With their imposing appearance, this fierce-looking breed makes an excellent personal protection dog. They are calm and confident with strangers but attack only when required, making them popular with police departments and military units.
They require a firm hand and serious training from an early age and need lots of space and exercise. But when they’re trained correctly, these dogs will make you feel secure on late-night walks and at home.
1. German Shepherd
German Shepherds are renowned as some of the best protection dogs in the world. They ooze confidence and are fearless in the face of a threat, and they are loving to their family members.
They are used by police and military to track fugitives, sniff out illicit substances, and serve as guide dogs for the blind. You may even know the breed from the movies Rin Tin Tin and Strongheart.
These powerful dogs are smart and eager to please their owners, but they must have a consistent pack leader who shows them the right way to act. They need a lot of exercise and prefer a large yard to channel their energy. They can be prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, blood disorders, and digestive problems.
2. Doberman
The Doberman is one of the most popular protection dog breeds in the world. They are a highly intelligent, naturally watchful and deterrent dog with an instinctive ability to evaluate threats. They are also incredibly loyal to and protective of their humans, even without formal training.
The American Doberman is more stylized and streamlined, whereas the European variety has a rugged appearance. Both are strong, muscular dogs. The European version has better working abilities, and it is commonly used by police departments.
Dobermans can make great family pets if they know their place in the pack and are thoroughly socialized as puppies. They are an energetic athlete, so they need lots of daily exercise and free play. A fenced-in yard or participating in canine sports are ideal for them.
3. Rhodesian Ridgeback
A muscular and athletic breed, the Rhodesian Ridgeback is an excellent hunting dog and also excels in jogging, hiking, swimming and dog sports like lure coursing. Its intelligent and independent nature makes it difficult for some pet parents to train but they are highly trainable, especially when using consistent positive reinforcement methods from a young age.
A devoted family dog, the Rhodesian is loyal and affectionate to its human companions but can be reserved and suspicious of strangers. It is a good guard dog and takes its responsibilities seriously. It can be territorial and may view cats as prey, so they must be well socialized early on. Its powerful frame requires ample exercise, so daily runs, walks or games are a must. It also requires a fenced yard because it is prone to digging.
4. Cane Corso
A fiercely loyal breed, the Cane Corso is a formidable protector. Historically, these dogs fought alongside Roman legions, hunted wild boar and other prey, and guarded livestock and farms. They were almost extinct by the end of World War II, but experienced a small resurgence and made their way to the United States in the 1980s.
These dogs are extremely loyal to their families and bond deeply with them. They’re also surprisingly athletic and enjoy participating in canine sports. They need both physical and mental stimulation in order to avoid destructive behaviors, so regular training sessions and enrichment activities like treat puzzles are a must.
Cane Corsos are dominant by nature, so they need an experienced hand during training. They also drool quite a lot and may suffer from separation anxiety. They require a large home with a securely fenced yard.
5. Akita
With carjackings, home burglaries and kidnappings making headlines, many people feel the need for a personal bodyguard. Fortunately, there are a number of dog breeds that are up to the task, according to Survivor’s Edge Magazine.
The Akita, which hails from Japan, is a powerful and dignified breed. It was bred to hunt wild boar and even bears back in its homeland, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a strong, dependable guard dog.
This breed is a natural-born hunter and can be territorial, so it’s best kept away from smaller pets like cats and chickens. They may also be aloof with strangers, so it’s important to socialize and train them from a young age. Despite its aloof nature, the Akita can bond deeply with its family and gets along well with children, provided they’re taught to respect it.
