Best dog for protecting family: Which Are Top Guard Dogs?

Опубликовано: October 21, 2022 в 10:20 pm

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Which Are Top Guard Dogs?

Dogs perform a wide variety of services for their humans.

Some perform amazing feats of agility to entertain us, while others assist handicapped people, help those who struggle with anxiety and depression, or offer support to children with special needs.

Others use their incredible sense of smell to find hidden items or monitor blood sugar levels!

But the ones that we’re talking about today hold a special place in my heart – today, we are going to talk about guard dogs.

These dogs have an unrivaled love for their humans, and they are willing to do just about anything to keep their people and home safe.

7 Best Guard Dog Breeds: Top Dogs For Protection

Even dogs of unknown ancestry may perform admirably in a protective context, but if you want a dog that will instinctually protect your family, you should consider the following breeds at the outset. They’ve proven over time that they’re willing and able to guard that which you hold dear.

It’s worth pointing out that the first three breeds on our list – German shepherds, Rottweilers and Doberman pinchers — probably combine to represent the bulk of the guard dog niche.

This is not exactly surprising; after all, these breeds are the 2nd, 9th and 14th most popular in US homes. Additionally, they all three exhibit the traits you’d want in a good guard dog.

There is no guarantee that any dog will act in a protective manner unless he or she has been explicitly and professionally trained to do so. While the following breeds typically exhibit the traits that are important for a good guard dog, wise owners will obtain professional evaluation and counsel before relying on their dog for protection of any sort.

1. Rottweiler

Originally developed to herd cattle and accompany soldiers into battle, Rottweilers check off every box on the guard dog checklist: They are one of the most intelligent breeds in the world, they love their families in a way that is truly difficult to convey and they are ready to face down any threat – be it a bear, nefarious human or vacuum cleaner – without a moment’s hesitation. And most are ready to back up their bluster if need be.

Rotties are not ideal for inexperienced dog owners, as they require a calm, confident “alpha.” While intellectually independent, they’re emotionally dependent and quite sensitive to their owner’s emotions. Rotties require very high levels of both attention and exercise, so they are not well suited for spending lots of time alone.

Rottweilers are on the shorter side by guard dog standards, but their physical power is both impressive and immediately obvious.

2. German Shepherd

German shepherds have been used by military and police organizations for decades. They exemplify most of the traits found in good guard dogs, as they’re intelligent, loving and brave.

Shepherds are also physically imposing, despite their modest body weight (relatively few shepherds exceed 100 pounds).

In part, this is due to their long, fluffy coat, which exaggerates their size, but they also have very broad, deep chests and a set of ears large enough to pick up basic cable.

German shepherds, like most other affectionate, sensitive breeds, require plenty of time with and attention from their people, otherwise they can develop behavioral problems. You’ll also have to spend a lot of time grooming your shepherd and cleaning up the ridiculous amounts of hair they shed.

3. Doberman Pinscher

Originally bred to accompany tax collectors, Dobermans excel in most protection-oriented applications. Dobermans are very loving, sensitive dogs, who also possess the bravery, size and imposing appearance to make them one of the very best guard dogs available.

Dobermans are in the same size class with Rotties and shepherds, but they make the most of their size with their tall build and pointed ears. Dobermans are a bit lighter on their feet than these other breeds, and they probably require a little more space and exercise too.

At the risk of sounding like a broken record, Dobermans – like shepherds and Rotties – are sensitive, loving, loyal, intelligent and brave dogs who are instinctively compelled to protect their homes and families.

4. Bull Mastiffs

Photo from Flickr user Maja Dumat.

Originally conceived to deter poachers, bull mastiffs have provided protective services to their humans since their inception.

Bull mastiffs exhibit most of the same traits the “big 3” do: They’re loving, affectionate and unquestionably protective. However, they aren’t as clingy as these other breeds often are, and they require less exercise too.

Bull mastiffs are very large, powerful dogs, who often exceed 110 pounds in weight. Given the combination of their size and independent nature, they are a poor choice for first-time owners. Additionally, while these are perfectly lovable, handsome dogs, they tend to drool a lot and produce copious quantities of gas, which slightly offsets their otherwise-significant appeal.

5. Giant Schnauzer

Giant schnauzers are sensitive, but lack the intensity of some of the other good guarding breeds. These dogs are affectionate and loving with their families, needing plenty of attention from their humans to remain happy.

Giant Schnauzers are proud, territorial dogs, whose size helps make up for their refined appearance. They are actually quite powerful dogs, capable of effectively defending their family.

Schnauzers are somewhat mischievous and very intelligent, so while they can be a joy for experienced dog owners, they are not ideal for beginners.

6. Great Pyrenees

While they are not a prototypical breed for personal or family protection, Great Pyrenees are well-suited for a number of protective contexts. They were developed to protect livestock from coyotes and wolves, and nearly everything about their personality and appearance points to this history.

Great Pyrenees are independent, loyal and brave dogs, with an apparent size that will intimidate just about anything short of a polar bear. They’re loving and gentle with their flock (be it comprised of humans or sheep), but their aloof nature can make them challenging for first-time dog owners.

Great Pyrenees may not have the sensitivity and need for human interaction that some other dogs do, but they are generally sweet and loving, if somewhat aloof.

7. Great Dane

Great Danes are massive, sensitive and gentle beasts, who bond strongly with their humans.

They are not especially territorial, defensive or protective, but they are ready to act in order to protect the safety of their family. While most are “only” in the 100- to 150-pound range, exceptionally large Danes reach 200 pounds.

While loving and reasonably well-suited for guard work, Great Danes are not a good choice for beginners, given their combination of size and intelligence. However, for those with the time, love and experience necessary, Great Danes are remarkable dogs, who provide protection via their appearance alone.

8. Belgian Malinois

The Belgian Malinois is likely the favorite breed of professional protection dog trainers, and they’re likely the most common breed working for police and military units in the US.

Belgian Malinois superficially resemble small German shepherds, but these dogs have even more intensity and energy than their more common counterparts do. But while this makes them very well-suited for full-time work, it can make them a bit of a handful for typical families.

These are not great dogs for couch potatoes, nor are they suitable for families who spend lots of time away from the home.

But when matched with a good owner or family, Belgian Malinois make loving, loyal and capable companions. And because they rarely exceed 80 pounds or so in weight, they’re a bit easier to house and feed than some of the other breeds commonly used for guarding work.

9. Dutch Shepherd

Dutch shepherds have a lot in common with their Belgian and German cousins, but they’re often regarded as being easier to train. They’re a bit rare by shepherd standards, which is a shame, as they often suffer from fewer health-related problems than the others.

Standing around 2 feet high at the shoulder and reaching only 75 pounds or so, Dutch shepherds are smaller than most German shepherds. But while they may be a bit on the small side, they have all of the intelligence, strength, and courage needed for guard-dog or protection work. They’re also well-suited for working in a variety of climates.

Dutch shepherds can be a bit suspicious of strangers, so early training and socialization are imperative for owners. Fortunately, most Dutch shepherds take well to training and enjoy practicing with their owner.

