Best guard and family dog: 10 Best Family Guard Dogs

The Best Guard Dogs for Protecting Your Home

Home defense can take on many shapes and forms. But none of them are quite as adorable as a guard dog. Man’s best friend is a loyal animal, and the right breed can help you ward off would-be intruders before they even arrive and fight for your family. The best guard dogs are going to fit your lifestyle, present themselves in a protective manner, and be capable of defending your family when push comes to shove. Learn more about your options, the best guard dog breeds, and what to prepare for when adding a four-legged member to your household.

Suggested read: Animal Heroes: 6 Military Animals That Made a Difference

What Is the Best Guard Dog?

Dogs are great companions. With the right training and environments, they can thrive as a part of your family. But overall, there are different breeds featuring different characteristics.

Here are some of the best guard dogs you can add to your home with some important considerations from the American Kennel Club:

1.

Akita

 Akitas are high-energy, trainable dogs capable of growing between 70 lbs. and 130 lbs. Their barks are known to alert owners to threats, and when properly trained, they do great around families. They’re decent with children, but not so much with other dogs.

2. Belgian Malinois

Have you ever wondered, “Why do Navy SEALs only use Belgian Malinois dogs?” They’re very smart animals, great around other animals and family, and can even work well around outsiders.

A Belgian Malinois, however, is one of the most trainable dogs in the world and stands ready to guard your family with one of the most impressive resumes of any breed.

3. Boxer

Are you going to have to clean up a bit more drool than normal? Absolutely. Boxers drool and are loving animals. But you’re also safe as can be with one of these lovable dopes in your home – especially if you have children. Bred to be companions, Boxers make some of the best guard dogs for kids, as they’re great with children while still being on guard.

Boxers develop that guard dog instinct while they’re still in adolescence, so it’s exceptionally cute and heartwarming to see a dog that’s essentially still a puppy go ham on anyone or anything it sees as a threat.

4. Bullmastiff

When you need a breed that’s able to get along with other dogs, children, and humans of all kinds, the Bullmastiff is there to answer the call. These loving dogs are always on alert, very trainable, and don’t require much grooming.

Of course, you’ll need to make some time for your four-legged friend to get out its energy. This breed is one of the best guard dogs for kids.

5. Catahoula Leopard Dog

Hailing from Catahoula Parish, Louisiana, the Catahoula Leopard Dog is known for its unique coat, but it’s also a great family guard dog. This is a great option for an active family, as they do well around others, are affectionate, and work well with other canines. But note, they have energy and aren’t afraid to use it. This is one of the reasons they also make great hunting dogs.

6. Caucasian Shepherd Dog

Somewhat of a loner and not as open to strangers, the Caucasian Shepherd Dog may not be the most sociable, but it’s more than capable. If you’re looking for a dog that’s ready to run and play with you and your other furry friends, this may not be the right fit.

But standing as tall as 30” and typically weighing more than 100 lbs., if someone does trigger this breed’s protective side, they’re going to have a formidable opponent to contend with.

7. Doberman Pinscher

Don’t let their demeanor fool you. Doberman Pinschers are arguably the best guard dogs for families. They check multiple boxes, including being great with kids, having lots of energy, being very trainable, being playful, and doing well in social situations. This is all on top of being excellent watchdogs, ready to defend their family.

8. German Shepherd

Highly intelligent, playful, always on guard… there’s virtually no downside to having a German Shepherd. If you’re looking for an all-around great guard dog, this is one of the best breeds you can find for your family. They do require lots of attention to get their minds and feet racing, but if you can handle it, they can handle their duty to protect.

9. Puli

The appeal of having a Puli isn’t about size. They aren’t the strongest breed for the task, and their mop-like appearance means you’re going to have to get ready to make regular grooming part of your routine. But if you’re looking for a lovable dog that’s one of the most protective dog breeds and capable of being trained and alerting your family to danger, you’ve found your match.

10. Rottweiler

One of the coolest things about Rottweilers is that they’re able to undergo tremendous training and learn it all. One of the worst things about Rotts is that they have a terrible reputation because people don’t take on this responsibility seriously.

