15 Dog Breeds That Make Surprisingly Good Watchdogs

1. German Shepherd

German Shepherds, top the list of best family guard dogs due to their natural instincts to listen, learn, and obey. They are very understanding of their homes, and will be wary of intruders. Originally bred to herd sheep, this large, intelligent dog breed is naturally protective and loyal.

2. Akita

A well trained Akita can be a great companion as well as a good guard dog. This large breed is alert, courageous, dignified and loyal. Akitas won’t bark without a proper reason. They are naturally very suspicious of strangers and show no hesitation in taking action if needed. At the owner’s command, a well trained Akita shows no problem in welcoming a guest.

3. Collie

Best known for its role as Lassie, the Collie is an inherently mild-mannered and loyal canine that rarely shows signs of aggression unless its family pack is in need of protection. Collies are also ranked among some of the most intelligent dogs in the world. As a bonus, this sweet and friendly breed is generally good with children.

4. Chow Chow

Considering Chow Chow were once used to guard the great palaces in Asia, it makes sense that they would be temperamental and very protective.

5. Doberman Pinscher

The nice thing about having a dobie, is chances are it will never have to attack anyone. Most people see a Doberman and your property and any thoughts of entering are quickly squashed.

6. Belgian Sheepdog

The Belgian Shepherd is an extremely intelligent breed to live with. The breed is frequently in motion, often moving in quick, light-footed circles. And they are highly observant with strangers, typically reserved and aloof, and has strong protective instincts.

7. Kuvasz

Since Kuvasz were bred to guard livestock, it only makes sense they would be good at guarding your home as well. This protective breed has a sweet and cute nature unless provoked.

8. Chinese Shar-Pei

While all those wrinkles may make it look cute and cuddly, the Shar-Pei is a serious family protection dog. They were bred to be the all-round farm dog, running the parameters of the property as a watchdog as well as protecting flocks and killing vermin.

9. Komondor

Known for the unique cords most people give them, the Komondor is another livestock protection dog that was bred to stay with the flock and protect without the assistance of his owner. They are very “reserved and serious” with strangers, and since they are bred to work alone, you can be assured your home is protected while you are gone.

10. Giant Schnauzer

The Giant Schnauzer has a menacing bark and fierce bite. I have known owners of these dogs that could not have company over because they were over protective and under socialized.

11. Rhodesian Ridgeback

Originally a ferocious lion hunter, the hardy and handsome Rhodesian Ridgeback is an intelligent, gentle pup with its family but quickly becomes a loyal protector when faced with a threat to its loved ones. As tough as this breed may look, Ridgebacks are exceptionally good with kids, they were also bred to guard and protect children while parents were away.

12. Puli

Puli is a medium-sized, herding dog that’s popular for its long corded coat. This breed can be an excellent guard dog as they are very protective of their family as they are very wary of strangers.

13. Rottweiler

The Rottweiler is sweet and easy going with his family. But don’t be fooled, If he feels you are threatening his family, he can turn fierce quickly.

14. Bullmastiff

The Bullmastiff was originally bred in England as a gamekeeper's dog to track and tackle poachers. Bullmastiffs are known for being super-smart and fiercely loyal, and despite their size, the breed has also been called "high-spirited."

15. Belgian Malinois

This herding dog is intent on making sure no one hurts her family. Their intensity and drive to protect has made them very popular in training as well as guard dog work.