10. Cane Corso

Although their owners typically know just how sweet and lovable Cane Corsos are, few people would care to stand toe-to-toe with one of these giant canines. These dogs have an incredibly intimidating appearance, and they exude a calm confidence that is impressive to behold.

Cane Corsos are big dogs, who typically weigh around 100 pounds or so, but some reach even larger sizes. They also stand up to 27 inches at the shoulder and have large, impressive heads, which combine to dissuade many would-be threats based on appearance alone.

Cane Corsos are not a good choice for novice owners or families who lack the time to provide as much exercise as these energetic dogs need. And unlike some other large breeds who can adapt to apartment life, Cane Corsos need a big home and fenced yard.

11. American Bulldog

The American Bulldog is a sensitive and affectionate breed who is typically fiercely protective of his family.

Originally developed to help control cattle, these dogs are as brave as they are energetic, and they really require a regular job (even if it is simply patrolling the neighborhood with you on your daily jog) to remain happy and well behaved.

American bulldogs vary quite a bit – they come in several different “styles” and combinations thereof, and they vary greatly in size. Small individuals hover around the 50-pound mark, but big boys and girls may exceed 120 pounds. Most are around 2 feet tall, but some stand 28 inches at the shoulder.

American bulldogs are not the most intelligent breed in the world, but they are usually pretty easy to train. They do need a ton of stimulation and training, so they aren’t a good choice for owners who don’t want to dedicate plenty of time and attention to their pup.

12. Boxer

If you’ve ever seen a happy boxer greeting friends and family, it’s hard to imagine that such a pile of wiggly joy could be an effective guard dog. However, that is exactly what these dogs were originally bred to do.

Boxers are a bit on the small side by guard-dog standards, as few weigh more than 75 pounds or so. However, their impressive physiques and energy levels help to make them quite intimidating when they deem such a posture necessary. They’re also smart, easy to train and loyal, so they really are well-suited for guard dog work.

Boxers have a well-deserved reputation for being fantastic with children, and many families find that they make great pets – whether they’re expected to guard the home and family or simply provide love and companionship.

13. Bouvier des Flanders

The one-of-a-kind-looking Bouvier des Flanders was originally developed as a herding dog, but they make fantastic watch dogs too. Covered in a fluffy, wiry coat and more facial hair than a lumberjack, the Bouvier des Flanders is also blessed with a thick, muscular build that helps them back down would-be foes.

Often considered one of the finest working breeds in the world, these dogs need an experienced owner with a strong, yet loving and fair, approach. They excel at just about every task you could want, and they’re just as comfortable in the show ring as they are working livestock in the fields.

The Bouvier des Flanders is a very loving family dog, who is generally very gentle with children. However, they are a bit suspicious of strangers and require early socialization and obedience training.

14. Beauceron

A guarding and herding breed originating in France, the Beauceron is an 80- to 100-pound dog who looks a bit like a three-way cross between a lab, Doberman, and Rottweiler. Like these breeds, the Beauceron is intelligent, affectionate and loyal, although they keep strangers at a greater distance than most labs do.

But while these dogs have plenty of great traits, they’re notable for being quite stubborn. This, combined with their inexhaustible energy reservoirs, can make them difficult to train – particularly for novice dog owners. Beaucerons also have strong prey drives, so caution is warranted around smaller pets.

Most Beaucerons will make fantastic watchdogs without much training at all, but they’ll require a patient and dedicated owner if they’re expected to perform higher levels of guarding or protection work.

As mentioned before, these are not the only breeds that can excel in a protective context. There are plenty of mixed-breed dogs who perform well in these contexts, as well as other pure-bred dogs, whose individual personality lends themselves to these kinds of tasks.

As always, dogs are individuals, who exhibit varying aptitudes and abilities.

Do You Really Need a Guard Dog? Or Will Any Dog Do?

A dog that is intentionally bred and trained for protection is quite different from your average family dog.

A reliable, trustworthy dog trained in protection requires a very experience and skilled trainer.

It’s essential you do plenty of due diligence if you’re planning on purchasing a dog trained in protection, as there are plenty of amateurs out there who will say their dogs are “trained in protection” simply to ask for a higher price.

Poorly trained or poorly bred protection dogs are incredibly dangerous. A large dog who has been encouraged to bite without proper guidance or training is huge liability.

The truth is that the vast majority of owners probably don’t need or want a dog that’s truly trained in protection. If you’re just looking for a theft deterrent, nearly any dog will do.

For example, most dogs – whether 5-pound Chihuahua or 150-pound mastiff – will bark when a stranger knocks on the door. And this is likely more than enough to frighten off opportunistic criminals or teenagers who are up to no good.

If you’re looking for something a bit more intimidating, any of the dog breeds listed above will deter a determined criminal with malicious intent – even if they aren’t a trained protection dog.

Guard Dog vs. Watch Dog: What’s the Difference?

Just for quick reference, here are some of the leading terms used to describe dogs involved in different types of guarding or protection work.

Note that the breed is not what distinguishes the label applied to the dog – the training regimen provided to the dog is the important thing.

  • Watch dogs keep an eye out and bark when strangers approach or anything unusual happens – it’ll be your job to deal with the problem. Many dogs naturally behave this way, so advanced training is rarely necessary for these pups. And because they aren’t expected to get physical with a perceived threat, they needn’t be large. Chihuahuas, for example, can often make great watchdogs.
  • Guard dogs also keep an eye out for danger, but they’re ready to get physical and defend their home or family from threats. Typically, this means they’ll start by barking at the perceived threat, but they will bite if necessary. Guard dogs must, therefore, receive specific training to excel in such roles. Guard dogs are typically expected to guard a confined area, such as your home.
  • Sentry dogs are akin to guard dogs, except that they’re also trained to patrol a given area, such as a large yard or property. Because they’ll be required to work with less human direction, such dogs must be very confident, self-reliant and intelligent.
  • Personal protection dogs are like guard dogs who are tasked with protecting a moving target – typically a person or family. These dogs must receive a ton of specialized training, as they’ll need to learn to distinguish between friends and foes and work safely in crowded situations. Most dogs that excel in this role bond very strongly with their people.
  • Attack dogs are typically only used by police or military outfits. They are not only trained to perform all of the skills the previously mentioned dogs are, they receive additional training to unleash their potential as an offensive weapon too. Such dogs can be extremely dangerous in improper hands.

While most dogs can provide watchdog-like protective services that involve alerting you to intruders, only a handful are reliably willing to provide more advanced levels of protection that involve biting or attacking a stranger.

Guard Dogs and Families: Are They Safe to Mix Together?

It is always important to deliberately consider the implications of adding any dog to your life, but would-be owners that have families must consider these issues even more carefully. This is especially true of those seeking large breeds, such as those often used as guard dogs.

Large dogs of any type can easily injure small children — even perfectly playful pups can inadvertently hurt kids while goofing around. Dogs that are deliberately bred to be as robust, as most good guarding breeds are, can be even more capable of inadvertently hurting your youngin’s.

