
For many people, a dog is more than just a pet – a dog can be a companion, a friend and even a security measure for your home and family. But a lot about their protective character will depend on the natural traits of their breed. While many dogs are likely to be a little protective of their families, some are simply too friendly and willing to cozy up to strangers to serve well as a guard dog. Getting to know the little quirks and traits of common guard dog breeds is very important if you want to ensure that your pooch will perfectly fit in your family and lifestyle. That is why we made a list of some of the best breeds to use as guard dogs.
What Makes a Great Guard Dog?
Before you start looking into specific breeds, it may be useful to learn a little bit about what makes a good guard dog. Good guard dogs will be very loyal and devoted to their family – they may even be protective to the point of becoming aloof or standoffish around strangers. Of course, the ideal four legged protector of your home won’t be excessively violent or unpredictable. The ideal character of a dog has the perfectly balanced combination of loving and protective traits. The best guard dogs should have natural protective instincts, likely to sound the alarm if someone unfamiliar to them attempts to enter the house or set foot on the property. But it is also crucial for the dog to know when danger is not present – no one wants a friend to be greeted by a vicious attack from an overprotective pupper. So, here are our top picks for the best guard dog breeds out there . (Photo credit: Denisa Doudova/Shutterstock)

1.
German Shepherd

2.
Akita

3.
Bullmastiff

4.
Doberman Pinscher

5.
Kuvasz
:

6.
American Staffordshire Terrier

7.
Rottweiler

8.
Giant Schnauzer
:

9.
Rhodesian Ridgeback
:
