The best dog breeds for protection offer a whole range of benefits, from knowing when there is a visitor, to ensuring an intruder can’t enter your property. You’ll want to be sure in finding the right dog breed for you and your family so that training and coexistence are easier.
Do you know what would make a scary world less scary? A best friend with a ferocious bark! Guard dogs are often misunderstood, but they’re actually great pets. They’re fierce protectors, which means they’ll defend you to the end.
If you’re looking for a loyal and intelligent dog to watch over your home, some breeds are born with guard dog instincts. They’re usually large, fearless, and trainable, which makes them the perfect protector.
So, if you’re thinking about getting a guard dog, here are the top breeds for protection and companionship!
Why Are Dogs Great For Protection?
There are numerous options available today for general security. Nonetheless, A huge amount of technological security can be quite overwhelming. So, how about the more traditional options?
Dogs make great security alarms and alerts. They can be a personable choice of security, and they provide their owners with health and wellness benefits.
Undoubtedly, dogs are considered man’s best friends for they are extremely loyal creatures. That’s why dogs are so popular as house pets and guard animals. This loyalty is accompanied by a protective quality; a combination that is rarely found in other animal species.
Remember that the right dog can provide you with an excellent sense of security. They’re capable of picking up on our emotions and even scents. So, if you train them properly, they can be your best friend for life!
15 Best Dog Breeds for Protection
There are several breeds to choose from when it comes to choosing the best dog breed for protection. Ranging from the powerful Bull Mastiff to the quick Doberman Pinscher. We have compiled a list of the 15 most used dog breeds for protection.
1. German Shepherd
German Shepherds are a popular breed for protection. They are widely used as police dogs, but they’re also popular as pets. They exhibit most of the characteristics of good guard dogs, such as intelligence, love, and bravery.
This German dog breed is widely regarded as one of the best guard dogs due to its imposing stature and loud bark. Its loyalty and bravery know no bounds, and it is willing to risk its own life for the sake of its family.
A protective dog, like a German Shepherd, is a natural learner who is simple to train. They can, however, take their job a little too seriously at times. Take note that they should be taught not to pounce on anyone who approaches you or your home.
2. Doberman Pinscher
The Doberman Pinscher was bred for accompanying tax collectors. Dobermans excel in the majority of security-related applications. They are very loving, sensitive dogs with bravery, size, and are one of the best guard dogs available.
These dog breeds are in the same size class as Rotties and shepherds. But with their tall build and pointed ears, they make the most of their size.
Dobermans are a little lighter on their feet than these other breeds. They will probably need a little more space and exercise. More so, they are sensitive, loving, loyal, intelligent, and brave dogs. This breed is great for protecting homes and families.
3. Great Dane
Great Danes are massive, sensitive, and gentle beasts who form close bonds with their owners. They are not particularly territorial, defensive, or protective. Still, they are willing to act to ensure the safety and protection of their family. While most Danes weigh between 100 and 150 pounds, large Danes can weigh up to 200 pounds.
The Great Danes are loving and reasonably well-suited for guard work. However, not a good choice for beginners due to their combination of size and intelligence. But, for those who have the time, love, and experience. Great Danes are remarkable dogs who provide protection simply by their appearance.
4. Giant Schnauzer
Giant Schnauzers are sensitive but not as intense as some other good breeds for protection. These dogs are affectionate and loving with their families. They require a lot of attention from their owners to be happy.
More so, they are proud, territorial dogs, and their size helps to compensate for their refined appearance. Giant Schnauzers are actually quite powerful dogs, capable of defending their family effectively. This bread essentially exists to protect its home and family. Another advantage of this breed is that Giant Schnauzers are pain resistant.
On the other hand, Schnauzers are a little naughty and very intelligent. While they can be fun for experienced dog owners, they are not ideal for beginners.
5. Bull Mastiffs
Since their inception, bullmastiffs have provided protection to their owners and deter poachers.
Bullmastiffs share many characteristics with other dogs, including being loving, affectionate, and unquestionably protective. They are, however, less clingy than these other breeds and require less exercise.
6. Bull Terrier
Bull Terriers are the best dog breeds for the protection of their owners, belongings, and territory. Making them excellent guard dogs. Whenever they believe someone is threatening them or their family, they will become aggressive.
If necessary, the Bully’s aggressive side will emerge, but this trait should never be encouraged.
7. Tibetan Mastiff
The Tibetan Mastiff was bred in the Himalayas to guard both people and livestock. Also considered one of the best guard dogs available. This massive breed is also strong-willed and very territorial.
It is aloof, mentally sharp, watchful, and a little bit primitive. Keep in mind that if you keep a Tibetan mastiff in your home, it may refuse to let anyone else in. With family members, however, you can expect it to be mellow and sweet.
8. American Staffordshire Terrier
American Staffordshire Terrier is frequently misidentified as an American pit bull terrier; one of the best protection dog breeds out there. Because they were bred for bear and bullfighting, they are aggressive and protective.
As a result, they must be properly socialized and trained from a young age. Although they can intimidate strangers, they can make excellent house pets. Also, they are only aggressive when protecting a family member.
9. Appenzeller Sennenhund
These medium-sized mountain dogs from Switzerland are cheerful, intelligent, and energetic. Despite their generally friendly demeanor, Appenzeller is naturally wary of strangers.
They are also not easily swayed. They are fearless and will not be deterred from protecting their families, even if a big juicy steak is on the table as a distraction.
