20 Best Guard Dogs To Offer You The Supreme Protection

Dogs have been man’s best friends since the dawn of civilization. They have the innate nature of protecting their owner at all costs. There’re a plethora of dog breeds throughout the world. Each of these breeds has specific characteristics.

There’re prominent breeds like the Australian Shepherd, Tibetan Mastiff, and Doberman Pinschers. The Staffordshire Bull Terrier and Bullmastiff could also come to your liking. Rottweilers or Boerboels could also be worthy guard dogs if trained right.

So, before getting a dog for your home, ask yourself, “Do I need a guard dog?” If you want your house and possessions to be safe from thieves and burglars, you need one of the best guard dogs in the world.

Why Get A Guard Dog?

At the first sound of any burglar or break-in, a guard dog will become alert and let you know of the possible crime by barking loudly.

Although all dogs have the nature of protecting the owner, not every dog is fit to be a guard dog. There’re several factors regarding the statement. For guard dogs, you need breeds of dogs that aren’t friendly with strangers.

Guard dogs will stop at nothing to protect their owner and his house. These dogs are serious and won’t get distracted by a stick or ball that easily. They’ll protect your belongings at any cost and make sure that nothing gets taken from them.

Are Guard Dogs Worth It?

It’s definitely worth it to get a guard god if you’re a believer in age-old traditions or just want to add to the existing aesthetics of your house.

Guard dogs have been a companion to human households for thousands of years. In modern times, you may have other digital measures of security to protect your belongings. But a guard dog will enhance the safety and protection many times.

Also, your dog can travel with you and protect you on the road from any threats you may face. Having a trusty companion with you where you live can be quite an enriching experience. Additionally, taking care of a pet is a good hobby too!

Is A Guard Worth The Investment?

Certainly! A guard dog is well worth any investment, monetarily and time-wise.

By getting yourself a guard dog, you’re not only getting a guard but also a lifelong companion who’ll protect you and stay by your side through thick and thin. You should treat your dog as a family member rather than an employee because it can do anything to protect you from danger, only out of love and obedience.

Difference Between Guard Dog And Watch Dog

A watch dog is more of a stationary or inert dog that will keep your premises on watch at all times. They’re more popular among herders and farmers. But a guard dog will keep your house secure by attacking any prospective burglar or someone posing a security threat.

Think of it as a difference between a receptionist and a security guard. While the receptionist will screen people when people enter the office, it’s subtle. And they’ll always greet strangers with a smile. On the other hand, security guards will be alert and cautious whenever any intruder enters the building. And he can apply force whenever anything goes wrong.

Watchdogs and guard dogs have the same type of difference. But in the end, it all comes down to the training the dog gets. If the dog socializes more, it’ll turn up to be a watchdog. Watchdogs can bark like hell but won’t attack random strangers and bite them. But guard dogs will attack any stranger if it feels threatened.

So, guard dog vs. watchdog, the choice is up to you!

20 Best Guard Dogs To Own In 2022

Let’s get down to information and facts about some of the best guard dog breeds. We especially picked these breeds to provide you with the list of the best guard dogs to own.

1.Australian Shepherd

The Australian Shepherd dog breed, despite its name, originated in the western United States, not Australia, in the 1840s. They had been bred to herd cattle and are still working dogs at heart. You can get this breed for guarding purposes because they’re responsive to tasks and tend to stay busy with work.

Australian Shepherds were developed to be aggressive with animals, and if you don’t give them solid and confident leadership in the home, they’ll. It makes them unsuitable pets for inexperienced or fearful owners.

This breed thinks of everyone as a part of its flock. So, you should train your Aussie to stop nipping and chasing your family members, children specifically.

2. German Shepherd

As the name says, the German Shepherd is a German breed. They were bred for sheep herding and protection against wolves, coyotes, and humans on the farm.

This breed gained popularity due to its usage in the German military and police. They have a higher intelligence among the dog breeds, and they tend to be loyal to their owner. They can sniff out bad intentions quickly, which makes the German Shepherd a perfect guard dog.

They’re quick, agile, loyal, intelligent, and may even be a little goofy around the house. They won’t object to any command after training and carry it out to the letter.

3. Tibetan Mastiff

No one wants to mess with a Tibetan Mastiff after seeing it for the first time. They look big and intimidating, enough to make anyone afraid for the first time. They have one of the strongest bite forces among dog breeds. It’s a great contender for guard dogs due to its watchful and territorial nature.

They’re made of 99% muscle to protect the ones they love and care for. With its powerful jaws and colossal build, it’ll easily scare away thieves and burglars from your house.

