Best Guard Dogs That Also Make Amazing Family Pets

By: Kate Row | Last updated: Aug 31, 2022

There’s no doubt that dogs are a man’s best friend. These sweet and loyal creatures are almost too good for us. And while all dogs deserve love, you probably wouldn’t want a Chihuahua as a guard dog.

Some dog breeds make excellent guard dogs because of their build, loyalty, and intelligence. But you might also want your pup to snuggle on the couch with you. The good news is you can have the best of both worlds! These breeds would make excellent guard dogs as well as sweet family pets.

German Shepherd

German Shepherds are one of the most common breeds of Police Dog because of their intelligence, athleticism, and loyalty. They make excellent pets as well. This beautiful breed is typically easy to train.

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This is because they are smart and naturally bred to work. They are fiercely loyal and will protect you from intruders when they feel a strong bond to you. Not to mention they’re absolutely beautiful. They are an excellent option for a family pet and guard dog combination.

Rottweiler

Rottweilers are a breed that many people might think of when they hear the term “guard dog”. Lots of films use rottweilers as the typical aggressive guard dog. However, these dogs can actually be incredibly gentle as well.

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They are super smart and kind to their owners, although they might be a little standoffish to strangers (we don’t blame them). If you decide a Rottie is the breed for you, make sure to train them and socialize them and you’ll have a friend for life!

Staffordshire Bull Terriers

Staffordshire Bull Terriers are an excellent option for those who don’t have the space for a large dog in their home. They typically weigh less than 40 pounds but are made of pure muscle! These energetic dogs are incredibly brave, which is a trait we’d all like in our guards.

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Make sure you give your terrier tons of walks and spend time playing with them to release some of that energy. This will keep them strong as well. You don’t have to be big to be a guard dog!

Doberman Pinscher

Dobermans might look kind of skinny at first glance, but don’t let them fool you. This breed is incredibly strong and wildly fast. Their fearlessness makes them an ideal guard dog for your home.

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Like all energetic breeds, Dobermans require a lot of exercise. Take them on long walks and/or throw the ball for them daily to run out some of their energy. With exercise and training, these dogs are sure to make anyone feel safe in their home.

Chesapeake Bay Retrievers

The Chesapeake Bay Retriever does bear resemblance to other retrievers, but their wavy coat sets them apart. This breed has all the love to give you that other retrievers do. But they also have a healthy reservation around new people.

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They are incredibly affectionate dogs with their owners who they have bonds with. They are polite with strangers, but not overly affectionate until they’ve sniffed them out. This breed is a great guard dog as well as a family pet.

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Bullmastiff

If you’ve ever seen a Bullmastiff you can probably guess what makes them excellent guard dogs. They are a massive muscular breed that is a cross between a Bulldog and a Mastiff. Look at the size of that head!

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These large companions are hard to miss because of their size and bark. Feel free to take them on walks with you, but they don’t make the best running companion. Their size doesn’t really make them equipped for speed.

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Australian Shepherd

These dogs have more than just good looks. Aside from being one of the prettiest breeds, they make an incredible partner in crime. Australian Shepherd are medium sized dogs who are deeply brave.

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They were originally bred in ranches so they are natural herders. This might just come in handy when trying to get your kids to come downstairs for dinner. They’re energetic and love to play so they are great friends as well as protectors.

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Akita

Akitas are large and powerful dogs. They were actually originally bred as guard dogs for royal families in Japan so it comes as no surprise that they know how to protect a home. They have great instincts and are reserved with strangers until they get to know them.

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They are very bright and alert so they’ll be paying attention even when you are not. As one of the most loyal dog breeds they will also make a great friend to you and your family.

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Caucasian Shepherd Dog

Caucasian Shepherd Dogs are one of the best guard dog breeds because of their instinct to protect. They were bred in nature to protect flocks of animals. Their size and strength make them an intimidating adversary to any intruder.

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Their instincts are well suited to be a guard dog. While they will recognize you and your family, you may need to introduce them to house visitors when they come to your home. Once befriended, the Caucasion Shepherd dog is a friend as well as a fighter.

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Estrela Mountain Dog

This breed is the perfect combination of protective and friendly. They are naturally wary of strangers, but incredibly affectionate with their owners. Their size alone is intimidating to any threats.

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They are very athletic as well so they’re equipped to chase off any unwanted visitors with ease. If you’re looking for a protector of the home who also gets along with kids, this breed might just be the one for you.

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Puli

Pulis might just be one of the most interesting looking dogs there are, but aside from their looks, they make excellent guard dogs. Their goofy appearance might make them look unassuming, but this breed are natural herders. They have great instincts.

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They are known for outsmarting predators when they would herd sheep on ranches and farms. A Puli dog might be just what your family is looking for. But, good luck grooming these furry friends!

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Rhodesian Ridgeback

The Rhodesian Ridgeback was bred to hunt lions so they are an excellent option to protect you, your family, and your property. They have excellent eyesight and instincts that contribute to their hunting nature.

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They are a great family dog so long as you have the time to walk and exercise them. Like many guard dog breeds, they have tons of energy that will need to be released. Rhodesian Ridgebacks are also great guard dogs for first time owners.

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Border Collie

Border Collies are another dog breed that were bred for herding. They are somewhat loud dogs for this reason, but this is to your benefit if you want a guard dog. They will alert you when something is not right or when there is an intruder in the house.

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They are keenly suspicious of new noises and their barking could very well spook an intruder. However, Border Collies do not have the strength to attack like some of the other stronger breeds on this list.

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Saint Bernard

Saint Bernards might be the ultimate family guard dog. They are completely loving and gentle with their own, but also possess qualities of a protector. Their impressive size alone makes them a wonderful guard dog.

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But they are also very intelligent and strong. They have a very protective nature which makes them a great breed to be around your kids and your family. If you think a Saint Bernard is the right pet for your family, just be prepared to clean up a lot of drool!

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