People keep dogs for many reasons, including companionship, physical or emotional support, and safety. The average owner just expects their dog to alert them of potential danger — a watchdog. Most dogs are suitable for this job, including the vigilant (and brave!) Chihuahua. But if you need more than an “alarm system” your choices are a bit more limited. StudyFinds helps you narrow down your search with our list of the best dogs for protection that serve as canine bodyguards who will effectively take down an attacker.
We hope that you’re never in a situation where you have to face an attacker. But if that’s your concern, a large dog serves as a deterrent and can be trained with special protection skills. Just remember: protective is not the same as aggressive. A dog that attacks without a real threat being present puts you at risk rather than keeping you safe. Further, in a Brazilian study on dog aggression, researchers found that traits such as weight, height, cranial morphology, sex and age influence the interaction between dogs and their environment more than their breed, whereas protective instincts for the time being appear to be connected to a dog’s heritage.
But even if their protective instincts aren’t the strongest, dogs can literally smell danger — or rather, they can smell stress. “The findings [of an Irish study] show that we, as humans, produce different smells through our sweat and breath when we are stressed and dogs can tell this apart from our smell when relaxed – even if it is someone they do not know,” explained researcher Clara Wilson of the School of Psychology at Queen’s University Belfast. “The research highlights that dogs do not need visual or audio cues to pick up on human stress. This is the first study of its kind and it provides evidence that dogs can smell stress from breath and sweat alone, which could be useful when training service dogs and therapy dogs.”
While service dogs are expected to be friendly, dogs used for protection should be extra obedient and weary of strangers. StudyFinds reviewed dog experts’ advice across ten websites to gather information on protective breeds. Based on the experts’ recommendations, we then built our top-five list of the best dogs for protection. Do you have any breeds (or breed mixes) to add? Please let us know in the comments.
The List: Best Dog Breeds for Protection, According to Experts
1. TIE: German Shepherd, Rottweiler and Doberman Pinscher
Number one is a triple threat! Ten out of ten experts recommend all three breeds for personal protection and it’s not hard to see why. “The German Shepherd is a versatile and highly intelligent breed that is renowned for its protective instincts. They are often employed as police and military dogs due to their exceptional trainability, loyalty, and courage,” says Bestforpets.
Rottweilers also “check off every box on the [protective] guard dog checklist,” according to K9 of Mine. “They are one of the most intelligent breeds in the world, they love their families in a way that is truly difficult to convey and they are ready to face down any threat – be it a bear, nefarious human, or vacuum cleaner – without a moment’s hesitation. And most are ready to back up their bluster if need be.”
And last but not least, “Dobermans can often do an excellent job of protecting with little to no formal training. With a structured training program, you can hone your dog’s protection skills and turn your dog into an excellent guard dog,” writes The Spruce.
2. Bullmastiff
This massive dog is definitely physically intimidating. But will they follow through if their person is at risk? “Brave, affectionate, and loyal, the Bullmastiff will always have your back,” writes The Daily Wag. That’s why nine out of ten experts name this breed as one of the best breeds for protection!
Like the Doberman, “the bullmastiff is a born protector that needs structured training to reinforce its natural guarding instincts.” But in addition, “this dog is naturally affectionate towards its family, making it an excellent companion,” adds The Spruce.
“Obedient by nature, these dogs tend to behave well and act as natural guardians of the home. Their loyalty manifests in protective behavior,” concurs EntirelyPets. “But don’t worry about an over-protective mastiff. These well-mannered dogs are gentle enough to interact with children, making them great for families.”
3. Giant Schnauzer
Eight out of ten consulted experts recommend the Giant Schnauzer for personal protection. With their fluffy beard and wavy coat they don’t look too tough, but “Giant Schnauzers are proud, territorial dogs, whose size helps make up for their refined appearance,” says K9 of Mine. “They are actually quite powerful dogs, capable of effectively defending their family.”
And The Daily Wag notes that the breed stands for “an extremely intelligent, large, energetic, strongly territorial dog whose life is oriented toward his owners.” These dogs are “loyal, alert, trainable, with the stable temperament required in big dogs of great strength.”
