Trying to find a good guard dog to protect your home and family? Here are some of the best large guard dogs for families for home protection.

For many years now, one of the main responsibilities of domesticated dogs remains now which is to protect its owners and guard against any potential harm from people or animals. Guard dogs, however, sometimes get a bad reputation because of their fierce protective instincts.

In reality, their traits make them perfect for protecting families. They aren’t just brave, but they’re also very devoted to their family, fighting off any intruder without hesitation. An ideal guard dog is one that’s large, fearless, and has high trainability.

Best Large Guard Dogs For Families For Home Protection

In this article, we came up with a list of best large guard dogs that will protect your family. But before that, let’s address two matters first.

What’s the difference between a guard dog and a watchdog?

Unsurprisingly, there are tons of confusion about the differences between a guard dog and a watchdog. After all, these two terms have been used interchangeably as if they’re two same things when actually they aren’t.

Watchdogs are also known as “Alarm Dogs”, mainly because they’re used to warn their owners of any unusual sound or sighting, usually by barking. Size doesn’t matter with watchdogs since their primary function is to bark loudly. They tend to bark a lot but aren’t expected to attack a threat. Instead, they just do their job as an alarm dog.

On the flip side, a guard dog can bark just as loudly, but they’re capable or expected to attack and restrain people or other animals. Usually, they bark at first to send the intruder away. If this doesn’t work, they resort to attacking. Guard dogs are typically categorized into two kinds: large, thick-coated dogs and large, short-coated mastiff or bully type dogs.

Do you need a guard dog?

In most cases, people get dogs as pets or companions. A relationship between an owner and a pet dog is beautiful, however, some pets aren’t adept at protecting their owners.

Intruders are a valid concern for homeowners, specifically if they have a precious family with them. As such, having a guard dog can be a great idea. That said, you may need to train your dog to act as a guard dog, since not every family pet will act in emergencies like fires or burglary.

Best Family Guard Dogs To Protect Your Home

There are tons of large dog breeds, but not every breed makes the best guard dog. Below are the best breeds of large dogs that generally serve well as protectors.

1. Rottweiler
A Rottie has a reputation for being aggressive. Sure, that may be the case, but towards their owner, they can be a huge goofball. This classic guard dog makes an outstanding guard dog, and even good at doing jobs.

2. German Shepherd
German Shepherd is widely known as a police or military working dog, and for a good reason. Sporting a tall and imposing physique, this breed also exhibits a deep sense of loyalty towards its owner. They’re extremely courageous, too, willing to put their lives on the line to save their loved ones.

3. Akita
Initially bred for guarding royalty and nobility in feudal Japan, Akitas are one of the most loyal dogs you can have. They’re alert, brave, and naturally wary towards strangers. Even with little to no training, they are excellent at watching over your family.

4. Belgian Malinois
Another intense large dog that’s perfect for guarding duties is the Belgian Malinois. With its agility, trainability, and search and rescue abilities, it’s no wonder they’re a cult-fave breed of police and military K-9 units.

5. Bullmastiff
This crossbreed of bulldog and mastiff is described as a confident, strong, and courageous dog. Even its bullish appearance alone can scare off intruders. But despite their grumpy, scary looks, Bullmastiffs are naturally affectionate towards their families.

6. Doberman Pinscher
Doberman Pinschers are intelligent and athletic dogs. This breed can be very aggressive towards intruders. However, with its human family, they can be affectionate and even goofy. A Doberman’s intimidating appearance is possibly its best feature as a guard dog.

7. Komondor
Best known for its “mop-like coat” or “dreadlocks,” a Komondor may seem a docile giant. Well, it turns out that their breed is used to guard livestock and property. Although they’re affectionate to their family, Komondors are strong, large, and brave enough to also protect their family.

8. Giant Schnauzer
The Giant Schnauzer is just a big version of its counterparts. Schnauzers are known for being high on alert and will bark whenever they sense something new or off. Therefore, a giant schnauzer would have a large bark and its big presence could scare away any intruders. Schnauzers are definitely loyal and love their humans.

9. Rhodesian Ridgeback
These large dogs were bred to hunt big cats, so they’ve definitely have that hunting instinct as well as the stamina. However, “rhodies” are naturally very independent and would do better with a seasoned pet owner to do the training. Once trained, they are loyal and make for great cuddlers.

10. Cane Corso
This big dog was bred for protection. A natural guard dog and hunter, its heavy weight and large size can be intimidating to intruders. It’s a muscular large dog that will need obedience to be the best guard dog for your family.

(Conclusion)
Have you picked a dog breed? With adequate training, these dogs can serve your family exactly how you want them to. If you still aren’t sure, seeking advice from dog trainers can help a lot.

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