10. Akita
Akitas were naturally used as protection breeds dogs. It guarded the Japanese emperor and his family during the Middle Ages. Helen Keller was the first American to own an Akita, which she received during a trip to Japan.
Akitas are very social animals who can be silly and playful. They typically bark only when there is a very good reason.
On the other hand, Akitas can be aggressive toward other dogs. To interact with Akitas properly, they must be socialized from an early age.
11. Beauceron
Beaucerons, which look a lot like Doberman pinschers, is the largest of the French sheepdogs. Fans of this massive dog breed claim that dogs are sensitive and intelligent.
This breed has a calm demeanor as well as a confident, fearless attitude. More so, protective dogs as such can make excellent guard dogs, but they will need firm training to avoid dominating their families.
Although this dog was commonly used as a working dog whose primary purpose was herding and guarding livestock. Its large size, strength, and temperament made it ideal for protecting herds, homes, and families.
They are among France’s largest breeds of dogs. Standing nearly 24 inches at the shoulders and weighing around 90 pounds on average. Making them among the best family protection dogs in France.
12. Cane Corso
An Italian Mastiff is another name for a Cane Corso. This protective dog breed is massive, frequently weighing more than 100 pounds. Its short, stiff coat contributes to its imposing appearance.
This breed can be aggressive toward strangers. The Cane Corso is one of the best dogs for protection. However, it is not suitable for inexperienced dog owners. Training is essential to keep the dog from “owning” its family.
13. Boxer
Boxers, with their protective nature, make excellent guard dogs when properly socialized and trained. They form strong bonds with their families and are particularly patient and protective of children. As a result, they will face potential threats with courage. Natural intelligence also aids them in problem-solving through creative ingenuity.
Your Boxer is more likely to defend the home with a threatening bark than a left hook. There are no official records of the name Boxer’s etymology. However, many people believe it has something to do with the breed’s propensity to use their paws. They engage in a practice known as “shadow boxing,” These dogs sit back on their hind legs and extend their paws as if jabbing an opponent.
14. Chesapeake Bay Retrievers
The most naturally protective dog breeds are Chesapeake Bay Retrievers. Though sensitive and loyal to family, a Chessie is not as friendly to strangers as other retriever breeds. It can be stubborn.
Protective Boxer breed retrieves waterfowl. They enjoy being active and, more specifically, hunting. They are also, extremely loyal and have a lot of energy.
Although they are polite to strangers and cautious. This breed makes a great watchdog.
Additionally, this breed has a waterproof coat. That’s the main reason it is distinguishable from other types of retrievers.
15. Rottweiler
Rottweiler has aggressive behavior. However, if properly trained, you may be able to see its goofy and affectionate side! As their fans know them, Rotties can be playful and sweet with their families. Also, they are fiercely protective of them.
Rottweilers may appear aloof to outsiders. The breed became extinct in the late 1800s. Rotties are a bit smaller than their mastiff cousins. They weigh in at around 100 pounds when fully grown. But they can still play the intimidation card, and back it up with their bite. They also require socialization to keep their aggressive side in check.
Protection Dog Breeds: FAQ
Feel free to check out our Frequently Asked Questions section for more information.
The ability to bark loudly is the most distinguishing feature of a watchdog. Size doesn’t really matter in this case. In fact, some smaller breeds are often the best watchdogs. Many terriers, chihuahuas, larger poodles, dachshunds, and Shih-Tzus are excitable breeds that could make good watchdogs.
Guard dogs, on the other hand, bark loudly as well. Still, they are also capable of attacking and restraining people or other animals. They may initially bark, and if that fails to deter the intruder, they may take action.
Due to their friendly personalities and sweet dispositions, Golden Retrievers are not innately good guard dogs. Also, they can be formidable guardians if properly trained. As a result, there are a few instinctual characteristics that you will need to train them out of before entrusting them with guard dog duties. However, they can be trained!
German Shepherds unquestionably top this list. They make excellent guard dogs due to their loyalty, ability to be trained, and bravery. They can, however, be great family dogs if properly trained and socialized at a young age. Undeniably, they are affectionate, and they will defend you at all costs.
While all dog breeds are loyal to their family/pack, some of these breeds will not hesitate to attack if their loved ones are in danger. The Rottweiler is one of the most protective dog breeds. They may appear intimidating and frightening due to their muscles, but they are giant blobs of love. They are also extremely affectionate and attentive to their families.
American Pit Bulls are among the most dangerous dogs and are prohibited in many countries around the world. This medium-sized, intelligent, short-haired dog is one of the world’s most dangerous breeds.
The American Pit Bull Terrier’s essential characteristics are strength, confidence, and zest for life. Because of its high level of intelligence and willingness to work, this breed excels in performance events. Canines killed 433 Americans between 2005 and 2017, according to data from dogsbite.org. Unfortunately, Pit bulls were responsible for 66 percent (284) of these deaths.
Many guard dogs can protect your territory instinctively, but most require special training to help them distinguish between friend and foe. It cannot be overstated how important it is to have your dog trained by a reputable professional to guard your property. The risks of training a guard dog on your own are far too great even to consider. Furthermore, protective dogs are not suitable for inexperienced owners.
These dogs require a well-rounded, balanced temperament, as well as extensive socialization and training. Many people believe that making a guard dog suspicious of everyone is the best way to train them. Instead, they must learn to tolerate the mailman, visitors, friends, and neighbors. Understanding your dog’s breed and learning how to protect you can help you be a better friend. Indeed, seeing the world through their eyes will help you improve your relationship with them.