“Most Giant Schnauzers are watchful with strangers and responsible about protecting their home,” states Alpha Paw. Most? Before (and after) you acquire one of these gorgeous giants, apply due diligence, they recommend: “However, timidity, skittishness, and sharp-shyness are seen in some lines. To promote a stable, confident temperament, Giant Schnauzers need more socialization than many other breeds.”
4. TIE: Akita and Rhodesian Ridgeback
Both breeds received six out of ten recommendations and both are fierce as they were bred to take down large prey. “This breed has historically been used for hunting lions and large animals [in South Africa], so they have an incredibly strong prey drive,” per Georgia Veterinary Associates. “While loving and gentle around family, they won’t hesitate to confront an intruder who approaches your home. They are highly intelligent and enjoy having a role in your family.”
Meanwhile in Japan, Akitas were used to take down bears! They “are one of the most loyal dog breeds. Bred for guarding royalty and nobility in feudal Japan, this courageous and alert breed is naturally suspicious of strangers. Akitas will keep watch over you and your family at all times. This breed takes this task seriously and will typically perform its guarding duty with little to no training,” adds The Spruce.
Georgia Veterinary Associates outline the most important difference between the breeds: While Rhodesians “can be socialized to be around large families, children, and other pets.”
“Akitas can be so aggressive with other dogs of the same sex that two males or two females should never be left alone together,” writes Alpha Paw. “It is strongly advised to keep small children away from Akitas when they are eating.”
5. Belgian Malinois
While this breed only was recommended by five out of ten experts, as a close relative of the German shepherd, the Malinois could easily qualify for a number one spot on our list. “The Belgian Malinois Shepherd, a working dog, takes great pride in protecting its own. The strong protective instincts and highly observant stature with strangers makes the Belgian a great family protector,” states Alpha Paw.
“The Belgian Malinois are brilliant dogs, highly capable, and love to work. They can be trained to do nearly anything and are the up and coming favorites for trained executive protection dogs. These dogs are fiercely loyal to their pack – your family – and will defend you at all costs. Belgian Malinois are highly adaptable to your needs and can mingle with other dogs, pets (including cats!), adults, and children. They also travel well, making them the ideal protection dog to take with you on the road whether you’re on vacation or just traveling for business,” notes Georgia Veterinary Associates.
“The Belgian Malinois is likely the favorite breed of professional protection dog trainers, and they’re likely the most common breed working for police and military units in the U.S.,” writes K9 of Mine. “Belgian Malinois superficially resemble small German shepherds, but these dogs have even more intensity and energy than their more common counterparts do. But while this makes them very well-suited for full-time work, it can make them a bit of a handful for typical families.”
Note: For simplicity’s sake this list consists of purebreds, but mixed-breed dogs can of course be equally protective of their owners.
You might also like:
- Best Dog Breeds For Home Security
- Smartest Dog Breeds
- Best Large Dog Breeds
- Best Dogs For Emotional Support
Sources:
- Georgia Veterinary Associates
- Alpha Paw
- Doodles Daily
- The Daily Wag
- K9 of Mine
- Bestforpets
- EntirelyPets
- TheTopTens
- Top Dog Tips
- The Spruce
Note: This article was not paid for nor sponsored. StudyFinds is not connected to nor partnered with any of the brands mentioned and receives no compensation for its recommendations.
I’ve had dogs on this list and they are all fine animals, but if my life was on the line, I’d want the dog bred to be a bodyguard.
Literally, that’s what Cane Corso means.
Well said, I have a 2 year old Cane Corso, I can’t believe it’s not even mentioned here.
I Agree %100
Anyone who has ever researched or worked with a Malinois knows that the Mal should be at the top of this list. There is a reason the navy seals have a Malinois only breeding program
Replace Giant Schnauzer with Bouvier de Flanders, add in Cane Corso, and you’re good.
