Top 20 Best Guard Dogs to Own
A guard dog can be a wonderful addition to any home. The likelihood of your property being burglarized goes down considerably when these dogs are present in the home. It is important to note that these breeds require adequate and proper training to help transition the dog into your home.
Home owners need to be aware of this before purchasing or adopting a dog breed with aggressive traits. Improper training or neglect will result in a very aggressive dog that can be dangerous around small children, the elderly and other dog breeds. Here are the best guard dogs to own for 2023.
Pit Bull
The term ‘pit bull’ encompasses certain breeds of dog from the American Pit Bull Terrier, the Staffordshire bull terrier, the American Staffordshire terrier, and the American Bulldog. Originally bred for baiting bulls and bears the majority of their breeds were also used for dog fighting in numerous parts of the world.
Rhodesian Ridgeback
Originally from Southern Africa, this dog is known for its ability to keep lions away from prey while the dog’s master makes the kill. This semi-domesticated ridged hunting dog is loyal and intelligent, but is very aloof to strangers. They also require positive reward-training, avoidance of rough treatment and good socialization skills since they can be over-sensitive and may develop an aggressive side.
Bull Terrier
Known for their large egg shaped heads, Bull Terriers are exceptionally strong dogs with a #1 ranking in pound-for-pound lean muscle tissue. Though not particularly aggressive, the breed is known to have a strong “prey drive” which makes the Bull Terrier a dangerous dog towards smaller animals.
Cane Corso
The Cane Corso is a well muscled dog that can weigh anywhere between 99 to 150 pounds. The breed is known as a true and quite possibly the last of the coursing Mastiffs and is a descendant of the Canis Pugnax, which were dogs used by the Romans in warfare.
American Bulldog
The American Bull Dog is a muscular heavy dog. Though they are known for their pleasant and friendly demeanor, they can also exhibit the trait of ‘stubbornness’ as they are extremely confident. Originally this breed was bred as a working farm utility dog that could catch and hold wild boar and cattle, kill vermin, and guard an owner’s property.
Fila Brasileiro
The Fila Brasileiro also known as the Brazilian Mastiff is a large dog developed in Brazil. It has great tracking abilities but is an aggressive and impetuous dog. Owing to its size, temperament and potential for aggression, the Brazilian Mastiff has been banned in many countries.
Huskies
Used to pull sleds in the northern regions and differentiated for their fast pulling style, they were also utilized for sled dog racing and for adventure trekking. However, they can be dangerous to smaller animals due to their strong predator instinct and are known for being destructive if they are bored.
Alaskan Malamutes
A breed of dog related to the Siberian Husky, this breed requires daily exercises to be happy, or else they will become bored, disobedient, and destructive. This large breed of domestic dog can grow from 70 to 100 lbs and the perfect companion for pursuits like carting, mushing, biking, and skijoring. Since they are known for their strong independence, they can be difficult to train, cope poorly with smaller animals, and are unreliable as watchdogs.
Akita
A large spitz breed of dog that originated from mountainous regions of Japan, it is known for its two breed types: the Akita Inu (Japanese Akita) and the Akita (American Akita). Strong, independent and dominant breed, they are affectionate with family members but are aloof with strangers due to their territorial attitude.
Wolf Hybrid
As the name implies, the Wolf Hybrid also known as the Wolf dog is a cross breed between a dog and a wolf (typically a grey wolf). Consequently, Wolf-dog hybrids are a mixture of genetic traits resulting in less predictable behavior patterns compared to either the wolf or dog.
Tosa Inu
The Inu is a massive dog with some variations, weighing anywhere between 130 to 200 lbs. and can reach heights of 24.5 to 32 inches. The dog is considered dangerous and legally restricted in some countries.
Boer Boel
The Boerboel is a large mastiff dog breed from South Africa that was bred for the purpose of guarding a home or farm. These dogs were often a first line of defense against predators and were valuable in tracking and holding down wounded game. Bore Boels are loyal but very protective of their families.
Doberman Pinschers
Famed for their alertness, loyalty and intelligence, this breed of dogs is considered to be the best guard dog where they only attack if they are provoked or sense that their family and their property is in danger. Although once used as guard dogs or police dogs, they also exhibit aggressive behavior directed to strangers and other dogs, though owner-directed aggression is low. Their aggression due to their size and strength can also make them potentially dangerous.
American Bandogge
This incredibly strong dog is a cross breed between an American Pit Bull Terrier and a Neapolitan Mastiff.
Rottweiler
Rottweilers are a powerful breed with well-developed genetic herding and guarding instincts. As with any breed, potentially dangerous behavior in Rottweilers usually results from irresponsible ownership, abuse, neglect, or lack of socialization and training. Nevertheless, the Rottweiler’s strength is something that should not be taken lightly.
Dogo Argentino
The Dogo Argentino is a large, white, muscular dog that was developed in Argentina primarily for the purpose of big-game hunting, including wild boar and puma. Though extremely strong and athletic, the Dogo was bred to be non-aggressive towards humans. Nevertheless, it is illegal to own a Dogo in the United Kingdom under the Dangerous Dogs Act of 1991.
Perro de Presa Canario
The Perro de Presa Canario is a large dog that was originally bred for working livestock. The name of the breed is Spanish and it means “Canarian catch dog”. Presas require early socialization and obedience training. In some situations, the Presa can be aggressive toward other dogs and suspicious of strangers.
German Shepherd
A breed of dogs that originated from Germany, the German Shepherd can weigh as much as 70 to 100 lbs. Known for being intelligent, confident, alert, vigilant, and fearless; the police use them for their K-9 units. However, caution must be exercised with Shepherds as they can become overprotective of their family and territory, and if not socialized correctly; can lead to attacks.
