What are the best guard dogs for families: 10 Best Family Guard Dogs

Top Family Guard Dogs by State

Man’s best friend. The beast at the threshold. A member of the family. A family dog can be a very effective addition when seeking to secure your home and loved ones.

But which dog breeds are most effective at helping to keep burglars at bay? At Your Local Security, we took Certapet’s recent picks for top guard dogs and input those breeds into Google trend data to discover the most favored protective canines in America. Take a sniff at our list of the most popular guard dog breeds in each state.

Akita

With roots as guard dogs for Japanese royalty, the Akita breed has a strong and powerful stance with a large head and alert eyes, making it appear ready for anything. Affectionate with family members but aloof with newcomers, the Akita makes for a dependable companion and effective family guard dog.

-> Most popular in: Arizona, Hawaii

American Pit Bull Terrier

While Pit Bulls have been given unfair side glances for years for being subjected to illegal training as fighters, this is not their natural disposition. Friendly, submissive, and cuddly with their “pack,” this athletic breed makes for fantastic family pets and guard dogs with their visibly strong jaws and deep, loud barks.

-> Most popular in: Alabama, Arkansas, Mississippi, South Carolina

American Staffordshire Terrier

Like the Pit Bull, the American Staffordshire Terrier was once bred for dog fighting, but aggressive tendencies have since been bred away. Though friendly and affectionate to its people, this breed’s secure demeanor, muscular build, and buoyant stride still make it an imposing presence to an outsider.

-> Most popular in: Connecticut, Florida, Illinois, Maine, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia

Belgian Tervuren

 These intelligent, attentive, curious herding dogs are full of energy and eager to work. Belgian Tervurens possess a confident personality and a dense fur coat, making them perfect for actively protecting homes with big yards in even the most frigid winter climates.

-> Most popular in: Indiana, Massachusetts, Missouri, Nebraska, Oregon, Washington

Boerboel

 Originally bred as a property-guarding dog in South Africa, the Boerboel is a self confident, athletic, reliable breed with a brave disposition and intuitive protectiveness over what it regards as its territory. The Boerboel makes for a fantastic home protector.

-> Most popular in: District of Columbia, Maryland, North Carolina

Boxer

 This energetic, athletic breed is playful and lighthearted with family but can be a daunting presence to outsiders with its bounding gait and muscular frame. When given sufficient exercise and training, Boxers make for faithful, fun, and active guardians.

-> Most popular in: Kentucky, New Jersey, Pennsylvania

Cane Corso

 Equipped with a large, muscular build, intent eyes, and sizable head and neck, this Italian property-guarding breed displays an assured, dominant air sure to garner alarm in a potential burglar. Their reserve toward outsiders combined with affection for their owners makes the Cane Corso well suited for the job of guarding your residence.

-> Most popular in: Delaware, Ohio

Caucasian Shepherd

 Don’t let the poofy fur fool you. This dog is bred to guard livestock, so it is ready to stand in the way of anything that threatens what it sees as its own to protect, including its family. A nimble mover and distrusting of visitors, the Caucasian Shepherd is a great pick to help keep an eye on your property.

-> Most popular in: Wyoming

Doberman Pinscher

 With the help of several Hollywood hits, this breed has reputation for not wavering in the face of danger. Dobermans don’t stop at just looking tough either—they can display a powerful force of attack when provoked, making them one of the most formidable options for a guard dog.

-> Most popular in: Georgia, Louisiana, Michigan, Nevada, Tennessee, Texas

Fila Brasileiro

 Unlikely to approach gleefully when seeing an approaching person, the Fila Brasileiro breed is instinctively cautious with visitors. They need to know that a person is safe before forging a bond, giving them a natural aptitude for helping to keep a home safe.

-> Most popular in: Alaska

German Shepherd

 It’s no coincidence that police forces across the nation often choose this naturally protective breed as their go-to canine compatriots. Fiercely loyal, hard-working, and highly trainable, German Shepherds are gentle around those they love with a healthy dose of caution around strangers.

-> Most popular in: South Dakota, West Virginia

Giant Schnauzer

 A working breed, the Giant Schnauzer is true to its name. This very large dog is alert, aware, muscular, and athletic. As long as it gets plenty of exercise, the Giant Schnauzer can make an excellent, protective addition to any family home.

-> Most popular in: Oklahoma, Utah

Black puppy of Giant Schnauzer or Riesenschnauzer dog outdoor

Great Dane

 This breed’s sheer size is sure to illicit intimidation even in those well acquainted with canines. Carrying a noble and dignified appearance, the Great Dane is as grand in size as it is in devotion. This blend of traits makes it a wonderful guard dog for families with young children.

