Imagine a canine that is capable of both playing and protecting. With that said, what if they are gentle enough to be around your small children for babysitting?
It’s a cherry on top!
However, many of us think that dogs carry a dominant presence and may harm the kiddos or even the younger ones. But, nature has endowed us with many wagging tails who have a patient and kind nature and make perfect companions for our family environment.
A study showed that positive early socialization ultimately improves the adaptability and confidence of dogs. Therefore, well-trained and socialized pups are good for families and society. Let’s explore more about these easy-going and happy-go-lucky family dogs.
Most Easiest Guard Dog Breeds for Kids & Families
1. German Shepherd
One of the smartest breeds, the German Shepherd is also celebrated for its bravery and courage. A properly trained and socialized GSD makes an excellent guard dog for families, thanks to its great protective instincts that come from a long history of being working dogs.
The German Shepherd is a classic dog breed that carries confidence and an imposing presence together.
These loyal dogs are considered gentle dogs for their humans and kids. However, proper training is highly significant. They would never hesitate to risk their lives to save their family, says the AKC. They are a bit aloof around strangers but make strong bonds with their favourite ones.
This all-purpose working dog loves to have a job to channelize their energy. Being an intelligent dog breed, the German Shepherd is easy to train and excels in high levels of obedience training. These popular dogs are also used in different search and rescue missions as police and military dogs.
2. Boxer
Affectionate Boxer is playful and great around kids. These canines may have an intimidating look, but are not considered aggressive dogs. Their active and patient nature makes them a gentle yet protective guard dog for your family.
Boxers are medium-sized dogs with strong muscles under a smooth coat. According to PetMD, Boxers are descendants of hunting dogs and are endowed with high jumping and fast running abilities. These high-energy dogs are better suited to active households and excel in different dog sports like agility.
Since they are good jumpers, it is advised that early training from a young age should be introduced to keep their four paws on the ground and to live in a family with small children.
Leash training is also crucial, as they may chase after small animals due to their strong prey drive. These smart family guard dogs respond well to consistent and interactive training sessions.
3. Doberman Pinscher
Naturally protective, the Doberman Pinscher makes a great guard dog. They were developed in Germany during the 1800s for protecting tax collectors. Since they may act aggressively, early training is necessary, which must include proper obedience training.
A nervous Dobie cannot be a good family dog.
Trained and well-socialized Dobermans form strong bonds with their family and protect them, thanks to their strong protective nature. These pooches are naturally wary of strangers and do not welcome them, which is part of their job for being guard dogs.
These dogs are known to be playful and loving family pets. They need ample space to run around and are a perfect fit for households that enjoy outdoor activities. This protective dog knows how to protect its family from threats and remain gentle around children.
Fun Fact: Female Dobies tend to be great family pets as they protect their owners than a male Dobie, who is more interested in protecting the property.
4. Bullmastiff
Their big size and imposing presence make the Bullmastiff knock over any intruder without being aggressive or biting. This furry breed has a calm temperament and is naturally protective, shaping them to be in a list of family-friendly guard dog.
A confident and trained Bullmastiff is affectionate and kind around children.
They are easy to train dogs due to their innate smartness and ability to learn things quickly. They do well in early training, socialization, and obedience classes. When we talk about a multi-pet household, they may get along with other dogs if socialized at a young age. These dogs tend to slobber and drool a bit.
The energy levels of this breed vary, as some are found to enjoy a sedentary lifestyle, while others show an active nature. But a Bullmastiff needs moderate exercise and loves brisk walks and outdoor games. Since these dogs are independent thinkers, constant training is a must for them, says Hill’s Pet.
5. Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Courageous, strong, and muscular, Staffordshire has another name called “nanny dog”. These wonderful family dogs crave human companionship and are known for their popularity among extremely loyal dog breeds.
Despite being an active and agile dog breed, the Staffordshire is a happy dog with its family at home.
Kind-natured Staffies are gentle around children and other pets as they make friends easily. According to Orvis, these loving family pets are protective of their families if they sense any threat in their surroundings.
These brainy dogs excel in positive reinforcement obedience training. However, due to their stubborn nature, they may need consistent training from a young age in their lives. They are people-pleasing dogs, though they need patience and early socialization.
6. Newfoundland
Originally bred for rescuing in waters, Newfoundlands are celebrated as gentle giants and make wonderful family guard dogs. They are calm and sweet dogs and are not usually aggressive. As one of the world’s biggest dogs, the Newfoundland has a good reputation with kids.
Their loyalty and patient yet vigilant nature make them a good family guard dog. By placing itself between the owner and potential threat, this large dog uses its size and strength to protect its family.
These intelligent dogs can sense people’s intentions and make decisions to differentiate between threat and love.
Backed by history, Newfoundlands are excellent water rescue dogs, as these dogs love swimming. They are mild-mannered dogs but may overpower humans by pulling and jumping or accidentally knock them over, making training vital.
Strong-willed Newfoundland dogs sometimes require stern training, but also do well with positive reinforcement.
7. Rhodesian Ridgeback
One of the best guard dog breeds, the Rhodesian Ridgeback is affectionate, devoted, and caring. Owing to their proud history, these dogs have strong guarding instincts. They are naturally alert, watchful, and protective canines.
This breed is not prone to excessive barking. However, informs its owner about the danger with its deep bark.
These dogs are a wonderful addition to families with a bit older children who know how to interact with dogs. Meanwhile, these bouncy dogs are not suitable for households with small kids due to their ability to knock them down. They show affection towards their families but are aloof around new family members.
To prevent its unpredictable aggression, the Rhodesian Ridgeback should be properly socialized at a young age. Otherwise, in new situations and around strangers, the confused Rhodesian gets out of hand and may bite them out of fear.
They are a better choice for experienced pet owners due to their high energy levels and strong prey drive.
Conclusion
Family guard dogs not only protect with their instincts but also with their hearts. These smartest breeds know how to differentiate between playing and guarding time. Thus, create a unique blend of sensitivity and strength.
These furry friends remind us that safety and love can coexist under the same roof, but with proper training, affection, and care. This list shines more with the addition of the Giant Schnauzer, Great Pyrenees, Saint Bernards, and Bernese Mountain Dog.
