Get to know the most protective dog breeds

If you’re thinking about getting a dog to be a companion and protect for your family, you’re in great company. Dogs bred for their protective instinct are becoming more popular, and many families are finding them to provide a source of comfort and safety in uncertain times.

Here are the top protective dog breeds for you to consider.

Bullmastiff

Bullmastiffs are confident, brave, protective dogs. They’re also large and can look formidable when necessary, making them an ideal protection dog.

Originally bred to serve as watchdogs, they keep their barking to a minimum and use their voice as an alarm system to alert you when something is wrong.

They’re incredibly dependable and reliable, making them great dogs for families. These loyal pups are driven to make their owners happy and are fiercely loyal.

While these dogs make excellent companions, it’s essential to know that they likely won’t be with your family for more than ten years or so. Their average lifespan is eight to ten years.

Because of their size, they tend to develop joint problems and well as cancer.

Boxers

Boxers are an adorable, fun-loving, loyal breed that serves as excellent companions and watchdogs. They are highly observant and keep a close eye on their surroundings.

While confident, they are appropriately wary of strangers and keep a close eye on people they don’t know. This loving dog is incredibly patient and playful, making them an ideal breed to have around children.

As a family protection dog, they will be loving and loyal to their “pack” and serve to alert you to any threat they sense. Boxers are fiercely loyal and will defend their owners no matter what.

These dogs are highly social and need family time, so if you’re gone all day, consider a two-way pet camera that lets you talk to them and dispense treats. If you’re always gone, however, a boxer may not be the best dog for you. 

Giant Schnauzer

Giant Schnauzers make wonderful companions and guardians. They are loving and enjoy being present with the family they protect. These dogs are also confident, assertive, and bold when facing something unknown, unusual, or threatening.

Bred as a working dog, these animals are highly protective of their territory and their “pack.” They don’t trust strangers but are comfortable, playful, and fun-loving around their family.

Thanks to their high intelligence, they’re easy to train. Due to their alpha mentality, they like to be in charge. When bringing one of these dogs into your home, it’s vital that you consistently demonstrate that you are the leader and in charge.

German Shepherd

Throughout the history of the German Shepherd have long been considered a favorite breed for serving as a protection dog. They are fiercely loyal and protective of those they love. They’re loving and affectionate with their family but quickly switch to defense mode when faced with a stranger or a threatening situation.

Thanks to their incredible intelligence, they are highly trainable and dependable. These dogs can tend to get bored quickly.

They love to work and need a job to do to remain satisfied. Boredom is the Achilles heel of a German Shepherd, and they shouldn’t be left alone all day with no stimulation. Make sure to exercise your German Shepherd protection dog frequently, and they’ll serve you faithfully. 

Rottweiler

Rottweilers are excellent protection dogs due to their build alone. People view them as fierce dogs that shouldn’t be messed with, so if you have one of these around, strangers will likely leave you alone.

They are confident, brave dogs when faced with a threat yet incredibly loving and affectionate with their families. Their protection drive is high, making then an excellent guard dog.

As opposed to popular opinion, Rotties are not overly aggressive without reason and are safe around families with the right lineage. These are not dogs for first-time owners, however, and need an experienced handler who can train them properly.

Doberman Pinscher

Doberman Pinschers are incredibly smart, loyal, and trustworthy. They are loving and playful around their families but have a natural tendency to always be on the alert.

They are natural guard dogs that will stand up and defend his “pack” if threatened with attack. With their families, they are docile and loving.

Dobies love to be busy and need physical and mental activity. Be sure to provide them with plenty of exercise and activities with your family.

Seek a dog from breeders who have bred their animals to be confident without being overly aggressive toward people they’ve never met. Training will go a long way to help your Dobie understand how to behave.

What protective dog breed is right for you?

Each dog listed above is known for its protective, loyal, and loving qualities. While each dog has a slightly different temperament and lineage, it’s hard to go wrong with any of them.

Be sure to get a dog that matches your experience and provide them with plenty of exercise. 

Survey says: Big dog breeds more popular than small pups