Looking for a furry companion that can keep you safe and protected? Look no further than these top six dog breeds for protection. Read until the end for a bonus most people don’t think about.
These fierce canines have it all: ease of training, loyalty and athleticism, making them ideal for those looking for a guard dog or a family pet that can also serve as a protector.
German Shepherds
These dogs top the list for their intelligence, loyalty and innate ability to protect their family. They are often used in law enforcement, search and rescue, and military roles due to their courage and strength. As with any popular breed of dog, use care to find a reputable breeder with good references before you select your pup.
Belgian Malinois
They have gained popularity for being commonly used in military and police roles. They are highly intelligent and trainable. These dogs are known for their intense work ethic and unwavering loyalty to their handlers. They can be very energetic and tend to require lots of attention from their owners and handlers. They are dogs that need to work. If you are not interested in actively giving your dog attention that will challenge the animal physically and mentally, you might want to look for another breed.
Boxers
Fearless and well-known for being playful and displaying affection, boxers have nearly boundless energy. They are also highly intelligent and social, making them great family pets. Despite their playful nature, these dogs can quickly become protective of their family if they sense danger.
Rottweilers
This breed is known for its strength and protective instincts. They are highly devoted to their families and will fiercely protect them from any perceived threats. Just the appearance of these distinctive dogs sometimes causes fear among those unfamiliar with canines. But properly trained and socialized Rottweilers are kind and playful. Early training is key because the dogs grow to be so strong it can be difficult to control them if they haven’t learned to obey early in life.
Doberman Pinschers
Pinschers are one of the most recognizable breeds due to their distinctive sleek and muscular build. They are highly loyal and protective of their families, making them great guard dogs. Intelligent and fearless, Dobermans have been used for a wide range of protective duties for decades.
Bullmastiffs
They are a large and powerful breed that were originally bred as guard dogs to discourage poachers on English estates. They are highly protective of their families, yet calm and gentle with children, making them a great choice for families with kids. These are huge dogs with big appetites and big, well, outputs. They also have been known to drool. So keep that in mind.
Using a Dog for Home Protection
Whether you’re looking for a fierce protector or a loyal family pet, these breeds offer the perfect combination of intelligence, loyalty and athleticism. With proper training and socialization, these dogs can become an important part of the family and a reliable source of protection for years to come. Please keep in mind that training a dog to be a protector and defender is something that often requires a specialized dog trainer and a considerable investment in time and money. Once the dog is “fully” trained, you will also need to provide ongoing practice to keep the animal’s skills sharp.
Finally, consider that any dog, especially the smaller breeds that like to bark, can serve as both a deterrent and an early warning system in your overall home-defense plan. Their acute hearing, incredible sense of smell and devotion to their “pack” often mean dogs will be alert to anything out of the ordinary and will alert you to it as well.
