Best dog for protection and family: The Best 5 Dog Breeds for Home Security and Protection

The Best 5 Dog Breeds for Home Security and Protection

When it comes to protecting your home from burglars, there is no doubt that the single most effective thing you can do is to have a monitored alarm system (and promote that fact to would-be burglars with a yard sign).

However, true home security isn’t a one-and-done proposition—it’s about adding multiple layers of defense to make your home a less attractive target than other nearby homes.  In addition to a monitored alarm system, other layers of defense you might consider adding are security cameras, hardened doors and windows, security-conscious landscaping, and the subject of today’s article—a guard dog.  In many surveys that have been conducted of former burglars, they consistently have reported that large, loud dogs were something they tried to avoid when selecting homes to target for break-ins (along with alarm systems).

Contrary to the stereotype, a “guard dog” doesn’t have to be a vicious animal that attacks any stranger who approaches, including small children.   There are many breeds of dogs that can do double duty as a great family pet and a guard dog. These are the five best dog breeds for home protection that can also serve as loving members of your family’s “pack.”

#1 German Shepherd

If you’re looking for a devoted family pet and fearless guard dog, the German Shepherd is the hands-down winner. As a muscular, intelligent working dog originally bred for herding, what makes German Shepherds such great guard dogs is their confident, courageous character. Our current President’s favorite breed is extremely loyal and makes a gentle family pet, but when it comes to the defense of its loved ones, it will be willing to put its life on the line. German Shepherds have a natural protective instinct that does not waiver. Their intimidating, loud bark makes them an especially effective deterrent to intruders.

German Shepherd males usually weigh between 65 and 90 pounds, while females weigh between 50 and 70 pounds. Their life expectancy is between 12 and 14 years.

When it comes to health problems, the most common ailments for this noble breed are hip and elbow dysplasia, which a responsible breeder should screen for; bloat, a sudden and life-threatening condition affecting the abdomen; and epilepsy.

#2 Doberman Pinscher

With their menacing bark and a personality that is hard-wired for defense, Doberman Pinschers make excellent guard dogs. The breed was first bred in Germany in the late 19th century, mostly to serve as a guard dog. This sleek, powerful canine is also devoted, warmhearted, and even docile as a family pet.

Male Dobermans usually weigh between 75 and 100 pounds, and females weigh between 60 and 90 pounds. They usually live between 10 and 12 years.

Bloat can be a life-threatening digestive condition for Dobermans. Genetic health conditions include hip dysplasia, dilated cardiomyopathy (enlarged heart), von Willebrand’s disease (a clotting disorder), progressive retinal atrophy, albinism, and hypothyroidism.

#3 Rottweiler

Originally bred to protect cattle and other livestock, Rottweilers are descended from the dogs that the Romans used to drive the herds that fed their army as it marched through Europe. A robust, confident breed, Rottweilers are also gentle playmates within their own families. Rottweilers are calm and courageous but not overly aggressive. According to the American Kennel Club, “Their aloof demeanor these world-class guardians present to outsiders belies the playfulness that endears Rotties to their loved ones.”

Male Rottweilers weigh between 95 and 135 pounds, and females weigh between 80 and 100 pounds. Their usual life expectancy is between 9 and 10 years of age.

The health problems that Rottweilers most commonly suffer from are hip dysplasia, eye diseases, and heart conditions.

#4 Bull Mastiff

Initially developed by gamekeepers to protect their animals from poachers, this strong working breed can be quite intimidating to intruders. But when it comes to their families, Bull Mastiffs are gentle giants, known for their affection as much as for their bravery. Like most large breeds, the Bull Mastiff needs structured training and early social socialization so that it is easy to control.

Bull Mastiff males usually weigh between 110 and 130 pounds, and females weigh between 110 and 120 pounds. The Bull Mastiff’s life expectancy is only 7 to 9 years, which might deter some families from choosing this breed.

Health liabilities include eye problems, cancer, and, as with a couple of the breeds mentioned above, they are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, hypothyroidism, and bloat.

