The best Guard Dogs are confident, physically strong, and filled with instincts that protect their owners. They are also loyal and quick learners if they receive consistent training from their families and trainers.

Originally bred to stand beside Japanese royalty, Akitas are inquisitive and suspicious by nature. This Breed needs a lot of brains alongside its brawn to make a good guard dog.

Rhodesian Ridgeback

The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a powerful and sturdy breed, with an incorruptible character and deep sense of duty. It takes its responsibilities as companion, guardian and hunter to heart and is highly loyal to its family.v

The breed was created by Dutch farmers (called Boers) in Africa who needed a dog that could flush game from the bush, pull wounded animals to safety and defend their farms at night from predators. They crossed their European dogs with the native tribal dogs, and this gave rise to a breed that is known for its signature ridge of hair running down its back.

Because of its innate instinct to protect, the Ridgeback requires early and consistent obedience training using positive reinforcement. It can be a bit stubborn and independent, so it needs to know who is in charge. It does best in a large, securely fenced yard but is also happy living indoors with its humans. Proper exercise is necessary for this athletic and strong breed, as well. Visit for the best protection dogs.

American Staffordshire Terrier

While their intimidating appearance makes them a formidable threat, AmStaffs are actually loving and affectionate dogs that love playing with kids. They are cautious of people they don’t know and require proper training and socialization from a young age to avoid aggression.

They have a strong desire to please and respond well to commands, making them an excellent watchdogs. They are very loyal to their families and enjoy spending time with them inside and outside.

Developed in nineteenth-century England when various terriers were crossed with Bulldogs, these dogs excelled as fighting pits and are naturally protective of their owners. They have a stocky build and are heavy for their size with short tails that taper to a point.

These spirited breeds thrive with hour-long daily vigorous exercise. As they grow older, AmStaffs are prone to develop spondylosis and osteoarthritis. A genetic test such as Wisdom Panel® Premium can help you discover if your dog is at risk for these conditions.

Great Dane

Great Danes are massive dogs that look ready to take on anything. However, they’re also known for their gentle nature and love of children, making them the ideal family pet. They’re not a natural guard dog, but they’re very protective of their loved ones and are likely to bark when a stranger is on the property.

Their deafening roar and huge size may scare off any unwanted visitors. However, they typically don’t bite or attack people, even in defense. This is why they make better watchdogs rather than guard dogs. When training a Great Dane to bark at intruders, it’s important to use treats and other distractions. If you aren’t patient, a Dane might be tempted to chase the intruder away instead of barking at them. Eventually, they’ll learn to recognize that they should only bark when something is wrong. They can then be rewarded for barking at intruders that are not welcomed on the premises, making them good guard dogs.

Pyrenean Shepherd

The Pyrenean Shepherd hails from the rugged mountains of France and was bred to herd and protect flocks of sheep from predators. This herding breed has a fearless and assertive nature, making it one of the best breeds for security.

A herding dog by nature, the Pyrenean Shepherd is naturally protective of its family and will bark at anything it perceives as a threat. In urban areas, this may annoy neighbors, so these dogs are better suited to rural homes.

This herding breed is highly energetic, intelligent and eager to please, which makes it a great choice for active families who will give their dog plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. This breed can benefit from obedience training and competitive dog sports like agility trials, flyball and herding. Its coat can be either rough-faced with contrasting, long hair on the ruff and culottes or smooth-faced with short, fine hair. The ears are usually rose- or semi-prick, and the tail is traditionally docked.

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