While it’s probably true that most people get a dog to be a companion, playmate, or even a performance partner, there are still people who want a dog for protection. After all, a good guard dog can be the best alarm system you will ever spend money on – and you can still cuddle it too. So if you are thinking you would like your next dog to help keep your home safe, here are 10 breeds who were bred for the job:
#1 – Doberman Pinscher
This breed is thought of as the “junkyard dog” because so many were used to protect junkyards in the 70s and 80s. The breed was developed by a tax collector who wanted a guard dog. (www.akc.org)
#2 – Giant Schnauzer
While all the Schnauzers are good alert dogs, the imposing size of the Giant makes them a good protection dog. In fact, they are trained for police work in Germany.
#3 – Belgian Tervuren
Like the German Shepherd Dog, this breed well-known for being a good protector – which is one of the reasons they are used for police and military work.
#4 – Bullmastiff
The Bullmastiff was bred to protect their owner’s lands from poachers – he is indeed a true protection dog.
#5 – Great Pyrenees
Bred to be a livestock guardian, this breed will guard his human family just as fiercely as he would a herd of sheep.
#6 – Puli
Pulis are known for being suspicious of strangers, making them great watchdogs. They will alert bark if someone is outside and will protect their family.
#7 – Rottweiler
This breed has very strong protective instincts that come from being bred as a cattle mover and protector. He will definitely protect his home and family.
#8 – Keeshond
Despite being a very old breed, the keeshond has really only ever had two jobs: family companion and watchdogs. They were used extensively in the 17th and 18th centuries to guard barges, farms, and riverboats. (www.keeshond.org)
#9 – Kuvasz
Another dog bred for guarding livestock, he will treat your family like his flock – protecting them diligently.
#10 – German Shepherd Dog
Everyone knows the GSD is a great guard dog. Bred for tending, he is a natural at patrolling the parameter and will easily scare off an intruder.
Toledo, United States.
