Mountain lions, grizzlies, coyotes, and hogs beware! These protection dogs are here to take you wild beasts down. These seemingly calm companions are the ranchers and farmers’ true best friends. They watch over the livestock with their laser-sharp eyes and step in to protect them the moment they detect a predator approaching.
When all the other dogs run towards safety or bark out of fear, these dogs are calm like the mountain and steady as the sea. Sit, relaxed, unperturbed, because they are self-assured, tough dogs that can hold their ground easily in front of vicious predators.
These pups are the true wolves in a dog’s clothing. Don’t try to pester these dangerous little dogs that chase and hunt hogs and protect property like smart strategists and swift ninjas.
Dog Breeds That Face Wild Boars Without Fear
1. Akbash
- Height: 20-33 inches | Weight: 80-140 lbs.
- Life Expectancy: 10-12 years | Energy Level: Naturally High (at least 1 hour of exercise is recommended)
- Bite Force: 200-400 PSI
- Temperament: Independent, Protective, Steady
- Protected Against: Persian Jaguar, the Anatolian Jaguar, and the now-extinct Caspian Tiger
Have you ever seen a tigress protecting her cubs? This Turkish dog breed protects the flock of livestock exactly like that. Akbash, which translates to “white head in Turkish, is a unique combination of strength, majesty, and agility. Their dense, wavy coat keeps them insulated and warm in harsh weather conditions, and these pups work well in both fenced and open-range pastures.
The Softhearted Protector – The Ambassador of Strength and Gentleness
The Akbash protects against all predators and strangers with swift intelligence and is known for bonding strongly with the herd, having strong innate maternal instincts towards the young and vulnerable animals.
These working dogs need a job to do, and dog owners should understand their needs first before adopting them. Proper training is crucial for harnessing their protective instincts positively.
2. Great Pyrenees
- Height: 25-32 inches | Weight: Over 85 lbs.
- Life Expectancy: 10-12 years | Energy Level: Calm
- Bite Force: 400-500 PSI | Speed: 25 mph
- Temperament: Gentle, Independent, Aloof
- Protected Against: Pyrenean brown bears
This warrior at heart has an unshakable courage and an unmatched affectionate nature that make it the best livestock guardian and protector. The Great Pyrenees was bred specifically for guarding property and deterring predators. These dogs are not the typical farm dog breeds that herd and keep flocks in line. But they are dangerous cattle protectors who can even guard small children and families.
The Majestic White Mountain Dog
Humans have used these Pyrenean mountain dogs for centuries, and these loyal pets are as much of a guardian as it is an endearing companion. These pups are aloof with strangers and are prone to expanding their territory; hence, good durability is required to keep beauties inside your territory.
Purina says the Great Pyrenees barks at night to keep intruders and predators like hogs away. The Great Pyrenees is a fearless and alert defender. It attacks and destroys a predator if it is threatened, and is also quite effective against other animals like bears and wolves.
3. Kuvasz
- Height: 25-32 inches | Weight: Over 85 lbs.
- Life Expectancy: 10-12 years | Energy Level: Calm
- Bite Force: 400+ PSI | Speed: High
- Temperament: Gentle, Independent, Aloof
- Protected Against: Wolves, European Bears, and Coyotes
When the fiercest of predators with razor-sharp tusks, a tall five feet height and a massive strength of 500 pounds roam in the territory of this protective dog breed. You will see one of the most dangerous battles ensue. The Hungarian Kuvasz might be a humorous and loving family pet at home, but it is a daunting and protective guardian in the wilderness.
The Stronghearted Softie with A Sensitive Soul – Royal Guard Dogs of Hungary
VCA Animal Hospitals mentions that these pups are affectionate and soft-tempered, but the moment they see some rough play or struggle among the flock, they react swiftly and strongly. These dogs could cause the death of a hog in case of a deadly encounter, and it thrives only in the home it grows up in, because it bonds so fiercely with its owners.
Socialization and exposure are a must for this dog, and training is also crucial because these wolly coated dogs have extreme strength, a high urge for chasing small animals; hence, they are not ideal for a multipet household.
Did you know? By the end of WWII, nearly all Kuvasz dogs in Hungary had been killed by the German and Soviet Soldiers due to their reputation for strongly protecting their families. Fewer than 30 or just 12 dogs remained, which became the foundation for the modern Kuvasz, as mentioned by Wikipedia.
