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Throughout human history, one of the main jobs of domesticated dogs has been to protect
their owners and guard against unwanted people or animals.
Last time, we looked at ten small guard dogs, which were nothing more than furry burglar
alarms really.
Today, let’s look at some dog breeds that actually have the heft to do something about
unwanted guests.
Let’s get started, but before we start, make sure to hit that subscribe button and
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10.
Akita Inu
The Akita is one of the most loyal dogs you can find.
The Akita Inu has been described as powerful, dignified and alert.
Bred in Japan for hunting and protection, this distinguished breed will not hesitate
to take down anyone who poses a threat to its territory.
Akitas are not normally aggressive toward people but do have a very well-developed protective
instinct.
Akitas are natural guardians of the home and don’t require guard-dog training.
And, they’re very quiet dogs and don’t bark unless there is a good reason.
When your Akita starts barking, you should pay attention.
9.
Great Pyrenees
The Great Pyrenees was once known as the royal dog of France and, with its stunning white
coat and imposing presence.
The Great Pyrenees began as a flock-guarding dog, not herding flocks, but protecting them
from predators such as wolves and coyotes.
This job called for a large, powerful, brave, and wary dog.
They’ll patrol the borders of your yard or house the way they would patrol the edges
of their flock.
It’s just their nature.
And, the dog’s size alone is enough to discourage any would-be intruders.
Or those with severe phobias of dog hair.
8.
Rhodesian Ridgeback
The Rhodesian Ridgeback was originally bred to hunt lions.
That in itself attests to the prowess of this dog in terms of providing security.
The Ridgeback is strong and highly independent.
It’s also loyal and makes a great guard dog.
They’re not known to bark a lot, so if a Rhodesian barks, he needs to be taken seriously.
7.
German Shepherd Dog
Of course, the number one police and military dog was going to end up on this list.
Described as approachable, direct and fearless, the German Shepherd has grown in popularity
for its intelligence and family loyalty.
Law enforcement officers prefer this breed for its easy trainability.
Intruders, however, don’t like them for their defensive tendencies.
Their confidence is a natural trait, and they will stand next to or in front of their owners
against any foe.
They are very protective of their homes and will be wary of intruders.
They’re also sizable and can take down any sized human without much trouble.
6.
Giant Schnauzer
Giant Schnauzers are generally loyal and loving companions who bring joy and laughter to the
home.
But, guarding is in its genes.
Historically it has been used for a variety of functions.
Their ancestors herded cattle, guarded brewers, hauled carts, and also served as police dogs,
which some still do today.
The Schnauzer is intelligent and able to pick up new commands easily.
Giant Schnauzers are proud, territorial dogs, whose size helps make up for their refined
appearance.
They are quite powerful dogs, capable of effectively defending their family.
5.
Tibetan Mastiff
Tibetan Mastiffs are some of the most reliable guard dogs around.
They were developed in Tibet, as their name suggests, centuries ago, primarily as guard
dogs for both property and livestock.
As the breed developed and became larger and more reliable, one dog would often act as
a guard over an entire village.
Modern Tibetan Mastiffs that are bred in the West are still very alert, protective watchdogs
but they are no longer aggressive.
One of the largest dog breeds, growing to a height of 30 inches, these dogs can weigh
as much as 250 pounds.
An intruder would be facing a sizable obstacle.
4.
Komondor
Since about the 9th century, the Komondor has been the king of Hungarian flock dogs,
guarding sheep at pasture.
They’re confident and tough enough to run off wolves and other ferocious beasts of prey.
The dreadlocks give the dog a cool, funky look, but they aren’t for show.
They provide protection from extreme weather and sharp-toothed predators.
The Komondor is characterized by imposing strength, dignity, and courageous demeanor.
This is a large, muscular dog with plenty of bone and substance.
The Komondor is wary of strangers and fiercely protective.
In households today, the Komondor serves as a dutiful guard dog for its human "flock"
as well as a devoted companion.
3.
Rottweiler
With its strength and protective nature, the Rottweiler was originally bred to herd cows.
Its intimidating size is usually enough to ward off any trespasser, but if they feel
their area or their family is in danger, the Rottie will take an offensive stance towards
an invader.
Rottweilers are on the shorter side by guard dog standards, but their physical power is
both impressive and immediately obvious.
2.
Doberman Pinscher
Dobermans excel in most protection-oriented applications.
They were after all bred to protect “tax-collectors”.
Dobermans are very loving, sensitive dogs, who also possess the bravery, size and imposing
appearance to make them one of the best guard dogs available, who are instinctively compelled
to protect their homes and families
Dobermans are in the same size class with Rotties and German Shepherds, but Dobermans
are a bit lighter on their feet than these other breeds.
Dobermans – like shepherds and Rotties – are sensitive, loving, loyal, intelligent and
brave dogs.
Before we get to number one, make sure to come back next week as we check out some cute
small dog breeds that look like teddy bears.
1.
Bullmastiff
Originally bred to deter poachers, bull mastiffs have provided protective services to their
humans since their beginning.
Bullmastiffs exhibit most of the same traits of a great guard dog: They’re loving, affectionate
and unquestionably protective.
Bullmastiffs are very large, powerful dogs, who often exceed 110 pounds in weight.
The large size of this breed is intimidating to intruders.
However, the breed is naturally affectionate towards its family, making this an excellent
companion.
The Bullmastiff is a natural protector that simply needs training in order to provide
structure and reinforce its natural guarding instincts.
I know, I know … we didn’t include the Belgian Malinois.
Why not?
Well, the Belgian Malinois is an intense dog.
While the breed could have easily made the number one spot on this list, this breed needs
to always have a job to do and really needs specialized training to keep its natural abilities
in check.
Do you rely on a dog to help protect your family?
If so, which breed helps you sleep securely at night?
Let us know in the comments below.
All of the dogs in this list are large, powerful dogs.
Many of which have willful personalities.
If you’re considering getting a large dog for protection, we highly encourage you to
do a lot of research on them.
While most of the dogs can be loyal family pets, most breeds of dogs have some must-know
caveats.
Just know what you’re getting into before running out to buy a dog of any size.
If you like this video, you can check out some of our other videos here.
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And as always, catch ya next time.