-> Most popular in: Wisconsin

Great Pyrenees

 Naturally serene and even tempered, Great Pyrenees dogs have a statuesque appearance with a thick, soft white coat. Bred for guarding sheep and packing a large bark in their even larger frame, they are sure to cause a jolt of surprise in a potential burglar.

-> Most popular in: North Dakota

Great Swiss Mountain Dog

 Built for the towering mountains of Switzerland, this beautifully tri-colored breed is tough, strong, and agile. Relaxed in a home environment but enjoying good working exercise outside, the “Swissy” makes an excellent family guard dog.

-> Most popular in: Montana, New Hampshire

Komondor

 Born with unusual cord-like strands of fur that extend to the ground, the Komondor was bred to protect and blend in with sheep. The Komondor’s inclination to be wary of those it doesn’t know but friendly with its pack gives it an ideal guard dog temperament.

-> Most popular in: Idaho, Iowa

Kuvasz

 This independent, courageous breed will not shy away from employing offensive measures toward anything that threatens its property or loved ones, including potential criminals. Bred for hundreds of years to guard livestock, the Kuvasz is well suited to guard your family.

-> Most popular in: Kansas, Minnesota

Moscow Watchdog

 Created in Russia to help stave off crime, the Moscow Watchdog is a mix of breeds, including a Saint Bernard and Caucasian Shepherd. It instinctually  protects, herds, and serves while maintaining  a loving disposition toward family, making it an excellent option to be a guard dog over your home.

-> Most popular in: California

Rhodesian Ridgeback

 Distinguishable by a “ridge” of backward-facing fur along its back, the Rhodesian Ridgeback was bred to hunt lions and is built to protect. This dog’s combination of being great with kids but reserved with outsiders makes it an ideal candidate for helping to theft-proof your home.

-> Most popular in: Colorado

Rottweiler

 Not many burglars would stay long when confronted by a Rottweiler. This powerful, sturdy breed is not immediately trusting of strangers and has been known to bite when openly threatened. With proper love and training as a puppy, Rottweilers are affectionate with their families and receptive to instruction, perfect for helping to keep your home from becoming a target for criminals.

-> Most popular in: New Mexico, New York

Some of the best family guard dogs tend to be substantial in size, loyal to loved ones, and reserved with strangers. As we can see, there are plenty of breeds to choose from that possess these valuable qualities. For more info on how to choose the best guard dog for your family, check out our Guard Dog Resource Guide.

Of course, a home security system is your best bet for safeguarding your family and property from a potential break in. With a selection of ADT-monitored home security packages, you’re sure to find an option to help safeguard your home—with or without a fluffy guardian in the backyard.

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Disclaimer: All research and data collected by Your Local Security.

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Family Protection Dog: Best Guard Dogs for Kids

Most families want a dog that will guard their home and protect their children, but they don’t know what breed to choose. There are many different types of family protection dogs, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the best guard dogs for kids and families, so you can decide which one is right for you.

Decide What Size Protection Dog is Best for your Family

When deciding what size best suits your family’s need for a protection dog, there are several important factors to consider. The home and yard size should factor in, as owning a large breed dog might not be ideal if space is limited. Personal preference of breed should come into play based on your research of the best-suited nature of the breed for protection purposes. Lastly, lifestyle choices and considerations such as jogging or walking with your pup should guide you, as some breeds don’t do well with intense exercise while others thrive on it. Ultimately, selecting the best family protection dog is all about personal preference and finding a balance between size, breed, and lifestyle. Fortunately, with Priortiy 1 Canine on your side, you can rest assured that your family will be kept safe.

Choose a Guard Dog Breed that is Good with Kids

Best guard dogs for kids should have an even temperament and be naturally sociable with people.

German Shepherds

German Shepherds are a popular choice for protection dogs because they are intelligent, trainable, and have a strong protective instinct. They are also courageous and confident, which makes them well-suited for protection work. In addition to their natural protective instincts, German Shepherds can be trained in various forms of protection work, including personal protection, guard dog work, and police and military work. They are also highly adaptable and can thrive in a variety of environments, making them a versatile choice for protection work, including for families with young children.

Belgian Malinois

Belgian Malinois are highly intelligent, energetic, and trainable dogs that excel at protection work. They are also strong, athletic, and have a strong protective instinct, which makes them well-suited for protection work.
In addition to their natural protective instincts, Belgian Malinois can be trained in various forms of protection work, including family protection, guard dog work, and police and military work. They are also highly adaptable and can thrive in a variety of environments, making them a versatile choice for protection work.