This breed is lovable, and with proper training, they can do well around other family members, including kids and dogs. They’re protective and high-energy, as well, only adding to their status as one of the elite guard dog breeds.

11. Staffordshire Bull Terrier

They can be trained, they’re good with others, they’re decent with other dogs, and they have plenty of energy to boot. The Staffordshire Bull Terrier isn’t the largest breed on our list, but they’re loyal and always on alert for their families. They’re well-rounded guard dogs, though low in stature.

Before Adding a Dog to Your Home…

There’s no doubt that having a guard dog can be a great addition to your home, but this isn’t just adding a new centerpiece or piece of furniture; it’s a living being. Whether you adopt or shop, either way, you’ll be adding a member to your family.

This means you’ll have to account for the long-term responsibilities of owning a dog, including:

• Extra expenses for food, healthcare, boarding, etc.
• You’ll need to make time to give them the attention they need and deserve.
• Dogs live 10 to 13+ years of age. Your commitment isn’t just for today but for over the next decade.
• Training takes time, and even then, accidents will happen. Be prepared.
• Be sure to do research on whether or not your breed sheds and how much, if that matters to you.
• Dogs that are being adopted can be great, but they often need some extra TLC. You’ll want to account for any and all special needs when adopting.
• Some breeds are viewed in a negative light, which could increase your home insurance premiums as well as make it more difficult for those living within HOAs.

Overall, the best guard dogs for families are the ones that fit their lifestyle. You’re adding a new best friend to your home. Prepare accordingly, and understand that this is a commitment that will affect them for the rest of their lives.

Are Dobermans the Best Guard Dogs?

Again, determining which breed works best for your home is always going to be based on a number of personal factors. But Dobermans are consistently ranked as some of the most intelligent, capable guard dogs in the world.

They’re bursting with athleticism, easily trained, and continue to be what many consider the best guard dog available.

Having a guard dog is great for many reasons, including companionship and for making a better alternative to other means of self-defense. The best guard dogs are compatible with your lifestyle and protect your household. No matter what walk of life you’re in, there’s a breed that’s right for you.

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8 Best Guard Dogs – AZ Animals

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Key Points:

• Not all guard dogs are large. Many small dog breeds make excellent guard dogs.
• Some breeds were bred specifically to guard humans, some were bred to guard livestock.
• Many guard dogs are also loving members of the family and especially protective over the children of the house.

The relationship between humans and domesticated dogs dates back at least 25,000 years, but the first definitive evidence of canines selectively bred for guard dog tasks can be found roughly 2,000 years ago in classical Greece. Cerberus — the terrifying three-headed dog that guarded the gates of the underworld was perhaps a reflection of the huge and imposing dog breeds that were used to guard livestock and the property of both the rich and the poor.

Guard dogs come in a variety of breeds, but some stand out due to their specialized traits.

©iStock.com/Puttachat Kumkrong

In the two millennia since, humanity’s needs have diversified — and our selective breeding of guard dogs has only become more sophisticated and specialized. There are a ton of dogs that can make great guard dogs, but some breeds are recognized as producing the best guard dogs. Whether you’re looking for a new pet or are simply curious, here are eight of the best guard dogs, with an emphasis on punctuating how diverse these breeds are.

#8: Standard Schnauzer — Alert and Stubborn Dogs That Don’t Shed

The Standard Schnauzer is affectionate, yet stubborn

©everydoghasastory/Shutterstock.com

The Standard Schnauzer may be German, but it was essentially bred to be the Swiss army knife of working dogs. These dogs were typically employed on farms and were bred for hunting vermin, herding sheep and cattle, and protecting their caretakers on the road. Both the miniature and Giant Schnauzer were bred from this dog, but the initial size wasn’t a mistake. The Standard Schnauzer was close enough to a small breed to comfortably travel in carts with farmers and chase rodents into their burrows, but they also had enough bulk to intimidate potential threats to livestock. Schnauzers were bred to keep the homestead safe and healthy, and that’s produced in them both a strong sense of family and a strong sense of self. They tend to build close relationships with their caretakers, but they also tend to be stubborn. In addition to being a great guard dog perfect for families, schnauzers are also hypoallergenic.