However, while it is important that you ensure any dog you introduce to your family is provided with plenty of love, affection, proper training and socialization, most guard dog breeds are naturally loyal and loving with their families. 

Despite assigning your guard dog the job of protecting your home, balanced dogs from properly selected bloodlines are likely to become beloved family members, who treat your children with kid gloves.

Just be sure that you teach your children the proper ways of interacting with the dog (no teasing, no rough-housing), and that you supervise all interactions until you are convinced that all of the kids – both two-legged and four – know the rules for playing nicely.

Qualities to Look for in a Good Guard Dog

It’s important to understand that the breeds listed above typically make good guard dogs because they exhibit the traits you’d expect from a dog tasked with watching over their humans.

Some of the most important qualities a good guard dog can possess include:

  • Intelligence – Good guard dogs must be obedient and respond to at least the most basic of commands, such as sit, lay down, stay and heel. Additionally, canine intelligence helps your dog distinguish between threatening and merely unusual stimuli.
  • Loyalty – To ensure that your guard dog won’t turn into a welcome committee, you’ll need him to be exceptionally loyal. His allegiance to your family must be clear.
  • Courage – Your dog must be brave enough to face any danger that presents itself. Consider that your garden variety criminal is probably about twice the size of even a 100-pound Doberman or shepherd – only a brave dog will be willing to stand up to such threats.
  • Territorial Instincts – Dogs that strongly identify with their home and are willing to guard it from intruders are obviously better suited for guard work than those who do not mind trespassers.
  • Affectionate Nature – All good guard dogs are fearless in the face of danger, but the best guard dogs melt into a wiggly pile of face-licking love when they are with their humans or trusted friends. You want a dog that loves when it is time to love, and protects when it’s time to protect.

Most Popular Guard Dogs in Various U.S. States

To the best of our knowledge, there isn’t any hard data available regarding which guard dog breeds are most common in different states. However, Your Local Security has tried to provide some information about this question by utilizing Google search trends data for each state (just click that link to learn more about their methodology).

Check out the results of their analysis in the infographic below!

FAQ About Protection Dogs

What is the #1 guard dog in the world?

There is no hard data available, but the Belgian Malinois is generally the most popular guard and protection dog in the world.

Will my dog protect me from an intruder?

Most dogs will cause some kind of commotion if an intruder breaks in, with plenty of barking and possibly some growling. However, not all dogs will get physical. Most family dogs have not been bred to react with physical violence to fear, as that can make them more difficult to manage around humans.

Which dogs make the worst guard dogs?

Generally, dogs that are known for being especially friendly, like Labrador Retriever, Golden Retrievers, and King Charles Cavalier Spaniels, make the worst guard dogs.

***

Do you rely on a dog to help protect your family? My Rottie seems to fit the bill and then some, but I’d love to hear how your Dobbie, shepherd or magnificent mutt helps keep you safe. Share your stories with us in the comments below.

7 Best Guard Dogs for Personal Protection

These 7 breeds are some of the best guard dogs you’ll find

By

BethAnn Mayer

Most dogs are loyal and loving animals. That’s why we know them as humans’ best friends. They’d do anything for us.

Contents

  • What is the most protective breed of dog? 
  • What breed makes the best guard dog for a family?
  • What are some other protective dog breeds I should know about?

For some dogs, “anything” means protecting us with their lives. Some of these breeds make for the best guard dogs. For many of them, it’s instinctual. They’ve evolved to protect the family they love. You’ll notice these pups keeping a watchful eye on your property. They may bark to alert you when your company arrives or the mail gets delivered.

Remember, these animals mean well. They aren’t trying to be vicious but instead want to keep you and your home safe and sound. Some prospective pet parents want this quality in a dog. If that’s you, consider these breeds that make the best guard dogs.

What is the most protective breed of dog? 

There’s no conclusive list of most protective dog breeds in ranked order. However, Akitas are famously protective of their families and very loyal. The American Kennel Club (AKC) says Akitas are “highly vigilant,” meaning they are excellent watchdogs who are protective in nature. They’re a bit reserved with strangers, too. You’ll want to be patient with an Akita when introducing them to someone new — their wariness is partially because they want to make sure the person is good to you.

What breed makes the best guard dog for a family?

There’s no definitive list to help us answer this question, either, but German shepherd dogs (GSDs) make some of the best guard dogs for families. These big pups can grow up to 26 inches tall and weigh up to 90 lbs. Yet, somehow, they manage to have even bigger hearts. German shepherds are usually highly affectionate with their family, and they’re also typically great with little kids.

German shepherds are vigilant and protective dogs. They’re courageous animals who will stop at nothing to defend you. GSDs are trainable and adaptable, though. Pet parents can teach them the difference between “threat” and “friendly stranger.” GSDs have even shown courage and a willingness to protect others as members of the U.S. military.

What are some other protective dog breeds I should know about?

Akitas and German shepherds make some of the best guard dogs, but other breeds are also very watchful and protective.

Rottweilers

Rottweilers are known for being very protective of their loved ones and vigilant. That said, these dogs, which can weigh up to 135 pounds, have also gotten a reputation for being imposing and aggressive. Experts say they are playful, loving family dogs if trained properly, which can be true of any pup. The good news: Rotties are so eager to please that they are generally one of the easier breeds to train.

Boxer

Boxers are naturally very protective and relish their roles as the family watchdog. These pups aren’t serious all the time, though. They’re very loving towards their family, young children included. They love to play. Though Boxers are pretty vigilant, they’re also open to strangers. They’ll warm up to your guests fairly quickly, so it’s one less issue to worry about when you are hosting.

Cane Corso

The name Cane Corso comes from the Latin for “bodyguard dog,” and these muscular and alert pups live up to their name. They are intensely loyal to their forever family. These dogs also look every bit the part of a guard dog. They have a muscular stature and weigh more than 100 pounds as adults. That said, Cane Corsos are also playful and affectionate animals. With patience and early training, they’ll learn to use their loyalty for good.

Bullmastiff

Another large breed, bullmastiffs, are natural protectors with plenty of physical strength. At 27 inches tall, these pets look intimidating, and they’re generally fearless. They’re also incredibly loving towards their family and eager to please. Bullmastiffs take well to training, which is a good characteristic. Training and socializing them young can help them accept new people and pets more easily and adapt to different situations without getting defensive.

Doberman pinscher

These brave dogs are alert and loyal, making them ideal watchdogs. Their protectiveness stems from a deep love for their families. Doberman pinschers are extremely affectionate towards their family and great with young children. They’re even open to strangers. Training and socializing them at an early age can harness their guard-dog tendencies.

There’s a difference between protectiveness and aggression. Barking or acting socially — not physically — standoffish with strangers is natural for some dogs. However, dogs who growl, snap, or lunge at another person or pet may have aggression issues. Some dogs have protective aggression, which happens when they think a loved one is in danger. Though the dog means well, it can be a problem if the animal hurts another person or animal. If you notice aggressive behavior in your pet, speak with a vet. They can give you advice and refer you to a qualified behavioral specialist who can help you work through these issues with your pet.

