Brave dogs don’t always mean scary creatures that will make you crawl back to your room whenever you have a look at them.
Rather, many courageous dogs are gentle and nice to everyone, not always raising hackles. They are super protective of their folks, being great pets without barking unnecessarily or showcasing any aggression.
These emotionally balanced dogs are so gentle that, a lot of times, they are also used as therapy dogs. Being brave, their performance in search and rescue dogs is also phenomenal. Humans tend to depend on them in a variety of ways. They prove that courage can exist independently of aggression and hostility.
Gentle giants of the dog world are mostly quiet and situational—not lunging at threats immediately, but they’ll strategise properly, stand their ground, and alert their folks. It’s only when absolutely needed that they would spring into action to protect their family members.
Let’s further discuss the brave and gentle dog breeds that are absolutely perfect as family pets.
Brave but Gentle Dog Breeds
1. Boerboel
Boerboel is one of the bravest dogs out there with a strong protective instinct.
Originally bred with the purpose of guarding the farms in South Africa, this dog still retains all its guard dog characteristics.
They don’t get intimidated easily. There could be a pack of animals pitted against them, and there would be not a single trace of fear on their faces.
WebMD states that they are naturally confident and courageous when compared to other dogs. They showcase fierce loyalty to their families and homes, not taking a step back when a problem arises.
Having said that, these dogs are also supremely gentle.
All you need to do is provide them with early socialisation and training, as it ensures they are well-behaved within the household and turn into great family pets.
2. Norwegian Elkhound
This National Dog of Norway is a jack of all trades. It is a phenomenal hunter, a great guardian, and a fantastic watchdog at home.
These dogs are reserved with strangers. While you take them out for walks at the dog park, you’ll realise they don’t really get along with other animals or make new friends.
Spotted with their silver-grey coats, they are often aloof from others.
However, they can surely adapt to family life at home. Despite not being really playful by nature, they would still be a part of various games at home, played by kids. With a gentleman-like attitude, they win hearts easily!
They are naturally protective! This makes them great watchdogs, who make sure everyone around them is under their observation at all times.
However, don’t take them lightly! AKC mentions they have a history of being elk hunters. They were originally bred to hunt large game, including wolves and bears. They are fearless dogs that don’t have any qualms about showcasing their inherited bravery when required.
3. Black Russian Terrier
This unique-looking dog is one of the bravest canines out there, bred for the purpose of being a military/working dog.
Their appearance can be a bit intimidating. They are massive with a heavy boned structure. On top of that, there is a coarse, all-black coat spread across their bodies.
They can easily scare off an intruder!
However, at heart, they are really gentle. For active families, they can be a great addition as pets as they are super gentle with the children and love playing with them.
Supposedly scary, they are friendly dogs and easily turn into your kids’ best friend.
However, this breed’s training, socialisation, grooming, and exercise needs can be a bit tough, and you’ll have to put in some great commitment to ensure its well-being and tidiness.
4. Great Pyrenees
The Great Pyrenees is a French dog that is known for being a phenomenal livestock guard in the mountains.
It is a brave canine. With a strong territorial instinct, it would defend its loved ones with a great commitment. Its protective nature and fierce loyalty surely set it apart from other pets.
Their appearance may make them intimidating, but they are typically not aggressive.
Known as gentle giants, these dogs are calm, patient, and affectionate. With a temperament of quiet composure, they are a good match for families with kids. Bring them home at a young age and socialise them well. This way, you’ll be able to teach them early on about acceptable behaviours.
Their intelligence and independence may make it tough for you to train them. However, if you are consistent, you’ll bear the fruits of it.
5. Akita
This Japanese dog is a massive one, and when it comes to bravery, no one can surpass it!
Do you want to know how courageous they are?
Well, back in the day, they were used for guarding and the hunting of bears. Tracking down bears came naturally to them.
Contrary to their past, AKC vouches that Akitas are quiet and fastidious dogs at home. They are watchful and keep every corner of the home under constant observation.
This makes them some of the most popular dogs throughout the United States. Their elegance, fearlessness, and loyalty earn them the title of the best companion dogs for humans.
6. Tibetan Mastiff
The Tibetan Mastiff is a tenacious, stubborn, and strong-willed dog, known for its courage and bravery.
The best display of their courage is when they are protecting their folks. They are super protective of their families and property, making sure no one gets a chance to enter the household.
This is why PetMD suggests it’s better to socialize them early so they don’t grow up considering all new animals and people as potential dangers to their family.
What makes them immensely likable dogs is their good behaviour with kids. They absolutely adore children and become their friends pretty quickly. Though they have an intimidating appearance, they still love playing fetch with the little ones.
They make phenomenal family dogs as they can form strong bonds with kids quickly. Being at home as a new family member will add a lot of joy to your home.
7. Dogo Argentino
This pack-hunting dog is known for its ability to take down wild boar. What else can be said to prove its bravery?
This is no ordinary dog. It is one of the most valiant dogs in the dog world and has a long history of being a daring hunter.
In fact, if you have a look at it, you’ll realize that this muscular powerhouse body is built for adventures that need a lot of courage. On top of that, it has the heart of a Lion.
With early socialization, consistent training, and clear leadership, these dogs turn into absolute gentle canines that are a great fit for a home. They learn how to behave around kids and, owing to being super protective, keep their family safe at all times.
Conclusion
Some dogs are so fearless, you would often wonder whether they have the body of a canine but the heart of a lion. But, at home, especially with kids, they are super gentle and a pookie! Some popular breeds of these traits are German Shepherd Dog, Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, Shar pei, and English Bulldog