Tibetan Mastiffs are a giant breed of dog, so it needs a lot of calories to go by the day. They have a heavy coat of fur, which you should be concerned about before taking a Tibetan Mastiff home. They’ll shed regularly and heavily.

4. Cane Corso

They’re a breed that thrives on having a task to do. This ancient Italian dog breed was created to protect land and hunt large animals like wild boars.

Cane Corsos are strong and athletic dogs best suited to pet owners with experience and extensive, securely enclosed yards. They’ll need their owners to assign them a task, or they’ll find their methods to pass the time, most likely by engaging in destructive activities.

For a guard dog, Cane Corso is a great contender. They’re loyal and obedient if trained properly and highly active, so you need to keep in mind to give them enough time. Plus, they shed very little, so it’s a plus point if you don’t want to take the hassle of cleaning dog hairs.

5. Doberman Pinscher

This breed of dog came into existence in the late 19th century, so they’re kind of a new breed in the world of dogs. However, this breed gained popularity due to its recognizable style and build. Also, they’re very loyal, courageous, and intellectual, which people love.

The Dobermans have a fearsome reputation. Those who don’t know them dread them, as they’re portrayed as aggressive and vicious. True, they’re fearsome watchdogs, but they’re also kind, sensitive, and loving dogs.

They don’t seek out trouble, but they’re courageous and protect their family and territory if they feel threatened. Their humble nature makes them one of the best apartment guard dogs out there.

However, they’re very active dogs, so they need a lot of exercises. Be sure to spend enough time with your dog so that it doesn’t feel bored. This breed is also the best guard dog for first-time owners.

6. Boxer

They’re also referred to as the “Peter Pan” of dog breeds due to their playful temperament and endless energy. Boxers don’t reach full maturity until they’re three years old, giving them one of the longer-lasting puppyhoods of any dog breed.

Boxers are observant, clever, and courageous, but they’re friendly as well. Their devotion to their family is notable. And they enjoy playing with the family, but they can be stubborn, especially if you try to train them harshly.

These breeds are often used in the military, police, and search-and-rescue operations due to their strength and courage. When particularly taught for guard duty, Boxers make excellent watchdogs and restrain an intruder the same way a Mastiff can. They can also make a great guard dog with proper training.

7. Staffordshire Bull Terrier

They originated from Britain in the 1900s. Bred to be a small and fast-fighting dog, they still live up to that reputation to this day. As a bonus, they’re now much friendly and sweet to the owners and children. These traits make them one of the best small guard dogs available.

They’re great as watchdogs but aren’t much aggressive in defending the intrusion. It’s because they’re curious by nature, and people-loving characteristic gets them curious about strangers in a non-violent way.

This breed will bark for sure, maybe even chase strangers, but won’t be as aggressive as other guard dog breeds. However, if you’re looking for one of the best family guard dogs, then Staffordshire Bull Terrier can be the right choice.

8. Bullmastiff

The Bullmastiff is a large and muscular dog with an intimidating appearance that serves as a great deterrent to would-be criminals or intruders. When they’re needed, they’re a fierce protector, but when not, they’re a caring family companion.

They don’t need a lot of exercise and attention. They shed little, so you don’t have to deal with much dog hair. However, they’re heavy droolers, and if you aren’t comfortable with that, you should reconsider getting a Bullmastiff.

Bullmastiffs make excellent guard dogs and will defend their house and family to the death if necessary. Their size and confidence deter intruders.

9. Belgian Malinois

This breed of canines was created to be herding dogs. But today, they’re being used in the military and police as guard dogs. They also make a great loving member of the family. They’re affectionate with family members but cautious of strangers until they’ve gotten to know them.

The Malinois has extraordinary watchdog abilities. They use only as much force as is necessary to safeguard their people and property. In this breed, shyness and hostility are never acceptable.

These dogs have a solid and athletic build which is suitable for a guard dog. They’re also brilliant and active. So, they need open spaces to do exercises. Note that they won’t do well in small apartments.

10. Central Asian Shepherd Dog

The Central Asian Shepherd Dogs are big and strong canines with outstanding obedience. They’re one of the ancient dog breeds in the world, and are a strong, healthy, hardy breed as a result of natural selection.

This is a working dog breed with a territorial attitude who has worked as a herding dog, guard dog, watchdog, livestock keeper, and more. This makes them one of the best farm guard dogs.

