Best family guard dogs: Here are the top breeds

A pet can add a sense of security to any home or office. The mere idea of having another living, breathing thing in your house has a way of doing that. Whether you get your dog as a puppy or rescue the dog later in life, they have a way of making a home just a tad more peaceful.

Some families want to go one step further and bring home a dog that can truly offer protection from unwanted people entering your yard or home. You should know that this is easier said than done, but getting to know the breeds you can put yourself ahead of the game when choosing your families new dog.

If you are set on having an imposing animal join your home as a guardian, it’s important to choose your breed wisely and find a reputable breeder. Meet the dog’s canine parents if you can and know that a dog will not be a guardian from the moment it walks in your door. It will need training to do that.

If you’re ready to do what it takes and hire an experienced trainer to help make your pooch your home’s protector-in-chief, or at the very least a doggy deterrent to would-be criminals, here are seven breeds that are typically trained to do so.

1. German shepherd

This breed is a first choice in terms of guard dogs, “for protection, security, and a family dog. I would say a German shepherd is probably the best choice.” They are both loyal and protective by nature.

2. Rottweiler

The Rottweiler breed is your “classic guard dog,” and the AKC says that if properly trained, the intelligent and confident Rottweiler makes an excellent guard dog for families. There is apparently no limit to the jobs they can perform, like herding and carting to name a few. Very smart dog breed. Tire them out enough and they may even cop a squat in your lap.

3. Doberman pinscher

The Doberman pinscher is an intelligent, easily-trained breed that is athletic, requiring lots of regular exercise, the AKC says. They are loyal and loving and just a beautiful animal.

4. Bullmastiff

A cross between a bulldog and a mastiff, the bullmastiff is described as strong, fearless, confident and sometimes strong-willed by the AKC, so starting training early, as puppies, is important. A busy family may like that they rarely bark but tend to be good at sensing stranger danger.

5. Boxer

Though they may look menacing (which may be what you’re searching for) a boxer is an active, bright, fun-loving and extremely loyal breed, according to the AKC, and typically great with children. Rather than a protector, a boxer is best suited for alerting their owners to happenings in their environment, like for instance, a visitor. Always a good start to protecting your home.

6. Great Dane

If you’ve ever seen one for yourself, you haven’t forgotten just how large they are! Though they are giant and larger than most pups out there, the Great Dane is surprisingly gentle and patient with children, according to the AKC. They are said to make friends easily and be very alert and are often a bit dopey.

7. Giant Schnauzer

The AKC says loyalty and smarts are what make this dog a great companion, and, as their name implies, their giant stature makes them command attention.

They are intelligent, they can be strong-willed, and they have an intimidating look, and they are good with kids when they’re raised as part of the family and well-trained.