4. Tibetan Mastiff
Height: Over 24-26 inches | Weight: 70-150 lbs.
Life Expectancy: 10-12 years | Energy Level: Moderate
Bite Force: 500-560 PSI | Speed: 18-24 mph
Temperament: Watchful, Aloof, Intimidating
Protected Against: Himalayan Wolves, Lynx, Snow Leopards, and Mustelidae
The Tibetan Mastiff is a unique ancient purebred dog that was originally bred for guarding homes and properties, even monasteries in Tibet. This dog is famous for being large, daunting, and powerful, and a quiet confidence in its persona. It has a distinctive lion-like mane that covers its neck and shoulders.
Guardian Dog Supreme
Continental Kennel Club says the Tibetan Mastiff is not hesitant to defend its family and is a watchful and extremely loyal dog. Independence radiates through this dog’s stance, and it is naturally territorial and aggressive towards any person or animal outside its family and flock.
Did you know? The original dogs in Tibet appear sleeker, smaller, and with less abundant coats and size, and are still used for protecting flocks from predators, unlike the breed present in the UK and USA, where these Tibetan Mastiffs were deliberately refined with exaggerated coats and size.
5. Spanish Mastiff
- Height: 26-35 inches | Weight: 140-220 lbs.
- Life Expectancy: 10-12 years | Energy Level: Moderate
- Bite Force: 540 PSI | Speed: 10-15 mph
- Temperament: Fearless, Protective, Calm
- Protected Against: Wolves and Bears
If you are looking for a breed with remarkable strength and a commanding presence, the Spanish Mastiff stands out among other breeds for its imposing size, strength, and bold appearance.
Noble Livestock Guardians of the Iberian Peninsula with a Peaceful Presence
The Spanish Mastiff has loose skin, especially around its neck and chest. This feature is known as a dewlap and is easy to spot because it stands out from their bulky frame.
The loose skin does more than give the breed a unique look. It can help protect your dog from bites or injuries, especially when defending livestock from predators. The extra folds act as a natural barrier in fights.
These pups with a calm and patient nature are a great comforting companion at home and a wonderful, intimidating guardian and ferocious protector outside. A combination of a powerful body and steady nerves, the Spanish Mastiff is the one to watch when a threat challenges them.
6. Anatolian Shepherd
- Height: 27-29 inches | Weight: 80-150 lbs.
- Life Expectancy: 11-13 years | Energy Level: Moderate
- Bite Force: 500-700 PSI | Speed: 22.3-30 mph
- Temperament: Reserved, Independent, Loyal
- Protected Against: Persian Jaguar, the Anatolian Jaguar, and the now-extinct Caspian Tiger
So you want to catch a hog and, like the olden times, you are thinking about using hunting hounds along with catch dogs for the chase so that they can corner these feral pigs, so it’s easy for you to shoot them down?
Drop this idea and get an Anatolian Shepherd because this daunting and versatile breed is a dynamic solution for guarding property, protecting livestock and your family, hunting wild boars, and so much more.
The Muscular and Timeless Avenger
As per Omlet, the Anatolian Shepherd is such a great deterrent and fearless guardian who won’t just grab onto the ear of a hog, but it will bring you a fresh kill without any of your effort if you utilize it well by training it for protection and hunting pigs.
7. Maremma Sheepdog
Height: 24-29 inches | Weight: 65-100 lbs.
Life Expectancy: 10-12 years | Energy Level: Moderate
Bite Force: 200-400 PSI | Speed: Agile and Fast
Temperament: Independent, Strong-willed, Aloof
Protected Against: Apennine Wolves and Bears
This Italian dog with a fearsome reputation is still used by Italian sheep farmers in areas where predation is common, like open range lands and farms, and as a guard animal in many countries. The Maremma Sheepdog or Maremmano-Abierruzzese is a combination of two different breeds of livestock guardians.
Namely, the pastore aburezzese and pastore maremmano that have been guarding flocks for 2000 years. These dogs hail from the Maremma Marshlands and the region of Abruzzo, where the Apennine wolf is an active and protected predator.
