From livestock guardian dog breeds to fierce personal protection dogs, our most loved animals are irreplaceable even today when it comes to security. With all the modern home security out there, having a protective dog in your space makes you feel like you’re living in a fortress.
We all know the most popular protective dog breeds, but there are many breeds that you probably haven’t heard of before. Adding a rare dog breed to your family can be quite a flex for any dog lover, and if that doggo is also a badass protector, you have the best of both worlds.
Whether you’re looking for a rare guardian for your livestock or farmhouse, or to feel safer in a city lifestyle, these lesser-known breeds are wonderful options to consider. Let us take you through the world of 7 guardian dog breeds your friends have probably no idea exist.
Rare Guardians: Dog Breeds You Won’t Find in a Pet Store
1. Thai Ridgeback
The Thai Ridgeback is everything you need in a guard dog; it’s not only a loyal companion, but also very intelligent and active. With an agile and athletic body, the Thai Ridgeback is quite a sight with its ‘S’ curve shape and ridged pattern across its back.
These dogs, if you can manage to find them, can be amazing companions, especially if you have an active lifestyle. But they were originally bred as hunting dogs, as well as livestock guardians, and still fill these roles amazingly.
These doggos have a high prey drive (as per the AKC), so monitor them around smaller animals like cats and birds, if you have those as pets. They tend to be quite independent in nature and highly protective of their families.
This can make getting along well with strangers somewhat difficult for them, unless they’ve received early socialization training.
2. Australian Kelpie
With a scruffy look but an affectionate face, the Australian Kelpie is a smart and dedicated sheepdog. They are related to Collies, another dog breed known for its intelligence and loyalty.
Australian Kelpie makes a wonderful companion for active owners on farms and in homes. They’re not just alert but also need a lot of physical activity and mental stimulation to stay healthy.
As long as their exercise and nutrition needs are being met, these Kelpies can prove to be loving family pets who enjoy cozying up next to their pet parents.
A bored Kelpie can adopt some undesired behaviors like chewing and might try to herd smaller animals and children. With early training and getting them to burn off their excess energy, they can be quite amiable family dogs.
3. Boerboel
With a serious but droopy face and intelligent gaze, the Boerboel, or the South African Mastiff, was originally bred in South Africa to protect farms against predators, as mentioned by PetMD. Well-suited for experienced dog owners, these sturdy doggos have kept off hyenas and other such animals from their territories.
Their size and energetic nature make them a better fit for active owners, but their temperament can be quite sweet and loving towards their families. If you think you’re ready for this hardy and independent breed, expect some wariness when it comes to strangers. Though these mutts can adapt to living with children happily.
They’re one of the best dog breeds for you if you enjoy long walks with your pet, though keeping them on a leash is a good idea.
As protective dogs, they’re always alert and can perceive unfamiliar animals and people as suspicious. Training them early is important in helping them open up to new situations.
4. Bergamasco Sheepdog
Bergamasco Sheepdog is a rare breed with a unique, fascinating long coat that often forms matts. This breed originated in Italy, and has been a friend of farmers, and has helped them by protecting livestock.
As an easygoing but determined breed, they can live happily as long as they’re given some job to do. Despite having an independent personality, the Bergamasco Sheepdog is an affectionate dog breed, loyal to its human family members.
These gorgeous dog is believed to have Middle Eastern canines and ancestors, and have thrived in the Alps due to their thick corded coat. These fascinating pups were recognized by the American Kennel Club only in 2015.
Just like other dogs, this breed also needs a decent amount of physical activity, like daily walks, agility training, and will even enjoy herding activities. Early and consistent training is required to help it grow up to be more obedient; as an intelligent doggo, it’s quite trainable though.
It might try to herd other animals or act stubborn if it hasn’t been properly trained.
5. Caucasian Shepherd
Caucasian Shepherd is a giant dog breed with a beautiful, thick double coat and an adorable face. These powerful dogs were bred to be protectors of livestock and property, and have the strength and intelligence for these jobs, as per Purina.
Caucasian Shepherd is an ancient breed celebrated historically for their intimidating and confident presence. These doggos originated in areas that are the intersections of Europe and Asia.
This giant breed can come off as independent in nature and needs early socialization and obedience training. Getting in touch with a dog trainer while your Caucasian Shepherd is still a puppy will save you a lot of trouble.
Their protective instincts can make them feel uncomfortable around new people and unfamiliar animals. They have a moderate energy level; some regular walking, hiking, and other forms of exercise will keep them healthy and at a good weight.
6. Pyrenean Shepherd
High-spirited, comical, and affectionate, Pyrenean Shepherds are ideal pets for people who want to live to the fullest with their doggos. These joyful dogs are effective guardians of livestock and excellent watchdogs due to their alert and active nature.
These doggos have a soft undercoat and a harsher outer coat; weekly brushing and occasional bathing keep them looking their best. As really energetic dogs, Pyr Shepherds need regular exercise and other physical and mental stimulation activities to help them burn off their excess energy.
As smart and eager to please dogs, they’re easily trainable and perform well in different dog sports like agility and herding. They make excellent companions to owners who have the time to spend with their pets and respond amazingly to positive reinforcement methods.
7. Belgian Laekenois
Belgian Laekenois is an easily recognizable breed due to its unique, wiry, furred coat and pointy ears. These Belgian herding dogs make excellent guardians and reliable protectors due to their sharp instincts.
Like most working dog breeds, Belgian Lakenois also require enough mental and physical stimulation to stay perfectly content and healthy. Though not very fond of strangers, these pups are even-tempered and very adoring towards their humans, even children.
They’re very alert and sensitive dogs, always on a lookout for potential threats. You’ll find them always aware of any unfamiliar sounds in the surroundings; they’re like super sharp sound and motion detectors at times.
To keep their sharp instincts satiated, make sure to give them early obedience training, and something to do so they don’t get cranky.
Conclusion
These lesser-known guardian dogs can be quite a feat to have if you can find them. To adopt a healthy, rare dog breed, it’s important to get in touch with a reputable breeder known for ethical practices.
Knowing your doggo’s unique temperament and health and nutrition needs keeps it happy and healthy, ensuring a long companionship.