While they have a strong sense of independence, they’re devoted and loyal to their relatives. Outdoors, these dogs are lively but peaceful and docile indoors, yet they’re always watchful and protective of their owners.

They’re not particularly an energetic breed, but they have the endurance for work and high confidence. That’s why they’re one of the best guard dogs for families.

11. American Staffordshire Terrier

Modern American Staffordshire Terrier breed hails from a mixture of bulldogs and terriers. They’re muscular and aggressive, previously used to hunt boars and manage bulls.
Nowadays, they make an excellent guard dog for households due to their protective attitude and strong jaws. They’re pretty muscular for their size. So, this breed has to be adequately trained to control them on leash.

But, don’t let their appearance and power dishearten you, as they’re very playful and friendly with family members. They’re also kid-friendly. However, they’ll be alerted by a stranger and will attack if the owner is in danger.

They have a small and smooth coat of hair, meaning that they’re simpler to groom and don’t shed much. If you don’t want a gigantic guard dog for your house, then this breed will be the perfect match for you.

12. Appenzeller Sennenhund

This is the rarest of the four old Swiss mountain dog breeds, also known as the Appenzeller Mountain Dog. In the Appenzell region of Switzerland, it began its career as an all-around farm dog, herding livestock, pulling carts, and defending the farm.

Today, the Appenzeller is regarded as a smart, joyful, self-assured, dependable, and fearless working and family dog. They’re great with children but may nip at their heels, thinking of them as part of the herd.

If you don’t live an active lifestyle, this breed might not be the best for you as they have a lot of energy that needs to be diminished daily by lots of exercise and training.

The Appenzeller Sennenhund makes an excellent watchdog and guard dog. They’re very barky whenever they see something out of order. Make sure to give the pup early socialization.

13. Beauceron

Beaucerons are powerful, tough, and massive, reaching heights of up to 27.5 inches at the shoulder, but they’re graceful and well-balanced in every manner.

They have an excellent guard dog quality of protecting the owner at all costs. The heritage of protecting cattle on the farm has undoubtedly passed on to the newer generation of this breed.This breed isn’t for inexperienced dog owners who may find themselves owned by their dominant dog rather than the other way around.

On the other hand, Beaucerons are level-headed watchdogs and guardians who are especially good with the young, the small, and the helpless when properly trained and socialized.

14. Chesapeake Bay Retriever

Waterfowl hunting in Maryland’s harsh and chilly Chesapeake Bay requires a hardy dog. The Chesapeake Bay Retriever was designed to thrive in these challenging conditions. Sailor and Canton, two Newfoundland puppies who survived a shipwreck in the area in 1807, are thought to be his ancestors. They were proven to be excellent retrievers and were bred to native dogs.

It’s no surprise that Chessies enjoy the water, given their ancestry. They become strong, powerful swimmers when introduced to water play at an early age, using their straight or slightly curled tails as a rudder.

The Chessie may have a wacky sense of humor, but his obsessive stubbornness may outshine his humor value. Like any other dog, the Chessie has to be trained and socialized from early childhood. Their sturdy build and high energy make them excellent guard dogs.

15. Bouvier Des Flandres

Starting as a farm dog, this intelligent and hard-working breed still has the capability of protecting property and humans throughout its generations. The Bouvier was a versatile farm dog who could herd cattle, protect the herd, haul carts, and assist the farmer and his family with various duties.

During both World Wars, the Bouvier served as a service dog, a courier, a sentry (particularly by the US military), and a search dog for munitions and mines. It means that this breed is good at guarding the owner.

A special note to remember is you should clean this dog regularly as its coat will collect a lot of dirt and weeds if your dog roams outside daily. But they don’t shed that much. It’s one of the best guard dogs that don’t shed.

16. Estrela Mountain Dog

The Estrela Mountain Dog is a purebred dog native to Portugal’s Estrela Mountains. These pups are brave, protective, and loyal, and they possess many of the most remarkable traits found in today’s dog breeds.

These beautiful puppies are relatively giant and should be kept in larger households with plenty of space to roam. They might not be ideal for living in an apartment. They’re devoted and protective, making them suitable for families of all sizes.

If you’re looking for a loyal friend who’ll protect your house and family while also alerting you to any potential risks, this lovely dog might be the one for you!

17. Belgian Laekenois

In the 1880s, the Belgian Laekenois dog breed was created to herd sheep at the Laken Castle in Brussels. They’re a rare breed among the four Belgian shepherds available.

The Belgian Laekenois is a watchful, loyal dog who enjoys pleasing its owners. Although they cope better with older children than smaller ones, the Belgian Laekenois is a beautiful family dog.