Exactly
I agree with all very fine dogs, another very fine protector is the Great Pyrenees. Not all are livestock guardians as they are born to be. Instead their family becomes what they protect. Do some research on this white, fluffy breed. Look into their bite compared to your top 5 list; you just might be surprised.
Absolutely! Our girl is everything you’d want or need as a protector. She even sniffed out cancer in two family members, and has alerted when I had a medical issue and needed to get emergency treatment. They’re a gorgeous and very sweet breed, as well. A few months ago, I read about a 10 month old Pyrenees who took down a pack of coyotes all by himself. They also will fight bears… and they usually win.
I have 2 of them and they never miss a beat. Amazing with my kids and other pets and they will not hesitate to use you as a chew toy if enter uninvited. Bar far the best breed of dog I have ever had. No comparison.
Pits
Yes, but even better the Maremma. Less aggressive, they deflect fights, do not bite unless their life or mainly your is at stakes, and use their presence and high intelligence to assess situations.
They are not farm dogs but mountain dogs, however, they love water and nature in general. Not the best in a suburban environment as they will warn you every time there is something or someone close to your premises. So, a wonderful companion that needs space and affection.
We have our third rottweiler and our experience has found them a most loyal breed. Without any formal training they have all been naturally protective of family without being aggressive. They are most lovable and trustworthy, reliable in temperament, obedient and smart. Great with the kids, we love our rotties.
Totally agree with you..I have a Rottweiler since he was born and now he is 5 years and he is the most lovely.and protective dog. He is obedient and he have a good behavior. I do not change him for another breed.
This was my first rottie and it amazes me how on point she is with guarding. She is great with the grandkids even though she hadn’t been exposed to kids much her first five years. So loveable and loyal, wish she wouldn’t guard the bird bath though lol.
Very nice
The Cane Corso should be in this list as the name Cane Corso literally means bodyguard dog. They’re highly intelligent, their protective instincts are top level, plus they have size usually up to 120-130 lbs but often reaching 160 lbs. they also have the 3rd highest bite force of any dog, 700 psi which is greater than a lion and double the bite force of a Rottweiler.
I’ve never owned a Corso but I have definitely considered them. Ultimately I landed on 2 Great Pyrenees as my guardians as they fit my temperament and my needs better. Corso is an amazing animal for sure. Dogos are another breed I looked into but require more time than I am available to give them.
I agree with prior posts that Cane Corso should be in the list. From experience, Great Pyrenees are great at protection too and should be in the list. I would like to add a breed that was used to in combination with the Maremmano-Abruzzese Sheepdog, (Italian: Cane da pastore Maremmano-Abruzzese) to make the Great Pyrenees – the Anatolian Shepherd (and Kangal is very close in appearance, disposition and size).
The strongest bit of any domestic dog belongs to the Kangal at 738 psi at fang point. The second strongest belongs to the American Mastiff! I Majored in Veterinary medicine. Cane Corso has around 300 psi like the Rottweiler. I have trained over 500 for law enforcement. I have an American Mastiff. He is 230 lbs.
Cane Corso should be on there because they are big sweet loveable and very loyal smart as hell and can reach the counters they can break a chain if in the backyard left alone for a long time and the family is what she protected including me whenever I was in my BFF’s(Chrystal ‘s house (Layla would greet me at the door with a kiss and if someone showed up unexpectedly her protection instinct would kick in and I was protected too Layla would eat everything in sight you had to watch her closely they do need exercise and they are high energy and love to go walking weather it is Trail or Regular is what I noticed of my Bff’s dog Layla I have never owned one but I got to gain some experience with her dog because I was her neighbor for 4 years and I knew Layla for about 2 years straight and sometimes Layla would run around the neighborhood and thru people’s yards and I was the only one that could catch her and take her back home because I think our other neighbors were scared of her but I wasn’t (lmao) Layla loved me to death and I loved her and I still do ohhh the memories …..I miss her so much !!! And Chrystal won’t talk to me anymore because I moved and refused to stay in a slum house and I had also had a slum landlord Chrystal knew the situation and she didn’t care she got mad and turned brand new !!!!!
