Guard Dog Breeds: General Features, Species, and Selection Tips

Guard dogs have always been in demand and relevant. The best qualities of these animals have been honed for centuries. Weak individuals from the very beginning could not stand skirmishes with stronger and more powerful opponents, and the most powerful and hardy representatives of the species subsequently gave the same offspring. That is why the guard dog breeds today are rightfully recognized as one of the most popular and popular.

The best guard dogs related to popular and sought after breeds, possess the following characteristic qualities that distinguish them from many other tetrapods.

• The guard dog does not come into direct contact with the attacking object. It acts only to alert the owner of imminent danger.
• Such pets can live in a separate, properly equipped house or an ordinary convenient booth. In most cases, watchdogs are kept on a chain of suitable length.
• Dogs that are naturally small in size can be no less useful and effective watchmen than their larger counterparts. True, large dogs inspire great anxiety and fear. For this reason, most people have large pets.
• "Watchmen" must be constantly properly educated and subjected to proper training. Otherwise, the pet runs the risk of growing up completely naughty and uncontrollable. Such a dog will not be an assistant - it will become a burden for the owners.
• Such animals should be able to independently make all the necessary decisions, as well as correctly respond to strangers.
• Watchdogs are undemanding to climatic conditions.They can live seamlessly at most temperatures.
• A good and smart guard dog must be absolutely incorruptible.
• Such animals must have a strong, physically developed body and a high level of intelligence.
• The guard dogs have a wonderful keen ear, well-developed intuition. Such pets should be cunning and quick-witted.

Some types of guard dogs do not need special training. These pets include ordinary guard dogs. These are universal creatures who need to be clearly aware of their core function. To do this, the owner will need to place all the emphasis during the basic training process.

The character of the watchman must be strict. Aggression should take place, but it cannot be too much. Moderately aggressive dog - ideal. Only in this case, the animal will not rush at absolutely all people who are in the area entrusted to him. Such a pet should not be too cowardly and meek. Such dogs will not be able to protect, if necessary, neither the owner nor his property.

The type of coat of the watchdog is also important. The watchman must have a thick and solid coat, because he will have to spend a lot of time on the street, regardless of weather conditions and season. In a frosty winter, a four-legged defender will be more comfortable in a warm and thick coat.

There are several of the most popular and well-known breeds of guard dogs. Get to know them better.

This breed is considered one of the oldest watchdogs. Its representatives are famous for unsurpassed protective qualities. Initially, this breed was bred to protect herds of sheep from attacks by predatory animals. Because of their ability to fight fiercely with wolves, Caucasians are called “wolfhounds” in a different way. Caucasian Shepherds cannot stand strangers. To the owners they are devoted to fanaticism. If necessary, this large-sized pet, without hesitation, will rush to protect his person, even if it will cost him his life.

Growth at the withers of adult individuals of the breed can reach a mark of 75 cm, and weight - about 60 kg. There are cases when a dog of this breed had an even more serious mass, 110 kg. Caucasians' wool is ideal for the watchman - it is long and thick. These shaggy healthy men feel great being on the street even in severe frosts. Due to the chic coat, Caucasians also look larger, voluminous and frightening for outsiders.

In another way, the breed is called Anatolian Karabash. Its representatives were withdrawn to Turkey. Currently, these individuals are recognized as the national Turkish heritage. Such watchmen grow tall, muscular and well-built. They have a tail tail and powerful limbs of great length. Their average height is 75 cm and their weight is about 52 kg.

Turkish watchdog needs early socialization. Without proper education, this large dog will become uncontrollable, and will cause a lot of trouble for the owners. Anatolian Karabash are stubborn and wayward by nature animals that strive for independence and maximum freedom. Their protective instinct is well developed. If Karabash recognizes the leadership of his master, he will be an obedient, peace-loving and smart four-legged comrade.

This breed is also called commander or komondor. Its representatives have a truly amazing appearance. They are characterized by a very long coat, which is not perfectly straight: it curls up, forming peculiar dreadlocks. Komondor’s eyes remain closed. Only the dark point of the nose will be noticeable.