Dutch Shepherd

Dutch Shepherds are intelligent, energetic, and trainable dogs that have strong protective instincts and are well-suited for protection work. They are also strong, athletic, and adaptable, making them a versatile choice for various forms of protection work such as personal protection, guard dog work, and police and military work.

Priority 1 Canine Best Guard Dogs for Kids

Proper training and socialization are important for any dog, and protection dogs need to ensure that they are well-behaved and able to distinguish between threats and non-threats. Here at Priority 1 Canine, we have built strong relationships with the best providers of protection dogs and guard dogs for kids. We will only place a dog that we are confident will fit in well with the specific situation and will make not only a great protection dog, but also a great companion.

Contact Us to learn more!

Wade Morrell

CEO/Owner of Priority 1 Canine. We specialize in personal and family security protection dogs.

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Dog for a private home: what breed to choose?

Keeping a dog in a summer cottage has its own characteristics. Therefore, before you get a pet, you need to responsibly choose the breed. After all, not all dogs are comfortable living in the country.

First of all decide for what purpose you need a dog. If the dog will live in the house and only occasionally go outside to run on the grass and get some fresh air, then all the same breeds are suitable for living in a private house as for an apartment. But most often, residents of country houses prefer to keep their pets in an aviary and periodically release them into the territory of the site – mainly for protection. However, not all breeds of dogs are suitable for captive keeping.

There are currently over 400 dog breeds. Many of them have been formed over several centuries. The selection of individuals was carried out according to strict parameters. Now, as they say, genes cannot be crushed with a finger. Therefore, you should not hope that a representative of a hunting breed will be indifferent to your rabbits, chickens and other living creatures.

Dogs for the protection of a private house

If you live outside the city all the time, want to feel safe and do not like uninvited guests, then the dog will become an excellent guard and your protector. Large pets are best suited for this role. They should be chosen among guard and service breeds. Also, shepherd breeds, which were bred primarily to protect livestock from wild animals, do a good job of guarding the function.

So, for aviary keeping on the site, the Moscow guard dog, Caucasian Shepherd Dog, Central Asian Shepherd Dog (Alabai), Black Russian Terrier, German Shepherd Dog, East European Shepherd Dog, Maremmo-Abrutskaya Shepherd Dog (Maremma), Hungarian Kuvasz, Pyrenean mountain dog, leonberger.

Moscow Watchdog

Caucasian Shepherd Dog

Alabai

Black Russian Terrier

German Shepherd Dog

East European Shepherd Dog

Maremma

Kuvasz

Pyrenean Mountain Dog

Leonberger

For such a guard, it is imperative to build a good booth that will protect the dog from bad weather, and build a large enough enclosure so that the pet can stretch its paws. All these dogs are very large, so they will feel uncomfortable in the “meter by meter” enclosure. Consider this before you get a dog in the country, and do not spare the “living space” for the pet, because he will become not only your guard, but also a true friend.

Consider the dimensions of the dog when building the kennel. In it, the dog should stand and lie freely, stretching out all its paws.

Smaller dogs can also be looked at. A Rottweiler, Doberman, Bullmastiff, Airedale Terrier, American Bulldog, Giant Schnauzer are also suitable for guarding a country house.

Rottweiler

Dobermann

Bullmastiff

American Bulldog

Airedale Terrier

Giant Schnauzer

For such a pet, it is imperative to build an insulated booth or allow it to spend the night in the house in winter.

But learn: all guard dogs are quite powerful. In order not to be bitten by your own defender, you need to be able to build the right relationship with him. With each pet, you need to engage in education and at least go through a general training course under the guidance of an experienced dog handler.

If you want the dog to only give a signal that a stranger is approaching the site, and frighten the enemy with its large dimensions, then you can get a Newfoundland, St. Bernard or Bernese Mountain Dog. These large companion dogs are very friendly to people, so they are unlikely to harm a stranger sneaking up to your house, except to knock him down. However, the low barking and impressive size of these good-natured people scare off ill-wishers well.

Newfoundland

St. Bernard

Bernese Mountain Dog

By the way, these breeds are worth looking at if you have small children. Good healthy people do not show aggression towards the child, even if the child pulls them by the tail, ears, paws. Although this should never be done – explain to the children in advance how to behave with animals.

Companion dogs

If you see your dog primarily as a friend and not as a watchdog, then there is room for roam when choosing the right breed. Look for a dog by temperament and size. If you have a fairly spacious area and you plan to often get out with the dog into the forest or to the lake, then get a Labrador, Border Collie, Australian Shepherd (Aussie), Golden Retriever, Siberian Husky, Boxer, Samoyed, Alaskan Malamute.

