The Cream of the Crop: The Best Breeds for Personal Protection

Protective dogs aren’t for everyone. But for those who desire a fearless guard dog that will protect their home and family, there are several breeds to consider.

Many of these protection dogs also thrive around children and adults and follow commands easily. Whether you’re interested in a frightful-looking bullmastiff or a speedy Doberman, there’s a breed to suit your needs.

Rottweiler

One of the most intimidating-looking breeds, the Rottweiler is a confident and fearless dog that makes an excellent guard. It is also a loving companion and is especially close to its family. However, this breed can be hesitant to trust strangers until it has verified that they pose no threat.

Rottweilers require an experienced owner who can train and socialize them early. They must be given structure and plenty of exercise to ensure that they do not become bored and develop problem behaviors.

These dogs are very loyal and love their families, but they may not tolerate children, especially young children, as they could accidentally knock them over with a nudge. It is important to acclimate a Rottweiler to being brushed and examined as a puppy so that they do not become scared when this needs to be done later in life. Also, it is important to supervise your Rottweiler when he is around other dogs, as they may not get along.

Belgian Malinois

The Belgian Malinois is a steadfast companion, able to quickly discern between friends, family members, and strangers. With substantial training, these working dogs can be a formidable force, as evidenced by their work with Navy SEAL teams or Halle Berry’s character in John Wick 3. Originally herders, Mals see the family as their herd and are happiest when they are accompanying their humans wherever they go. As a result, early socialization and obedience training is critical for this intense breed.

These dogs are ideally suited for active families who can provide them with ample opportunities for physical and mental stimulation. They are not well-suited to living in apartments and must have a large, securely fenced yard where they can stretch their legs. In addition, their herding instincts can make them interested in moving objects and they may inadvertently pursue children or cars. A good grooming routine will help manage their shedding and baths should be kept to a minimum as over-washing can remove the coat’s natural waterproofing.

Dutch Shepherd

Dutch Shepherds are quick-witted, highly motivated, and eager to please. They’re excellent family companions and love to play with children. When it comes to work, they’re all-business; these dogs excel in police, military, and K-9 work as well as service and guide dog work, search and rescue, and canine athletics.

They’re also extremely loyal to their guardians and follow commands very quickly. They’re also good with other animals, especially cats, and don’t tend to chase them.

Since they were bred for working life, Dutch Shepherds need plenty of daily exercise and activity to thrive. They may get bored and develop undesirable behaviors if left alone for long periods of time. Proper socialization training, along with a diet formulated for active breeds can help keep them healthy and happy.

German Shepherd

German Shepherds have an instinct to protect their families, and this is what makes them such good personal protection dogs. They are loyal and possessive, but they must be taught to only attack on command. Otherwise, they may nip and bite visitors as they attempt to protect their loved ones.

This breed loves having a job to do and thrives on consistent training sessions and connections with their owners. They are highly intelligent, determined and dedicated to completing tasks, making them excellent personal protection dogs.

However, this breed has a high energy level that must be burned off with daily exercise to keep them happy and healthy. They are susceptible to a number of health conditions, including allergies and von Willebrand disease (genetic bleeding disorder). To prevent this, make sure your German Shepherd gets plenty of daily exercise and feeds a healthy, well-suited diet. They also love to chew, so give them safe chew toys and bones to help keep their powerful teeth clean.