If you want a breed that will not only alert you when a visitor arrives, but will also intuitively know when to protect you against unwanted people or animals, expert dog trainers consider the following breeds to be the top 10 best guard dog breeds for protection of your home and family!
1. Tibetan Mastiff
Giant, watchful, powerful, and intimidating, this still-primitive Tibetan Mastiff dog breed is the ultimate guard dog. Throughout history, one of the main jobs of Tibetan Mastiff has been to protect caravans of people and herds in the Himalayas against wolves and snow leopards.
Despite their massive, intimidating size, the Tibetan mastiff is a loyal family guardian who takes his job seriously and is aloof or reserved toward strangers. Early socialization and consistent, reward-based training is an absolute must for this big guardian breed.
2. Rottweiler
Originally developed to herd cattle and accompany soldiers into battle, Rottweilers are known to be relentless protectors of their pack.
Most important, they have a reputation for being affectionate and extremely loyal to their owners but intimidating when it comes to strangers. As with any strong and intense dog, Rotties require a calm, confident “alpha” to keep them on top of their game.
3. Bullmastiff
Originally conceived to deter poachers, the large, muscular bullmastiff is one of the best guard dog breeds to have. While standoffish toward strangers, the breed is very docile and makes a great household pet. And yet, the bullmastiff is not ideal for inexperienced dog owners, as they require structured training program to reinforce their natural guarding instincts.
4. Doberman Pinscher
Originally bred in Germany as a protector and companion for a tax collector, Doberman Pinscher possess the bravery, size and imposing appearance to make them one of the very best guard dog breeds available. However, when it comes to being in a family environment, Dobies are affectionate, docile, deeply loyal and even goofy.
As with any active large guarding dog, Dobermans are best suited for families with large yards and active lifestyles. Plus, this incomparably fearless and vigilant breed can become an excellent guard dog when adequately trained.
5. Akita
Akitas were originally bred for guarding royalty and nobility in feudal Japan due to their fearless and loyal personalities. This courageous and alert breed is naturally suspicious of strangers and will gladly share their silly, affectionate side and watch over you and your family at all times. Yet they tend to be stubborn, so they’ll require obedience training and proper socialization to help prevent unnecessary standoffishness or aggression.
6. German Shepherd
Due to their high intelligence and quickness to learning commands, German Shepherds exemplify most of the traits found in good guard dogs. Just like other protective dogs, the breed exhibits a deep sense of loyalty to those they love and will defend their family and turf if they perceive danger. With their courageous, intelligent, and gentle demeanor, the German shepherds require plenty of time with and attention from their people to keep them focused on being guard dogs.
7. Belgian Malinois
Similar in looks and temperament to the the German shepherd, the Belgian Malinois is another intense, active breed also favored as a police or military working dog for its agility, search and rescue abilities, and trainability. But while this makes them very well-suited for full-time work, Belgian Malinois make loving, loyal and capable companions when matched with a good owner or family. And because they have a high energy level, they need specialized training and proper socialization to be at ease in new or unfamiliar situations.
8. Giant Schnauzer
As their name suggests, Giant Schnauzer is a larger and more powerful version of its standard counterpart. Extremely intelligent and strongly territorial, the Giant Schnauzer is very intimidating to strangers, but when they're not needed as a guardian, they can be playful and affectionate companions for those willing to provide them with the training, exercise, and attention they need.
9. Rhodesian Ridgeback
Historically a hunting dog for large game and lions in Africa, the handsome Rhodesian Ridgeback dog breed has a strong prey drive and tends to be independent in nature. Beneath the Ridgeback's trademark ridge is a quiet, gentle companion who's able and willing to defend his home and people if the need arises. As they are such large, clever, powerful dogs, basic obedience training is essential to give them structure and help them listen to you and follow your commands.
10. Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Not everyone has the space for a large animal in their home, but that doesn't mean they don't need a powerful guard dog. Weighing in at less than 40 pounds, Staffordshire Bull Terriers make great household pets, as they are known to be aggressive only when protecting a family member. Despite their affectionate and playful nature, Staffies must be properly socialized and trained from an early age, otherwise they can develop behavioral problems.
Conclusion
Dog breeds that have a strong sense of loyalty to you and your family, are highly alert and observant, and responsive to training serve well as protectors and companions if you are considering getting a guard dog.
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