The number of people taking their friendly pups with them on vacation is becoming quite common these days. Introducing dogs to new environments is beneficial for their health and well-being.
Many studies have also revealed that dogs are a man’s best travel companion. Plus, there are many vacation homes that allow their guests to bring their four-legged friends along.
Bringing your pets along not only adds to the fun but is also great for your protection. These dogs are excellent guard dogs, fiercely loyal, and very protective of their family members. They are trained from an early age to protect families, especially small children, from any danger.
Read on to learn about the 7 top dog breeds that we have shortlisted for you, which are excellent for home security and show unwavering loyalty when it comes to their family.
Guard Dog Breeds Perfect For Vacation Homes
1. Akita

Akitas are known for their courage and willingness to defend their families from possible dangers or intruders, which makes them a great guard dog for a vacation home.
These dogs were originally bred to be guard dogs, which makes them naturally suspicious pups with protective instincts, as noted by PetMD. Akitas are extremely loyal dogs, making them the best guard dog breeds for vacation homes.
These are the best dog breeds for guarding, as they are very alert and aware of their surroundings and do not shy away from attacking.

However, these dogs require proper training and mental stimulation to ensure they remain well-behaved and only act protective or aggressive when needed.
2. Australian Shepherds

Australian Shepherds are protection dogs who are known for their unshakable loyalty towards their family. These dogs stay alert and aware of their surroundings and alert their owners to any unusual activity/activities around them.
These dogs are not considered to be the best choice for guarding as they do not turn aggressive or have a territorial nature, as compared to other animals, but with proper training, they can be turned into great watchdogs.
These herding dogs have a sweet nature, which makes them great family dogs. These active dogs thrive in homes with owners with high energy, as they love to play and go out for adventures.
These large dogs need enough space to roam around freely and which makes them great dogs for vacation homes.
3. Doberman Pinscher

Dobermans are known to be a protective breed that makes a good family dog. These dogs are naturally alert to their surroundings and do not shy away from acting when necessary, as noted by WebMD.
They are highly trainable, which allows them to understand their owners’ commands clearly and learn quickly how to act in different situations.
Do not let their sleek body fool you into thinking they’re mediocre dogs. Dobermans are fiercely fast, strong, fearless, and have very high energy, which allows them to be a great fit to protect your house.
They require regular exercise and daily long walks to fulfil their daily energy needs, or they might lose their minds.
Doberman Pinschers are very loyal to their owners, which allows them to form great bonds with their family. These big dogs have a strong desire to protect their loved ones from danger and are good-natured, hard-working dogs who make excellent companions.
4. German Shepherds

If you’re looking for a breed that can be trained to do just about anything, a German Shepherd is the perfect choice for you.
These dogs are known to be police dogs, but also famous as being the perfect pets around the world. German Shepherds are extremely loyal, which helps them form strong bonds with their owners.
As compared to other dogs, German Shepherds are given consistent training from their puppyhood to become the best guard dogs for families.
This is the most popular breed you would find working as service dogs in various fields because of their alertness and territorial behavior.
German Shepherds are highly intelligent and strong dogs, which makes them great for guarding properties and taking on vacations. They adjust really well in different environments, so pet owners do not have to worry much when taking them along.
5. Giant Schnauzer

Schnauzers are known for their imposing size, unshakable loyalty, and territorial nature and protective impulses. These bearded dogs have a thick coat, so brace yourselves for daily brushing and regular grooming sessions if you want them looking spik and span.
These pups are highly intelligent, alert, and courageous, which makes these pets excellent guarding dogs for vacation homes. These dogs were originally bred in the Bavarian Alps to watch over inns, farms, and homes, making them easy to train for protecting properties.
This breed does not shy away from alerting their owners of intruders and acts quickly and according to the situation. Schnauzers must only be adopted by experienced owners who can handle their high energy levels and the need for mental and physical stimulation to stay active.
6. Estrela Mountain Dogs

These were originally bred as livestock guard dogs, which makes them well-suited for guarding larger properties and rural areas.
Estrela mountain dogs are known for their loyalty, alertness, and strong protective impulses. These dogs form great, unbreakable bonds with humans and show immense love to those who are dear to them.
These dogs require an experienced owner who understands their needs and makes them feel comfortable and well-adjusted. This breed does not shy away from protecting their loved ones and attacking intruders when need be.
7. Puli

Puli’s are known for their unique thick coat, herding abilities, and intelligence. These pups can be great undercover dogs as their coat literally makes them look like a cleaning mop. These dogs are big on protective impulses but can be very barky, as mentioned by the AKC.
Puli were originally bred for hunting, which makes them quick learners who can easily outsmart intruders and predators. They require a highly experienced owner who can train them to bark only when needed; otherwise, these beasts can become aggressive and jumpy quickly.
Because of their thick coat, they require professional grooming, which can be a hassle during vacation, but if you’re experienced enough and have properly trained them, they will be more well-behaved than other breeds.
Conclusion
Looking for the best protective dogs? While most breeds have protective impulses, these 7 breeds are bred and trained to protect and safeguard their family. With proper care, regular exercise, and a proper, balanced diet, they are sure to live a long life and become your favorite companions. Make the perfect choice today!