- Akita. The Akita is a muscular, double-coated dog of ancient Japanese lineage famous for their dignity… …
- Anatolian Shepherd Dog. An Anatolian Shepherd Dog is a rugged, imposing flock guardian of ancient lineage. …
- Appenzeller Sennenhund. …
- Australian Shepherd. …
- Barbado da Terceira. …
- Beauceron. …
- Belgian Laekenois. …
- Bergamasco Sheepdog.
A well-trained dog can help keep an eye on your house, giving you peace of mind and a devoted friend to welcome you home. Some dog breeds are bred with the instinct to guard their humans and are natural guardians. We’ve compiled a list of the best guard dog breeds based on advice from the American Kennel Club (AKC) to assist you in making your decision. These canine breeds, which range in size from the adorable, hairy Puli to the powerful Bullmastiff, are perceptive, fearless, and devoted.
Remember that extensive training and ongoing socialization are required before you adopt any dog because they are crucial for guard dog breeds, which have a tendency to be more aggressive. Additionally, you should select a breed that fits your way of life. Some breeds, like the Australian Shepherd or Appenzeller Sennenhund, require a lot of exercise, whereas puppies like the Briard require frequent grooming. Once you’ve chosen a breed of guard dog, make sure to use the AKC website to research reputable, responsible breeders to ensure you adopt a healthy, content puppy. Advertisement – Continue Reading Below.
Akitas are known for being brave and devoted to their owners, and in Japan, where the breed originated in the 17th century, they are thought to symbolize happiness and long life. Since they have independent minds and don’t always get along with other dogs or people, consistent training and socialization from a young age are especially crucial.
Quick and agile Appenzeller Sennehunds were bred to work on farms and drive cattle. They are intelligent and quick learners, making them simple to train, and they are also very active, making them more suitable for homes with lots of space for them to play and run around in.
Australian Shepherds are well-liked by ranchers because of their excellent herding instincts, and they also make excellent guard dogs because they are intelligent, obedient, and protective of their families. Australians thrive in homes with lots of open space because they are high-energy and need a lot of daily activity and exercise.
Bergamasco Sheepdogs are affectionate with their families and other animals and are social animals. They have a distinctive long, layered coat that is surprisingly low-maintenance, only requiring a few baths a year and no brushing because they don’t shed.
Keen, alert, and fearless, boxers are natural guard dogs. Boxers are a good choice for families with children due to their tolerant, devoted, and playful nature as well as the fact that they adore spending time with their owners.
Due to their devoted, lovable nature, briards are frequently referred to as “a heart wrapped in fur” and are excellent with children. They also enjoy physical activity, making them ideal for owners who enjoy having a dog as a running or hiking companion. They’re also a good choice for people who enjoy doing the grooming because they have long coats that need frequent brushing and bathing.
Bullmastiffs, a cross between a mastiff and a bulldog, were originally bred to deter poachers on English estates. Theyre devoted family dogs and natural protectors.
The Cane Corso is a noble, intelligent, and affectionate breed with excellent guarding instincts that has a Roman-era history and a name that translates from Latin as “bodyguard dog.” They require a lot of exercise, early and consistent socialization, as well as training for canine sports like dock diving or tracking.
These energetic dogs are loyal and intelligent, and were bred to retrieve ducks from the Chesapeake Bay’s chilly waters. They make excellent companions for outdoor enthusiasts.
Doberman Pinschers are smart, powerful, and fast, and they also make wonderful guard dogs and companions due to their sweet personalities and quick learning abilities. They require a lot of exercise, so owners should schedule frequent, lengthy hikes or walks.
This breed was developed as a flock guardian and was given its name after the Estrela Mountains in Portugal. It can be equally protective of its family today. Mountain dogs from Estrela are particularly affectionate and make wonderful choices for families with young children.
German Shepherds are excellent pets because they are devoted, intelligent, and quick to defend their family. German Shepherds are one of the most popular larger dog breeds and one of the most popular police dog breeds, with adults ranging in size from 22 to 26 inches.
Giant Schnauzers are still excellent guard dogs and are loving with their families, intelligent, and simple to train. They were originally bred in the Bavarian Alps to watch over residences, inns, and farms. Giants need plenty of exercise, as well as weekly grooming.
Pulik make a big impression with their distinctive corded hair and their excellent herding instincts despite being on the smaller side for guard dogs. They make excellent playmates for children due to their quick thinking, loyalty, and energy.
Although Rottweilers can weigh up to 135 pounds, they are typically calm, self-assured, and devoted family members. Although they can be affectionate and playful as well, Rotties can be aggressive and need a lot of socialization and training.
Puli
Due to their intelligence and background as herding dogs, Pulis make excellent guard dogs. They bark to warn their owners of anything strange because they are constantly on guard. Due to their high intelligence, Pulis require constant companionship. They are wonderful additions to families who lead active lives because they enjoy hiking, running, and other outdoor pursuits.
Kuvasz
Originally bred to protect livestock, Kuvasz are now more frequently found acting as home guardians. This breed is fiercely protective of its family members and highly territorial. The Kuvasz is reserved around strangers but longs for love from his family. The Kuvasz needs a lot of exercise because they are very energetic and crave constant company.
The AKC refers to this ancient dog as the “guardian dog supreme.” Despite their enormous size, they are renowned for being quiet and gentle around the house.
Latin roughly translates this powerful breed’s name as “bodyguard dog.” ” Theyre smart, trainable, and assertive.
Adopting a dog has many benefits, including cuddle-worthy small puppies, devoted canines who provide constant companionship, and even guard dogs who ensure your family feels secure at home. Start your search for a protective pet by looking at the breeds that make the best guard dogs if the thought of having one around intrigues you.
Portuguese dogs are excellent guard dogs because they were bred to guard livestock. But with their weight of up to 132 pounds, these fluffy dogs are definitely not for small spaces!
These strong dogs require a lot of exercise. They are incredibly swift and powerful, as their long legs and sleek appearance would suggest.