Are you considering the purchase of a guard dog but aren’t quite sure where to start? The following ten breeds are some top choices, based on size, strength, appearance, and temperament.
Doberman Pinscher – The Doberman Pinscher strongly defends its territory and is one of the easiest guard dogs to train. Dobermans are extremely loyal and trustworthy to their master, making them natural protectors. The Doberman’s “medium size” (24-28 inches at the withers and approximately 70 pounds) makes it a good choice for a house dog as well as a guard dog. This top guard dog choice is extremely energetic and intelligent, thus making proper training and handling essential.
German Shepherd – The German Shepherd is quite easy to train and both a loyal family dog and an excellent guard dog, making it a top choice for a family pet. This dog is likely to bark at intruders, but is otherwise quiet. The American Kennel Club describes the German Shepherd as “direct and fearless, but not hostile.
Great Dane – The Great Dane is often described as the “gentle giant”, however its imposing appearance (the preferred height is a minimum of 30 inches at the withers and weight can range between 100-150 pounds) and tendency to strongly defend its territory makes it a top choice for a guard dog. The breed was originally developed to hunt boar, a ferocious animal.
Rottweiler – The Rottweiler is described by the American Rottweiler Club as a “calm and self-confident dog, who has an inherent desire to protect home and family.” An excellent guard dog choice, the Rottweiler is both highly intelligent and highly trainable. The Rottweiler is a large dog, ranging between 22-27 inches at the withers and weighing up to 135 pounds, and has a tendency to bump into family members (a natural tendency dating back to their cattle herding days). This can be problematic for families with small children or elderly household members.
Bullmastiff – Originally a cross between the Old English Bulldog and the English Mastiff, the courage, loyalty, and strong protective instinct of the Bullmastiff makes it a top choice for a guard dog. The Bullmastiff is a quiet dog and does not require much exercise or grooming, making it a good guard dog choice for a house or apartment.
Boxer – Boxers possess a natural suspicion of strangers and are extremely agile, strong, and alert, making them excellent guard dog candidates. Their quiet nature and smaller size (22-25 inches at the withers, and weight of approximately 55-70 pounds) makes them a top guard dog choice for apartment dwellers. They are, however, extremely energetic and require a lot of exercise.
American Staffordshire Terrier – In describing this dog, the American Kennel Club says “Although friendly, this breed is loyal to his family and will protect them from any threat.” Courageous, tenacious, and extremely strong, the “AmStaff” is an excellent guard dog candidate. The dog is a “second cousin” to the American Pit Bull Terrier. These bulldog-terrier crosses were originally bred for use in fighting. As a result, caution should be exercised in their selection as a guard dog. Prospective owners should select dogs from reputable breeders only and should be strongly committed to a rigorous training schedule while the dog is still young. Further, owners should research whether they reside in an area which has passed breed specific legislation banning or restricting ownership of American Staffordshire Terriers prior to bringing this dog home.
Rhodesian Ridgeback – The Rhodesian Ridgeback was originally bred both to hunt lions and guard and protect its family. Consequently, they are a top choice for a guard dog. Rhodesian Ridgebacks are courageous, strong, and agile dogs. They are also highly intelligent, independent, strong-willed dogs that can tend to get into mischief if not handled properly. As a result, they require a lot of positive motivation to train them in traditional obedience. Prospective owners of Rhodesian Ridgebacks should be committed to attending a weekly obedience training class and practicing with their dog on a daily basis.
Akita – The Akita originated in Japan many years ago and was bred to hunt bear, elk, and boar. The Akita is an instinctive guard dog that forms strong family bonds. They are generally quiet dogs, but will bark at individuals deemed to be intruders and will strongly defend their territory.
Giant Schnauzer – The Giant Schnauzer originated when the Standard Schnauzer was bred with the black Great Dane, thus increasing its power and strength and causing it to acquire the discretion of a protecting dog. The Giant Schnauzer is both a bold and dependable guard dog and a good-natured, handsome family dog with a reliable temperament. Often called the “Velcro Dog” because of their tendency to “stick” to their master, the Giant Schnauzer is top choice for families desiring both a guard dog and a companion.
There are other breeds out there that will also make excellent guard dog choices. Whenever considering the purchase or adoption of a dog, prospective owners should always do their homework. Be sure to research the breed thoroughly to insure that you choose a dog whose size, temperament, training requirements, grooming requirements, and activity level fit your lifestyle. Also be sure to thoroughly research any breeder from whom you are considering purchasing a dog. If you take the time to research your choice thoroughly, you are likely to find the perfect guard dog and companion for you.
Sources: American Kennel Club, American Rottweiler Club
