We all know that dogs are humans’ best friend. They often give us unconditional love and always do their best to make us happy. When we are in danger, they will do everything in their power to defend us and keep us safe.
However, not all breeds are a good guarder. Labrador Retriever is a perfect example of this in which they will welcome anyone that enters the house.
And if your area has a high burglary rate, you would probably want to get a dog that is actually great at guarding.
Though you might already have a home security system installed, dogs can provide extra protection for your family and property.
Below you will find the 10 best guard dog breeds that are capable of keeping your home safe from unwanted guests.
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1. Akita
Akita, a large size ancient Japanese dog breed that was used for guarding royalty and hunting. They are protective, courageous, and are one of the most loyal dogs. Thanks to their strong guarding instinct, Akita can keep you and your family safe.
That said, they are not ideal for first time dog owners as they can get destructive without proper training.
2. German Shepherd
No surprises that German Shepherd has made it to this list.
They are a medium to large size working dog that were originally bred for herding and to protect flocks. Smart, loyal, courageous, and very easy to train.
This is why they are so popular and have been widely used by the police force and the military.
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3. Rottweiler
Rottweiler is a medium to large size breed originated in Germany. They have a thick double coat and generally live around 8 to 10 years.
Known to be confident and have a strong guarding instinct. They are a very powerful dog and were used in the military and as one of the earliest police dogs in history.
With Rott by your side, you don’t have to worry much about intruders breaking in.
4. BullMastiff
BullMastiff was developed by the gamekeepers in Britain to guard games from poachers, hence their nickname “The Gamekeeper’s Night Dog”.
They are powerful, brave, loyal, and born to be a protector. This fearless dog will require a strong leadership which means they are not suitable for novice dog owners.
5. Belgian Malinois
This is another popular dog that was used by the police and military.
Originated in Belgium and was bred for herding. Many people often confuse them with German Shepherd as both breeds look similar.
Belgian Malinois are smaller and lighter than their counterparts, though they are as smart, loyal, and very vigilant which also makes them a great guarder.
6. Doberman Pinscher
Doberman Pinscher is a sturdily built dog, muscular, strong, and fast.
Bred by a tax collector in Germany and used as a protector. Not to mention they were also employed by the police and military in the past.
They are wary of strangers, devoted to family and are one of the best guard dogs you can get.
7. American Staffordshire Terrier
“AmStaff” short for American Staffordshire Terrier is a mix of Bulldog and Bull Terrier which explains why they have a similar appearance to Bulldog.
Unlike most breeds on this list that are large in size, AmStaff is a medium size guard dog, yet possesses a big dog personality. Intelligent, courageous, loyal, and very protective.
Combined with their intimidating look, they can easily keep unwanted guests away.
8. Giant Schnauzer
Another large size breed, Giant Schnauzer originated in Germany.
This is a very versatile dog that has been used to do a lot of things in history. That includes driving cattle, guarding, working as a police dog and serving in the military.
Coupled with their intelligent, loyal, and alert temperament, it makes them an excellent guard dog.
9. Rhodesian Ridgeback
If you don’t already know, Rhodesian Ridgeback has a nickname called “African Lion Dog” due to their ability to trap lions in history. Originated in Africa and were used to hunt big game.
Now you can imagine how fearless they are. A very powerful dog that is also agile and highly alert. With this temperament they possess, they will be able defend your family from intruders.
10. Cane Corso
Originated in Italy and was bred for military use, guarding property and hunting big game. They are a large size dog that can weigh up to 120 pounds.
Cane Corso is intelligent, calm, and courageous. Though they can make a great guard dog, they are not suitable for inexperienced dog owners because they are very powerful and will require a strong leader to handle them.
Gear for Guard Dogs You May Be Interested In:
Underground Dog Fences
If you live in a neighborhood where regular fences aren’t allowed, you would need an underground dog fence to keep your guard dog contained. These invisible fences prevent your canine from leaving the designated safe place while allowing them to walk around your yard to keep intruders away!
Dog GPS Collar Trackers
Dog Houses for Winter
Most guard dogs would be more than happy to sleep outside as they think they can better guard and protect your property. The problem with that is that the nights can get uncomfortably cold, especially during the winter months. And many guard dogs with a short coat like American Staffordshire Terriers and Doberman Pinschers don’t do well in cold weather. So, make sure to get them a winter dog house to help them stay warm.
Conclusion
You notice all these dog breeds have one thing in common which they are fearless. It makes sense because you need them to have the courage to stand up to intruders.
They also need to be loyal and intelligent. This is to ensure that they will obey your commands, easy to train and of course, able to quickly identify anyone that is suspicious and try to break in.
You also realize most dog breeds on this list are large in size. This means they may hurt your kids unintentionally while playing together especially when they get too excited. So make sure you provide them a positive and consistent training so they know how to behave in a proper manner.
Additionally, you will have to teach your kids what is acceptable and what is not allowed to do to dogs to create a good relationship. For instance, no poking, no pulling ears and giving them affection.
Not to mention proper socialization is also needed to prevent them from developing fear aggression.
Given their strong personality traits, it is also important that you bond with your dog and spend plenty of time with them so that they don’t turn destructive. And if you train them properly and give them lots of love and care, they can also be a loving companion!
