Guard dogs for family: 10 Best Family Guard Dogs

Опубликовано: October 9, 2023 в 10:50 am

Автор: alexxlab

Категории: Dog

Best Guard Dogs – Page 2 of 3 – American Kennel Club

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Some dogs have a natural instinct to protect their home and family and they make excellent Guard Dogs. Guardian breeds tend to be loyal, fearless, strong and watchful. If you want a breed that will not only alert you when a visitor arrives, but will also intuitively know when to protect you from a dangerous situation than Guardian breeds are for you. These breeds need proper training and…

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Canaan Dog

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Catahoula Leopard Dog

The Catahoula Leopard Dog is a multi-purpose working dog that is well-muscled and powerful, bu…

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Caucasian Shepherd Dog

The Caucasian Shepherd dog is a serious guardian breed and should never be taken lightly. The…

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Central Asian Shepherd Dog

The Central Asian Shepherd Dog is self-assured, balanced, quiet, proud and independent. They are…

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Chesapeake Bay Retriever

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Doberman Pinscher

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Estrela Mountain Dog

The Estrela Mountain Dog is not only an excellent livestock guardian, but is also known for hi…

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German Shepherd Dog

Generally considered dogkind’s finest all-purpose worker, the German Shepherd Dog is a large…

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Giant Schnauzer

The Giant Schnauzer is a larger and more powerful version of the Standard Schnauzer, and he should…

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Hovawart

The Hovawart is a medium-temperament working dog with versatile usage and has a very good nose. He…

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Perro de Presa Canario

The Perro de Presa Canario has a calm appearance and attentive expression. He is especially suited…

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Puli

No other breed can be mistaken for the Puli, a compact but powerful herder covered from head to…

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Characteristics

Best Guard Dogs – Page 3 of 3 – American Kennel Club

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Rottweiler

The Rottweiler is a robust working breed of great strength descended from the mastiffs of the Roma…

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Spanish Water Dog

The inexhaustible Spanish Water Dog is a dual-purpose breed whose hallmark is a coat of wooly…

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Staffordshire Bull Terrier

From his brawling past, the muscular but agile Staffordshire Bull Terrier retains the traits of…

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Thai Ridgeback

The Thai Ridgeback is tough and active, with an excellent jumping ability. He is highly…

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Tibetan Mastiff

Watchful, aloof, imposing, and intimidating: The ancient Tibetan Mastiff is the guardian dog…

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Tornjak

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The Volpino Italiano is a diverse breed. They love to run and do agility, but when done, will jump…

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Characteristics

Large and small dogs for guarding a private house

Guard dogs were bred long before the advent of alarms and security systems. And in our time, owners of private houses often keep large, strong and hardy dogs in the yard, which control the territory and warn of danger with a loud bark.

However, not only large breeds have watchdog qualities. If you have not yet decided what kind of pet you want to have – big and strong or still compact – then our selection of dog breeds with watchdog qualities will come in handy. Read and choose the watchman to your taste!

Guard dog characteristics

A guard dog is capable of signaling an impending threat, an intruder in the yard or home, or the approach of a predator. The pet uses a voice or a certain stance to warn – conventional signs that are clear to her and the owner. In addition, dogs suitable for guarding a private home are distinguished by the following qualities:

good health, strength, endurance to tirelessly explore every corner of the master’s property;
courage, fearlessness;
distrust of strangers;
a high level of intelligence to quickly learn new things and memorize commands;
observation to control the territory and notice the slightest changes;
benevolence, love towards the owner and members of his family.

Watch dog breeds

Guard dogs for the home are usually large and suitable for permanent outdoor keeping. Someone prefers pets of large breeds, whose height at the withers is 60 cm and above, weight – more than 30 kg. Watchmen of such dimensions are more suitable for keeping in the yard, where warm enclosures are built for them. A large animal is able to scare away an ill-wisher with its appearance alone, and at the same time it will be complaisant and friendly in character.

Also, as a watchman, you can choose a medium-sized dog that is suitable for guarding a private house and at the same time can live under the same roof with family and children. Medium-sized breeds are characterized by weight from 10 to 25 kg, height at the withers – from 40 to 55 cm. Small dimensions allow you to quickly move around the territory and deftly dodge in the event of an attack, and strong developed jaws can scare a stranger, even if the pet is not aggression and never attacks people.