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The Most Protective Dog Breeds

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It’s easy to get overwhelmed by watching the daily news. Carjacking, robbery, burglaries, and kidnappings seem to top the rotation of hourly news stories. It’s no wonder that more people are turning to one of the best protection devices and bodyguards there is. Do you want something to keep you safe at night, during the day, when you travel, and when you’re home? Then you, too, might want to purchase a dog for protection. If you’re looking into the best protection dogs for your family, we suggest looking into a dog from one of the breeds below.

Belgian Malinois

The Belgian Malinois are brilliant dogs, highly capable, and love to work. They can be trained to do nearly anything and are the up and coming favorites for trained executive protection dogs. These dogs are fiercely loyal to their pack – your family – and will defend you at all costs. Belgian Malinois are highly adaptable to your needs and can mingle with other dogs, pets (including cats!), adults, and children. They also travel well, making them the ideal protection dog to take with you on the road whether you’re on vacation or just traveling for business.

German Shepherds

German Shepherds are classically known for their roles in classic western movies – and for a good reason! These loyal and protective dogs love to work, defend their families, and please their owners. They are intelligent and affectionate around adults and children, alike, but will stand up to threats from strangers. German Shepherds are commonly used by the police force as executive protection dogs and perform tasks such as bomb and drug detection. These lively dogs love to work and need plenty of physical exercise, making them an excellent dog for families who love to get outside and go on adventures.

Rottweilers

Rotties are wonderfully loving and attentive to their families, while simultaneously wary of strangers and people they haven’t met. These dogs have gotten a bad reputation over the years for aggression, but this can be a benefit if you’re looking for a protection dog. One look at your family pet and attackers will think twice about messing with you. Rottweilers need to be trained and handled by dog owners who know how to work with this breed, but if done right, they can be an excellent addition to a family.

Doberman Pinscher

Dobermans are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and protective nature. They are natural guard dogs who will defend their pack and act aggressive or attack if needed. Dobermans are loving and gentle toward their families and love playtime. They need plenty of space to run around and enjoy accompanying their families on trips to the park or vacations. These are wonderful and versatile dogs who are known to defend their families at all costs, taking down threats, and being gentle around babies all at the same time. If you’re interested in a Doberman, it’s essential to learn about the lineage of your dog and ensure yours hasn’t been bred from fighter lines.

Bullmastiff

Bullmastiffs are known for their intense protection instincts, physical strength, and unending family loyalty. These dogs will love your family, other pets, and small children. They enjoy playtime and are incredibly docile when enjoying time with their “pack.” If their family is threatened by an attacker, intruder, or stranger to appears unsafe, Bullmastiffs will stand up for its pack and defend you at all costs. Not known for biting or displaying extreme aggressive behavior, they will easily knock over an intruder or block their movements due to their ferocity and size.

Giant Schnauzer

Giant Schnauzer’s earned their name due to their miniature pony-like sizing. They are extremely intelligent, powerful, and fiercely loyal dogs. Schnauzers do need plenty of physical exercise and mental stimulation, so they’re best suited for a home with large backyards or families who love going to the dog park. These loving dogs are gentle enough for small children to ride on their backs, but fierce enough intruders will be warned off at first sight. They will protect you at all costs, making them a perfect family guard dog.

Rhodesian Ridgeback

This breed has historically been used for hunting lions and large animals, so they have an incredibly strong prey drive. While loving and gentle around family, they won’t hesitate to confront an intruder who approaches your home. They are highly intelligent and enjoy having a role in your family. These dogs need plenty of exercise and especially enjoy homes with plenty of ground to protect. They can be socialized to be around large families, children, and other pets, making them an excellent all-around dog.

Cane Corso

Cane Corsos are intelligent, trainable, and confidents protectors. The history of Corso’s go back to Ancient Roman Times which the breed name translates to “bodyguard dog” in Latin. An adult, fully grown Cane Corso will weigh in above 100 pounds. Their intense stature is the first line of defense. They are eager to please and loyal yet intensely assertive and could end up owning an unwitting owner. Cane Corso’s need socialiation, training, and an owner ready for a professional bodyguard.  

Which Breed is Your Favorite?

The cost of a protection dog scares most people away, but they are loving, intelligent, and capable companions who will defend your children and your home. They will protect you at all costs and can be versatile enough to travel with you on vacation and business. With some extra training, you can even own one of the world’s elite executive protection dogs. Now that you know a little more about the most protective dog breeds, which one will you choose?

Written by Guest Writer Adrian Brito. 

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What breed of dog to choose for the protection of the house?

Guard is a real profession for a four-legged friend, and not every dog ​​can cope with it. Most often, representatives of service breeds are taken to the role of defender. Security is in their blood. The best qualities of character have been fixed by breeders at the genetic level for years.

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Take care of your pet’s health

  1. German Shepherd
    Active, cheerful and devoted to the whole family, the German Shepherd can confidently carry the title of the best home guard dog. She is smart, disciplined, calm, but at the same time energetic and playful. The advantages of this breed are valued all over the world: shepherd dogs serve in the army and the police, they search for people, help herd livestock and protect classified objects.

  2. Alabai
    Another ideal dog for a private home is the Alabai. This strong and powerful dog will become an excellent watchman and true friend to the whole family. When purchasing an Alabai, keep in mind that it recognizes only respect and partnership. In no case should you scream and use physical force in the process of raising him, this can ruin his character, and then serious difficulties may arise with the dog.

  3. Giant Schnauzer
    Shaggy nanny – so one could call a Giant Schnauzer. This is an amazing dog breed that combines protective qualities and incredible friendliness, especially towards children. He is ready to spend hours fiddling with them and playing, patiently enduring whatever the kids want. At the same time, the Giant Schnauzer is an excellent watchman and defender who will not offend any member of the family.

  4. Caucasian Shepherd Dog
    The intelligent Caucasian Shepherd Dog is a worthy candidate for the role of a family guard. Representatives of this breed, as a rule, have a strong character, so the upbringing of the Caucasian Shepherd Dog should be carried out under the supervision of professionals. The Caucasian Shepherd is prone to dominance, and the task of the owner is to show the dog who is the leader. But, as soon as the dog understands this, you will get the most loyal and devoted protector.

  5. Cane Corso
    Powerful and calm Cane Corso are also excellent defenders and are well suited for guarding a private home. They do not tend to show aggression for no reason, get along well with other animals and are very devoted to all family members. Cane Corso show special love for children.

  6. Moscow watchdog
    As the name of the breed suggests, the Moscow Watchdog is a service dog that specializes in guarding. Representatives of this breed have a strong character, a balanced psyche and are not inclined to show aggression for no reason. An interesting fact: the Moscow watchdog does not choose a single owner, it is equally devoted to all family members.

