The strong protective nature of certain breeds of dogs is one of the aspects most appreciated by owners. This is because some of these owners live alone or in isolated areas that require greater security.
For this reason, the vigilant attitude of these dogs and the way they alert give more confidence to owners who, for different reasons, feel more vulnerable and unprotected in their own homes.
These guard dogs are born with the natural predisposition to take care and protect their family of reference. A tendency that they inherit from their ancestors, who may have done work such as grazing or guarding livestock, among other cases.
In short, in today’s article, we have made a selection of the best guard dogs. Read on and find out what they can offer beyond safety!
Guard Dog Breeds
Considering their lineage history and their own physical characteristics, here are some of the most notable guard dog breeds:
- German Shepherd: this guard dog breed is not only one of the most popular in the world, but the one most associated with protecting a home. Another feature that distinguishes the German Shepherd is the emotional bond it builds with its adopted family and also the courage with which it acts to protect it. Indeed, it is not strange that he goes out to defend any member in case he notices a danger. However, it should be noted that it is a sociable dog breed that also gets along with children.
- Boxer: For its part, the Boxer is also distinguished by its loyalty. Indeed, they show a particularly attentive treatment with the small children of the house. In addition, they are used to watch, being attentive to any movement or noise.
- Rottweiler: this breed of dog imposes its robustness, an appearance capable of intimidating any stranger. Despite this, the Rottweiler is affectionate and playful with its adoptive family. It just needs to be properly trained and socialized to distinguish visitors from intruders.
- Doberman – Another dog with an imposing appearance. One aspect of the Doberman that should be noted is its sensitivity, especially in hearing. Overall, it is a very observant dog and also obedient. A behavior that, in turn, can be stimulated by exercise and play sessions.
- Great Dane: The stature of this dog can be intimidating, which it makes up for with its affable nature. Despite this, the Great Dane is capable of deterring anyone who tries to invade its territory with its loud bark.
- Bernard: The primary distinguishing feature of this dog breed is its affectionate and friendly attitude. The St. Bernard is also distinguished by its calmness, although it is not advisable to trust it, as it can be fierce when it comes to defending the boundaries of the property where it lives.
- Bernese Mountain Dog: One of the instincts of this breed of dog is based on the protection of its territory. And it is that the Bernese Mountain Dog’s large size added to its ability to be vigilant make it a very effective guard dog.
- Bullmastiff: its large size precedes it. However, the Bullmastiff has the disadvantage of having a docile and homely character. Because of its balanced temperament, it is considered one of the best guard dogs. And while not all guard dogs are large, this physical characteristic gives them greater authority.
Can a Guard Dog Also Be Affectionate?
As we have already said, a dog’s protective instinct is compatible with the fact that it is also affectionate. It all depends on the education and socialization he has received.
It is recommended to entrust this education to a professional, who will first assess the ability of the hairy to be trained as a guard dog. And after meeting a series of requirements, he will attempt to develop a series of skills in the dog while teaching him to control his instincts.
The most common is to focus this type of training on vigilance, without resorting to attack or defense, which could have harmful effects for the dog itself but also for those around it, whether known or not.
For all these reasons, it is essential to consult a professional who, in addition to evaluating the animal, will advise you on the best way to educate it to become a guard dog, without sacrificing its most tender side. Indeed, we must not forget that what we are looking for with this type of education is to exploit the alertness and vigilance capacities of the dog, and not to make him become introverted or worse, aggressive.