Dog breeds of large and medium sizes that are suitable for guarding a private home:

Australian Kelpie is a native herding breed. The pet not only knows how to control the herd entrusted to her, but he also has a sentinel instinct. Due to the compact build, the dog is agile, hardy, fast and energetic. Representatives of the breed are characterized by industriousness, complaisance, human orientation. Kelpie faithfully serves one master and fulfills all his commands. A responsible, attentive and mobile pet can be safely entrusted with the protection of the site.
American Pit Bull Terrier is a stocky, muscular dog. It looks menacing, somewhat intimidating. But with proper upbringing, the pit bull terrier will be an affectionate companion. Gambling, playful, sincerely loving the owner and his whole family. He will also make a responsible watchman who will go to any lengths to protect the owner and his property. However, the pet is human-oriented – it needs the attention of the owner, constant contact. Therefore, life on a leash or in a street enclosure is contraindicated for a pit bull.
The American Staffordshire Terrier is a muscular, energetic sportsman and a natural watchdog. Depending on the upbringing, the dog can be an affectionate pet of the whole family or an aggressive, formidable guardian. And also in moderation to combine all the listed qualities. The breed is suitable for the protection of a private house or apartment. But the pet is not adapted to year-round life in the yard because of the short coat.
American Eskimo (eski) is a playful, active, cheerful dog with a pretty appearance. Behind the compact size and mischievous muzzle lies a personality with excellent working qualities. Eski is not just a friendly companion, but also a quick-witted, responsible, sonorous watchman. In relation to strangers, he behaves wary, but his size and natural friendliness do not allow him to attack a person. But the pet will raise a noise to warn of danger or entry into the house. When buying a puppy, you should take into account that the standard of the American Kennel Club defines 3 growth varieties of the Eskimo Spitz: the one reaches 22.9- 30.5 cm at the withers, miniature – 30.5 – 38.1 cm, standard – 38.1 – 48.3 cm.
English Bulldog is a powerful, strong dog. With a calm, somewhat lazy, even phlegmatic character. From the outside, the pet looks detached, independent, but it only seems. In fact, he is affectionate, sensitive, cheerful and playful. The Bulldog can be stubborn, but always remains loyal to the owner. Due to its formidable appearance and readiness to protect the owner at any cost, it can become an excellent watchman. But life in the yard is not for the “Englishman”, because he needs the constant company of a person.
Appenzeller Sennenhund is a Swiss shepherd dog with excellent watchdog qualities. Energetic, athletic, with a strong physique. Distrustful of strangers and incorruptible. At the slightest sign of a threat to the family or property of the owner, it immediately raises the alarm with a loud bark. In the domestic circle, the Appenzeller Mountain Dog is affectionate, playful, cheerful and quick-witted companion.
Belgian Shepherd Tervuren is a pet with an elegant appearance and excellent working qualities. It has a peculiar temperament: independent, independent, prone to dominance, emotional. Only one owner obeys, who managed to earn his respect. Active, hardy, smart, sociable, loyal and playful. With a pronounced protective instinct. Without training, it is able to show aggression towards strangers. It is preferable to keep the Belgian Shepherd in a house with territory, but not on a chain. The pet needs physical activity – any kind of cynological sports will do.
Bearded Collie is a good-natured, loyal, active dog. Friendly, affectionate and sociable. It can be a companion for all family members, a nanny for children, as well as a vigilant watchman. The bearded collie zealously defends its territory, therefore it reacts to the slightest rustle and announces the arrival of strangers with a loud bark. The pet needs active walks and sports, especially if it is kept in an apartment.
Bull Terrier is a small guard dog with a strong build. Hardy and active. In the past – a hunter for a large animal, today – a companion and watchman. With a competent approach in education, it will be accommodating, friendly towards the owner and his family and not at all aggressive. The owner must understand that the Bull Terrier will need to pay a lot of attention and diligent education from the first days. Otherwise, it may grow out of control. Loneliness and keeping on a chain in the yard are contraindicated for a dog.
Cardigan Welsh Corgi is a breed with a recognizable appearance: an elongated body, short legs and large ears. An active, sociable, playful and quick-witted pet is equally good as a companion and watchman. Corgis learn new things easily and quickly. Shepherd genes, in turn, encourage the dog to vigilantly control the environment in order to warn the owner of the danger in time with a ringing bark.