#5 Akita

The Akita was originally bred in Japan as a hunting dog, but its fearlessness and loyalty make it a great guard dog. When it comes to their own families, this quiet breed is loving and cuddly. As they are also independent-minded and willful, Akitas must be trained from a young age so that they understand who’s boss.

Male Akitas weigh between 100 and 130 pounds, and females usually weigh between 70 and 100 pounds. Their life expectancy is 10-13 years.

Like all large dogs, Akitas can be prone to bloat. Common inherited health problems include eye and thyroid disorders and hip dysplasia.

Runners-up

Below are two “Runners Up”: dog breeds that make superb watchdogs but not necessarily the best guard dogs.

Boxer

The boxer is a medium-sized, short-haired working breed that tends to become very attached to its owners. While they tend to have a very menacing bark, they are less likely to attack when provoked. This clever breed is highly energetic and requires a lot of exercise and stimulation.

Australian Shepherd

The Australian Shepherd, one of the most intelligent of all dog breeds, was originally bred to herd livestock. Astute and observant, they are excellent watchdogs, quick to alert their family when something is out of place. However, they don’t have the strength, appearance, or boldness to tackle a burglar.

Simply purchasing a dog is not enough to protect your home from intruders. But along with a monitored alarm system and other layers of defense, it will undoubtedly make your home a less attractive target!

Protection dog breeds: Malinois, Doberman, Rottweiler, Schnauzer

Posted December 21, 2022

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const scriptRegex = /Protection dog breeds like the Giant Schnauzer keep your family safe and secure. They also offer companionship and unconditional love.

Protection dog breeds like the Giant Schnauzer keep your family safe and secure. They also offer companionship and unconditional love.

Dogs are loyal and have been used to protect herds, homes, and ranches for years. Protection dog breeds are common in most households as they save homeowners from theft.

These dogs are good at playing with your children and intelligent enough to know the difference between an intruder and a family member. 

Remember, guard dog breeds vary in heritage, instincts, and appearance, and you should research to know which one is best suited for your needs.

The best guard dog breeds are highly intelligent and typically are large breed dogs, with most weighing 100 pounds or more.

Below we discuss the best protection dogs:

Belgian Malinois

This breed is among the most intelligent and versatile protective dogs globally and is common in most homesteads.

Belgian Malinois are famous for being highly trainable, quick-witted, and commonly used as police and military dogs. These dogs have gone down in history as the only breed to participate in taking down Osama Bin Laden.

However, most people mistake this breed for the German Shepherd, their sheep-herding cousins, due to their similar appearance.

This dog breed has a compassionate spirit, playful, which makes them among the best protection dogs. However, it will help to note that these dogs require proper training and exercise.

Rottweiler

Rottweilers are the perfect combination of strength and loyalty. They are incredibly strong, and their courageous spirit makes them ideal guard dogs.

Though this breed may have a rugged look, Rottweilers form an incredible bond with their human parents and love nothing more than to be around them.

These pups are just as eager for adventure as they are for cuddles and relaxation. They can tag along on your camping trip or stay home with you to curl up in your lap.

Doberman

Doberman Pinschers are famously intelligent, devoted, and reliable. They are particularly affectionate with their families but are naturally inclined to stay vigilant.

These canines make excellent guard dogs that will protect their “pack” if threatened by any danger or attack. With the people they know, Dobermans display gentle, loving behavior.

This breed loves to keep busy and needs both physical and mental stimulation. Be sure to provide plenty of exercise and activities for your Dobie as part of your family life.

When selecting a pup from a breeder, opt for one bred with confidence without exhibiting overly aggressive behavior towards strangers. Training also plays a vital role in helping your dog understand appropriate conduct at home and in public settings.

Giant Schnauzer

The Giant Schnauzer is powerful, large, and among the most common protection dogs.

The Schnauzer is a brilliant and lively dog, ideal for guarding. They are renowned for their bravery, determination, and loyalty to the owner’s family.