They have a medium energy level, so you don’t have to play with them all the time. But they’re not a fan of staying alone for a long time. Other than that, they’re a loyal breed of dog who’ll do the perfect job of protecting you and your family.

18. Rottweiler

The Rottweiler is the most popular guard dog breed. Originally used as shepherds, the Romans adopted them and turned them into fighting dogs. This dog breed is strong, alert, self-assured, aloof, protective, intelligent, and wary.

Rotties require early socialization, but other than that, it’s an excellent guard dog. Rottweilers are torn between being protective and aggressive. They can become overly protective if they’re not carefully bred for calm, intelligent temperament and adequately educated and trained.

With proper training, Rottweilers are calm and even-tempered dogs who adore their family. They’re constantly on the alert for strangers in or around the house. They must be socialized and trained from a young age.

19. Boerboel

This breed comes from parts of South Africa. Boerboels are known to be exceptionally loving and protective of their human children. They’re excellent guardians, though they can be overprotective.

These giant protectors were developed to protect farms in South Africa from hyenas, lions, and other dangerous animals while also giving companionship to humans.

Even though some basic laws apply, Boerboels are typically docile, simple to groom, and have few health issues. They’re not an easy breed to handle for first-time owners. These dogs are possessive, confident, and prone to tugging and gnawing. They require an aggressive, experienced owner with lots of space for a large, active dog.

20. Caucasian Shepherd Dog

Caucasian Shepherd Dog is one of the most ancient Molasser breeds in the world. They’re indigenous to the Caucasus Mountains and have been present for about 2,000 years. Some say they’re descended from domesticated wolves, while others claim they’re related to Mastiffs and other breeds.

The Caucasian Shepherd Dog is a fiercely devoted protector. Shepherds in the Caucasus Mountains bred these dogs to protect their flocks from predators such as wolves and bears.

In modern times, they frequently use these instincts to function as watchdogs and defenders, albeit they can be hesitant around strangers and don’t tolerate other animals entering their territory.

What Makes Good Guard Dogs?

Not every dog can be a guard dog. Dogs are friendly to humans, but some dogs are less than others.

For a great guard dog, you need your dog to be suspicious and alert of the surroundings. Watchdogs will bark at unusual things, but they bark at everything and don’t attack for the most part. However, a good guard dog is made from proper training.

What Laws Are There Relating To Dogs?

Some basic laws apply to dog owners and their dogs in all states. They’re:

1. License your dog
2. Obey leash laws
3. Vaccinate for rabies
4. Scooping the dog’s poop

How Do You Stay Safe Around Guard dogs?

1. There’re some rules of conduct when you’re near a dog. This goes for every type of dog. These general rules are:
2. Always ask for permission before petting someone else’s dog.
3. Dogs don’t like to get cornered.
4. If a strange dog approaches you, don’t move or run. Dogs love to chase their prey, so they’ll consider you as a threat if you do so.
5. Leave the dog alone if he’s eating. They don’t like it if you bother them.
6. Do not encounter a dog in chains or confined space. They don’t like it.
7. Don’t enter a premise containing a guard dog without the owner beside you. They’re most likely to chase you.

Things To Consider Before Getting A Guard Dog

Getting a dog is a lifetime commitment. And owning a guard dog can be expensive. They need more calories to stay energetic. And you need to give enough time to their training and exercise from puppyhood.

Before you get a guard dog, you should consider the following pointers:

1. Check if you can give enough time.
2. Some dogs are not suitable for small apartments.
3. An active dog breed will need exercises and jobs assigned. Otherwise, they tend to get destructive on the house.
4. If you have kids, check if the breed is child-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can Guard dogs be friendly?

Guard dogs can be friendly with the owner and the family, even a stranger. But it’s not recommended to leave a guard dog unsupervised with a stranger.

Can you take your guard dog for a walk in public?

Guard dogs are sensitive to strangers and unusual activities. You can walk your guard dog in a public area but should always be supervised by the owner and must be on a leash all the time.

Are female dogs good for guard dogs?

Female dogs are believed to make better personal protectors than male dogs due to maternal impulses. Still, male dogs are better at defending property due to their more prominent territorial instinct.

Conclusion

Dogs have been human companions since the dawn of civilization. They can become a family member and a loyal friend ready to give his life to you if needed. Such bonding is rare between humans and any other animals.

If you’re worried about your house’s safety and want an active guardian for your home, then choosing one of the best guard dogs is suitable for you. We hope you find the perfect breed for your requirements!