  7. Dobermann
    Another contender for the role of watchman, guard and protector is the Doberman. Fearless, energetic and active dog is ready to stand for his master to the last. True, you will have to try to show the dog who is in charge here. Without proper education, the Doberman becomes uncontrollable. Therefore, if you are a beginner breeder or you do not have a similar experience in training animals, it is better to contact a specialist.

These are the best dogs for protecting a private home, but there are other breeds that are also suitable for protecting family and property. Most importantly, remember that the best service dog is a well-mannered and trained pet that will protect its family from uninvited guests. It doesn’t really matter what breed he is. To make the watchman happy, take care of the conditions of his detention. Not all dogs can live in an outdoor enclosure, especially during the cold season. Many can only spend the winter at home, in warmth. This should not be forgotten when choosing a pet.

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The best breed of dogs for a private house and protection

Mi vpevnenі, є speech vіchnі, like friendship between a man and a dog. Over 16,000 years, from the moment of taming tsі chotirilapі win the role of not only companions, helpers, but also defenders. Even though after an hour the remaining function has become not so relevant, the prote will be deprived of the requested one. Who, if not a true friend, saves you from the sight of unfortunate guests, like to become a threat to you and your lane? It seems that, behind the legend, the geese vryatuly Rome, but we are told that there were dogs (taking to the respect the Romans’ orders before them, for addition). Obviously, a dog, whether it be a breed, can become an arrogant guardian, even if it is a tribute to one’s loving master, is characteristic of the rice of all dogs. However, representatives of the singing porod for a century became famous for their zahisnymi and sentry zdіbnosti. Do not call on them would be stupid. On the basis of this criterion, we have formulated for you an expert rating of the best breeds of dogs to protect a private house, it is clear to the death of tails, but I entrusted you with your chotirilapim zahisnik, you felt safe.

❕ Usi in the rating of the breed of dogs is nonsense for siM’i, Zokrema, for Khokhovny Vikhovanni Tnfarini ❕

Great Dogs for Okhotnoni Budinka

Caucasus, Caucasus

The same you can’t help guessing the booth. Specially bred for the protection of cattle and budinkiv in wild huts, in the house caused by instinct to defend the damp territory, natural distrust to strangers and other creatures, with a dazzling outward look and rozmіrom vikoristovuvalis navit for polyuvannya on vedmedіv!) tsya breed of dogs really dodzhe vіddana to its master, behaving kindly, madly, coping with its tasks. In the list of dozens of the best guard dogs in the world, broken up by the American Electronic Security Company, the Caucasian vivcharka proudly sits for 1 month. Representatives of the tsієї nature mayut vperty, independent character, which complicates their training, it is not for the sake of newcomers to become masters of Caucasian vіvcharok. Prote for diligent training and socialization of dogs to become invisible members of the motherland, on which you can swear if you wish.

Turkmena Alabai, Abo Serednoiazka vivcarka

Bezrashni (Naviga in front of the Great Hizhaaks), Vitrivali, Prazelubni, Non -Love, Rosumni, with the natural tie -rustic – all about the representation of the thoroughly Alabay, the Robraits of the Blacks. The peculiarity of these dogs is those that are active outside the yards, as well as in the occupied area – to calm and quiet. Alabai are loving and tied to the family, and they can also be gracious, to work as miraculous companions for the smallest members of the homeland. Representatives of this breed get along with other domestic creatures (and cats). Alabai are shaken by the guard dogs of the great rozmir tim, which, in spite of their similarity to the polar bear and wolf at once, fall easily, like to cats. Like Caucasian vivcharok, these dogs, it is easy to train them through their character, the stench will require an informed master. But wait a minute, without these special features, Alabai would not be so unique;)

Rottweiler

Bronze medalist in the list we have already made of American electronic security company. Why? Nasampered, rich evil-mongers lakaє zvnіshnіshnіshnіshnіshnіshnіshnіshnіshі vglyad representativesіv ієї spawn, scho scho vіdіvіdі frightful reputation. Even more pack, even the Rottweilers look superbly ugly, even before they show their work! Take a bite of that energy struggle at times of threat, that you can pardon the damage about these dogs, like not safe ones, the stench is really good-natured, more importantly calm, navit deshcho striman. Because of their temperament, there is no need to be nervous. Rottweilers are characterized by hearing, self-indulgence, good-naturedness, stubbornness and habit, good defense instinct, which may cause aggressiveness, as it may manifest itself under an hour of insecurity. Dogs tsієї give birth to your own sim’s, as if it’s right to vihovuvat them, for which these dogs should be valued and loved.

Rhodesian Ridgeback

Looking for a calm and wise dog for a private booth, and what’s more, who doesn’t threaten you? Pokirny, but with willpower? Reasonable and faithful? Rhodesian Ridgeback – the one you need. Ancestors of these dogs vikoristovuvalsya pіd polyuvannya levіv (that hour tsikh dogs are called “left dogs”), wild boar and vedmedіv – hardly any zahisnik can be chimos zlyakat. The wild nature of Pivdenny Africa is definitely not a paradise. To the unknown, as a rule, the stench is streaming, trembling aside, and not showing aggression like rubbish. Dogs are attached with all their souls to their families, including children. They also love those who they trust. Rhodesian Ridgebacks require a lot of activities and physical adventures, so a private booth in the wetlands is the best day for them.

Dogs for a private house of medium size

German vivcharka

A breed of super-intelligent dogs, bagatma bred. Ї Representatives of an irreplaceable character, supervisory nude health, and a vision of the same Poris, I, іnstinka of the Zakhist Teritori (prepare to have a sort of sort of lands, has not been bounced up to vice. Їhnyu reputation, zokrema, litter and in the ten best guard dogs in the world – 2nd month. Rich and good German vivcharki – those who you can rely on. One of the main rices, for yaku to love this breed, is hearing, it is easy to train these dogs. The very zavdyaks of such characteristics of the German vivcharka often play the role of not only watchdogs, but also service dogs (poshuk, cordon, sappers, mitniki, rozvіduvachi-ryatuvalniks, too). Lagidna vdacha tsієї bred to rob dogs with miraculous companions, especially for children, and їhnya brilliance to the point of spontaneity – therapeutic. Nameless dogs! How can you not adore them?

Dobermann

Fast and furious…Ni, we are not talking about the usual series of action films we see. Superb serenity, athleticism, energy and fearlessness, like a hoot and bewitch, call out the association with Dobermans in quiet, who even know a little bit of them. Aby pіdtremuvati ts_ characteristics on the flat level, such dogs need a lot of space and training. That’s why you have an active way of life, sufficient free time and a strong character (such a vihovanets will require authority), you are friends with a Doberman. Dogs tsієї spawn more tied to their own sim’ї, to that protect її to the rest. It’s unlikely that one would dare to stand up to the creature, with such a dazzling look. Dobermans, yak stereotyped as aggressive, evil, really lower and loving dogs, who do not forget about their function of protection, are quiet, whom they trust. Hiba not darlings?