Hungarian watchdogs have large incisors. These are powerful dogs that need space and serious physical exertion. For a city apartment, such a pet is not suitable. The coat of the Hungarian guard is light (white), so it always gets dirty quickly. Because of this, dogs have to be bathed often.

Hungarian guard shepherds grow up late. Until 3 years, they behave like puppies. Independence predominates in the character of some individuals, others behave more affectionately and amiably. Regardless of character traits, the commander will be a great watchman. If he feels danger and aggression, he acts with lightning speed and ruthlessly.

These are very beautiful and energetic individuals. They are active, therefore, they need serious physical exertion. Norwegians are smart and independent, but at the same time remain affectionate and friendly towards their owners. Best of all, they take root in families in which the children have either grown up, or they are not at all.

These dogs are loyal and fearless. They are a bit aloof from strangers, but always happily meet family members. Their character is independent, as in other northern breeds.

This is an ancient Chinese breed of guard dogs. Previously, such animals were used during hunting, but at the moment they are excellent watchmen. Dogs of this breed are not very common. They are considered truly unique. The sizes of the Chinese watchmen are small. At the withers, they can grow up to 35-45 cm, and their average weight is 14-25 kg. At home, this breed is divided into 3 subspecies: small, medium, large (more than 45 cm).

Chinese bulldogs are squat and compact, but not too miniature. In their structure, most individuals have much in common with American pit bull terriers. They are distinguished by an athletic body with well-developed muscles, which can be easily seen through short hair. One of the main features is the tail, which can be short or medium. It is raised above the line of the back of the animal.

Chinese bulldogs have both hunting and good watchdog qualities. They are very loyal to the owners. Dogs behave good-naturedly towards children - do not bite and do not bite. If the children are not from their family, then the pet will treat them cautiously.

This is an Italian guard dog. Representatives of this breed behave restrained and independently. Cane Corso are big stubborn, but still easy to train and learn new teams. These pets are characterized by a high level of intelligence. Raising them is not as difficult as it might seem at first glance.

The main functions of Cane Corso today - to be the protector of the family, the guard of property. These animals easily cope with all the tasks assigned to them, while showing reasonableness and ingenuity. Mindlessly, Cane Corso never acts. For no reason, such a dog will not bark, and will not rush at absolutely everyone who comes to the door of the house.

This is a popular Japanese breed. Its representatives are insanely loyal to their owners, but this does not prevent them from regularly demonstrating their own independence and self-confidence. These pets are funny, but very smart and smart. They are allowed to be kept both on the street and in the house. Shiba Inu is often purchased to acquire a reliable and smart watchman. These pets do a great job with these features. Their sizes can not be called too large. Shiba Inu, rather, is medium-sized individuals - their growth is from 31 to 41 cm, and weight - 8-12 kg.

Shiba Inu need proper education. The Japanese compare this process with the origami technique - here you will need to show great patience, spend a lot of free time. One careless action can nullify all previously done work on the education and training of the Japanese watchman.

German shepherds are world famous for their strength and intelligence. They are often used as service dogs intended for search or security functions. Despite this, it is permissible for Germans to acquire in order to acquire a kind and smart companion for the family.

These beautiful and large pets are accommodating, unquestioningly accepting the authority of their beloved master. But they need human communication and impressive physical activity. They can be kept not only at home, but also on the street. The protective instincts of German shepherds are well developed. They treat any strangers with great care, regardless of the situation. This can be not only a house, but also a street during a walk. Without reason, the German will not behave sharply and aggressively.

Representatives of this breed are large and very powerful. The blood of the oldest Asian dogs flows in them. In height, males can reach 78 cm, and females - 69 cm. External features in animals are very well developed. Many dogs are compared with them, there were even cases when the Alabai was presented as a representative of another breed. Despite the impressive size and not the kindest expression of the muzzle, the Alabai have a balanced and calm character. They are reserved, proud and independent. These pets do not behave fussy. Unreasonable aggression is usually not shown, especially if properly brought up.

Alabai treat strangers with distrust and wariness. They are not angry with other animals and are not in a hurry to attack. A similar attitude to younger members of the family. Alabai are wonderful guards. They are ways to seamlessly protect the territory entrusted to them, showing aggression to all strangers and strangers.

