A dog that provides protection and is still a fantastic four-legged family member? With the following dogs, that’s possible, as these dog breeds are highly suitable as watchdogs.
A watchdog already impresses with its appearance alone.
For some dog owners, their canine’s strong protective instinct is an annoying habit that they try to suppress through proper training.
For others, these very traits are important characteristics they seek in a dog.
Throughout the history of humans and dogs, certain breeds have been bred to provide protection to humans. They naturally or, through selective breeding, possess a heightened and distinct protective instinct. At the same time, they can also be great family dogs. Consistent training is the key here!
Discover the breeds that are best suited as watchdogs below.
Important Note
Watchdogs are not for beginners! They require consistent training tailored to their needs.
The 7 Best Dog Breeds for a Watchdog
- Doberman Pinscher
- German Shepherd
- Rottweiler
- Newfoundland
- Bullmastiff
- Moscow Watchdog
- Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
1st Place: Doberman Pinscher
The Doberman is a very vigilant dog that can be quite independent.
However, it is also known as a very friendly and gentle dog that gets along well with children. Towards its humans, it shows affection and eagerness to work, quickly learning routines without much trouble.
Its affectionate nature sometimes leads to a pronounced protective instinct towards its humans and their home.
The territorial behavior of the dog may initially overwhelm some people.
But with consistent training and clear rules, the dog can not only be an impressive watchdog but also a loving family dog.
2nd Place: German Shepherd
The German Shepherd is probably the most well-known service dog in the United States.
It is not only used by the police; this furry friend is also suitable as a search and rescue dog, assistance dog, or therapy dog. It learns quickly and never leaves its human’s side in any situation.
In private, the German Shepherd is a loyal, eager-to-learn, and obedient dog, particularly popular with families.
At the same time, the German Shepherd has a confident demeanor and a distinct protective instinct towards its humans and their home.
Its impressive appearance makes it an imposing watchdog.
3rd Place: Rottweiler
The Rottweiler is a true working dog. It is very conscientious, making it an attentive watchdog. Additionally, it is clever and needs to be challenged by its human.
It usually reacts very sensitively to stimuli and regularly barks to protect its humans and their home.
Despite its sensitivity, it has a strong nervous structure and is very resilient.
If the dog is adequately stimulated and consistently trained, it can also be a great family dog considered easy to lead.
Because it is open, friendly, and particularly affectionate towards children.
4th Place: Newfoundland
The fluffy giant is a calm dog. It usually barks little but often intimidates with its size. The Newfoundland can grow up to 70 centimeters and weigh up to 65 kilograms.
Despite its appearance, its nature is friendly and open.
With its calm demeanor, the Newfoundland is not only suitable as a watchdog but especially as a lovable family dog.
Although its relaxed nature sets it apart, it is always adventurous and ready to accompany its family on every adventure!
5th Place: Bullmastiff
The Bullmastiff was bred for protection. Its appearance deters strangers, and the Bullmastiff tends to exhibit territorial behavior with a strong protective instinct.
Its nature is vigilant and fearless, while remaining loyal to its human.
With the right training, the Bullmastiff can be not only a great watchdog but also a true family dog.
It gladly accompanies its humans everywhere, vigilantly following them. Behind the fearless facade lies an active and playful dog that wants to romp and play with its family.
6th Place: Moscow Watchdog
The Moscow Watchdog lives up to its name. The large dog has a pronounced protective instinct, is intelligent, and willing to learn.
It never leaves its human’s side and fearlessly follows them in every situation. Its nature is self-assured and loyal.
The dog is said to have a strong suspicion of strangers and a high protective instinct. However, this depends on training and socialization.
With the right training, the Moscow Watchdog is a fabulous companion.
7th Place: Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is a somewhat unknown breed but is very suitable as a watchdog.
Its demeanor is very confident. It is very attentive and reliably barks in the face of danger or the unknown.
The dog is not only a great watchdog but also a true family dog.
It generally has a calm character, and it is said to have a very affectionate manner with children.
It prefers to accompany its family everywhere and enthusiastically plays with them. With the right training, the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is a friendly and open four-legged companion that obeys its humans.
Conclusion
A Watchdog is not for Beginners!
All of these breeds are well-suited as watchdogs due to their nature. However, the ranking of the most suitable dogs depends on your expectations of the dog and may differ from the one listed above!
Also, remember that some of the mentioned breeds are not suitable for beginners and require consistent training. In some states, owners of these breeds may even need to provide proof of expertise.
