When it comes to protecting your home, there are several types of dogs. Some are alert barkers, meaning they will let you know anytime anything moves outside that is “not supposed to be there.” Others will bark when someone knocks at the door, rings your bell, etc. Then there are guardian dogs. These breeds will not only let you know there is someone around, they will do something about it. This list mentions the 10 breeds that take guarding your home seriously.
#1 – Giant Schnauzer
The Giant Schnauzer is not only intimating due to its size, but they have a menacing bark and fierce bite. I have known owners of these dogs that could not have company over because they were overprotective and under socialized.
#2 – Akita
An intelligent and intense breed, the Akita can be very loyal to its owner and very standoffish to strangers. Of course, this is what they were bred for. Like most of these breeds, they need to be well socialized if plan on taking them off your property or want to have people over.
#3 – German Shepherds
Also generally thought of as a “herding” dog, they are actually tenders, meaning they were bred to run the border and keep the flock where they were supposed to be, as well as watch for predators. Very intense and loyal, without training, they may hurt someone who threatens their home.
#4 – Chow Chow
The Chow Chow’s somewhat iffy reputation comes from the fact that it is a great guard dog. Considering they were once used to guard the great palaces in Asia, it makes sense that they would be temperamental and very protective.
#5 – Kuvasz
Since they were bred to guard livestock, it only makes sense they would be good at guarding your home as well. This protective bred has a sweet nature unless provoked.
#6 – Chinese Shar-Pei
While all those wrinkles may make it look cute and cuddly, the Shar-Pei is a serious family protection dog. They were bred to be the all-round farm dog, running the parameters of the property as a watch dog as well as protecting flocks and killing vermin. Today, they still have a strong desire to protect their family and can be aggressive toward strangers coming into “their home.” (Source: American Kennel Club)
#7 – Doberman Pinscher
The nice thing about having a dobie, is chances are it will never have to attack anyone. Most people see a Doberman and your property and any thoughts of entering are quickly squashed.
#8 – Komondor
Known for the unique cords most people give them, the Komondor is another livestock protection dog that was bred to stay with the flock and protect without the assistance of his owner. They are very “reserved and serious” with strangers, and since they are bred to work alone, you can be assured your home is protected while you are gone. (Source: American Kennel Club)
#9 – Belgian Malinois
This herding dog is intent on making sure no one hurts her family. Their intensity and drive to protect has made them very popular in schulzhund training as well as guard dog work.
#10 – Rottweiler
Like the dobie, the rotty can probably get away with guarding your house just on his looks. Intimidating to look at, the Rottweiler is sweet and easy going with his family. But don’t be fooled, if he feels you are threatening his family, he can turn fierce quickly.
#11 – Bullmastiffs
Bullmastiffs are brave and loyal, always there to protect. Their look and size can be a bit intimidating as well, which doesn’t hurt! However, despite their reputation they can also be very affectionate.
#12 – Rhodesian Ridgebacks
Ridgebacks are very loving and affectionate their family, but very reserved with strangers, which makes them great watch/guard dogs. They were originally bred as hunters and family protectors.
Would you add any breeds to this list? Any you disagree with? Leave a comment below!
Toledo, United States.