I have had numerous of the top 3 also a great Pyrenees. A wolf/malamute adopted me and my family about 3 yrs ago. She is protective not aggressive. But nothing gets by her
Thank you for the list. Now I know who to avoid for animal advice. While each of these dogs will do the task the best is the Cane Corso. Absolut power in the body and bite grip if needed. Only bread on the list that could challenge the CC with intelligence is the german shepard. The CC is a loyal member of the family that intentionly puts itself between the family and the treat and will push the family back to safety before dealing with the threat
Well it seems nook elbows about the Turkish Kangal and Alabai . Most loyal protector and most PSI bite also than any other dog
ABSOLUTELY 100% CORRECT. Kangal’s are instinctively protective, highly intelligent, fiercely loyal and gentle as lambs to those he considers his flock. Home protection on four legs with a heart of gold to match. Not a breed for beginners but if well trained, the ultimate breed for protection.
Rottweilers Have Great instincts, Maybe the best of any dog.If a Rottie doesn’t like someone,Trust them.having had 8 for pets over 40 years every one of them have been right about people.
I really wish the Pitbull would have made this list….But I’m also not surprised. They always get a bad rap and are immensely misunderstood. Only those who have had a Pitbull can truly understand the loving protective “big baby” nature that they possess. I admit I was once afraid of them. Until a friend who had to move suddenly needed me to take care of his.
She (Cocoa) was an absolute Joy to have around. They don’t call them “nanny dogs” for no reason…
#loveapitbull
The Pitbull is not on the list because they are not bred to protect you from bad people. They were bred to fight dogs. The reason the police don’t use them is because if you direct a German Shepherd to attack, and the dog has the guy down, you can command the German Shepherd to let go. A Pitbull would probably end up killing what could be an innocent person. When a pitbull attacks, there is no “off switch.” That’s why so many people are bitten by dogs, but generally only the pitbulls kill.
I used to like pits until one along with a Bull mastiff broke thru a 6 ft tall fence and killed my grandkids pony. I have a hate for both of those breeds.
I’m sorry that happened. Please don’t blame all pits or all bull mastiffs. I have my 3rd and 4th bully breeds one red nose one American Bulldog. Wonderful dogs. I am sorry about the pony.
That’s what I have and he is very loyal to me. That is so so right. Not as big as some of the others, but big enough to handle an intruder and very loveable pups… warning! If you want love and safety the Pit is 100% and great with kids.
Yes definitely should have made list!! Love my Pittie💛💛🥰
So if Rottweiler, cane Corso, bullmastiff and Doberman are so good protection dog, why are they not in the police or in the army??
all dog for protection is GSD or Malinois.
And in world championships for protection dogs ,Nr.1 to nr. 30 is Malinois, or German Shepardroger
The rottweilers bite force was to great for them to be used as a police dog .
Have had several different breeds of dogs. As a family dog and the most reliable breed is undoubtedly the (Pure-bred) Rottweiler. Of course, it is how the dog is raised and stability in the family that characterizes the dog. Our last Rottweiler was 14 years old (RIP). She was mentally strong, physically strong. Obedient and a great dog to work and learn. In my eyes, the German Shepherd and Rottweiler are the best choice if you want a friend for life who will do everything for his pack, if you give love, consistency, respect and leadership. Breeds that do not exclusively have the highest pressure in the jaws. But thinks several steps ahead. A dog becomes as it lives, a safe strong family in harmony gives a safe strong reliable dog that meets everyone’s needs. Regardless of the breed, it is the “alpha” that shapes the type of dog it becomes. The only thing that matters is how you raise and in what environment “your best friend” livets. There are no aggressive evil dogs. Just very bad dog owners.
I’m going to take a rough guess and say that it has something to do with how easy they are to train and how versatile they can be. They can all attack and protect, but how many of them can scent a trip wire in the dark? How many can chase a suspect at full speed for a mile or more without tiring? How good is a cane Corso at leaping over high barriers or through car windows?
