Many people get a dog because they want extra security around their homes. A guard dog, or a dog that will actually stop an intruder, typically takes special breeding and training, but there are many dogs that are excellent watch dogs. A watch dog simply alerts their owner to someone approaching their property, be it friend or foe. Even if your dog isn’t a police dog, most barking dogs will deter an intruder even if they aren’t that big and scary looking. Most guard dogs also make great watch dogs, but not all watch dogs make great guard dogs. If you’re looking for a reliable canine alarm system, check out these breeds.
#1 – Rottweiler
The Rottweiler is a large German guard dog breed that is deeply loyal to its family but wary of strangers. They are not a good choice for novice dog owners but make excellent watch dogs and guard dogs.
#2 – Doberman Pinscher
The Doberman Pinscher is another German breed originally used for guarding, police and military work. They are large, powerful dogs that will alert their owners to suspicious activity and can make good guard dogs as well.
#3 – German Shepherd Dog
The German Shepherd dog is renowned for being the Jack-of-all-trades and it is still used as a police and military dog today. They are excellent guard dogs that will notify their owners of any strangers just a little too close to their homes.
#4 – Cairn Terrier
Although small, the Cairn Terrier is mighty. They are strong-willed, feisty little terriers that are very observant of their surroundings and will alert their owners to any novel activity in no time. Because of this, they make excellent watch dogs.
#5 – Bullmastiff
The Bullmastiff is a large, powerful breed that makes an outstanding watch dog. Their looks alone will deter any intruders and the breed will bark at any suspicious activity. Despite their size and appearance, they are known to be gentle giants and are very affectionate toward their family.
#6 – Akita
The Akita is a large Japanese dog that was originally bred for hunting and guarding. They will quickly alert their owners to any unusual activity. They are powerful dogs that are not well-suited for the novice owner, but are almost unparalleled in their loyalty to their owners.
#7 – Schipperke
The Schipperke is a small Belgian dog of the spitz type. They were originally used as sheepdogs but are very independent, stubborn and intelligent dogs. They are quick to alert of strangers approaching and despite their small size, they are not recommended for novice owners.
#8 – Belgian Malinois
The Belgian Malinois is one of four Belgian Shepherds and is the short-coated variety. They are arguably one of the best working dogs in existence and are the most widely used in police and military work. They are excellent guard dogs and watch dogs, but they need a job to do or else they can be a handful.
#9 – Cane Corso
The Cane Corso is a large, powerful mastiff that will deter any intruders on its looks alone. That said, they will quickly alert their owners to abnormal activity, like a stranger approaching the house. They are fairly active for mastiffs and need a very consistent and dedicated owner.
#10 – Miniature Pinscher
The Miniature Pinscher resembles a small Doberman Pinscher, but the breeds actually aren’t closely related. That said, Miniature Pinschers still make fantastic watch dogs. They are very alert to their surroundings and will notify their owners of suspicious activity consistently.
#11 – Giant Schnauzer
The Giant Schnauzer is the largest of the Schnauzer breeds and has been used as a guard dog and watch dog. It still does well at both jobs today and takes the protection of its home and family very seriously.
#12 – Great Pyrenees
The Great Pyrenees is a very large livestock guardian breed that still excels at this job today. Although typically used to protect large flocks of livestock, the breed will also consistently alert to strangers approaching their home. Thankfully their size alone will deter most intruders.
#13 – Miniature Schnauzer
The Miniature Schnauzer is the smallest of the Schnauzers and arguably the best watch dog of them all. Part of the terrier group, they are feisty little dogs that are very territorial and will threaten any strangers they feel are too close to their homes.
#14 – German Pinscher
The German Pinscher is often mistaken for the larger Doberman Pinscher, but the two are different breeds. In fact, German Pinschers are more closely related to Standard Schnauzers. Like the other breeds, they are keen watch dogs and are deeply loyal to their families.
#15 – Airedale Terrier
The Airedale Terrier is the largest of the terriers and has been used for both hunting and police and military work. They make excellent watch dogs, quick to alert their owners of any unusual activity. They are incredibly loyal dogs but are not recommended for first-time owners.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Watch Dog Breeds
What makes a dog breed good for guarding or protection?
A top watch dog breed typically possesses traits like alertness, loyalty, territorial instincts, intelligence, and a strong bark. They are naturally wary of strangers but deeply loyal to their families, making them excellent deterrents to intruders.
Which dog breeds are considered the best watch dogs?
Some of the best watch dog breeds include the German Shepherd, Rottweiler, Doberman Pinscher, Belgian Malinois, Bullmastiff, and Boxer. These breeds are known for their protective instincts, strength, and ability to be trained for security roles.
Are watch dogs aggressive toward guests or children?
Not necessarily. Well-socialized and trained watch dogs can differentiate between a threat and a friendly visitor. Breeds like Boxers and German Shepherds are known to be gentle with children while remaining protective of the home.
Do all watch dog breeds need special training?
Yes, most watch dog breeds benefit from obedience and socialization training to ensure they can protect without becoming overly aggressive or fearful. Proper training helps channel their instincts in a safe and manageable way.
Can smaller dog breeds be good watch dogs?
Absolutely. Breeds like the Miniature Schnauzer, Chihuahua, and Pomeranian may lack size but make excellent watchdogs thanks to their alertness and vocal nature. However, they may not offer the same level of physical protection as larger breeds.
How much exercise do watch dog breeds typically need?
Many watch dog breeds, such as the Belgian Malinois or Doberman Pinscher, require daily exercise and mental stimulation. These high-energy dogs thrive in active households or with owners who can provide structured routines and training.
Are watch dogs suitable for apartment living?
It depends on the breed and the owner’s lifestyle. While some breeds like the Bullmastiff can adapt to apartment life due to their lower energy levels, others like the German Shepherd may need more space and outdoor activity to stay happy and healthy.
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