They can remain fit enough to perform any task with regular exercise — from playing with children to even rescuing humans in need.

These dogs make outstanding companions and strive to stay close to the family since being isolated in a kennel or backyard is not preferred. 

Dutch Shepherd

The Dutch Shepherd dog is strikingly agile and intelligent, renowned for its strong work ethic.

Developed as an all-around farm dog, it has an independent nature that was used to herd livestock and provide protection on rural properties.

Despite being less well known than some breeds, like the German Shepherd, these loyal dogs are increasingly valued amongst pet owners, sports enthusiasts, and police departments for their obedience training capabilities and remarkable search and rescue skills.

Final thoughts on protection dog breeds

Families have relied on their four-legged friends for centuries to protect and guard their homes.

Today, protection dog breeds like the Belgian Malinois, Doberman, Rottweiler, Giant Schnauzer, and Dutch Shepherd increasingly safeguard against burglaries or intrusions.

These canines offer more than just security — they also make excellent companions for your children, providing unconditional love and the ability to distinguish between family members and strangers. 

Having a guard dog by your side provides peace of mind knowing that your family and home are secure. Not only are dogs renowned for their protective instincts, but studies show that they’re better than foot traffic, close neighbors, or even the classic security sign when deterring burglars. 

However, there is an important note to consider — guard dogs can become overly territorial, which may result in them attacking someone who poses no threat.

When choosing between dog breeds, especially if you’re considering a bodyguard dog, it’s essential to research to find one that fits your home environment and budget.

Guard dogs – the best guard dogs for the yard and private house

25.10.2017
The Best Dog Breeds for Home Guard

Technical means for the protection of houses and apartments have become a part of our lives. Alarms, video surveillance systems, console security – all this serves for reliable protection against burglars. However, there is another factor that works no less effectively than all of the above funds. If you have not guessed yet, then we will talk about dogs, or rather about which breed of dog to choose to protect a private house or apartment. These four-legged friends of man perfectly cope with their “work” duties and have repeatedly proven their effectiveness in the fight against intruders. nine0003

Guard dogs must have not only large size, but also courage and endurance. It is also worth choosing a four-legged guard according to the parameters of living conditions – there are dogs that are too large for an average apartment. For example, Alabai or Caucasian Shepherd Dog.

Guard dogs: which breed to choose

German Shepherd

What is the first breed that comes to mind as a guard dog? Of course, the German Shepherd – these stately animals are excellent watchmen. This breed is distinguished by a sharp mind, energy and devotion, and also lends itself well to training. But having taken a German Shepherd, you should be prepared that she needs constant physical activity. nine0003

Moscow watchdog

If you are looking for a dog to guard your home and family, consider the Moscow watchdog. This large animal with sad eyes is actually absolutely fearless – he will come to the defense of his master and home without hesitation. By teaching the dog basic commands, you can get a very strong and obedient guard. The dimensions of the Moscow Watchtower suggest living in a private house.

Caucasian Shepherd Dog

Looking at the size of the Caucasian Shepherd, it is easy to imagine what will happen to someone who wants to enter your home. These guard dogs are very strong, their massive paws and torso inspire fear by their very appearance. Despite their impressive appearance, Caucasian Shepherd Dogs are affectionate towards children. To maintain physical fitness, an hour and a half walking a day is enough.

Alabai

Such guard dogs are a huge responsibility that all Alabai owners should remember. These dogs reflect power and formidability, so due attention should be paid to their upbringing and training. In the face of the owner, the alabai must see the leader, otherwise the relationship will be uncontrolled, and the dog will not obey. To release energy, Alabai need active and long walks. nine0003

Giant Schnauzer

Giant Schnauzer is a wonderful house guard dog, besides it is incredibly loyal, courageous and practically unpretentious. This breed is easy to train, becomes a faithful assistant to the owner and an affectionate friend for the child. The Giant Schnauzer is active with pleasure – physical activity is necessary for the dog to maintain muscle mass. Of the shortcomings of the breed – grooming and regular haircuts.