#7: Irish Terrier — A Capable and Adaptable Worker

The Irish Terrier is considered to be one of the oldest terrier breeds

©Rita_Kochmarjova/Shutterstock.com

The Irish Terrier shares a few things with the schnauzer: a hypoallergenic coat, a robust but medium-sized body, and a reputation for being a capable jack-of-all-trades. These dogs that don’t shed much were initially bred to be companions, guard dogs, and hunters — but they’ve even been used as courier dogs delivering messages in the trenches of World War I. These are one of the oldest terrier breeds on the planet as well as one of the most protective, and they’re sometimes known for sometimes being brash and reckless. Their fearlessness is matched with fierce loyalty to their caretakers. And while the Irish terrier’s bark should alert you to intruders before they’ve even stepped a foot through the door, you can also expect them to jump to the aid of their families immediately.

#6: Chow Chow — China’s Ancient Royal Guard

Although they are not particularly energetic, Chow Chows make excellent guard dogs

©Flower_Garden/Shutterstock.com

The Chow Chow may look like a cuddly teddy bear, but they tend to be reserved dogs that bond closely with one or very few people and see everyone else as a threat. It’s a fitting temperament for dogs that guarded palaces in imperial China. Combine that with the fact that they’re equal parts clever and stubborn, and you’re left with a breed that’s known for having a difficult reputation. But if you get a Chow Chow early and manage to properly socialize and train them from a young age, they can grow to be exceptional family dogs in addition to strong guard dogs. They’re one of the most protective large breed guard dogs, but they’re also generally a low-energy breed.

#5: German Shepherd — A Quintessential Guard Dog

German Shepherds have a reputation for being extremely intelligent

©Osetrik/Shutterstock. com

The German Shepherd was bred to be the perfect working dog — and while the verdict is still out on whether it worked, there’s little doubt that these large breed dogs rank both among the most protective and the best choices of dog breeds for families. As the name would suggest, they were originally bred to be shepherds and have understandably developed a strong skill for listening and following directions. A sharp sense of intelligence along with a reliable sense of initiative means that you can generally count on one of these dogs to make the right move in any situation. Some breeds on this list don’t shed, but German Shepherds aren’t one of them. These dogs are known for losing hair in abundance, and that’s doubly true during shedding season. Some would say that’s a small price to pay for a dog that will never back down when its family is in danger.

#4: Doberman Pinscher — Surprisingly Fast Large Breed Guard

The Doberman Pinscher is capable of acting with a speed which belies its size

©DragoNika/Shutterstock. com

The Doberman Pinscher is often treated in popular culture as a villainous and efficient guard dog, but that perspective is only half true. Dobermans are highly sociable and people-oriented dogs, but they’re also the last choice you want if you’re searching for a low-energy dog. Their natural athleticism allows them to overpower intruders at a pace few other dogs can reach and can achieve a max speed of 32 miles per hour. But Dobermans excel the best when they have discipline. They share the sharp and attentive minds of their German shepherd kin and can become temperamental and anxious if they aren’t given a decent amount of both physical and mental stimulation.

#3: Cane Corso

A case of deceiving appearances, Cane Corsos are rather affectionate

©xkunclova/Shutterstock.com

Cane Corsos have been vigilantly protecting their human companions since the days of ancient Rome, but dwindling interest in this breed forced intervention to save them in the 1970s. This resurgence has brought them back from the brink of extinction after targeted efforts to revive them. A large breed with a tremendously stocky build, the Cane Corso can typically intimidate human threats without even having to move a muscle or make a noise. These dogs are bodyguards through and through — and while they’re generally calm and low energy, they do need proper socialization and training thanks to their enormous size. But beneath all of that intimidating muscle is a dog that adores its human family and showers them with gentle affection.

