Which Breed is Best Guard Dog for First Time Owners in India

It doesn’t matter if you have no prior experience with guard dogs (or dogs in general) when looking for a Best Guard Dog for First Time Owner. Being inexperienced is not a reason to give up on your dreams of owning a guard dog. I owned a Rottweiler as my first dog, and she was perfectly trained. It is possible that your lifestyle matches this breed’s needs, or maybe it does not.

To begin with, consider the reasons why you want to own one. Would you need it for the protection of your home or children? If so, it is important to recognize that these types of dogs require a lot of training, socialization, and exercise. No dog breed will be willing to be left all day without any training and then act as the supreme guardian once someone approaches the house without any training.

Likewise, we do not wish to train a dog to be aggressive, so the task is balancing. Aside from evaluating your free time, financial situation, and willingness to learn, you should also consider what breed would be best for your specific needs in terms of size, coat type, temperament, and exercise needs.

What to Look for in a Best Guard Dog Breeds in India

There are several characteristics that can make a good guard dog, which can include the following. The breeds listed above are typically good guard dogs since they exhibit the traits you would expect from a dog that is assigned to watch over their humans.

  • Loyalty: Ideally, your guard dog should be extremely loyal and dedicated to your family in order to prevent him from turning into a welcome committee.
  • Affectionate Nature: Guard dogs must be fearless in the face of danger, but their best qualities are when they are surrounded by their humans or trusted friends. A good guard dog must love when the time is right, and protect when the time is right.
  • Intelligence: As part of your duty as a guard dog, it is important that your dog is obedient and responds to the most basic commands, such as sit, lay down, stay, and heel. Furthermore, canine intelligence allows your dog to discern between threats and unrelated noises.
  • Territorial Instincts: It is evidently better suited for guard work to have a dog who feels a strong sense of attachment to his home and is willing to guard it against intruders than a dog who is not bothered by trespassers.
  • Courage: It is important that your dog is courageous enough to face any danger that may present itself. Keep in mind that the average criminal is possible twice the size of a 100-pound Doberman or shepherd – only a dog with courage will be able to confront such a threat.

Best Guard Dog for First Time Owner

German Shepherd

German shepherd
German shepherd

Breed Overview

  • GROUP: Herding (AKC)
  • HEIGHT: 22 to 26 inches at the shoulder
  • WEIGHT: 60 to 100 pounds
  • COAT AND COLOR: Coarse, medium-length double coat that comes in a variety of colors; pointed ears that stick straight up
  • LIFE EXPECTANCY: 7 to 10 years

In the same way as the Belgian Malinois, the German shepherd exhibits a great deal of intensity, activity, and loyalty to family members and is often regarded as a police or military working dog. Just like other protective dogs, German shepherds require training to maintain their focus on protecting their family members. You must socialize your German shepherd so that he or she does not become fearful or nervous. You should also provide this dog with 2 hours of exercise each day.

Rottweiler

Rottweiler
Rottweiler

Breed Overview

  • GROUP: Working (AKC)
  • HEIGHT: 22 to 27 inches at the shoulder
  • WEIGHT: 80 to 130 pounds
  • COAT AND COLOR: Short double coat that comes in black with tan, rust, or mahogany coloring
  • LIFE EXPECTANCY: 8 to 10 years

Another breed that is renowned for aggression is the Rottweiler. This breed is usually hesitant toward strangers until they verify the person doesn’t pose a threat. If they trust you, they may be loyal and affectionate to you. Rotties need socialization, structure, and a task that drives their daily activities. If properly trained, this breed can become an excellent guard dog.

Akita

Akita
Akita

Breed Overview

  • GROUP: Working (AKC)
  • HEIGHT: 24 to 28 inches
  • WEIGHT: 70 to 130 pounds
  • COAT AND COLOR: Thick double coat; colors include black, fawn, red, and more
  • LIFE EXPECTANCY: 10 to 13 years

The Akita is a brave, alert breed that was bred for the purpose of guarding royalty and nobility during feudal Japan. The breed is naturally suspicious of strangers, making it one of the most loyal dog breeds. You can be sure your Akita will always keep you and your family safe. In general, this breed is very diligent in its guarding duties and will perform its duties without training. For this breed, obedience training or guard dog training may be needed to improve its performance. To avoid unnecessary aggression or standoffishness, the dog must be socialized.

