Best guard dog breeds that are kind, gentle, and wonderful with families. These devoted dogs will make wonderful pets if trained properly.
Whether you want a loyal hunting dog or a cute companion, adopting a dog is a big decision. However, you’ve undoubtedly considered getting a guard dog if you want to increase the level of security in your house, but that comes with more responsibility. A guard dog can help keep you safe in addition to installing cameras and special safety locks around your property. However, before bringing one of these breeds into your home, there are a few things to consider. Not everyone is responsible, and proper training is essential. There is a list of breeds to choose from at Georgia Veterinary Associates. They warn that while adopting and training a guard dog can be costly, the extra peace of mind they provide at home or even while traveling makes the expense worthwhile. These dog breeds, which range from smaller ones like the adorable and hairy Puli to larger ones like the bullmastiff, are loyal, intelligent, and fearless. After selecting a guard dog breed, make sure to investigate trustworthy, ethical breeders to ensure that you adopt a healthy, contented puppy. Next, look for a trainer who can assist you in ways other than just “sit” and “stay. Here we discuss the following breeds and their features and adoption.
English Mastiff
According to history, when the Roman emperor invaded Britain, Julius Caesar’s army engaged in combat with English mastiffs. With a weight of over 200 pounds, the breed is imposing by nature and physically impressive. They have a strong sense of familial loyalty. They can be difficult to manage because of their size, so training is essential.
Height: at least 30 inches
160–230 pounds in weight
Life Expectancy: 6–10 years
Anatolian Shepherd
Working dogs, Anatolian shepherds are often stubborn. They have an innate instinct to defend their flock and are bred to be watchdogs. These smart dogs need a lot of exercise, socialization, and training. In order to prevent them from escaping, you should also make sure your property is secure.
27 to 29 inches tall
80–150 pounds in weight
Expected lifespan: 11–13 years
Belgian Malanois
If you’ve ever seen a police dog or a dog in the military in a film or television program, you’ve probably seen a Belgian Malanois. These strong and perceptive canines need a lot of mental and physical stimulation in addition to extensive training. First-time dog owners or families with small children might not be a good fit for this breed.
20–26 inches tall
40–80 pounds in weight
Expected lifespan: 14–16 years
Boerboel
A boerboel, also referred to as a South African mastiff, is an excellent choice for defending property against intruders. They are renowned for their intelligence and self-assurance, and when trained properly, they make wonderful family companions. The breed is fiercely devoted and strong.
Height: 24 to 27 inches
150–200 pounds in weight
Expected lifespan: 9–11 years
Great Pyrenees
This stunning breed was first developed as livestock guard dogs in the Pyrenees Mountains. They need moderate exercise and get along well with families.
25 to 32 inches tall
85 to 100 pounds in weight
Expected lifespan: 10–12 years
German Shepherd
German Shepherds are intelligent, devoted, and affectionate pets that are quick to defend their family. German Shepherds are among the most popular larger dog breeds and are also frequently used as police dogs, with adults typically weighing between 22 and 26 inches.
22–26 inches tall
50 to 90 pounds in weight
Expected lifespan: 7–10 years
Doberman Pinscher
In addition to being smart, strong, and quick guard dogs, Doberman Pinschers are also wonderful companions due to their gentle disposition and quick learning curve. Owners should schedule lengthy daily walks or hikes because they require a lot of exercise.
Height: 24 to 28 inches
60 to 100 pounds in weight
Life Expectancy: 10-12 years
Rottweiler
Despite their intimidating appearance and weight of up to 135 pounds, Rottweilers make dependable, self-assured, and devoted family members. Rotties can be playful and affectionate as well, but be sure to give them lots of socialization and training because they can be territorial.
22–27 inches in height
80–135 pounds in weight
Expected lifespan: nine to ten years
Estrela Mountain Dog
This breed, which gets its name from the Estrela Mountains in Portugal, was once a flock guardian and can be equally protective of its family. Particularly affectionate, Estrela Mountain Dogs make excellent companions for households with small children.