#2: Jack Russell Terrier — Small Breed, Big Bravado

In spite of its small size the Jack Russel Terrier has a reputation for fearlessness

©dezy/Shutterstock.com

If you think a small breed can’t be an effective guard dog, meet the 15 pounds Jack Russell Terrier. This breed is built as a hunting dog and ratter, but it turns out that vigorous hunting instinct also makes them an exceptional choice for guard dog duties. These dogs have especially sharp senses that are almost always tuned in, and they vocalize almost any discovery they make. But their highly territorial nature can sometimes make them too vigilant. Often confrontational with both other dogs and friendly strangers, the typical Jack Russell often needs to be kept on a short leash. But they’re fearless in the face of significant danger and unrelenting in their desire to protect the people they love.

#1: Bullmastiff — The Strong and Silent Type

In spite of an intimidating appearance the Bullmastiff is a rather affectionate pet

©volofin/Shutterstock.com

The result of breeding between the English Mastiff and the Old English Bulldog, the average Bullmastiff is an imposing canine that can reach a shoulder height of nearly two feet and easily weigh over a hundred pounds. Originally bred to protect the game animals on large properties from poachers, they’re built to protect extensive stretches of land — but their physicality and skills translate well to the modern-day home as well. But the most useful trait of the bullmastiff may be that they’ve been bred through generations to rarely bite or bark. Instead, they use their exceptional strength and surprising speed to pin down and immobilize intruders until they can be dealt with. And while they’re diligent guards, these dogs are loving with their caretakers off the job and are one of the best guard dogs for families.

Here is a Summary of the 8 Best Guard Dogs

1. Bullmastiff
2. Jack Russell Terrier
3. Cane Corso
4. Doberman Pinscher
5. German Shephard
6. Chow Chow
7. Irish Terrier
8. Standard Schnauzer

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• Dog Breeds that Start with A. In this fun series, we list every dog breed that starts with A.
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About the Author

Heather Hall

I am a freelance writer with 22 years of experience. I live in the Pacific Northwest and am surrounded by nature. When I go for my daily runs I often see herds of elk, deer, and bald eagles. I am owned by two dogs who take me on hikes in the mountains where we see coyotes, black bears, and wild turkeys.

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Best guard dog breeds | for a private house, for a person

Dogs can serve as a means of protecting territories and apartments no less reliable than modern technical devices. Their work does not depend on the availability of electricity, and these animals can not only guard the house or garden plot, but also protect the owner and his family members from intruders.

When choosing a four-legged applicant for the “position” of a security guard, they are guided by the characteristics of the dog breed. So, a large dog is not suitable for a small apartment, and a dog with short hair and a poorly developed undercoat will find it difficult to survive in extreme cold conditions when kept in an aviary. For the role of watchmen and guards, for example, hunting, fighting or representatives of the canine family intended to save people are not suitable. We offer an overview of the best guard dog breeds.

Content

• 1 Dogs for the protection of the territory
  • 1.1 Moscow patrol
  • 1.2 East European shepherd
  • 1.3 German shepherd
  • 1.4 Caucasian shepherd
  • 1.5 Alabay

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• 2 Guard dogs
  • 2.1 Boxer
  • 2.2 Sheltie
  • 2.3 Canne Corso
  • 2.4 Dobermann
  • 2.5 Staffordshire Terrier
  • 2. 6 Black Terrier

Dogs for protection of the territory

There is no clear division of guard dog breeds into “yard” and “apartment” dogs. A territory guard dog is usually a large or medium-sized dog, strong enough, with thick hair, trusting only the owner and aggressive towards outsiders who violate the boundaries of the protected area.

Moscow watchdog

The size of this breed allows it to be used both as a yard watchman and as a guard of a private house or apartment. While on duty, he selflessly protects property and territory. In “non-working” hours, this is a good-natured creature, non-conflict with other animals living in the house. Keeping a Muscovite on a short chain is undesirable, she needs movement and constant physical activity.

East European Shepherd Dog

Calm animal, self-confident and ready for action at any moment. He is wary of strangers, but gets along well with children and peacefully coexists with cats and other “master” living creatures. Like the Moscow Shepherd Dog, it needs physical activity.

German Shepherd

An all-round guard dog breed: excellent for home or apartment guarding, the German Shepherd is often used as a personal guard as well. It has high intelligence, is balanced, but at the moment of danger it makes a decision and acts instantly. Friendly to family members, aggressive to all strangers. Obedient and executive, but requires daily walks and constant training.

Caucasian Shepherd Dog

One of the largest guard breeds, it is distinguished by great strength and innate territorial instinct, therefore it is easily trained to guard. Thanks to its long thick coat, it tolerates low temperatures well, and is not demanding in terms of walking. Somewhat prone to self-will, but it is better to achieve obedience without the use of physical force, since the “Caucasian” can remember the insult for a long time and eventually repay it.

Alabai (Central Asian Shepherd Dog)

Alabai are formidable dogs of impressive size, capable of reliably guarding the territory of a private house. However, their maintenance requires quite a lot of time and effort from the owner: these animals are not inclined to submission, and so that relations with the owner do not become uncontrolled, they need constant training. Alabai needs daily long walks for energy discharge.

Rottweiler

This is a smooth-haired breed of dog, but their undercoat is quite thick, so the Rottweiler is not afraid of the cold and can be suitable for the role of a guard of the territory. These dogs perform excellent watchdog functions, however, the puppy must be trained and educated from childhood, as Rottweilers are prone to leadership. Rottweilers usually have an excellent appetite, and in order to maintain the relief muscles characteristic of the breed, it is impossible to overfeed the animal.

Giant Schnauzer

The main qualities of this breed are intelligence, devotion, incorruptibility, endurance. The Giant Schnauzer is energetic, mobile, has a proportional stocky figure and powerful muscles. Thick, like a bear, Schnauzer coat requires periodic shearing. Using such a dog as a guard, you can not worry about the safety of property and the safety of households. However, Giant Schnauzers are more suitable for experienced dog breeders, as they are capable of aggression, and from an early age must be taught obedience and peaceful coexistence with family members and animals living in the house.

Dogs to guard the apartment

To protect the owner and his home, dogs are usually chosen not to be too large. The necessary qualities of home guards include devotion to the owner, contact, complaisant character, the ability not to show aggression towards strangers without a reason or command.

Boxer

This dog is endowed with excellent guarding abilities and lends itself well to training. Mobile, physically active, has a proportional stocky figure and powerful muscles. He clearly divides people into “us” and “them”, treats the latter with suspicion, controls their every movement on the territory of the owner. Boxer has a special affection for children, so it is often chosen by families with kids.

Sheltie

One of the breeds of dogs that combines high intelligence with courage and quick reaction. Very attached to the owner, easily gets along with any animals. It lends itself well to training, hardy, good-natured, playful, unpretentious in food. Despite the friendly disposition, the Sheltie is a brave and sensitive watchman, whose ancestors helped the shepherds guard the flocks of sheep.

Canne Corso

These descendants of the Etruscan fighting dogs are distinguished by their fearlessness, intelligence, loyalty to their owner and the ability to exemplary guard duty. The presence of a muscular handsome Canne Corso as a personal guard is a sign of prestige among public people and magnates.

Dobermann

The fastest guard dog, strong, beautiful, graceful, intelligent and courageous. The Doberman is extremely sensitive, he even sleeps “with half an eye. ” For the protection of private property or apartments, this is a great option. However, in order to teach this dog to obedience, its upbringing should be dealt with from infancy.

Staffordshire Terrier

The average size of the Staffordshire Terrier makes it possible to keep him in a small city apartment. Dogs of this breed are easily and with pleasure trained, and are able to become an excellent guard of a person: a devoted friend of the owner and a gentle nanny of a child, Staffordshire will not allow anyone to harm them.

