Having a guard at home or at your workplace or events is almost as good as having a security system to protect you and your property. Compared to other security measures, guard dogs are very effective at protecting homes and businesses and act as very good deterrent against burglars. Most homeowners use these dogs as additional security to protect their properties.
By keeping a guard dog, you can be one step closer to complete peace of mind. The best guard dogs are those that you can train fast, are physically intimidating and importantly, have a good guarding instinct. Here is a look at five of the best guard dogs considered by many homeowners and businesses. Here is our top five list of best guard dogs for 2015.
Caucasian shepherd
The Caucasian shepherded is one of the best guard dogs around and it is huge. This ferocious breed is believed to have originated from ancient breed of dogs in Southern Russia. It is a very popular guard dog in Russia, Turkey, Georgia and Afghanistan. Historically, they were trained for guarding and safe keeping of flocks, herds and human dwellings from prey and strangers.
It is a massive looking dog with a strong and muscular body. It can weigh between 46 and 82 kg with a height of up to 88 centimeters. The steadfast loyalty and unwavering dedication of the Caucasian has made it one of the best guard dogs and an ideal police dog in most parts of Europe. It is an aggressive, alert dog that is always ready to protect its territory. They have a life expectancy of 11 to 12 years and with their huge size, they require a lot of space to accommodate.
Rottweiler
This is a strong, medium size to large size dog breed native to Germany. It is one of the best guard dogs with a reputation that precedes it. Rottweiler dogs were once used to pull carts and guard herds of cows but these days, they can be trained to protect homes and businesses. They are great companion dogs as well.
A Rottweiler can be a self-assured, steady and devoted guard dog when well trained. Without early obedience and socialization training however, the dog can be very aggressive and destructive. Its broad face, well-muscled body, powerful forelegs and strong neck give it an intimidating appearance, well suited for a guard dog. This loyal and smart dog can weigh between 50 and 100 kg, with a life expectancy of up to 15 years.
German shepherd
This is one of the most popular and best guard dogs out there. It is often at the top of any list for anyone looking for a great guard dog. The males weigh up to 50kgs and the females up to 40kgs. Also known as the Alsatian in some parts of the world, the German shepherd is a native to Germany. It known for its protective and loyal nature as well as a great police dog. It is a smart, strong and obedient dog.
German shepherds have been known to have a reputation for being protective towards children especially. They have an approachable and easy-going personality, but if they are not properly trained, they can be assertive towards owners. They are large and can grow up to 26 inches in height.
Boerboel Mastiff
Though not very popular as other guard dogs, the Mastiff is the only breed that has been specifically bred to guard homes and businesses. The Boerboel was originally bred in South Africa for guarding cattle and cows. It is a large and an extremely powerful dog that is roughly comparable to the Rottweiler breed in appearance. It can be assertive and fearless, particularly when protecting property or its owner.
Female mastiffs can grow up to 25 inches in height while males can get as tall as 28 inches. Both can weigh between 75kgs and 100kgs. The mere size of this breed can be intimidating to strangers, making it one of the best guard dogs. To match its strength, it is a very intelligent dog and easy to train as well. While it can be intimidating to strangers, a Boerboel will quickly back down at your command.
Bull-mastiff
Bull-mastiffs are priced crossbreeds composed of 40% Bulldog and 60% Mastiff. A typical bull-mastiff guard dog is courageous, loyal to its family, and intensely protective of its family. Because of their sheer size, these guard dogs will effectively prevent intruders and trespassers from moving past them. They protect by biting, standing in front of an aggressor to block his or her way, or by knocking trespassers down and standing above them, baring their teeth and growling in a threatening manner.
For a bull-mastiff to become a well-behaved family member, consistency is crucial. Socialization and training is of high importance since the breed can be independent. Bull-mastiffs are natural guardians of their home and owners and won’t need special training so as to react appropriately to ward off danger from their families or the territory they are guarding. For this reason, some experts have repeatedly labeled them as the best guard dogs in the world.
Since bull mastiffs are known to regard strangers wearily, early socialization is crucial to ensure it does not become extremely aggressive. This guard dog prefers being with his or her family and hates being left alone.
Bull mastiffs measure between 63 and 69 cm (25-27 inches) and weigh from 50 to 60 kg. Exceeding these dimensions is strongly discouraged by breeders. They have an average lifespan of 12 years.
Bottom Line
Throughout history, the main jobs of domesticated dogs have been to protect their owners and guard against burglars and other strangers. Many act as police dogs and business guards. Due to their physical strength, temperament, loyalty, courage and resistance to pain, the above dogs are considered the best guard dogs.
Important note:
Owning a guard dog means additional responsibility. While the aforementioned breeds are friendly, owners must take into consideration that they are powerful dog breeds. Regardless of the breed, any dog can become inappropriately aggressive and dangerous to guests and neighbors without proper training and socialization. Whether you have a large beast or a small pup of canine, be aware of its temperament around children, guests and animals in order to take proactive steps to keep them safe.
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