Looking for a dog to watch or guard your family and home? Some breeds that serve as perfect watchdogs are Poodle, ShihTzu, Dachshund, Chihuahua, and Terriers. These dogs will alert you to the presence of intruders with their constant barking. A guard dog however does more than just raising the alarm; it will do something to deal with malicious strangers and animals. Here you’ll find the 10 best guard dog breeds that fit the bill due their strength, devotion, audacity and ability to deal with pain.

1) Doberman Pinscher





More than just a loyal companion, Dobermans can efficiently guard a large estate. This brave breed can run fast and hence cover a large distance easily to reach & aptly tackle a trespasser in any corner of your property. Dobies can also operate as great military and police dogs. The breed also features in the list of top 10 smartest dogs in the world.

2) Giant Schnauzer






This is another loyal & intimidating contender known for its brutal bite. A Giant Schnauzer’s imposing size & fierce barking can effortlessly ward off unwanted strangers. These powerful dogs require proper training and socialization. They also have to be kept engaged physically and mentally.

3) German Shepherd






This breed was initially used for herding sheep. It is courageous, confident and extremely loyal. German Shepherds are ready to risk their lives to protect their family. GSDs are also favored as Police dogs since they are quick at learning different commands for varied duties. They are gentle towards their family but when performing the role of a guard dog they can be pretty fierce & unforgiving.

4) Rottweiler






Apart from performing the duty of a guard dog, Rotties also serve as Police, Search & Rescue dogs. Moreover they are used to look after live-stock in many regions around the world. The breed is very devoted towards its human family and appears calm in their presence. The even-tempered demeanor can soon switch to a ferocious one when its family is confronted by a threatening object.

5) Komondor






It is also known by the moniker Hungarian Sheepdog. This dog is large and powerful. It is able to act and take decisions independently. Komondors have an innate instinct to protect sheep, goods, loved ones and property. The dog serves as a great pet to families that provide it with early socialization and obedience training. The dog isn’t kind to vicious trespassers and will not miss an opportunity to knock them down. Though it can overlook harmless strangers with no negative intent.

6) Bull mastiff






This strong & well-built canine comes with a natural drive to guard its loved ones and home. It will automatically know what to do if its family is under some kind of threat. It was initially used by 19th century gamekeepers to look after their estates.

7) Akita Inu






Domineering, territorial, strong and independent are some traits that define this dog breed. It acts unfriendly and aggressive towards strangers. But shows immense love and loyalty towards its humans. Akitas aren’t tolerant of dogs belonging to the same sex. They do well under a constant and confident trainer/master.

8) Belgian Malinois






The breed is energetic, protective, clever and hard working. The dog is easily trainable and enjoys learning new tasks. The Belgian Malinois is mostly used as a working dog. It can serve as a guard dog for protection of people and property. Also used for police, search and rescue work. The Malinois requires a proper exercise regimen.

9) Chow Chow






This ancient breed originated in China and was long ago used to guard Buddhist temples and palaces. It can act overly protective of their human family and property. Chow Chows are loyal, calm and well-behaved. But it has a tendency to show aversion to training and could also act stubborn with age. Therefore it is important to start their training during their puppyhood.

10) Kuvasz






It’s a territorial breed that was originally used to protect livestock. Kuvasz is loving towards its humans but wary & unfriendly towards strangers. It will perform its role of guarding your home and family really well as this is part of its natural make-up.

Those who wish to own guard dogs need to prepare themselves to deal with some additional duties. These tasks involve providing the pet with early socialization and proper obedience training. The owner must perform the role of a consistent pack leader. It is also important to ensure the safety of neighbors, visitors and family members around these powerful guard dog breeds and this can be easily achieved if you own a suitably socialized and trained canine.