Who’s going to strap a cane Corso or bull mastiff to their back when jumping out of a chopper?
I’ve often told people that each thing a GSD can do another dog can do better but no other breed can do all the things a GSD can do as well as they do. They’re the best overall. They’re also the best in versatility. That’s why they make every list and why the military considers them a worthwhile investment.
You are absolutely right. They are also have better scent descrination,generally easier to train. Mals are taking the forefront with military and police because they are extremely athletic, a smaller more compact dog that has equivalent or better bite and takedown power to a GSD weight up to 20+lbs more than them. Malinois love to use their entire body when stopping an assailant. They also hold up structural better than a GSD. The other breeds mentioned are just not as versatile as the GSD and the Malinois for military and police use. Dogs for military and general purpose Police Service Dogs are usually have to be trained for multiple purposes,ie; drug detection,article searches, tracking both bad guys or lost children,crowd control and of course taking out a armed or dangerous suspect. The reason why Corsos,Dobermans, Rotwielers don’t make it is they are a single coated dog and will not and can not work in cold environments. One breed the Bouvier Des Flanders was used in England for a while with some success however they are a hard dog to read while working and they had some handler aggression problems. One breed not mentioned here that I have trained several of mainly for demonstration purposes and several as personal protection dogs is a good Standard Poodle, very unassuming, they hit hard and like to use their body kind of like what a Mal does. They have excellent noses and are highly trainable.
Dobermans are used in Police force.
I have a Belgian malnoir Sheppard mix. Highly energetic. Loves to work. And very protective.
Blue Pitt named Coco, she’s my spirit animal. She was the runt of the litter but not anymore!
Hey guys i really need Rottweiler female 1 can any1 assist n how much?
I have been the proud owner of a Rottweiler. It brings tears to my eyes remembering how loyal, protective, and utterly affectionate that animal was. The experience of training and working this dog daily was second to none. My 3 1/2 year old niece would walk and command him without incident.
I still want a 200lb Boerboel
ABSOLUTELY 100% CORRECT. Kangal’s are instinctively protective, highly intelligent, fiercely loyal and gentle as lambs to those he considers his flock. Home protection on four legs with a heart of gold to match. Not a breed for beginners but if well trained, the ultimate breed for protection.
How about the SouthAfrican Mastiff
I have a 6 month old female Coy. She is Coyote/Shepherd. I have noticed without any training, only love, when I walk her she walks back and forth from side to side in a pattern in front of me always alert watching. She insists on exiting my house before me where she steps out stands with stretched out neck and her head partway down scanning the perimeter and sniffing the air, it’s obvious what she’s doing. I understand Coyotes have a phenomenal sense of smell and hunting skills. She weighs about 85 lbs now but carries the physique of the Coyote, markings of the Shepherd. She so loveable and energetic, I did get to see her in action one time about 2 am I was sitting on my porch with coffee and a figure of a man crossed between some buildings setting off a distant motion light.. she scared me.. not for me, but fear for whoever that was, should she been able to get through my fence.😳 I think a Coy dog is top 10 in intelligence to know without training having the hunting instincts of a Coyote and the loyalty of the Shepherd.. JS
Dogo Argentino? I plan 2 get two to accompany my wife and I on outdoor hiking and biking trips. You s there a reason the Dogo would not make the list?
Kangal, Caucasian Ovcharka are 1 and 2
I’ve had several Akitas in my day, and now I have a German Shepherd. Been good dogs. My German Shepherd is getting older, and I imagine I’ll be looking sing him in the not too distant future. He’s sure a good watch dog. Runs to the window and barks like crazy when unwelcome types are in my yard (problem where I live).
I like the Cane Corso, Presa Canario, and Rottweiler dogs too.
I’ve had Shepards ,Dobermans and currently have 4 Rotties . Love them all but I think Rottweilers may be my favorite. They are very good with children. They pickup on how I feel about adults
Super easy to train and pretty laid back til that stranger shows up in the yard . In 30 years of owning Rotts I have never had one bite anyone .