Labrador

Collie

Aussi

Golden Retriever

Siberian Hasks

Samoyed

Boxer

Alaskan Malamute

These dogs love to spend time with a person and need long walks. If such a pet is kept within four walls, then out of boredom, he will begin to gnaw on furniture in the house, dig under the fence, etc. Therefore, a four-legged friend should be given enough time to play with him, and not be left alone in the aviary with himself.

But keep in mind: from this list of breeds, only northern sled dogs (huskies, malamutes, samoyeds) are able to live outside in winter. The rest of the pets do not have a thick coat with an undercoat to feel comfortable in the cold, so they must be kept in the house.

Many terriers, dachshunds, huskies, greyhounds and other hunting breeds are only suitable for people who plan to use these dogs for hunting in the forest. Or for summer residents who do not grow anything in the garden and garden and never let their pets out of their area. Otherwise, you will be waiting for the beds dug up by the dog in pursuit of mice and moles, the trampled lawn and the constant complaints of the neighbors that your Tuzik, Rex or Mukhtar once again strangled their chicken or rabbit.

If you are not ready to keep a large and active dog in the house or do not live in the country permanently, but get there every weekend by public transport, then a small dog will suit you: Toy Terrier, Maltese, Chihuahua, French Bulldog, Miniature Pinscher, Miniature Schnauzer , Pomeranian, Papillon, Brussels Griffon, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.

Toy Terrier

Maltese

Chihuahua

French Bulldog

Miniature Pinscher

Miniature Schnauzer

Pomeranian

Papillon

Brussels Griffon

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

These compact pets are easy to carry in a special pet. Even though they are small, they have enough love for every member of your family!

Of course, this is not a complete list of dog breeds that are suitable for a country house. Do not forget about the mongrels, because they are no worse than thoroughbred pets.

Do you have a faithful four-legged friend living in your dacha?

What kind of dog to get in a private home with children

The question of what kind of dog to get in a private home requires special consideration. It is desirable to protect your own site from uninvited guests, but on the other hand, there is a problem of the relationship between children and animals. Different breeds of dogs have completely different habits, abilities and degree of aggressiveness. To select the best option requires knowledge of their characteristics and risk assessment for the child.

If there are children in the family (especially small ones), then this imposes special requirements on the choice of an animal. A child can inadvertently hurt a dog, causing her instinctive aggression. He should not be afraid to go out into the yard and have friendly relations with the dog. An ideal option when the dog is able to play the role of a nanny. Taking into account the “childish factor”, priority is given to a kind watchman, who is inclined to forgive children for any pranks.

In fact, when choosing a dog for a private home with children, an alternative arises – ensuring reliable protection of the entire area or acquiring a good friend for children, but capable of scaring off uninvited guests with its appearance. In any case, the relationship between the animal and the child should come first.

Harmless dog breeds

Some breeds of dogs, although of impressive size, do not belong to the guard category, do not have the skills to arrange battles or attack, bite, show aggression. They are great with children and are ready to endure any impact from them. Moreover, such dogs become real friends for the child. At the same time, the menacing appearance deters any intruder.

Newfoundland

In the ranking of the kindest, but very strong dogs, the Newfoundland, or diver, is considered the leader. This breed was bred specifically to save people, and therefore is not capable of aggression. The height of an adult dog at the withers is 70-75 cm, and the weight is 55-70 kg. Black color, huge muzzle and large size terrify the “outsider”. However, the character of this animal is simply perfect:

1. The diver has no hunting instinct and is therefore safe for other pets.
2. Complete absence of aggressiveness towards people. Special, kind attitude towards children. The dog is always ready to help (for example, to save a drowning person).
3. The presence of mental abilities and a tendency to assess the situation. Newfoundland can help with heavy work, simple assignments. However, a certain independence leads to the fact that the dog may refuse to carry out meaningless commands.
4. Fearlessness and patience. This animal is difficult to scare anything.

The Newfoundland is not used as a guard dog. She rarely gives a voice and is not able to bite a person, but in case of a clear danger to the owner or children, she can simply knock the attacker down.

St. Bernards

St. Bernards are very similar in nature to the previous breed. They are also classified as rescuers and have a similar character and size. Color – white-red. This dog is distinguished by special patience, obedience and devotion. She treats children very well and is ready to endure any actions from them. At the same time, she will not allow any harm to be done to the child. One drawback is noted – the St. Bernard does not like small dogs and can show restrained aggression towards them. Does not like the animal to be on a chain. With a long such position, its character can change significantly.

