The 20 Best Guard Dogs For Your Family

The best guard dogs are friendly when there’s no danger and ready to make intruders regret their trespass. A dog that will protect their family but knows how to have fun is one of the best friends/security systems in the world.

Briard

If anyone thinks of Buck from Married With Children then they’re on the right track. These shaggy dogs originate in France and were bred as herders and guardians of sheep. For those who are old enough, they were featured in Looney Tunes alongside an ill-fated wolf.

Black Russian Terrier

This big dog has a couple of different names such as Tchiorny Terrior or Russkiy Tchiorny Terrier. They were initially used in the USSR as military dogs who were great for guarding one’s territory.

Belgian Sheepdog

By definition, a sheepdog of any species is bred to remain alert and possess a high sensitivity to their surroundings. Being aggressive to strangers who mean harm and protective of their home and family is another great quality that these dogs possess.

Belgian Tervuren

The intelligence and the energy of the Belgian Tervuren is well known among dog breeders. But to remain engaged they do need a task to complete. They’re also popular for search and rescue missions.

Anatolian Shepherd

Looking at this dog it does appear regal in some sense, but also rugged and tough enough to fend off predators. They’re typically assigned to protect livestock, and they’re great at repelling intruders.

American Staffordshire Terrier

The best guard dogs are those who simply look tough. This dissuades a lot of people from trying anything shady. But sometimes the toughest-looking dogs, like the American Staffordshire, are among the friendliest dogs around. As long as you’re not an intruder, that is.

Giant Schnauzer

Dogs like the Giant Schnauzer were often seen as country dogs used to guard farmsteads. Eventually, they were brought into cities to protect private property and even homes.

Bouvier des Flandres

Some dogs look like walking dust mops, like this one. But these canines were used during wartime, as they pulled ambulances and searched for wounded soldiers. This diligent and protective nature makes them wary of strangers, but highly protective of their handlers.

Great Pyrenees

A lot of dogs were used to protect sheep back in the day. But the double claws on their hind legs allowed the Great Pyrenees to climb mountains, which was a bonus. The fact that they’re good with kids and loyal to their families is another huge mark in their favor.

German Wirehaired Pointer

These are great hunting dogs, but they’re also quite intelligent and affectionate. Thankfully, that doesn’t take away the fact that they’re very protective and make great family dogs who will defend their home.

Chow Chow

This canine has ancient roots that suggest they were accompanying Mongolian armies at one point. Regardless, they’re a sturdy and reliable breed that was used for hunting and guarding. Even now a lot of folks would attest that Chow Chows are a bit aggressive.

Belgian Malinois

Another dog that was bred to guard livestock, this breed is today kept around by police and the military. Their intelligence and alert nature make them perfect as guard dogs, but if not properly trained, they are a little edgy.

Bull Terrier

If you’re old enough you’ll look at this dog and think of Budweiser mascot Spuds MacKenzie. Apart from that, they’re loyal protectors and far stronger than they look.

Rhodesian Ridgeback

Those looking for a sturdy, no-nonsense protector would do well raising and training a Rhodesian Ridgeback. Their loyalty, stamina, and reputation as fierce hunters go a long way toward building their reputation.

Weimaraner

These dogs are born and built to run. Originally they were bred as hunters, as their keen sense of smell is invaluable. But their status as a guard dog is just as prized for their alertness.

Mastiff

Big dogs typically have a reputation for being solid and capable of protecting their families. Mastiffs are often seen as sweet-natured dogs who can, when properly trained, be a nightmare for intruders who threaten the dog’s family.

Australian Shepherd

A word to the wise about these dogs, they are very high-energy and need plenty of exercise. Considering they’re bred as herding dogs, they’ll usually attempt to herd someone else if there are no cattle or sheep around. They are loyal and friendly, but they are definitely working dogs.

Doberman Pinscher

These dogs get a bad reputation for their dark and menacing appearance that’s worsened when they’re angry or trained as vicious protectors. But in truth, they are quite tough, alert, and still big lovers when they’re treated right.

Poodle

Despite their fancy look, Poodles are quite intelligent and very affectionate. They’ve actually found use in the military and as hunting dogs.

German Shepherd

They look a little vicious at times, but German Shepherds are big, lovable dogs that do turn aggressive when protecting their families. There’s a reason why they’re bred to guard sheep and assist the police in several ways.