When we think of a guard dog, we often imagine a large breed with an intimidating appearance. But what if we tell you some small dogs also make excellent protective dogs? They may be compact in size, but their courage, loyalty, and loud bark can rival even the large breeds.
These popular guard dogs were originally bred for hunting, guarding, or companionship. Their strong protective instincts, fearless attitude, and size make them excellent guard dogs for apartment dwellers. They establish firm bonds with their owners but are suspicious of strangers.
While selecting the right dog for apartment living, one has to consider their exercise requirements. Many large dog breeds might not be suited for your apartment due to their high energy levels and need for a large space.
On the other hand, some small breeds having high energy levels are satisfied with indoor play time. Here are the top 7 protective dog breeds for apartments.
Protective Dog Breeds for Apartments
1. Miniature Schnauzer
Breed Profile
Height: 12 to 14 inches
Weight: 11 to 12 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12 to 15 years
Miniature Schnauzers are the bearded dogs that were originally bred for working alongside man. According to PetMD, they stand 12 to 14 inches tall. They are called “zwergschnauzer,” which means “dwarf schnauzer” in German.
Mini Schnauzers are friendly, loyal, intelligent, and brave dogs. They are naturally inclined to protect their owners and property. However, they are a bit wary of strangers, making them great guard dogs.
Since they are the smallest of the three Schnauzer breeds, they can adapt well to apartment living. These active dogs require one hour of daily exercise to stay fit. You can easily carry these portable dogs anywhere you go.
2. French Bulldog
Breed Profile
Height: 11 to 13 inches
Weight: Under 28 pounds
Life Expectancy: 10 to 12 years
French Bulldogs are dogs with wrinkly faces, bat ears, and short snouts. These sweet-natured dogs have plenty of energy for brisk walks. Although they do not possess the traits of a typical guard dog, their alertness and protective nature make them one of the best guard dog breeds.
They are highly attentive and bark quickly to alert their owners of potential threats and unfamiliar situations. Frenchies are the mini-clowns that keep smiling wherever they go. French Bulldogs make great pets for singles and families living in apartments due to their compact size.
They are the wonderful lapdogs who crave companionship and love spending time with their owners. Frenchies are easygoing and adaptable dogs that are easy to train. According to PetPlan, they need up to one hour of exercise for physical and mental stimulation.
3. Boston Terrier
Breed Profile
Height: 10 to 12 inches
Weight: 12 to 25 pounds
Life Expectancy: 11 to 13 years
Boston Terrier is perfect for apartment dwellers looking for a loyal companion. They have a gentle disposition with an endearing sense of humor. These easy-to-train dogs are not natural guard dogs, but can make wonderful watchdogs.
Boston Terriers have excellent hearing ability. They are very protective of their owners, having an alert nature and a tendency to bark at potential threats. Otherwise, they rarely bark—it is another trait that makes them well-suited for living in apartments.
These loving, devoted, and enthusiastic dogs enjoy sitting in your lap and snuggling under the blankets. They need a daily walk to channel their energy in a positive way. A few walks around the block provide adequate physical and mental stimulation.
4. Pug
Breed Profile
Height: 10 to 13 inches
Weight: 14 to 18 pounds
Life Expectancy: 13 to 15 years
One of the biggest Instagram stars, Pugs are the pint-sized pups that were originally bred as lapdogs in China. These mischievous and affectionate dogs are active but not hyper. They are moderately protective of their territory and their humans.
However, they probably do not make the best guard dogs. Pugs’ laid-back attitude and quietness make them ideal for living in apartments and other confined spaces. These even-tempered fellows easily become friends with everybody, including strangers and other pets, especially with proper socialization.
Indoor playtime and short exercise will fulfill their energy needs; no backyard is required! Pugs are curious and intelligent dogs who happily follow directions.
5. Chihuahua
Breed Profile
Height: 5 to 8 inches
Weight: Under 6 pounds
Life Expectancy: 14 to 16 years
The world’s smallest dogs, Chihuahuas, are good companions that form strong bonds with their owners. Often known as “Velcro dogs,” Chihuahuas are very protective of their space and their humans. They will bark in their owner’s lap if anybody tries to get close to them.
They make excellent watchdogs who will kick up a ruckus when an unfamiliar person tries to approach their home. Chihuahuas’ compact size, lively personalities, and loyalty make them well-suited for apartment living.
They do not need much space to move around and have relatively lower exercise needs. Also, they can get much of their exercise through indoor play sessions. Chihuahuas can adapt to various lifestyles until they receive adequate physical and mental stimulation.
6. Dachshund
Breed Profile
Height: 5 to 9 inches
Weight: 11 to 32 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12 to 16 years
Dachshund, also known as sausage dog or wiener dog, is a lively fellow having a keen sense of smell. These rambunctious and playful fellows love staying close to their favorite human all the time. They are very protective of their family and territory.
Dachshunds become very aggressive when they see a potential danger nearby. They will bark even if the mail carrier or a new friend arrives. Their hunting history adds to their ability to serve as a watchdog. These active dogs have moderate energy levels.
These adorable dogs with short legs are ideal for apartment living. However, they tend to bark a lot, which might become a problem for your neighbors. Additionally, their strong prey drive makes them unsuitable for multi-pet households.
7. Brussels Griffon
Breed Profile
Height: 7 to 10 inches
Weight: 8 to 10 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12 to 15 years
These playful, loving, and loyal dogs were originally bred for hunting purposes. Brussels Griffon forms strong bonds with their owners and are the true “Velcro dogs.” Their high intelligence, fearless nature, and protective instincts make them ideal watchdogs.
They tend to bark at strangers, but are not a good candidate for guard dogs due to their small size. Griffons have a lot of energy, and they need plenty of exercise to stay happy and healthy. They are good for apartment living and homes with small backyards, according to Hill’s Pet.
Griffons are not tolerant of extremely hot or cold temperatures and cannot be left alone for extended periods. However, Brussels Griffons have a stubborn streak due so you have to stay consistent and patient through proper training.
Conclusion
Not all protective dogs are large in size. Some small dogs also make excellent watchdogs due to their alert nature and protective instincts. At the same time, they are suitable for apartment living due to their compact size.
If you are planning to adopt a small protective dog for your apartment, one of the best dog breeds mentioned in this article might be the right fit for you. Just make sure to train them not to bark excessively and provide them regular exercise!