East Siberian Laika — a dog with an athletic build, strong, strong, muscular, hardy. It easily adapts to any conditions, is unpretentious in care, prefers walking through the forests and hunting to home comfort. Oriented to a person, faithfully serves the owner and all family members, to whom he is sincerely attached. Suitable for keeping in a house with children, as it is very patient with kids and their antics. He is wary of strangers and uninvited guests: he announces the appearance of strangers with loud barking, avoids communication, watches vigilantly and can fight back if he feels threatened.
Doberman is one of the smartest breeds according to Coren. It has excellent watchdog qualities. The Doberman is valued for fearlessness, the ability to make decisions independently, vigilance, indefatigable energy and a stable psyche. The pet easily remembers commands, but obeys only one owner. Despite the intimidating appearance, the dog is playful and affectionate towards the owner and his family and will immediately stand up for their protection in case of a threat. The breed is not adapted to life on the street or in an aviary.
Irish Terrier is an active, cheerful, reckless pet. For a comfortable life, he needs long walks, games, exercise and, of course, the company of the owner. The dog instantly remembers and executes commands. The breed is also characterized by boundless devotion to the owner, fearlessness, observation and vigilance. The Irish Terrier not only notices, but also feels the intentions of strangers and is always ready not only to sound the alarm, but also to repulse the ill-wisher.
Ca-de-bou is a calm, fearless, self-confident dog. The breed is characterized by endurance, a strong psyche, a strongly pronounced guard instinct, unquestioning obedience and devotion to the owner. The pet is unobtrusive, but always happy to talk and play with the owner and members of his family. The Mallorca Mastiff can be both a companion dog and an incorruptible watchman. Suitable for keeping in an apartment, but in a private house with a large territory, he will be more comfortable.
Karelian-Finnish Laika is a hardy, sociable, active pet. Independent, independent, but at the same time strongly attached to the owner and seeks to protect him. In relation to strangers, the dog is extremely distrustful, but not aggressive. Thanks to its excellent hearing, sharp eyesight and quick reactions, the Laika can be an excellent watchdog. The pet is extremely mobile and needs long daily walks. He is also freedom-loving, so keeping him on a chain is strictly contraindicated.
Collie, or Scottish Shepherd — a dog with spectacular long hair and a developed herding instinct. It is famous for devotion, friendliness and love for children. With the latter, she is ready to babysit day and night. Collie is sociable and sociable, needs constant attention. He is wary of strangers, trying to protect the owner and his family from danger. The calmest thing for a pet is when all the household members are gathered in one place.
Kerry Blue Terrier — active, playful, quick-witted, full of love and loyalty to the owner. Absolutely unable to tolerate the presence of other animals in the house. At the same time, the dog gets along easily with children. Perhaps because he loves to have fun and play pranks with them. At first glance, the appearance of the Kerry Blue Terrier does not give out guard qualities. But the dog has plenty of them: courage, independence, cockiness and a distrustful attitude towards strangers. The pet will not only raise a fuss in case of a threat, but also scare or even delay the ill-wisher.
Lakeland Terrier is a mischievous, active, inquisitive dog. Easily learns commands, vigilant, distrustful of strangers. A cheerful and affectionate companion, it is important for him to participate in all family affairs. He is characterized by vigilance, fearlessness, a jealous attitude towards his territory and a pronounced watchdog instinct. Strongly attached to the owner, not suitable for permanent keeping in the yard. Alone, the terrier digs holes and can even run away from the site.
Mittelschnauzer is a German guard dog breed. It is famous for its developed intellect, courage, activity, prudence, strong character and distrust of strangers. In the family circle, it turns from a watchman into a playful, sociable, friendly companion. Small dimensions make it possible to keep it in an apartment or a private house, although the breed is adapted to different climatic conditions. The standard schnauzer needs long walks and runs. Also, his coat will require complex care.
The German Boxer is an energetic dog with an athletic build. Cheerful, playful, cheerful and sociable. Suitable for both the role of a companion and a watchman. The pet loves to be the center of attention, actively spend time with the owner or play with children. It is wary of strangers, vigilantly observes the environment and is always ready to protect the owner and his family.