Malinois, or Belgian vіvcharka

Shepherd’s trips of both German and Belgian vivdogs to kill them one by one, especially the name, which often causes straying in those who do not know dogs in detail. Among the typical characteristic rices of both breeds – vpevnіnіst, vіrnіst sіm’ї, vigilance, vіdchuzhenіst vіd neznayomtsіv. What does it look like malinois from German vivdogs? Drinking, drunken, energetic, with a swedish reaction, strong and muscular little malinois with a powerful link with their master, they are worthy of the mustache, which is necessary for the defending dogs, for which they are rewarded. Pragnennya to serve people is clearly seen by these dogs. Aggressiveness and suppression during the day in chotiripapih tsієї breed. Chuynіst, zhittєradisnіst, empathy to shy away їh vіrnimi friends for the little ones, whom you already love. Give special respect, that the Belgian vivcharkas need a lot of activities and respect, otherwise the stench will not waste their form, but become unhappy.

Small dogs to protect a private house the most popular breeds of dogs in Ukraine for the last few years. Appealing to tsієї spawn zovsіm is not daremna: smart, zhittєradisnі, lyublyachі, vіddanі, nevgamovnі, even energetic and active. Tse chotirilapі, yakі love rich rich, stribati and gratisya, which is entirely logical, even if the breed is wise. Jack Russell Terriers – even know that recognition, which is also caused by their adventures. If the dog is to voice its voice, then it’s not safe to bark at times, and even threaten to show aggression. You definitely won’t see your ruler on the sweat! If you yourself want to bark a little rosemary, then you may have a great fearless heart and a powerful willpower. To the character and temperament of such a dog, we need to cook! Navit for the confirmed master, the dog tsієї breed can become a reference weekly.

Are you ready for the new one?

Dachshund or daxgund

The first attack is often tempting. And in vipadku dachshunds are not rare. Miles and sweats, at first glance, a taxi with a chewing gum may be chiming, for example, barking like a great dog that loves the stench. Shock? That’s not all! An independent and something stuck in character, molded by the ancestors of the fates, is not seen among the representatives of this breed. Tsі nevtomnі, pilnі, razumnі і horobrі pіsіki, prіs small rozmіr, well protect their lords that їkhnu territory. Call taxis are strongly attached to their uninterrupted masters, and they can make them defiantly jealous of their marriage, but it’s not exactly;) Dachshund is a lover, which makes you smile a smile, and that will make your day shorter.

Beagle

Appearing, enchanting cute beagle, like they stole the hearts of the rich, – bad guard dogs for the house! Zdivovyi? Mi tezh! A warm scent (there are approximately 220 million odor receptors in a population of about 5 million in humans!), a strong instinct of stiffness and a twinkling bark of a long-standing breed help to successfully cope with the role of a protector. Even if the dogs are not aggressive, they are unlikely to pounce on an impenetrable guard through their friendliness (at the time of the living room, which often receives guests, you can be good), just tell your master about the unfortunate visit. Zavdyaki good-natured, cheerful, unturbulent character, as well as comradeship with the unreplaceable members of the motherland, like getting along well like a hell of a people, so are creatures. For dopitlivіst, greylivіst and lagіdnіst їh especially fond of children. Have you already become a victim of these cute dogs?

You know, picking up is not easy. Ale z GoodZoo, this process is significantly accepted 🐾!

Read also: The best breeds of dogs for children Be the first and put your rating on the product.

15 best dog breeds for protection – K-News

A dog is not just a cute and fluffy pet that brightens the atmosphere of the house. A dog of the right breed can also be a valuable member of the family, protecting your property from those who want to harm it. Naturally, not every dog ​​can become a guard dog, which is why this guide exists. Best protection dogs write about it.

This guide covers everything you need to know when buying a guard dog:

  • Do you need a guard dog?
  • Qualities required for a guard dog
  • The best dog breeds for protection
  • Breeds to avoid

From them you will find out if you need a guard dog, what qualities it needs, which breeds are excellent protectors and which are not. We can’t dive deep into every breed we’ve mentioned below, so we’ve included links to resources that provide more information.

So let’s get started.

DO YOU NEED A GUARD DOG?

Before we start looking at breeds, we need to ask ourselves the question – do you need a guard dog? Dogs serve a variety of roles in our society, from escorting the blind, helping injured victims, and even catching criminals along with the police.

Guard dog is a special type of dog. It is defined as “a dog trained to defend a place”, but this means that it must play an active role in defending, attacking and repelling any threats that may arise in relation to your private property. A dog that barks whenever someone is at the door can hardly be called a guard dog yet. The difference is that a guard dog is a dog that is ready to defend the house if an intruder breaks into the house.

GUARD DOG VS GUARD DOG

Guard dogs are commonly confused with guard dogs, which serve a similar but different purpose. Now that we know where we are, let’s go through the often confusing terms and define what each of them means.

We have already looked at what guard dogs are – they act as danger watchers, warning of danger with their barks and noises, but they can also protect themselves and their family in the event of a threat.

On the other hand, guard dogs do only half of what a real guard dog does. Watchdogs wait for trouble and when it does, they bark to let their owners know something is wrong. Most dogs act like watchdogs anyway, so it doesn’t matter how small they are.

The Chihuahua can be a watchdog, he even does a pretty good job of it because of his tendency to yelp at anyone who comes to the door and their massive ears that ensure they hear any dangerous noises. Sure, they often write checks that their bodies can’t cash, but that’s why they’re watchdogs and not watchdogs.

There are also guard dogs, personal protection dogs and hunting dogs. Guard dogs are guard dogs that are also trained to patrol an area to protect large areas. Dogs for personal protection are equivalent to bodyguards, designed to protect a person while on the move.

Finally, fighting dogs are dogs trained by the police or the military, both now and throughout history, to pursue and destroy criminals or enemy opposition. They use all the skills of a guard dog, but in attack rather than defense.

GUARD DOGS AND FAMILIES

All this talk about guard dogs and what is expected of them can be very troubling. If a dog breed is naturally violent and trained to protect the home, how do they fit in with families? This is the most important aspect of a good guard dog breed. A strong guard dog that can attack its owner family is worse than not having a guard dog at all.

However, the right breed with the right training will be just as loyal to your family as any other puppy, if not more so. The same temperament that makes protective dog breeds ideal as guard dogs also contribute to their deep love and devotion to their families. Just take a look at this list. As we get deeper into this guide, you’ll notice that many of these breeds also make our list of great guard dog breeds.

It is also true that the individual dog is important. You can read about temperaments and pedigrees all you want, but the fact is that individual dogs, if properly trained, are unlikely to pose a threat to their family.

70% of all dog bites occur because the dog has not been neutered. Another unfortunate statistic from this collection is that dogs were 2. 8 times more likely to bite when they were chained or otherwise, which is not how you feel about a valuable member of your family.

Just in case, you can teach young children the correct behavior when dealing with guard dogs. The most important thing is to stop teasing or being rude. Some dogs understand this, some do not, but no one should take risks with their pet. Once both the children and the dog have learned the rules of interaction, guard dogs can learn to handle children with what are known as children’s gloves.