The Intelligent and Pristine Snow White Protector
These big, fluffy white pups resemble the Kuvasz and the Pyrenean mountain dog a lot, as they share a common ancestor. They have a solid muscular build and a thick white coat, which gives them a lion-like aspect in the dark. These dogs work in groups to defend against wolves and stray dogs.
Interestingly enough, these pups have been used for protecting Australian little penguins from invasive foxes and are known for protecting sheep from the very muscular and agile puma as well.
Hence, with proper training and socialization, these pups become great family pets and are also a great choice for facing and hunting pigs and wild boars. These pups are guided by instinct and high intelligence.
8. Caucasian Shepherd Dog
- Height: 23-30 inches | Weight: 99-170 lbs.
- Life Expectancy: 10-12 years | Energy Level: Low, yet they still need a lot of exercise to be healthy and happy
- Bite Force: 550-700 PSI
- Temperament: Fearless, Bold, Fierce
- Protected Against: Wolves, Leopards, and Bears
Originally bred to be a serious and independent guardian, this dog should never be taken lightly. Also called the Caucasian Ovcharka and Caucasian Mountain dog, this pup hails from the Caucasus Mountains in Georgia.
The Ultimate Fighter on the Ground
They have a natural alertness and independent aura around them that makes them tough dogs for first-time owners. Because these fluff balls don’t just grow up to be massive, it is not the most patient pups; hence, they will need a lot of obedience training and positive reinforcement techniques.
PetMD says these fearless pups have been used for centuries for guarding properties and protecting livestock from small and large game like coyotes and wolves. Hence can be equally effective in hunting hogs and killing pigs.
9. Komondor
- Height: Over 25.5 to 27.5 inches | Weight: 80-100 lbs.
- Life Expectancy: 10-12 years | Energy Level: High
- Temperament: Calm, Intelligent, Brave
- Protected Against: Wolves, Cougars, Coyotes, Bears
Covered in a heavy coat of white cords, also known as dreadlocks, this Hungarian livestock guard dog breed and protection dog doesn’t just blend in well with the sheep but is also a quick, smart, and nimble-footed ninja that knocks down predators the moment they raise an eye on the flock.
The Fashionable Hunter with Dreadlocks
According to PDSA, these medium-sized, unique-looking exotic pooches are well-equipped and capable of hunting wild boars. Because they have a loud bark, which can serve as a deterrent, and their courageous nature, coupled with their unique, wolly hair coat, makes them a hidden threat.
These pups are a great shock for the unsuspecting predators and are known for pinning down unknown visitors with an intense ferocity. (saying don’t you dare touch my sheep or else!!) Imagine a character like Pumba from The Lion King chased off by a dreadlock-sporting Komondor, quite an interesting visual, isn’t it?
10. Pyrenean Mastiff
- Height: 28-31 inches | Weight: 120-190 lbs.
- Life Expectancy: 10-12 years | Energy Level: Moderate to Low, little exercise is needed
- Bite Force: 500-650 PSI | Speed: 10-15 mph
- Temperament: Laid-back, Brave, Loyal
- Protected Against: Grey wolves and Pyrenean brown bears
They love their people like a job to do and are less energetic than the rest of the livestock guardians and hunters listed above. Whether standing tall beside you or quietly resting nearby, they’re the kind of companions who make you feel safe without saying a word.
The Ancient Guardian with a Large Head
These giant dogs with a medium-length double coat are known for their incredible service to mankind and have been playing a significant role in protecting and preserving us for centuries.
They are incredible deterrents against wild boars that tear up the ground with their noses while rooting for something to eat and displace native wildlife like the white-tailed deer by competing with them for food.
These massive, giant-sized, territorial pups should be provided with proper training from puppyhood to avoid accidents and injuries as adults. But if you strive to become their favorite hoomans, you’ll gain a great selfless protector for life.
Conclusion
Hog hunting has been a tradition in Eurasia, North Africa, and around the world for centuries, and in a country like America, where millions of hogs are present. These pups are crucial for bringing down the population of these annoying and harmful beasts that carry a lot of diseases and cause damage to crops and wildlife.
Not much has changed in hog hunting except for a few things nowadays. Hunters don’t use horses, but instead are keen about pick-up trucks for carrying and GPS collars for tracking their hunting dogs and catch dogs. Hence, the next time you face a feral hog, make sure your dog is beside you.