Doberman Pinscher

Doberman Pinscher
Doberman Pinscher

Breed Overview

  • GROUP: Working (AKC)
  • HEIGHT: 24 to 28 inches at the shoulder
  • WEIGHT: 65 to 100 pounds
  • COAT AND COLOR: Short, smooth, sleek coat that comes in red, blue, black, and fawn
  • LIFE EXPECTANCY: 10 to 12 years

In the past, the Doberman pinscher has been viewed as aggressive, but with its family, it is affectionate, docile, and even goofy. Most are not even hesitant to interact with strangers unless they feel threatened. Even with little or no formal training, the Doberman can often perform excellent protection duties. With a structured training program, your dog can develop excellent protection skills and become an excellent guard dog.

Belgian Malinois

Belgian Malinois
Belgian Malinois

Breed Overview

  • GROUP: Herding (AKC)
  • HEIGHT: 22 to 26 inches
  • WEIGHT: 40 to 80 pounds
  • COAT AND COLOR: Short double coat; colors include fawn, mahogany, and red with a black mask
  • LIFE EXPECTANCY: 14 to 16 years

The Belgian Malinois breed is an intense and athletic breed that is favored by police and military K-9 units for its agility, searchability, and trainability. In order for this dog to be at ease in new or unfamiliar situations, it must receive specialized training and proper socialization. It must receive ample exercise throughout the day as well. This dog is very energetic and thrives when he has a job to do.

Best Guard Dog Breeds for Families with Children

Tibetan Mastiff

Tibetan Mastiff
Tibetan Mastiff

Breed Overview

  • GROUP: Working (AKC)
  • HEIGHT: 24 to 26 inches tall at the shoulder
  • WEIGHT: 70 to 150 pounds
  • COAT AND COLOR: Fine double outer coat with heavy, soft, and woolly undercoat; black, brown, blue/gray, or gold coloring
  • LIFE EXPECTANCY: 10 to 12 years

In the Himalayas, Tibetan mastiff guard dogs protected caravans of people and herds against wolves and snow leopards for centuries. This giant, watchful, powerful, and intimidating dog is the ultimate guard dog. Although the Tibetan mastiff is easygoing around family, he distrusts strangers and may act territorially if threatened. A loyal dog, although not the most affectionate. Structure and socialization are also needed for this dog.

Bullmastiff

Bullmastiff
Bullmastiff

Breed Overview

  • GROUP: Working (AKC)
  • HEIGHT: 24 to 27 inches
  • WEIGHT: 100 to 130 pounds
  • COAT AND COLOR: Short coat; colors include fawn, red, and brindle with a black mask
  • LIFE EXPECTANCY: 8 to 10 years

A bullmastiff was originally developed as a loyal and brave guard dog against poachers by gamekeepers. Intruders may find this large breed intimidating due to the bullish appearance of this breed. In reality, this dog is naturally affectionate towards its family, making it a great companion. The bullmastiff is a natural protector who requires structured training to enhance its natural guarding instincts.

Cane Corso

Cane Corso
Cane Corso

Breed Overview

  • GROUP: Working (AKC)
  • HEIGHT: 23.5 to 27.5 inches
  • WEIGHT: 80 to 120 pounds
  • COAT AND COLOR: Short, coarse coat; colors are black, gray, fawn, and red; brindle is possible in all colors; may have black or gray mask and small patches of white
  • LIFE EXPECTANCY: 10 to 12 years

Dog breeds such as the cane Corso (pronounced “KAH-nay KOR-so”) have been traditionally used as guard dogs, war dogs, and hunters for centuries. The breed is large, heavy-built, and has a deep, deep bark that prevents trespassers from entering the property. The breed also has an inherent instinct for guarding. Training should focus on obedience and honing natural abilities.

Rhodesian Ridgeback

Rhodesian Ridgeback
Rhodesian Ridgeback

Breed Overview

  • GROUP: Hounds (AKC)
  • HEIGHT: 24 to 27 inches at the shoulder
  • WEIGHT: 70 to 85 pounds
  • COAT AND COLOR: Coats are short and smooth, coming in light wheaten to red wheaten colors
  • LIFE EXPECTANCY: 10 to 12 years

Rhodesian ridgebacks are traditionally hunting dogs for large game and lions. They are naturally loyal to their families. A beautiful companion, this breed is affectionate and noble. Guard dog training isn’t needed; this breed has too much protection instinct. However, basic obedience training is crucial. You need to teach this breed to listen to you and follow your commands.

Komondor

Komondor
Komondor

Breed Overview

  • GROUP: Working (AKC)
  • HEIGHT: 26 to 28 inches
  • WEIGHT: 80 pounds and up
  • COAT AND COLOR: White corded coat
  • LIFE EXPECTANCY: 10 to 12 years

White corded coat and trademark dreadlocks make the Komondor look like a mophead, but don’t be fooled. Affectionate with its family, it is reserved around strangers. Komondors were developed to protect livestock and property in Hungary. You can shape its natural desire to protect through structured training programs. To help expose this breed to different situations, socialization will be crucial.