German Shepherd is one of the most popular breeds with universal service qualities: it can be a shepherd, guide, guard, watchman and companion. It has a stable psyche, a calm, docile character and a developed intellect. Bold and hardworking, she knows how to assess the environment for threats to the life or health of the owner. Independently makes decisions depending on the situation. Suitable for keeping both in the house and in the yard, including in the cold season. If the pet is planned to be kept exclusively in the yard, it is preferable for him to build a warm aviary.
Norwegian Buhund (Norwegian Laika) is an active, fearless, friendly dog, easy to train. Not prone to aggression, gets along well with children and loves to spend time with the owner: walk, play, play sports. Always happy to make a company on a trip to nature, whether it’s a picnic, a walk in the woods or a hike in the mountains. The good-natured nature of the husky is combined with vigilance and watchdog instinct. The dog will alert detractors with its bark and will bravely defend the owner’s property and family if need be. Needs constant movement, active pastime and competent training. Being alone on the site, may succumb to the innate craving for adventure and run away.
Russian-European Laika is a young breed bred to work in difficult climatic conditions. Easily tolerates cold, snow, wind. Energetic, hardworking, unpretentious in content. Strongly attached to the owner and easily gets along with members of his family, as well as with other pets if they grow up together. It has excellent intellectual abilities and quickly memorizes commands, understands the owner from a half-word, easily masters gestures. Strangers are distrustful, but without aggression. It is preferable to keep a husky in a house with a plot where she can walk and frolic for a long time. The owner will have to forget about leisurely walks in the park: the dog needs active physical exercises, games, and running. Therefore, it is not suitable for homebodies.
Thai Ridgeback — a pet with a spectacular appearance: a muscular, harmoniously built body is covered with velvety hair, on the back there is a crest characteristic of the breed; almond-shaped eyes of amber color with an attentive look. By nature – independent, unobtrusive, infinitely devoted to the owner, loves attention, but does not suffer when alone. The main thing is not to leave the Ridgeback alone for too long. The pet has the ability to learn, knows how to make decisions on its own, and is also incredibly caring and patient with children. With respect to strangers, the Thai Ridgeback is suspicious, always on the alert – the guard instinct is in his blood.
Chow Chow is a watchdog breed that originated in China about 2000 years ago. Outwardly, it resembles either a spitz or a bear cub, but the most remarkable thing is her blue tongue. Behind a pretty appearance lies a high level of intelligence, devotion, restraint and calmness. As well as pronounced protective qualities: a sense of ownership, vigilance, distrust of strangers. The pet is strongly attached to the owner, but at the same time retains independence and some detachment. Chow Chow will make an excellent guard and affectionate friend.
Shar Pei is one of the most recognizable breeds due to the numerous skin folds on the muzzle. Smart, sociable and loyal companion for the whole family, as well as a reliable watchman. Sharpei easily learns new things and willingly fulfills the commands of the owner, to whom he is sincerely strongly attached. The character of the dog is peaceful, balanced, independent. Sharpei does not require long walks, besides, he does not tolerate cold well, so he will not be able to live in an outdoor enclosure.
Entlebucher Mountain Dog is an energetic, agile and agile pet, bred in the Swiss Alps to help people. Historically, he served a man: she grazed cattle, guarded the property of the owner and followed the company with him everywhere. The Entlebucher is loyal, affectionate, independent and responsible. It has a high level of intelligence, quickly remembers commands. Needs walks, jogs, hikes, games, and gets bored without movement. Entlebucher is wary of strangers and is ready at any moment to rush to protect the owner and his family members.
Airedale Terrier is a breed that is easily recognizable by its characteristic coloration, coarse coat, floppy ears and “beard” with a “moustache” on the muzzle. A dog of athletic build, energetic and hardy, adapted to all weather conditions. The pet has a pronounced guarding instinct and a developed intellect. The Airedale Terrier is easy to learn new things, but can be stubborn, so the owner must be persistent and firm in the process of training. The dog is extremely sociable and needs the company of the owner, so living alone in the yard will not suit her.