Golden Retriever

One of the best dogs for families with young children is the Golden Retriever. This is a fairly large breed (height – 55-62 cm, weight – 28-43 kg) of golden or cream color in various shades. Dogs are distinguished by delicacy, intelligence, calmness and patience. They are not prone to aggression, they are able to become a nanny for a child. They are not in vain used in the care of sick children, because they are characterized by unique patience and gentleness. For an adult, it can be a good companion. Rarely gives a voice, but instinct allows you to warn in advance about uninvited guests. In this case, a rather formidable bark appears.

Akita Inu

One of the largest Japanese breeds, the Akita Inu is 60-68 cm tall and weighs 42-50 kg. It can have 3 main colors – white, brindle and red with white spots. This dog is ideal for the role of friend-companion and nanny for children, and its impressive size will scare away any “enemy”. She is quite active and energetic, but very good-natured and devoted. The animal can be stubborn, but if treated gently, it will not disappoint the owner. Differs in cleanliness. Barks rarely and, as a rule, “on business”.

Labrador

Among the harmless, energetic dogs, Labradors stand out. Bred for hunting, they have long been retrained as companions, rescuers and guides. The growth of an adult dog reaches 52-58 cm, and weight – 26-38 kg. With her good-natured appearance, she is not able to frighten, but by barking she will warn of the invasion of strangers. Fawn, black and brown Labradors stand out in color. They treat children in a special way, and they generally recognize the little ones as their children.

Guard dog breeds

In troubled areas, remote areas and places where there is a high risk of visiting wild animals, a reliable security guard is indispensable in a private house. The choice of a guard dog must be made taking into account the presence of children. In addition to her fighting and physical virtues, she should be distinguished by a kind attitude towards the child, even when he is unnecessarily naughty.

There are such breeds that adequately perform a watchdog role without risk to children:

1. Alabai, or the Central Asian Shepherd Dog. The animal has a physically developed physique and significant size (height up to 70-72 cm at the withers, weight – more than 65 kg). The dog looks intimidating, but has a good disposition and loyalty. He loves children very much and is their reliable protector. It treats other dogs and wild animals aggressively, warning in advance by growling and barking. He clearly distinguishes between himself and others.
2. Caucasian Shepherd. She is considered one of the best guards of a private house. This large dog has a height of up to 70 cm and a weight of up to 52 kg. It is characterized by courage, determination while maintaining kindness to its own. The animal is distinguished by intelligence and the ability to navigate in difficult circumstances. Protecting your territory is a reflex of a Caucasian dog. She vigilantly controls the situation, sensing in advance the approach of a “stranger”. In real danger, it shows aggression and is able to attack without warning. Aggression to the owners and especially to children is impossible. The child easily finds contact with the animal and has fun playing with it.
3. Moscow watchdog. In appearance and character, this dog resembles a St. Bernard, although it belongs to a guard breed. Her height can reach 67-68 cm, weight – 70 kg. Thick coat makes it easy to endure winter conditions. The dog is kinder than the Alabai or Caucasian Shepherd, but being on a chain for a long time increases aggressiveness. For children, he becomes a reliable friend and protector.
4. German Shepherd. This very strong physically dog ​​is capable of performing security, service and rescue tasks, as well as being a companion. She is easy to train, smart and patient. In order for a shepherd dog to be a true friend of the family, proper upbringing from an early age is necessary. Children quite easily find a common language with her.
5. Doberman. This breed perfectly shows itself in the protection of a trusted object. The main qualities are energy, attentiveness and fearlessness. In relation to strangers, it can show aggression only at the command of the owner or in case of obvious danger. He is unfriendly to other animals, with the exception of those he met at the age of a puppy. When kept in an aviary, periodic walks “free” are required. For the owner and children, the Doberman is ready to risk his life.

When is it better not to get a dog? The Japanese Shiba Inu requires special attention and tends to be jealous of the owner of the child, which causes appropriate behavior. Boxers and Rottweilers stand out among service “non-children’s” dogs. Huskies are highly emotional and can be stubborn. They stop listening to children. With active games, fox terriers and yagd terriers can become dangerous. You should not have fighting breeds in the presence of children – pit bulls, bull terriers and staffs, as well as mastiffs and wolfdogs. Caution is required in the presence of sharpei. Their stubbornness can lead to bites.

A dog is, of course, a devoted friend of man, but sometimes it is not recommended to get one. The following main reasons can be singled out:

1. Unwillingness to change one’s habits and way of life.