QUALITIES REQUIRED FOR A GUARD DOG

So, what qualities should a guard dog have? There are five of them – intelligence, loyalty, courage, territorial instinct and affectionate character. A good guard dog has all five, so they can be even-tempered pets, able to love yet know when to knock their teeth out.

Let’s look at these five qualities in more detail.

INTELLIGENCE

It’s nice to have an intelligent dog, by which we mean a dog that can understand and respond to the orders you teach it. A dog that knows when to sit, stand, back off is all well and good, but a guard dog needs to be especially smart to understand the situation. If the average dog misunderstands the signals, the worst thing that can happen is that he won’t give you the paw. If the guard dog misunderstands the situation, he may bare his teeth when there is no reason to.

An intelligent guard dog is in tune with its surroundings and is able to discern people’s motives by their actions. Due to context clues and their master’s behavior, they will not trigger false alarms and treat non-threats with kindness or simply ignore them, even if they unknowingly act like a threat.

LOYALTY

Again, this is what comes naturally to dogs. They are known throughout the world as dedicated people. Stories about dogs such as Greyfriars Bobby or Hachiko spread all over the world, where two dogs patiently waited for their owners, who would never return, on for many years . And yes, they were the inspiration for that Emmy-nominated Futurama scene.

While Hachiko was an Akita, a loyal breed discussed below, Bobby was a tiny Skye Terrier who was still loyal to the end despite his small size. Such admirable devotion to their owners should be in every guard dog. This not only keeps them in line, but gives them the morale to risk themselves for their master should the threat ever rear its ugly head.

COURAGE

This brings us to the next quality, courage. While some dogs may have a lot of barking, they may have few bites. Consider the Chihuahua example, they bark a lot and can be great tiny watchdogs, but they are useless in a fight and probably won’t even try to stop an intruder because they are smart. This is why the size of the dog is also important, because it gives him the confidence that he can withstand threats.

Even so, most intruders will be taller than the largest guard dog, which is very impressive. This means that large guard dogs must be brave enough to attack serious human threats when necessary.

TERRITORIAL INSTINCT

What makes a guard dog defend his home is his attachment to the area. Territorial behavior is well documented in all animal species, but some dog breeds are more prone to it than others. There is no use in having a guard dog if it does not respond to intruders in your home.

ATTENTIVE NATURE

Last but not least, a good guard dog knows when to give up the defensive act. It is unethical to keep a dog only as a weapon against hypothetical dangers. Guard dogs are house dogs like any other breed, and as such, they must be capable of showing affection to their owners and the family that adopts them.

BEST DOG BREEDS FOR PROTECTION

Now that we’ve covered what guard dogs are and what traits are best, it’s time to start looking into breeds. There are many different breeds in the dog family, some of which are predisposed to guard duty.

The following is a list of fifteen dog breeds that can make effective guard dogs. They are all large enough to be physically imposing, but their temperaments can vary.

No wonder we have Rottweilers, German Shepherds and Doberman Pinschers. They are common, encompassing all five of the best qualities of a guard dog and, as a result, are overwhelmingly used as guard dogs around the world.

Finally, it is worth mentioning that no dog is a true guard dog until it has been trained. Each breed listed below needs to be trained to do two things:

  1. Ignore other dogs or play nice with them instead of becoming cold.
  1. Constantly remind him of his role as a guard dog, even if he is already showing watchdog behavior due to his breed.

There is no guarantee that any dog ​​will act as a guard dog if not properly trained, so formal training is the surest and safest way to turn your pet into a guard dog.

So, let’s take a look at the best guard dog breeds.

ROTTWEILER

Rottweilers are the dogs most people think of when they hear the phrase “guard dog” and for good reason. This is because they have guarded people and their property since the day the breed was created, originally bred by the Romans to tow wagons, herd sheep, and even accompany soldiers in battle.

They are also quite intelligent and love their families very much, perhaps even too much loving. Though fearless and intelligent, Rottweilers are emotionally attached to their owners. So what’s the flip side? Well, they become sensitive to the owner’s emotions, so an inexperienced owner can unwittingly convey negative emotions to the dog. They also badly need your company and exercise to keep them fit, so definitely not a breed you should leave alone for long periods of time.

GERMAN SHEPHERD

The German Shepherd is a common sight in police and military forces around the world. This is because they exhibit many of the best qualities you want in a guard dog, including amazing intelligence that allows them to be trained to recognize and sniff out objects for safety reasons.

For a larger and more physically imposing dog, they are not as heavy, rarely exceeding 100 pounds, and therefore not prone to the physical problems that come with heavier dogs. Like great guard dogs, they have large pointed ears that are great for listening to their environment and finding threats.

DOBERMANN PINSCHER

Like Rottweilers, Dobermans were originally bred for protection. The German tax collector Carl Friedrich Louis Dobermann owned a dog punch and specially bred a Doberman to accompany him on his travels. It is widely believed that German Shepherds and Rottweilers were used in the breeding process to create the Doberman.

The fact that they were bred for strength, intelligence and endurance makes them the ideal guard dogs in today’s world. They are taller than most Rottweilers and German Shepherds, making them a formidable travel companion, but it also means they require more exercise and living space.

Like the other guard dogs mentioned, their heightened intelligence also makes them sensitive to their owner’s emotions. While this makes them love their family, it also means they are prone to misbehaving if the owner doesn’t give them much attention.

BULLMASTIFF

The Bullmastiff, created by breeding Bulldogs and Mastiffs together, was bred in England in the 1800s. They were used to guard the estate, in particular to drive off poachers who hunted illegally on the land. Their history of protection does not end there, as they were also imported into South Africa to guard the diamond mines.

They are known for their large build and flat muzzle, and their weight usually exceeds 110 pounds, making them the heaviest breed mentioned so far. Unlike the first three guard dog breeds we have already talked about; Bullmastiffs don’t cling so emotionally to their owners. They are also built to carry weight, so they don’t need much exercise to keep them in fighting shape.

We wouldn’t recommend them for the beginner because although they are not clingy, it shows in independence that needs to be tamed and controlled so that the dog does not act up. They drool a lot too!

Giant Schnauzer

While the more popular Miniature Schnauzers do not make good guard dogs, their larger cousins, the Giant Schnauzers, make good guard dogs. They were bred for livestock and included Great Dane genes to give them an imposing size. From there they were imported into urban areas to guard shops, and when the World Wars broke out, they were used as war dogs and exported all over the world.

Unlike the breeds we have already mentioned, the Giant Schnauzer has a thick coat that acts as a natural armor against small animals and bad weather. It is also often emphasized that this breed is smarter than most other breeds. Naturally, this means that it will be difficult for beginners to keep the dog in line.

AKITA

This Japanese breed is known for its large size, long lifespan and unforgiving attractiveness. There is also the American Akita, which is considered a separate breed with many similarities. Japanese Akitas were used to hunt elk, wild boars and even brown bears in the mountainous regions of Japan, and they even accompanied the samurai on their travels. This is a hardy breed that came close to extinction twice during the World Wars but survived. The history of Hachiko helped the Japanese Akita gain worldwide fame.