Rottweiler

Pay attention to Rottweilers to protect your house and apartment. They are sweet and kind, but until the moment when their territory and the owner are not in danger. This breed requires not only proper education and long-term training, but also proper nutrition. With due attention to the pet, you can grow a real beast – a thunderstorm of the streets. nine0003

Boxer

For an apartment, there is no better guard dog than a boxer. They are distinguished by kindness and affection for kids, so they should be chosen by those who have children in the family. But despite the natural softness, whatever one may say, this is a fighting dog. Training and training are given easily, the boxer grasps all commands literally on the fly. And in order for the energy of the animal to find a way out, active physical activity during walks is necessary.

Doberman

Beauty and grace, combined with determination and strength – all this is about Dobermans. These guard dogs make excellent bodyguards. Even from a young age, puppies require attention – the owners must throw all their efforts into training and education in order to avoid behavioral problems in the future. To protect the yard or apartment – the Doberman can cope with any task.

Cane Corso

These muscular beauties are incredibly perceptive and quick-witted, but at the same time they can be stubborn. The Cane Corso breed is the best dog for guarding its owner. Having become attached to a friend, the dog will not leave him a single step, and if danger is suspected, he will make it clear to the offender that it is better not to approach. nine0003

Staffordshire Terrier

Looking at the Staffordshire Terrier, it is needless to say that such dogs are perfect for home protection. Especially if it is not a private house. The average size of the breed will make it easy to keep the staff in the apartment. This dog will be the best friend of the owner and a sweet nanny to the child, but for this you need to work on raising a pet. The Stafford masters commands in an elementary way and one can even say that he loves to learn.

Home guard dog: what you need to know before buying

Before you get a large breed dog, you need to understand the following:

1. You need to walk the animal at least 1-1.5 hours a day.
2. It is necessary to provide active physical activity to maintain shape and release excess energy.
3. To protect the house, the dog must take a special protection course.
4. Seriously engage in obedience, having developed authority in the dog before the owner
5. If you can’t do it yourself, you should definitely contact a cynologist.

We hope that after our article you have understood what kind of dog you want to protect your home and family. Remember, the animal is yours and yours alone. And if it comes to a large breed, then the bail is multiplied by two.

Best dog breeds to guard your home

What makes the best guard dog?

Size? No.

Aggression? No.

Level of attachment to home and owners? Once again no.

The secret of a good guard dog lies in the combination of its guard nature and intelligence. She knows when to bark, when to attack and, most importantly, when to stop.

Below is a curated list of breeds with natural defensive reflexes and smart enough to be used in real life situations.

Top 5 Big Dogs

Weighing 20-40 kilos, these dogs are perfect for large open space homes, farms or estates. nine0003

5. Akita

These large and powerful dogs were first bred in Japan in the 1600s to accompany big game hunters. Today this breed is known for its courage, independence, assertiveness and tenacity.

The Akita is wary of strangers and aggressive towards other dogs, but completely devoted to the family. In good hands and with proper training, this dog will do an excellent job of protecting your home.

4. Komondor

This miracle with dreadlocks, bred to protect livestock, is an excellent guard. Don’t let its friendly appearance fool you, this dog is highly intelligent, independent, and at times stubborn and domineering. nine0003

She is great with family and other animals, but wary of strangers. The Komondor is completely fearless and, if necessary, is ready to attack.

3. Malinois

This elegant and very energetic herding breed was developed in the 1800s in Belgium and is alert, intelligent, serious and inquisitive.

Like most guard breeds (to avoid behavior problems), the Malinois needs training and a responsible owner. With proper training, this dog will easily protect your home and family from any external threats. nine0003

2. Beauceron

Courageous, calm and even-tempered, the Beauceron is indeed a versatile dog. This breed began to be bred in France in the 1500s as a herding dog, but they quickly adapted to other tasks, including guarding and police work.

With its powerful agile body, strong jaws and devotion combined with intelligence, the Beauceron will become a reliable protector.

