Home defense can take on many shapes and forms. But none of them are quite as adorable as a guard dog. Man’s best friend is a loyal animal, and the right breed can help you ward off would-be intruders before they even arrive and fight for your family. The best guard dogs are going to fit your lifestyle, present themselves in a protective manner, and be capable of defending your family when push comes to shove. Learn more about your options, the best guard dog breeds, and what to prepare for when adding a four-legged member to your household.
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What Is the Best Guard Dog?
Dogs are great companions. With the right training and environments, they can thrive as a part of your family. But overall, there are different breeds featuring different characteristics.
Here are some of the best guard dogs you can add to your home with some important considerations from the American Kennel Club:
1. Akita
Akitas are high-energy, trainable dogs capable of growing between 70 lbs. and 130 lbs. Their barks are known to alert owners to threats, and when properly trained, they do great around families. They’re decent with children, but not so much with other dogs.
2. Belgian Malinois
Have you ever wondered, “Why do Navy SEALs only use Belgian Malinois dogs?” They’re very smart animals, great around other animals and family, and can even work well around outsiders.
A Belgian Malinois, however, is one of the most trainable dogs in the world and stands ready to guard your family with one of the most impressive resumes of any breed.
3. Boxer
Are you going to have to clean up a bit more drool than normal? Absolutely. Boxers drool and are loving animals. But you’re also safe as can be with one of these lovable dopes in your home – especially if you have children. Bred to be companions, Boxers make some of the best guard dogs for kids, as they’re great with children while still being on guard.
Boxers develop that guard dog instinct while they’re still in adolescence, so it’s exceptionally cute and heartwarming to see a dog that’s essentially still a puppy go ham on anyone or anything it sees as a threat.
4. Bullmastiff
When you need a breed that’s able to get along with other dogs, children, and humans of all kinds, the Bullmastiff is there to answer the call. These loving dogs are always on alert, very trainable, and don’t require much grooming.
Of course, you’ll need to make some time for your four-legged friend to get out its energy. This breed is one of the best guard dogs for kids.
5. Catahoula Leopard Dog
Hailing from Catahoula Parish, Louisiana, the Catahoula Leopard Dog is known for its unique coat, but it’s also a great family guard dog. This is a great option for an active family, as they do well around others, are affectionate, and work well with other canines. But note, they have energy and aren’t afraid to use it. This is one of the reasons they also make great hunting dogs.
6. Caucasian Shepherd Dog
Somewhat of a loner and not as open to strangers, the Caucasian Shepherd Dog may not be the most sociable, but it’s more than capable. If you’re looking for a dog that’s ready to run and play with you and your other furry friends, this may not be the right fit.
But standing as tall as 30” and typically weighing more than 100 lbs., if someone does trigger this breed’s protective side, they’re going to have a formidable opponent to contend with.
7. Doberman Pinscher
Don’t let their demeanor fool you. Doberman Pinschers are arguably the best guard dogs for families. They check multiple boxes, including being great with kids, having lots of energy, being very trainable, being playful, and doing well in social situations. This is all on top of being excellent watchdogs, ready to defend their family.
8. German Shepherd
Highly intelligent, playful, always on guard… there’s virtually no downside to having a German Shepherd. If you’re looking for an all-around great guard dog, this is one of the best breeds you can find for your family. They do require lots of attention to get their minds and feet racing, but if you can handle it, they can handle their duty to protect.
9. Puli
The appeal of having a Puli isn’t about size. They aren’t the strongest breed for the task, and their mop-like appearance means you’re going to have to get ready to make regular grooming part of your routine. But if you’re looking for a lovable dog that’s one of the most protective dog breeds and capable of being trained and alerting your family to danger, you’ve found your match.
10. Rottweiler
One of the coolest things about Rottweilers is that they’re able to undergo tremendous training and learn it all. One of the worst things about Rotts is that they have a terrible reputation because people don’t take on this responsibility seriously.
This breed is lovable, and with proper training, they can do well around other family members, including kids and dogs. They’re protective and high-energy, as well, only adding to their status as one of the elite guard dog breeds.
11. Staffordshire Bull Terrier
They can be trained, they’re good with others, they’re decent with other dogs, and they have plenty of energy to boot. The Staffordshire Bull Terrier isn’t the largest breed on our list, but they’re loyal and always on alert for their families. They’re well-rounded guard dogs, though low in stature.
Before Adding a Dog to Your Home…
There’s no doubt that having a guard dog can be a great addition to your home, but this isn’t just adding a new centerpiece or piece of furniture; it’s a living being. Whether you adopt or shop, either way, you’ll be adding a member to your family.
This means you’ll have to account for the long-term responsibilities of owning a dog, including:
- Extra expenses for food, healthcare, boarding, etc.
- You’ll need to make time to give them the attention they need and deserve.
- Dogs live 10 to 13+ years of age. Your commitment isn’t just for today but for over the next decade.
- Training takes time, and even then, accidents will happen. Be prepared.
- Be sure to do research on whether or not your breed sheds and how much, if that matters to you.
- Dogs that are being adopted can be great, but they often need some extra TLC. You’ll want to account for any and all special needs when adopting.
- Some breeds are viewed in a negative light, which could increase your home insurance premiums as well as make it more difficult for those living within HOAs.
Overall, the best guard dogs for families are the ones that fit their lifestyle. You’re adding a new best friend to your home. Prepare accordingly, and understand that this is a commitment that will affect them for the rest of their lives.
Are Dobermans the Best Guard Dogs?
Again, determining which breed works best for your home is always going to be based on a number of personal factors. But Dobermans are consistently ranked as some of the most intelligent, capable guard dogs in the world.
They’re bursting with athleticism, easily trained, and continue to be what many consider the best guard dog available.
Having a guard dog is great for many reasons, including companionship and for making a better alternative to other means of self-defense. The best guard dogs are compatible with your lifestyle and protect your household. No matter what walk of life you’re in, there’s a breed that’s right for you.
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