Dogs serve a variety of purposes. Since ancient times, dogs have been hunters, herders, and guardians of property and people. Those looking for great guardian dogs have a number of breeds to choose from. There are five breeds that are truly outstanding for any guarding purpose.
Rottweiler
Rottweilers have developed a reputation as unpredictable dogs. However, a well-bred Rottweiler is a tremendous friend, companion, and guard dog. Rottweilers make great property protectors. They have a tremendous sense of what space belongs to them, and they will not let anyone they are unfamiliar with, come into their space. The Rottweiler's size will make any burglar think twice about entering an area protected by one.
German Shepherd
The German Shepherd is probably the best all-around guard and protection dog in the world. They are completely devoted and loyal to their owners and their family. German Shepherds are easily trained for almost any purpose. These dogs are especially suited to guarding people, and they are regularly trained as personal protection dogs.
Bullmastiff
The Bullmastiff originated as a cross between a Bulldog and an English Mastiff. They were originally used as a gamekeeper's watchdog. The Bullmastiff would patrol a property at night in search of poachers. When a poacher was spotted, the Bullmastiff would knock the poacher to the ground and keep him down until the gamekeeper could arrive. Bullmastiffs are too powerful for the average person to fight off. They require a great deal of training so as not to become too aggressive with members of the family. The Bullmastiff would make a great guard dog on a gated estate.
Anatolian Shepherd
The Anatolian Shepherd has been used for centuries to protect livestock in its native land of Turkey. These often 160 pound dogs will give their lives for the flock they are guarding. In recent years, farmers in Namibia have used Anatolian shepherds to protect herds from cheetah predation. The Anatolian shepherd is a superb livestock guardian, and can serve well in a family guardianship role.
Pitbull
Pitbulls are unfortunately much used in illegal dog fighting. If trained and bred properly, the pitbull can be used as a guard dog for the family. Because of their fearsome reputation, pitbulls are a deterrent to thieves and criminals. Pitbulls come in variety of colors, and there may be blue pitbull puppies for sale locally.
A guard dog has a special responsibility. These five breeds are more than capable of fulfilling the task and becoming a longtime member of the family.
Brooke Chaplan is a freelance writer and blogger. She has lived and worked in her home in Los Lunas, New Mexico after her graduation from the University of New Mexico. While researching guard dogs she was able to find blue pitbull puppies for sale online, and German Shepherds available locally. Contact her via Twitter @BrookeChaplan.