Gull Dong
The Gull Dong (also known as the Pakistani Bull Dog) is a cross breed between the Gull Tarrier and the Bully Kutta. Extremely strong and powerful, the Dong is known to be very aggressive and difficult to control.
Caucasian Ovcharka
2023 Most Expensive Dog Breeds
The Caucasian Ovcharka, also known as the Caucasian Shepherd, was bred to protect livestock. The typical Caucasian Ovcharka is assertive, strong-willed and courageous. However, unless properly socialized and trained, the Caucasian Shepherd may exhibit ferocious and unmanageable tendencies since it does not accept people it does not know and has a powerful urge to defend.
Best Dog Food for your Guard Dogs
Elevate the nutrition of your guard dogs with our top picks for specialized dog food designed to meet their unique dietary requirements. These selections prioritize ingredients that support their energy levels, muscular health, and overall well-being, ensuring your loyal guardians stay strong and resilient.
- REAL MEAT FIRST: Blue Buffalo foods always feature real meat as the first ingredient; High-quality protein from real chicken helps your dog build and maintain healthy muscles; Plus they contain wholesome whole grains, garden veggies, and fruit
- FOR ADULT DOGS: BLUE Life Protection Formula adult dog food contains essential proteins and carbohydrates to help meet the energy needs of adult dogs, and features omega 3 & 6 fatty acids to promote a shiny coat and healthy skin
- ANTIOXIDANT-RICH LIFESOURCE BITS: A precise blend of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals carefully selected by holistic veterinarians and animal nutritionists to support immune system health, life stage needs and a healthy oxidative balance
- A NATURAL DOG FOOD: BLUE dry dog food is made with the finest natural ingredients enhanced with vitamins and minerals; BLUE contains NO chicken (or poultry) by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors or preservatives
- Essential, high-quality protein for healthy muscle development, and carbs for energy for an active life.
- Calcium, phosphorus and essential vitamins for strong bones and teeth.
- Glucosamine is added for joint health and mobility support.
- Vitamins, chelated minerals and antioxidants contribute to your pup's immune system health.
- No corn, wheat, soy or chicken (or poultry) by-product meals.
- Made in the USA by a family-owned company using quality ingredients from trusted domestic and global sources.
- With real pasture-raised beef protein as the #1 ingredient, this recipe helps support bones, joints, and lean, strong muscles.
- Beef protein provides energy and muscle building blocks, omega fatty acids promote skin and coat health, and superfood fruits like blueberries and oranges offer vitamins and minerals.
- Each serving includes species-specific K9 strain proprietary probiotics, plus antioxidants and prebiotics to help support healthy digestion, immune system health, and overall wellness.
- Made without corn, wheat, artificial flavors, or colors.
Best Dog Supplements for Your Guard Dogs
- Joint health support for dogs: cosequin, the #1 veterinarian recommended retail joint health supplem
- Omega-3 fatty acids: each soft chew also contains omega-3 fatty acids to help support skin and coat
- Manufactured in the united states with globally sourced ingredients: cosequin is a high-quality, dog
- From the #1 veterinarian recommended supplement company*: nutramax laboratories veterinary sciences
- Backed by science: nutramax laboratories veterinary sciences supplements are veterinarian formulated
- This natural fish oil additive supplement works to support your pal’s skin, coat, hips and joints, heart and immune system.
- The premium salmon oil is rich with omega-3 and -6 fatty acids from EPA and DHA to promote soft skin, a shiny coat and good overall health.
- May also help support proper hip, joint, heart and immune function.
- Makes a yummy alternative to capsules or soft chew supplements—simply add to your pet’s favorite meal.
- Great for small, medium and large breed dogs or cats.
- Your sidekick deserves a shiny coat and healthy skin she can feel proud of and show off.
- A therapeutic blend of organic horsetail, dandelion, spirulina and bladderwrack help maintain hair shafts and follicles to promote healthy skin and hair.
- Give your gorgeous girl the capsule whole or mix it into her food.
- PetAlive supplements are made from lab-tested, raw ingredients with no added fillers, gluten, artificial colors, flavors or preservatives.
- Made in FDA-registered, cGMP (current Good Manufacturing Practice) compliant facilities.
Top 20 Best Guard Dogs FAQ
What is the best guard dog?
The best guard dog depends on individual preferences and specific needs. Breeds like German Shepherds, Rottweilers, and Doberman Pinschers are often recognized for their guarding abilities.
American Staffordshire Terrier guard dog – is it suitable?
American Staffordshire Terriers can make excellent guard dogs due to their loyalty and strength. Proper training and socialization are crucial for them to excel in this role.
American Guard Dog – which breeds are known for guarding?
Several American breeds, such as the American Eskimo Dog, can be trained as guard dogs. However, breeds like the German Shepherd and Boxer are more commonly associated with guarding.
What is the most protective dog?
Breeds like the German Shepherd, Belgian Malinois, and Rottweiler are often considered among the most protective due to their natural instincts and trainability.
American Pit Bull Terrier guard dog – are they good for protection?
American Pit Bull Terriers can be loyal and protective, but their suitability as guard dogs depends on individual temperament, training, and socialization.
Are American Pit Bull Terriers good guard dogs?
With the right training and socialization, American Pit Bull Terriers can be good guard dogs. They are known for their loyalty and determination to protect their family.
What is the number 1 most protective dog?
Determining the number 1 most protective dog is subjective and depends on various factors. Breeds like the German Shepherd, Doberman Pinscher, and Rottweiler are commonly praised for their protective instincts.
How do I know if my dog will protect me?
A dog’s protective instincts can be observed through behavior, such as alertness, loyalty, and a willingness to defend. Training and socialization play a crucial role in developing and understanding these instincts.