24.5 to 29 inches in height
Weight range: 77–132 lbs.
Expected lifespan: 10–14 years
Cane Corso
The Cane Corso, whose name means “bodyguard dog” in Latin and has a history dating back to the Roman Empire, is a noble, intelligent, and kind breed with exceptional guarding instincts. They thrive in canine sports like tracking and dock diving and require a lot of exercise in addition to early and regular training and socialization.
23.5-27.5 inches in height
Weight in relation to height
Expected lifespan: 9–12 years
Akita
In Japan, where the breed originated in the 17th century, Akitas are revered for their bravery and devotion to their owners, and they are symbolic of happiness and longevity. Since they are independent thinkers and don’t always get along with strangers or other dogs, it’s crucial to start socialization and training them consistently at a young age.
Height: 24 to 28 inches
70–130 pounds in weight
Expected lifespan: 10–14 years
Appenzeller Sennenhund
The Appenzeller Sennehunds were bred to work on farms and drive cattle because they are quick and nimble. They are more suited to homes with lots of room for them to run and play because they are intelligent, quick to pick things up, and easy to train.
19 to 22 inches in height
48–70 pounds in weight
Expected lifespan: 12–15 years
Australian Shepherd
Australian Shepherds are popular with ranchers because of their exceptional herding instincts, but they also make excellent guard dogs because they are intelligent, obedient, and protective of their families. Due to their high energy levels and need for daily exercise, Australians do best in homes with lots of room to roam.
18 to 23 inches in height
40–65 pounds in weight
Expected lifespan: 12–15 years
Belgian Laekenois
The AKC only recognized the Belgian Laekenois in 2020, but it’s a great addition to this list. Its rough coat distinguishes it from other Belgian breeds, such as the Malanois. The herding dog is amiable with those it knows well and devoted to its owner. A robust and energetic dog is to be expected.
Height: 24 to 26 inches
55 to 65 pounds in weight
Expected lifespan: 12–15 years
Briard
Briards, sometimes referred to as “a heart wrapped in fur,” make excellent companions for children because of their devoted and endearing personalities. They are ideal for owners who prefer four-legged companions when running or hiking because they also enjoy being active. Because their long coats need regular brushing and bathing, they are also a good fit for people who don’t mind doing the grooming.
22–27 inches in height
55 to 100 pounds in weight
Twelve years is the average lifespan.
Staffordshire bull terrier Stan competes in the terrier group judging at the 143rd Westminster Kennel Club dog show in Madison Square Garden on February 12, 2019 in New York City. Photo courtesy of Sarah Stiergetty Images
Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Staffordshire Bull Terriers have a lot of muscle and strength. They have a lot of energy, are brave, and are very trainable.
14–16 inches tall
28–38 pounds in weight
Life Expectancy: 12-14 years
Puli
Despite being smaller than most guard dogs, Pulik’s unique corded hair and exceptional herding instincts make a big impression. They make excellent playmates for children because of their quickness, cunning, loyalty, and lively disposition.
16–17 inches tall
25 to 35 pounds in weight
Giant Schnauzer
Giant Schnauzers, who were first bred in the Bavarian Alps to guard houses, hotels, and farms, are still great guard dogs. They are also smart, easy to train, and loving with their families. Giants require weekly grooming in addition to a lot of exercise.
23.5-27.5 inches in height
55 to 85 pounds in weight
Expected lifespan: 12–15 years
Bergamasco Sheepdog
Bergamasco Sheepdogs are gregarious animals that show affection to both their families and other animals. Their distinctive long, layered coat is surprisingly low-maintenance; they only need a few annual baths and no brushing because they don’t shed.
22-23.5 inches in height
57–84 pounds in weight
Expected lifespan: 13–15 years
Boxer Dog
Naturally vigilant, fearless, and observant, boxers make excellent guard dogs. Boxers are a good fit for families with children because of their playful, patient, and protective nature as well as the fact that they long for a lot of time with their humans.
Height: 21.5 to 25 inches
65 to 80 pounds in weight
Expected lifespan: 10–12 years
