best for a family with a child or several children? Here are 20 breeds that get along best in such families. nine0005
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A dog can teach a child responsibility, compassion, and become the best playmate. But before getting a cute puppy, it’s always a good idea to figure out which breed gets along best with children and which one is unlikely to make friends with them. nine0005
Some dogs have an endless supply of patience and tenderness for life around a small child, some are ideal for exuberant play with older children. Temperament, of course, can be completely individual in a particular animal, but these 20 breeds are recognized as the most suitable for life in a family.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Dogs of this breed, on the one hand, look like a cute toy, on the other hand, they have a very lively disposition. They get along with almost everyone, including children and other dogs. And their cute face is an added bonus. nine0005
Bernese Mountain Dog
If you have enough space and generally like to think big, consider this giant with a gentle soul. Keep in mind that these dogs weigh about 45-50 kilograms, but under all this hair there is a kind heart and a gentle soul that loves children.
Alaskan Malamute
Alaskan Malamutes live for their pack, be it humans or dogs. This breed was created for work, because the Malamute is a sled dog, so he needs a strong leader, a clear regimen, training and tangible loads. As a reward, you will receive a faithful and cheerful friend. nine0005
Boston Terrier
These human-oriented puppies weigh no more than 10 kilograms and their coat does not require special care. They easily adapt to life in an apartment, but this does not mean that they do not appreciate long active walks with children.
Labrador Retriever
For decades this breed has been the most popular. The fact is that retrievers love children, adults, dogs, cats – in general, everyone. They become best friends with those they meet, but their exuberant energy should not be forgotten. This breed needs serious daily exercise. And this pet can weigh 35-40 kg. nine0005
Golden Retriever
Another universal favorite, it fully justifies its title as an ideal family dog. He needs a lot of physical activity: running, swimming, exercising and exercising. And they will give their owners a light cheerful character, love in games and a lot of tenderness.
Bulldog
For those who like a more casual lifestyle, a bulldog might be a good choice. In addition to regular walks, these dogs like to take a good nap. But remember: their cute wrinkled face quickly overheats, especially if you live in a warm climate. nine0005
Pug
Like humans, pugs love to eat and sleep. You will have to carefully monitor his diet (no pieces from the human table) – the pug is able to suck everything in like a vacuum cleaner. And with a sufficient level of activity, this breed is unfortunately prone to obesity. Yes, it is very tempting to hug a chubby pug and lie down with him in front of the TV, but you both will have to get up from the couch and go outside regularly.
Beagle
Nice, friendly, charming. These dogs love to socialize and can’t stand being alone. They get along wonderfully with children and adults, but be on the lookout: the beagle is able to escape from the leash, carried away by some bright smell. The beagle genes are very active in it. nine0005
Irish Setter
Setters are handsome, born champions and gifted athletes. An active lifestyle and an endless supply of balls are something without which the life of a setter is impossible. It’s the perfect workout partner to keep even the laziest member of your family active.
French Bulldog
City dwellers adore these quiet and unpretentious dogs. Their signature ears and small stature leave no one indifferent. They are playful, affectionate and quite easily adapt to almost any environment. nine0005
Brussels Griffon
This is a small dog that cannot stand sudden movements and too active games. But if your children are ready for more calm and gentle games, they will be happy to communicate with a loyal, intelligent friend who, despite his small size, hides a big personality.
Newfoundland
This huge shaggy dog can weigh from 45 to 70 kg! A real giant, but he has the same giant tender heart. Dogs of this breed love to swim, and also have a well-deserved reputation as ideal nannies. Few can compete with the Newfoundland in patience and vigilance. In general, if you have enough space, this dog can be an ideal option. True, there is one “but”: a huge amount of wool and saliva will now accompany you literally everywhere. nine0005
Collies
Collies are considered to be one of the smartest dogs. Their intelligence and loyalty to man are unparalleled, and these creatures simply adore children. Worried about wool? Collies are both fluffy and with a modest coat – for those who do not want to constantly remove the hair in the house.
West Highland White Terrier
If you really care about the coat, then this breed is definitely for you. Vestas have an extremely hypoallergenic coat that practically does not shed. Dogs of this breed need to be trimmed. They are active, funny and very loyal pets that love to run, jump and play catch-up. nine0005
Poodle
The Poodle is an almost perfect breed. They come in three sizes (standard, king and dwarf) and three colors (black, white and apricot). While some mistakenly think that they are arrogant dogs, under this fluffy hypoallergenic coat lies a real smart and great friend.