Representatives of this breed need timely socialization and training. Alabai will not immediately obey the owner, as he is proud and wayward. In raising a dog, you will need to be patient and have a lot of goodies.

Representatives of this Russian breed are hybrids of St. Bernard and the famous Caucasian Shepherd. They were brought out by Soviet dog handlers by order of the USSR Ministry of Defense.

Currently, Moscow watchdogs are most often turned on to guard their homes. They are powerful, hardy and unpretentious in care. Such a dog can become not only a guard, but also a great friend of the family. The Moscow watchdog loves to play and treats children well if you take care of her upbringing and socialization in time. The tendency to dominate these pets is moderate. They attack people they know very rarely and for no reason do not cast their voices. At the same time, the reaction of Moscow watchdogs is lightning fast.They instantly attack an object that poses a danger to their home.

Choosing a caretaker for a private house or apartment must be balanced and deliberate. It should be based on a number of basic criteria.

• Consider the size of the pet. If you plan to keep a guard on the street or in a spacious aviary, it is better to choose a large individual. The larger the dog, the more impressive it will look. If you are looking for a security guard for an apartment, then it is better to choose a medium or small animal. Such dogs will have enough space. The main thing is to bring them out for walks in time, and not to keep them locked up around the clock.
• It is necessary to take into account the hair of the animal. If you live in regions with cold winters or harsh climatic conditions, then it is better to purchase a fluffy watchman with a good wool coat. This is especially true for pets who will live on the street. Shorthaired watchmen are suitable for southern territories where there are no too low temperatures.
• If you want to get a purebred puppy, you should contact special nurseries with an impeccable reputation or experienced conscientious breeders. The kid must be bought with all the documents and medical certificates.
• A purebred guard puppy should not be too fearful or too aggressive. Of course, a lot depends on the upbringing of the animal, but not the least role is played by the initial character traits of the dog.
• The puppy must be healthy. Ears and eyes should be clean, without discharge and suppuration. Purely should be under the tail.
• Pay attention to the behavior of the baby. He should not be too lethargic and painful in appearance.

In order for a good guard to grow out of a puppy, it will take a lot to do. Without proper education, the pet will bring more trouble than good, and is unlikely to become a true friend.

Raise a puppy from an early age. The simplest, most basic commands a little watchman can master at the age of 3-4 months. After this period, you can move on to more complex trainings. It will be easier to train an animal on your own if a good relationship is established between you with respect and mutual understanding. If you are not sure that you can raise a dog on your own, it is better to contact specialists.

Guard dogs that live on the street need to equip a good kennel or house. There should be a soft and warm litter. If the dog sits on a chain, it should not be too short - this will bring the pet a lot of inconvenience and discomfort. If a small watchman lives in an apartment, he also needs to allocate a separate corner where he will sleep and eat.

Each owner decides how to feed the dog: prepared foods (exceptionally high classes) or fresh products. If the latter option is chosen, then care must be taken to ensure that the pet's food has a sufficient protein content. Too greasy, salty, sweet, fried, pickled or spiced foods should be avoided.

The dog must be given due attention and monitor its health. The ears and eyes of the pet should be clean. Any discharge must be removed with a cotton pad. If there is pus, it is better to show the dog to the veterinarian. Dogs should be treated for fleas and ticks, especially if they constantly reside on the street.The hair needs to be combed, and the thicker and more magnificent it is, the more often you will have to do it. Bathing guard animals is permissible, but only if necessary. It is advisable to use special shampoos.

For large dogs it is necessary to allocate a spacious place of keeping. For example, the Moscow watchdog will be crowded in a small courtyard, and this breed is not suitable for a city apartment.

You can also use the Staffordshire Terrier as a watchman, but you must remember that these animals are very wayward and fearless. Their character is contradictory, and sometimes unpredictable. Raising stafford is a rather complicated matter, and it is better to entrust it to specialists. Also, do not keep the guard dog on a chain that is too short.

See the next video for the top 10 dog breeds for private home guard.