Black Terrier

Temperamental, strong and indefatigable, this dog was called “black lightning”. The pride of Russian cynologists, he combined the best qualities of other guard breeds. “Blackie” can be both a family guard and a reliable watchman. A feature of the breed is a thick coat, which needs to be trimmed and trimmed at least 2 times a year.

No matter what abilities the nature endows the dog, the owner should not forget about the correct training of the pet. It is best to contact the services of a certified specialist – training instructor. He will teach your dog all the intricacies of the security service, and suggest methods for further work on “training”.

See also:

• The most evil dogs in the world: top 10
• Doberman

Guard dog breeds: photo with names

There are a number of requirements for guard dogs. Such dogs should be able to master the following disciplines: protective guard, guard, sentinel service, as well as escort and sentry. Naturally, only physically developed dogs with the necessary innate instincts and natural inclinations can cope with such volumes. People who are far from cynology and its features look at this issue more simply, not knowing about the nuances – a guard dog must be able to protect property, territory or owner. The breeds of this orientation are united by one thing – they are universal, but at the same time they have a number of serious differences.

Contents

• 1. How to choose the best security guard for your house and apartment?
• 2. Guard dog for the house
• 3. Apartment security guard
• 4. The best protection for a person
• 5. What breeds of dogs are not capable of being guards?
• 6. Giant guards
  • 6.1. Fila Brasileiro
  • 6.2. Bullmastiff
  • 6.3. Dogue de Bordeaux
  • 6.4. Dogo Argentino (Dogo Argentino or Argentine Mastiff)
  • 6.5. Russian black terrier (Stalin’s dog)
  • 6.6. Giant Schnauzer
  • 6.7. Moscow watchdog
  • 6.8. Caucasian Shepherd Dog
  • 6.9. Central Asian Shepherd Dog (Alabay)
• 7. Dogs of large guard breeds
  • 7.1. German Shepherd
  • 7.2. Belgian Shepherd
  • 7.3. Rottweiler
  • 7.4. Dobermann
  • 7.5. Italian Cane Corso
• 8. Guards of medium and small sizes

How to choose the best guard for your house and apartment?

What is the main criterion for choosing a four-legged guard? Should the dog be of impressive size, cause serious injury to the attacker, or be distrustful of strangers? In fact, many factors are taken into account, the wishes of the future owner and the conditions in which he will live.

Guard dog for home

People living in a private house need a four-legged friend who can protect them, their property and guard the surrounding area. The dog must be suitable for outdoor keeping and freely enter the house or only move around the local area. Suitable enclosure or living in a booth. The main wishes in this case include the following:

• It would be better if the dog belongs to a giant, large breed or, in extreme cases, to a medium one.
• The dog must have a dense coat with well developed undercoat.
• A pet must be able to make their own decisions and at the same time be devoted to their family.
• Mandatory is an innate alertness to strangers.

Keeping a watchdog on a chain is not recommended. In this case, the leash is only a temporary measure when you have to keep the gate open or the arrival of guests is expected. Representatives of guard dog breeds are distinguished by their activity and endurance, bestowed on them by nature, so if you limit their freedom, you can expect tragic consequences.

The dog will constantly feel stress, which will lead to a mental breakdown, and a large, aggressive, unbalanced pet is a real threat to others.

House guard

Here a more stringent selection is required, because the pet will live side by side with a person. Sometimes the main criterion is the size of the animal, especially when it comes to modest areas. But for fans of large and giant breeds, this factor is not decisive, and they give birth to a mastiff or dog while living in a small apartment.

If we talk about averages, then most future owners pay attention to the following:

• the dog must be medium or small in size;
• it is desirable that the animal sheds little or no shedding tendency and does not have the characteristic dog odor;
• short coat;
• the pet must not drool profusely;
• the dog must be clean;
• the animal must not be hyperactive and require a lot of space.

Of course, the owner himself determines what is important for him, and what he is able to “close his eyes to”.

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https://t qualities, even if they are not bright, and the animal is not a working dog. Unlimited love for the owner and his relatives will help him protect the owner.