1. Rhodesian Ridgeback

The first place in our list was taken by a dog that can even compete with a lion! Yes, you read that right, with a lion. Ridgeback combines power, speed, endurance, intelligence and devotion. nine0003

Bred in South Africa in 1800 and adapted to work in hot climates, this dog was named fit for use by the American Fur Seal. The Ridgeback is a loyal guard dog and an ideal guard dog for home protection. After all, if he’s not afraid of a lion, imagine what he can do to a robber.

Top 5 Medium Size Dogs

Weighing between 10 and 20 kilograms, these dogs are great for small to medium sized homes as well as large apartments. nine0003

5. German Pinscher

The Pinscher is a tenacious and courageous breed that is small enough to be flexible and tough enough to be strong. Bred in Germany in the 1600s to catch rats, today it has found its place as a guard dog.

Due to its tireless nature, sensitivity and loyalty, this dog will scare off potential intruders and, if required, attack them.

4. Finnish Spitz

This inquisitive and playful hunting breed came to us from ancient Finland. The fast and agile breed was created for hunting small animals and birds. Independent and somewhat stubborn by nature, the Pomeranian tends to dedicate himself to one person. nine0003

Known for his barking, suspicion of strangers and kindness to children, the Spitz makes an excellent guard dog.

3. Border Collie

The Border Collie is a combination of energy and strength that strives outwards. Bred in Britain in the 1600s, this is one of the smartest dogs on earth. This breed is quiet, strong, graceful, agile and tireless, making it the ideal guard dog for the home.

2. Canaan dog

The Canaan Dog is known for its obedient and loyal nature. Coming to us from ancient Israel, this breed was used as a shepherd, liaison and rescue dog.

Her cautious approach to strangers, guardian nature, natural obedience and loud barking make her an easy-to-train family protector.

1. Australian Cattle Dog

Extremely responsible, obedient, determined and loyal, the Australian Cattle Dog takes first place in the medium size category. Bred in the 1800s to help with farm work, this shepherd’s dog quickly became a household pet thanks to its strong attachment to its owners. nine0003

Like most guard dogs, it has traits of stubbornness, independence and tenacity, so early training is essential for its good behavior. However, if all its needs are met, this dog will not only guard your home, but will become your best friend and lifelong companion.

Top 5 Small Dogs

Weighing between 5 and 10 kilograms, these dogs are great for apartments and small spaces.

5. Scottish Terrier

This brave and fearless dog has great strength in a small body. Bred in Scotland in the 1800s as a hunting dog, the Scottish Terrier is strong at fighting opponents in hard-to-reach areas.

Despite its compact size, this is a heavy-boned dog, determined and has a loud bark that likes to use…often. Although she can be independent and stubborn, she has a kind heart and sensitive nature, making her an excellent companion.

4. Miniature Schnauzer

One of the most popular terriers, this rat hunter was bred in Germany in the 1800s. He is fast, strong, curious and ready for action. He will not hesitate to bark or bite if the situation calls for it. This playful and inquisitive dog is a good friend for children and adults.

3. Pug

This is a big dog in the body of a small dog. Although originally bred in China as a lap dog, it has proven to be extremely versatile. Depending on the dog’s lifestyle and training, it can be a homebody or a great walking companion. nine0003

This breed’s strong build, trustfulness and easy training make it an excellent choice for protecting your family.

2. Parson Russell Terrier

The adventurous Parson Russell Terrier is a true hunter of hearts. Developed for fox hunting in 1800s England, this breed is very mischievous.

Playful and very smart, she is very good with children and shows her protective nature. What more could you want from a small guard dog? nine0003

1. Schipperke

At the top of our list in the category of small dogs is the Belgian guard dog, which was bred to hunt rats – the Schipperke. This fox-like dog is active, agile and graceful.

Suspicious of strangers, she is kind to family members. If you are looking for a small dog to guard your apartment, don’t miss the Schipperke!

Conclusion

A dog is a huge responsibility, if you only want to keep one for protection, it is better to think about less whimsical solutions, such as security systems or video surveillance.