The Best Breeds For Guard Dogs

Many people want a dog around the home as a form of protection. Dogs instinctively are pack animals and take care of their own. Some breeds are better suited to be guard dogs than others though. It could be due to their imposing size, reputation, or inclination to bark at anything that moves. Here is a look at some breeds that make good guard dogs; although it is also important to remember that each dog has his own individual personality.

If you want a dog that is probably going to be a good barker then you may want to think about a Scottish terrier, German shepherd, rottweiler, doberman pinscher, West Highland white terrier, or a miniature schnauzer. These dogs are good at alerting you to intruders by barking at unusual people and noises. Their barking alone may be enough to drive away an intruder.

Large breeds such as rottweilers, Rhodesian ridgebacks, and weimaraners were bred as hunting dogs but were gradually trained as guard dogs because they are so territorial and intimidating. Dobermans on the other hand have been specifically bred to act as guard dogs.

Some trainers say female dogs make the best guard dogs since they have a maternal instinct that makes them want to protect their human family. Others feel that male dogs are the best guard dogs because they are more territorial. Although certain dog breeds have evolved to develop the characteristics of a good guard dog, the end result will have a lot to do with his individual training.

For instance, you may want a dog that barks and alerts you to danger, but you certainly don't want a dog that barks all the time for no reason. You may want a big dog because he looks intimidating but you don't want one that attacks or bites people without being provoked.

Just like a dog you get solely for companionship, your guard dog will be the best he can be if he is correctly trained so he knows what proper behavior is and what it is not. Good guard dogs are very smart and easily trainable as long as you are consistent and train by reward.

You don't necessarily need a big dog in order to have a good watchdog. Some of the smaller breeds are very protective and quite vocal. You should have no trouble finding a guard dog that is the perfect match for your family as a beloved pet as well.

When looking for a guard dog, here are some breeds you might consider. These have a history of being used as guard dogs because of their innate tendencies to protect and defend: American bulldog, black Russian terrier, boxer, bullmastiff, chow chow, doberman pinscher, German shepherd, giant schnauzer, pit bull, Rhodesian ridgeback, rottweiler, and shar pei.

Some of these dogs make excellent family pets while doubling as the family guardian. With proper training, some of these breeds can go on to have careers with the military or police force where their unique qualities can be put to good use.