15 Best Guard Dogs to Protect Your Family
Feel safe and secure at home with these loyal pups.
There are lots of reasons to adopt a dog: There are small pups that you can cuddle, loyal pooches that can offer constant companionship, and even guard dogs to make sure your family feels safe when they're at home. If the idea of having a protective pet around interests you, start your search by looking at breeds that make the best guard dogs.
According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), some dogs have a natural instinct to protect their home and family, making them great guard dogs. Guardian breeds tend to be loyal, fearless, strong, and watchful. But before you take the plunge to adopt one of these dogs, make sure you take enough time to evaluate if one of these large breeds is right for you: Because of their strength and size, these breeds need proper training, socialization, and plenty of exercise. Most of these dogs are better suited for homes with yards than they are apartments or small homes.
Click through this gallery to find the best guard dog that's just right for you and your family. Once you find your perfect pup, show your appreciation for them by showering them with lots of love, dog treats, and even dog birthday parties to thank them for keeping you safe and sound!
Cane Corso
This strong breed's name roughly translates from Latin as "bodyguard dog." They're smart, trainable, and assertive.
Doberman Pinscher
These strong dogs require a lot of exercise. Just like their long legs and sleek figure would suggest, they're incredibly fast and powerful.
Boxer
The Boxer has long been one of America's favorite breeds. They're loved for their playful attitudes and watchdog intuition.
German Shepard
German Shepards are used as police dogs for a reason. Not only are they whip-smart, but they're defensive of their loved ones.
Belgian Laekenois
This loyal working dog breed is identifiable by their rough, tousled coat. They're know for being protective of their people and property.
Australian Shepard
This beautiful breed isn't all looks! They make great guard dogs thanks to their incredible trainability and their tough work dog bloodline.
Rottweiler
Rottweilers are known to be a bit aggressive with people they don't know. That standoffish attitude is sure to keep strangers away, if their strong stature isn't intimidating enough!
Estrela Mountain Dog
This Portuguese dog was bred to protect livestock, making them natural guard dogs. They're definitely not for small spaces, though: these fluffy dogs can weigh up to 132 pounds!
Caucasian Shepherd Dog
This is a fierce guard dog breed that is probably not for first-time dog owners. That fierceness comes from their history: Caucasian Shepherds were used for centuries to protect properties from trespassers and to guard livestock from predators such as wolves and coyotes.
Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Don't judge this breed by its small size. Staffordshire Bull Terriers are descended from the fighters in England's dog fighting pits, and they still have that fighting spirit!
Tibetan Mastiff
This ancient dog is called the "guardian dog supreme" by the AKC. They're known for being quiet and gentle around the house, despite their massive size.
Thai Ridgeback
Thai Ridgebacks are a great medium-sized guard dog, if you want something on the smaller side. They're highly intelligent and a loyal family pet.
Beauceron
Well trained Beaucerons make great watchdogs, but they're not for first-time dog owners. The AKC says this breed is so cunning, it can end up owning you!
Catahoula Leopard Dog
This spotted breed was originally bred in Louisiana. They're independent, territorial, and protective.
Giant Schnauzer
Just like a regular Schnauzer, only bigger! Much like their smaller companions, Giant Schnauzers are loved for their intelligence and loyalty.
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