Raising guard dogs

Raising a future watchman should be as responsible and diligent as any other pet. From the first days, a guard dog puppy is taught a nickname and rules of behavior in the house. Explain what can and cannot be done.

As they grow up, they are taught basic commands and taught to control their instinct so that they use guarding abilities only when needed. For example, they explain that one should only vote to inform the owners of an approaching threat. And they forbid barking at everyone, including at the slightest rustle.

To develop useful skills in a pet, the owner will need perseverance and discipline. In the learning process, it is also important to show understanding and continue with the lessons, even if it seems that the progress is minimal. The dog will certainly learn new knowledge, it just needs time. If you do not engage in education at all, then the pet can bark and show aggression for no reason – thereby misleading the owner or scaring others.

Guard dog care

Despite the excellent ability of guard dogs to adapt to living conditions, they need attention and care. How to take care of your pet so that he stays active and healthy longer:

First of all, timely vaccination and deworming, as well as routine examinations by a veterinarian, will be required.
For a comfortable rest, the dog should have its own place – a couch in the house or an aviary with a booth in the yard. You will also need bowls for food and water, a collar, a leash, a muzzle, toys, sports equipment, products for caring for hair, eyes, ears and teeth.
Your pet’s coat, whatever size it may be, should be brushed regularly to prevent the formation of tangles, which in turn prevent the skin from breathing and can lead to various skin diseases. In addition, the dog must be washed several times a year, preferably with a special shampoo. Eyes, ears and teeth are important to be regularly inspected for inflammation and contamination and cleaned. If brushing and toothpaste isn’t an option, chewable treats designed specifically to help prevent tartar build up are a good option.
Another important factor for maintaining good health is sufficient physical activity. It’s not enough for a pet to just sit in the yard and run around in circles. For normal health, maintaining normal physical shape and psyche, he needs daily walks, active games and sports.

Guard Dog Feeding Recommendations

Guard dogs are very active – they are constantly on the move, alert and on edge. It seems that the energy reserves of pets are truly inexhaustible. Loyal watchmen are always ready to sound an alarm, to repulse ill-wishers and even attackers. With a mobile lifestyle, a dog needs a sufficiently high-calorie diet that will help restore strength and maintain normal health and appearance.

Among the variety of foods you can find specialized lines designed for pets with increased physical activity. This food is more nutritious and contains more protein than daily diets for pets, its composition is balanced and takes into account the individual needs of the body. It is preferable to choose premium and super premium foods made from quality ingredients.

For example, PRO PLAN® OPTIBALANCE® for medium and large dogs is formulated by experienced animal nutrition experts and veterinarians. Formulated with the right amount of nutrients to replenish your dog’s energy reserves, a vitamin/mineral complex and high quality protein to help maintain healthy joints, teeth, skin and coat. Do not forget that, in addition to a balanced quality diet, the pet should have free access to clean drinking water.

A guard dog is a true friend and protector, which, with proper upbringing, will faithfully serve the owner. But regardless of the breed and working qualities, for a long and active life, the pet will need comfort, care, proper nutrition and, of course, the attention and love of the owner.

Guard dog breeds for guarding a private house

Tibetan Mastiff and
178 more dogs in our breed catalog.

Akita Inu

Alabai (Central Asian Shepherd Dog)

american bandog

english mastiff

dogo argentino

Banhar

White Swiss Shepherd

Belgian Shepherd

Bernese Mountain Dog

Boxer

Greater Swiss Mountain Dog

Dogue de Bordeaux

beauceron

Briard

bullmastiff

East European Shepherd

Gampr

doberman

Drathaar

spanish mastiff

Ca-de-bo

Caucasian Shepherd Dog

Dogo Canario

kangal

Cane Corso

Karelian Bear Dog

Komondor

Leonberger

malinois

Maremma Abruzzo Sheepdog

Moscow guard dog

Neapolitan Mastiff

German Shepherd

German dog

Pyrenean mountain dog

Giant Schnauzer

Rottweiler

Russian black terrier

st bernard

Tibetan mastiff

Chesapeake bay retriever

Czechoslovakian wolfdog

scottish setter

Airedale

South Russian Shepherd Dog

Guard dog breeds are designed to protect the territory of a private house or business. In the selection of guard dogs, the names of breeds with photos are presented in alphabetical order. However, it is impossible to guarantee that a representative of a particular breed will ideally cope with his security duties – a lot depends on education and training. The main task of the fluffy watchman is to notify the owner of the approach of intruders, and not to attack them.

Guard dogs are different from other groups of animals, they can be seen from afar. Pets constantly inspect their possessions, where strangers will not be allowed. They can befriend their kindred in neutral territory, but will not tolerate intruders at home. Such dogs are smart, incorruptible, picky in everyday life. The best guard dog breeds are the Moscow watchdog, Alabai, Caucasian and German Shepherds.

Guard dogs are large in size. Although small and medium-sized pets are also quite capable of notifying the owner of the approach of strangers, large individuals seem to be more dangerous and capable of attacking.