Humans and dogs have worked together for a long time, and dogs have always been great at helping us with important jobs—like keeping us and our families safe.
A guard dog is generally defined as “a dog trained to protect a place.” Sometimes, just having a dog around can scare off robbers! A 2022 study in the USA found that neighbourhoods with more dogs had fewer robberies and violent crimes.
There are many guard dog breeds that can also be great family pets, says Nell Ostermeier, DVM, veterinary advisor at OnePack Plan. If you’re looking for a dog that can scare off bad guys and play with your kids, we’ve got you covered!
Check out the best family guard dog breeds below and find tips to help you pick the right one for your family.
1. German Shepherd
German Shepherds were first bred to herd and protect sheep. Now, they’re great at guarding homes and being family pets. With good training and socialisation, they become loyal, friendly, and get along well with kids.
- Size: Medium to large
- Distinctive Features: Muscular build, alert eyes
- Personality: Loyal, protective, friendly
- Activity Level: High
- Grooming Needs: Moderate
- Care Difficulty: Moderate
- Trainability: High
- Health Risks: Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia
- Lifespan: 9-13 years
2. Belgian Shepherd Dog
Similar to the German Shepherd, the Belgian Shepherd Dog (also known as the Belgian Sheepdog or Malinois) has more energy and a stronger drive to work. They need an active family and a job to stay happy; otherwise, they can become mischievous!
- Size: Medium
- Distinctive Features: Sleek, athletic build, short coat
- Personality: Energetic, intelligent, alert
- Activity Level: Very high
- Grooming Needs: Low
- Care Difficulty: High
- Trainability: Very high
- Health Risks: Hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy
- Lifespan: 12-14 years
3. Bullmastiff
Bullmastiffs are a mix of Mastiffs and Bulldogs. They’re known for their loyalty and can be protective of their family. Though they might be wary of strangers, they’re great at alerting and guarding.
- Size: Large
- Distinctive Features: Stocky, broad chest, short coat
- Personality: Loyal, calm, alert
- Activity Level: Low to moderate
- Grooming Needs: Low
- Care Difficulty: Moderate
- Trainability: Moderate
- Health Risks: Hip dysplasia, heart issues
- Lifespan: 8-10 years
4. Boxer
Boxers were bred to hunt large game like bears and boars. Today, they make great watchdogs and family pets. They need an active family and lots of training to stay happy and well-behaved.
- Size: Medium to large
- Distinctive Features: Square jaw, short coat, muscular
- Personality: Playful, loyal, energetic
- Activity Level: High
- Grooming Needs: Low
- Care Difficulty: Moderate
- Trainability: High
- Health Risks: Hip dysplasia, heart disease
- Lifespan: 10-12 years
5. Cane Corso
Szabina Hercz via iStock
The Cane Corso, or Italian Mastiff, is a strong and protective dog. They can be great with kids if socialised early. With their herding background, they need firm training and an experienced pet parent.
- Size: Large
- Distinctive Features: Muscular, powerful build, short coat
- Personality: Protective, confident, gentle with family
- Activity Level: Moderate
- Grooming Needs: Low
- Care Difficulty: High
- Trainability: Moderate to high
- Health Risks: Hip dysplasia, heart issues
- Lifespan: 9-12 years
6. Doberman Pinscher
Doberman Pinschers were originally bred to guard their owners. Today, they’re still natural protectors and can be loving family pets. They need to stay indoors, as their short coat isn’t good for cold weather.
- Size: Medium to large
- Distinctive Features: Sleek coat, athletic build
- Personality: Alert, loyal, intelligent
- Activity Level: High
- Grooming Needs: Low
- Care Difficulty: Moderate
- Trainability: Very high
- Health Risks: Dilated cardiomyopathy, hip dysplasia
- Lifespan: 10-13 years
7. Rhodesian Ridgeback
Rhodesian Ridgebacks were bred in Africa to hunt lions. They make excellent guard dogs and fit well in high-energy families. Just be cautious with young kids, as some can play roughly.
- Size: Large
- Distinctive Features: Ridge of hair along their back, muscular build
- Personality: Independent, courageous, friendly
- Activity Level: High
- Grooming Needs: Low
- Care Difficulty: Moderate
- Trainability: Moderate
- Health Risks: Hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism
- Lifespan: 10-12 years
8. Rottweiler
Rottweilers are one of the oldest working breeds. They’re loyal and adaptable, making great family pets. They can live outside but need a fenced area and shelter for protection.
- Size: Large
- Distinctive Features: Broad chest, short coat
- Personality: Confident, protective, loyal
- Activity Level: Moderate
- Grooming Needs: Low
- Care Difficulty: Moderate
- Trainability: High
- Health Risks: Hip dysplasia, heart issues
- Lifespan: 8-10 years
9. Norwegian Elkhound
Originally bred by Vikings to herd and hunt big game, Norwegian Elkhounds are excellent guard dogs. They’re friendly and make great companions for active families.
