If someone asks you about an ideal guard dog, what would you say? The one that is aggressive, muscular, vocal, and powerful, or the one with physical strength and a gentle temperament?
We will recommend the latter one. It’s very crucial to choose the right guard dog that offers both love and security. In fact, a good family dog.
Beneath those stronger exteriors lies an intelligence, emotional depth, and a lot of sweetness. So, if we keep aside their guarding properties, these dogs have fascinating pasts, unique qualities, and jobs. So if you’re willing to have such a type of dog, consider yourself quite lucky.
And if you are searching for the best guard dog that’s equally a great family pet, this blog is all about you.
Guard Dog Breeds Best for Families With Small Kids
1. Doberman Pinscher
If you have ever owned a Doberman Pinscher, you really know what they look like. Just like a superhero in a movie, tall, sleek, and always alert. But this breed is much more than looks; that’s why they are here.
Bred as a protective guard dog by Karl Friedrich Louis Dobermann, they still take this role very seriously. With impressive intelligence, first, these dogs assess the situation. If they feel a genuine threat, you will see them in action immediately, and they:
Give a silent stare
Growl or bark
Adopt a defensive posture
Who says only humans are good when it comes to reading body language? Doberman Pinschers are also good for this job. This skill also adds to their guarding skills.
If properly socialized starting from puppyhood, these dogs turn into loving family pets. Honestly, they will be sweet, affectionate even playful with kids.
2. Bullmastiff
Bullmastiff is a large, muscular dog that was bred in 1860 by crossing Bulldogs with Mastiffs. Historically, these dogs were used by gamekeepers, and the reason was the protection of game animals from poachers.
Although their formidable looks are enough to deter attackers, their courage and vigilance also give bold edge.
You can also call a Bullmastiff a silent protective dog, but why? Because they don’t believe in noise or fuss, instead, they say action speaks louder than words. So, if a situation arises, these guards rely on their skills to hold burglars till the owner arrives. Bullmastiffs engage threats by:
Calm vigilance
Subduing
Physical blocking
But what makes them guard dogs for families? The American Kennel Club best describes the Bullmastiff as fearless during work but docile at home. So when they are indoors, you will often see them occupying space on the couch, feet, or on the owner’s lap. Plus, good with small children.
Most importantly, Bullmastiffs are emotionally intuitive, so ideal candidates for therapy dogs.
3. Akita
Akita is a Japanese dog breed, which is designated as a national monument. Moreover, this breed is also associated with good health. Japanese families often gift Akita statues to newborn babies, as reported by PetMD.
Akitas are Spitz-type dogs having a dense coat, broad head, and full curled tail. Personality-wise, these wolf-looking dogs are extremely loyal and loving. So, they are deeply connected with their owners.
Akita stands in the list of excellent guard dogs due to being calm and watchful. And the best part is that their protective instincts are well-balanced. As compared to other dogs, Akitas tend to preserve their energy and vocals for times when needed. They deal threats by:
Alerting their owners by barking
Aggressive attack
Lunging or charging
Here is a point to ponder: Akita was not intended to live or work in a group. That’s the reason they prefer living alone. And if any dog comes nearby, the Akita becomes aggressive. However, you can change this attitude if you offer them proper training.
4. Tibetan Mastiff
If you look at the Tibetan Mastiff, the very first thing you will notice is their majestic mane that gives a lion-like appearance. Depending on gender, the Tibetan Mastiff can weigh between 70 to 150 pounds and can grow between 24 to 26 inches tall.
Truly, it is impossible to describe these dogs without relying on words like powerful, massive, and substantial.
According to WebMD, thousands of years ago, Tibetan Mastiffs were domesticated as guard dogs. This makes them naturally protective of their family and territory. Moreover, strangers are not friends for the Tibetan Mastiff, so it is naturally wary of them.
Those who own these dogs recommend that constant training is important to prevent them from being overly protective. But how does this canine discourage an attacker?
With a loud bark
Powerful leap
Instilling fear
Tibetan Mastiffs are family guard dogs, and the reason is their loving and easygoing nature. And when young children are around, they are usually tolerant. But these huge dogs don’t demonstrate their affection and prefer a dignified presence.
5. German Shepherd
German Shepherds are one of the most popular dogs in the world, defined by their character, loyalty, and courage. To add further, GSDs are also highly intelligent and trainable; therefore, their unique traits are put to use. Originally bred as a herding dog breed, you currently see them as police dogs, military dogs, or service dogs.
German Shepherds also excel in canine sports due to their physical and mental strength. However, this breed carries natural protective instincts. With a sharp situational awareness and agility, these dogs have a better idea of how to sense people’s intentions. They frighten trespassers by:
Heightened sense
Unpredictability
Enhanced deterrence
Let’s not forget about their charming behavior with owners. As pack animals, German Shepherds thrive in a family environment.
These natural protectors express themselves through gentle tenderness, enthusiastic greetings, and closeness. Properly trained German Shepherds are not only great companions but also great guard dogs.
6. Rhodesian Ridgeback
Rhodesian Ridgeback is a large dog belonging to Southern Africa. But what makes this dog stand apart is its short, smooth coat with a ridge of fur along its spine, growing in a backward direction.
Even though this dog breed is quite strong and athletic, it requires moderate exercise. So, they are ok with daily walks and play sessions.
According to Britannica, this is a hunting dog breed. So it is safe to say that Ridgebacks know enough about courage. As an owner, you don’t have to give guard dog training; they know their job. And if these dogs face any risky situation, they
Stand on the ground bravely
Take calculated actions
Block intruders
To train these dogs into well-behaved pups, positive reinforcement obedience training is important. There is another side of the image, the loving one. Rhodesian Ridgeback is very calm and cool-minded.
The dog develops a stronger connection with the family. In addition, their playfulness also brings joy to households with kids.
7. Bernese Mountain Dog
This gentle giant can be an excellent choice for those who are in search of a protective dog without being aggressive. These clumsy dogs are patient, good-natured, but their protective instincts make them good attack dogs. They prevent hostility by:
Charging forward
Displaying a cautious demeanor
Howl loudly
Further, Bernese Mountain Dogs are very kind-hearted, and they love to follow their favorite human. Here is something interesting: these canines are very affectionate, and they love to be loved. And if they feel they haven’t received enough affection, they will come to claim.
One more thing to add, these dogs are superheroes who have saved ample lives. In 2013, a female Berner named Bella rescued her owner from a house fire, as mentioned by Britannica.
Conclusion
A reliable dog is much more than a security guard standing out there for your protection. In fact, it is a devoted protector and a loving companion. These dogs bring security, trust, and comfort to families. Along with this, they also add joy and companionship to everyday life.
Therefore, keep this in mind that choosing the right dog means investing not only in safety but also in a lifetime bond that builds on love and affection.