They are known for their relatively quiet demeanor. They are said to only bark when there is a good reason to do so, which is why they are called the Silent Hunters. That doesn’t mean they can’t have fun, often engaging in silly games when surrounded by those they love and trust. They need to be taught from an early age to play well with other dogs.

GREAT PYRENEES

Next comes another mountain dog, the Great Pyrenees. As you would expect from the name, this is the mountain range of the Pyrenees between France and Spain, and they have long been used in both the Pyrenees and the Alps to scare away high altitude predators such as wolves and bears. They have many names, but in America they are called the Great Pyrenees, which were exported to the US and used on farmland to protect herds of cattle.

They will need to be trained as guard dogs. They have a loyal and brave nature and they have the size to scare people away, but they also have independence and aloofness. This aloofness also means that they do not require much maintenance compared to the emotional needs of other guard dog breeds.

GREAT GREAT

Great Danes have a worldwide reputation for being the tallest dogs in the world. Like the three main guard dog breeds we mentioned, they also originate from Germany, where they have been used as hunting dogs since the Middle Ages. Even though this breed easily reaches 150-200 pounds, they don’t have much of a protective demeanor. In the untrained state, the Great Dane often turns out to be a soft giant, so training is definitely required so that he can operate on the defensive.

Of course, one look at them is enough to keep most rooms safe. Everyone recognizes a Great Dane when they see him, and the very possibility of running into his “bad side” is a deterrent. They are known to bond strongly with their owner, which also means that they need more care and attention to keep them calm and balanced.

BELGIAN MALINOIS

The Belgian Malinois, or Belgian Shepherd, is another police and military breed that is often mistaken for German Shepherds. They are very similar to German Shepherds, although they are usually stockier and have a shaggy coat. They have a history of protection, especially in the US, and are known more as working dogs than as pets.

This is because their energy surpasses even most German Shepherds, so the average family can go out of their way to tame this breed and keep it under control. They need to be trained regularly to stay calm and follow commands.

KOMONDOR

Komondors are Hungarian shepherd dogs known for their shaggy coat, which is often compared to a mop or dreadlocks. Beneath their thick white coat is a large and strong working dog that has been used for centuries to guard livestock. They may be too careful with those they love, so socialization training will be needed from an early age.

CANE CORSO

The Cane Corso is an Italian form of mastiff that has been used for protection and guarding since they existed, as have many in the mastiff family. They typically weigh 100 pounds, which is the optimum for many guard dog breeds, and they carry that weight with the calm and detached nature of dogs such as Bullmastiffs. These mastiffs’ signature large, fat head is also sure to scare off intruders at first sight.

Cane Corso owners should have a fenced yard in which the dog can roam, as they are more energetic than other mastiff breeds. For this reason, owners must be experienced in caring for guard dogs and have enough time to train them.

AMERICAN BULLDOG

American Bulldogs are descended from bulldogs used for cattle walking and bull baiting, and are a larger variety that has spread throughout the southern United States due to their ability to prey on feral pigs, pests, who still haunt the nation. They have been bred and trained to handle other animals larger than themselves, which requires the courage and tenacity that makes a good guard dog.

They are workaholics, so they always have something to do so they don’t get nervous, even if it’s a daily walk around the yard. You can get American Bulldogs in a wide variety of shapes and sizes, but a consistent feature of the breed is that they are easy to train.

BOXER

Boxer dogs are known for their loose jaws and saliva. They are part of the Mastiff family, but were also bred using the Old English Bulldog, so they share a common ancestor with the American Bulldog.

For use as guard dogs they are rather small compared to other breeds here, but they have a history of protecting people and the land. They make up for this by being blobs of energy, making them fast and strong, and harder to hold onto for would-be intruders. They are also easy to train and have a reputation for being smart with children, but the dog and child still need to be trained to behave properly with each other.

RHODESIAN RIDGEBACK

Another breed of guard dog that made its way to South Africa due to its effectiveness as a hunter is the Rhodesian Ridgeback. It has been used as a hunting dog to track down large game in Africa and has even killed baboons. They were even used to catch lions, they distracted by attacking the “king of the beasts” and retreating to occupy predators while their hunter owners were preparing a deadly shot.

With such impressive craftsmanship, it’s no wonder modern Rhodesian Ridgebacks are used for safety. They have a natural inclination to protect their family and their territory. It is also the only breed here where guard dog training can be overused, as this may encourage them to become is too protective. However, basic obedience and socialization training is always necessary.

BAUCERON

Finally, we have Beauceron. If they look familiar, it’s because they were used to breed Dobermans. They are essentially the French cousins ​​of Dobermans and Rottweilers from Germany, although they have a milder appearance than Labradors. They weigh between 80 and 100 pounds, depending on the dog, and they are aloof or uninterested in strangers, preferring to keep their distance. Because of this, they are great as watchdogs, but they will need extra training to interact with intruders.

They are known for being stubborn, which is not good for a dog you want to turn into a guard dog. They also have a strong hunting urge, making them unsuitable for accommodation with smaller animals.

BREEDS TO AVOID

There are many breeds to avoid when choosing a guard dog. You should already know that Chihuahuas and Poodles won’t make the best house protectors, so instead let’s focus on the common dog breeds that are big enough to be guard dogs but not suitable due to their temperament.

LABRADOR RETRIEVER

Labradors are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world. Why? Because they are one of the friendliest! They also have high intelligence, which makes them very easy to train, to the point where disabled people get this loyal breed to help them with daily tasks. This makes Labradors an excellent guide dog rather than a guard dog. Because of their playful temperament, which makes them friendly and helpful, they are unlikely to defend your home unless the dog is personally threatened.

GOLDEN RETRIEVER

Similarly, Golden Retrievers are not suitable for duty as guard dogs. Although they have a more cheerful background than Labradors and have been used for hunting in the past, they are also too outgoing. They are used as guides and as search and rescue dogs and are also known for their energy. A golden retriever would rather splash around in puddles and roll in muddy holes than vigilantly guard a house.

IRISH SETTERS

Irish Setters have hunting experience, but not the kind that makes them ideal guard dogs. This is a sea dog, a breed that was used to hunt poultry after they were shot by a hunter. Golden Retrievers have been used for this too, but Irish Setters have a more distinguished past when it comes to playing with dead birds.

They have a willingness to cooperate, which motivates them to help most of the people they encounter. However, they will attempt to prey on small animals, so they should not be kept with other pets.

BASSET HOUNDS

Beagles can have a long history as sniffers and attack dogs…basset hounds? There aren’t many of them. Basset Hounds were originally bred to hunt hares, but have since become known for being lazy in the modern home. They are prone to joint problems, usually due to being overweight, and they are too friendly to become aggressive at the sight of most intruders.

SUMMARY

By now you should have some idea of ​​what breeds make a good guard dog. We have not only described traits to look out for, but we have also provided fifteen examples and four examples of what breeds you should avoid.