- Size: Medium
- Distinctive Features: Thick coat, curled tail
- Personality: Friendly, alert, independent
- Activity Level: High
- Grooming Needs: Moderate
- Care Difficulty: Moderate
- Trainability: Moderate
- Health Risks: Hip dysplasia, kidney problems
- Lifespan: 12-15 years
10. Schnauzer
Stephan Kuhn/iStock
Schnauzers come in small, medium, and large sizes. Known as “kinderwachters (children’s watchdogs)” in Germany, they’re perfect family guard dogs. Smaller ones are great for families who want a watchdog without handling a large dog.
- Size: Small to large (depending on type)
- Distinctive Features: Bushy eyebrows, distinctive beard
- Personality: Alert, loyal, playful
- Activity Level: Moderate to high
- Grooming Needs: Moderate
- Care Difficulty: Low to moderate
- Trainability: High
- Health Risks: Eye problems, hip dysplasia
- Lifespan: 12-14 years
11. Great Dane
Great Danes are one of the largest dog breeds in the world. Though they look intimidating, these gentle giants are super friendly and get along well with cats, kids, and other pets. Their size requires early training.
- Size: Very large
- Distinctive Features: Tall, broad chest, sleek coat
- Personality: Gentle, friendly, calm
- Activity Level: Moderate
- Grooming Needs: Low
- Care Difficulty: Moderate
- Trainability: Moderate
- Health Risks: Bloat, heart disease
- Lifespan: 7-10 years
12. Australian Shepherd
Australian Shepherds are loyal, energetic dogs that were bred to herd sheep. They make great family guards but need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation from an experienced pet parent.
- Size: Medium
- Distinctive Features: Long, wavy coat, expressive eyes
- Personality: Intelligent, energetic, loyal
- Activity Level: Very high
- Grooming Needs: Moderate
- Care Difficulty: High
- Trainability: Very high
- Health Risks: Hip dysplasia, eye issues
- Lifespan: 12-15 years
13. Bernese Mountain Dog
Bernese Mountain Dogs have a big, strong presence and can seem intimidating, but they’re usually gentle giants. They need regular grooming and do best in cooler climates. They also love to be close to their family.
- Size: Large
- Distinctive Features: Thick, fluffy coat, broad build
- Personality: Gentle, affectionate, calm
- Activity Level: Moderate
- Grooming Needs: High
- Care Difficulty: Moderate
- Trainability: Moderate
- Health Risks: Hip dysplasia, cancer
- Lifespan: 6-8 years
14. Newfoundland
Newfoundlands, or “Newfies,” were bred as water rescue dogs. They’re gentle giants who are great family companions. Their calm nature means they might bark loudly but aren’t usually aggressive.
- Size: Very large
- Distinctive Features: Thick coat, large, webbed feet
- Personality: Gentle, calm, patient
- Activity Level: Moderate
- Grooming Needs: High
- Care Difficulty: Moderate
- Trainability: Moderate
- Health Risks: Hip dysplasia, heart problems
- Lifespan: 8-10 years
15. Mixed Breeds
Kosamtu/iStock
Mixed-breed dogs can be amazing family pets and great guard dogs! When choosing one from a shelter, think about the traits of their parent breeds. For example, a mix of a loving Golden Retriever and a protective German Shepherd could be a great fit. Remember, every dog is unique, so spend time with them and ask shelter staff about their history.
Tips for Getting a Guard Dog
If you’re getting a larger breed with protective instincts, proper training is key.
“Guarding and territorial behaviours can easily become unwanted, and even dangerous, without the proper training and boundaries,” Dr Ostermeier says. That’s why it’s a good idea to work with a professional trainer—especially if you’re a first-time dog parent.
Dr Ostermeier also recommends choosing a dog that fits your family’s lifestyle rather than focusing too much on guarding abilities. A home security system can always help as backup!
Why Genetics & Breeder Background Matter
A dog’s genetics can affect their personality and behaviour. Breeds with a history of herding or protecting people might adapt well to guarding. But every dog is unique, so some may take on different ‘jobs’ in the family.
Genetics also play a role in a dog’s health. If you’re buying a puppy, choose a responsible breeder who tests the parents for health conditions.
That said, plenty of great guard dogs are waiting to be adopted at shelters and rescues. Visiting your local shelter could help you find the perfect match!
Takeaway
When choosing a guard dog for your family, it’s important to find a breed that fits your lifestyle and needs. Many protective breeds, like German Shepherds and Rottweilers, can double as loyal, loving companions with the right training and care. Remember, every dog is unique, so spend time with them to see if they’re the right match for your family.
Further Reading
- How To Recognise And Manage Your Dog’s Resource Guarding
- How To Stop a Territorial Dog from Guarding the House
- What Are The Easiest Dogs To Train?
- How To Socialise Your Dog Properly