Video Tutorial on Guard Dog Breed for First Time Owner

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iDEY1AJio80

Best Small Protective Dogs Breed

It is unlikely that you would picture a small pup when you think of guard dogs. However, multiple breeds can perform guard duties despite their small size.

1. Pomeranian

In my heart, I cherish these little furballs. I know from personal experience that these pups are excellent guard dogs for apartments. One of my friends owned four of them, and the house would fill with their barking for hours on end. They will set themselves off as soon as you hear or see something that is unusual.

2. Jack Russell

It is widely known that Jack Russells are some of the cutest dogs anywhere in the world, and they are also the best dogs for home security. Jack Russells are a breed that does not get along with strangers and will let you know if they are unhappy about it.

3. Chihuahua

Chihuahuas are known for their tendency to bite ankles for a good reason. In addition to being aggressive, the tiny wonders will always inform you when danger is approaching. While these qualities are generally seen as negative qualities, they will always let you know when it is. Additionally, Chihuahuas are known for their ability to contend with animals and humans over 100 times their size. Although it is somewhat of a Napoleon complex, it remains one of their most attractive characteristics.

What’s the Difference Between Guard Dog vs. Watch Dog

In order to serve as a quick reference, these terms are primarily used to describe dogs involved in guarding and protecting different types of animals. It is important to note that the breed does not differentiate the label applied to the dog – the training regimen provided to the dog is what makes the label distinctive.

  1. Police or military units are typically the only organizations that utilize attack dogs. These dogs are not only trained to perform all of the skills outlined above but they are also given additional training to make them dangerous weapons as well. In inappropriate hands, these dogs can be extremely dangerous.
  2. In contrast to guard dogs, sentry dogs are also trained to patrol a specific area, such as a large yard or public area. Since they will be required to work with less human direction, this breed of dog must possess high levels of confidence, self-reliance, and intelligence.
  3. It is your responsibility to deal with any problems arising from watching dogs. Watchdogs often behave in this manner by nature, so advanced training is rarely required for them. Since they are not expected to get physically aggressive with perceived threats, they do not need to be large. Chihuahuas, for instance, may make excellent watchdogs.
  4. Similarly, to guard dogs, personal protection dogs are trained to protect moving targets, typically individuals or families. Those dogs that excel in this role are usually very closely tied to their owners and must undergo a lot of specialized training since they need to distinguish between friends and foes and work safely in crowded environments.
  5. As well as keeping an eye out for danger, guard dogs are also ready to take action and defend their families and homes from threats. It is therefore necessary for guard dogs to receive specialized training to excel in these roles. Typically, guard dogs will bark at perceived threats, but will bite if necessary. Generally, guard dogs are expected to guard confined areas, such as your home.
best guard dogs for families
best guard dogs for families

How You Can Train a Dog for Personal Protection

As an alternative to obtaining a trained dog, read about how to train one for personal protection and locate a local Shutzhund club where you can work with experienced instructors and dogs. Before you begin the training, you can obtain a better understanding of what is involved by viewing DVDs and videos available on the Internet.

You should purchase the best dog you can. Even if you choose a puppy that is of the correct breed, not every puppy from these breeds will grow up to become a dog who is capable of protecting you. Everyone has potential, but not everyone possesses the right personality.

Are Male or Female Dogs More Protective?

When it comes to protective behaviors, there are no significant differences between male and female dogs. In addition, breed and unaltered dogs tend to display more territorial or protective behaviors than neutered dogs. Female dogs can be more protective and some dog owners attribute the behavior to maternal instinct, while others claim that male dogs are more alert and ready to defend.

What is the Best Guard Dog for Apartment Living?

You will need a dog that will fit into your lifestyle if you live in an apartment. You need a dog that is of the right size to live in an apartment, and that has a low level of energy, so you need to walk it only once a day. Since an apartment is limited in space, you should choose a dog that is small or medium-sized. In addition, it is important to choose a dog that is easy to train. You can also adopt a trained dog from a shelter.

What You Should Remember About Getting a Guard Dog for Home

The breeds listed above have been bred to be guard dogs; however, when looking for the ideal guard dog breed for your household, it is important to keep in mind a few key factors.

  • Individual Temperament
  • Genetics
  • Environment
  • Individuality
  • Medical Conditions
best guard dog breeds for families with children
best guard dog breeds for families with children

FAQs on Best Guard Dog for First Time Owner

Which guard dog is best for first time owner?

German Shepherds are known for their temperament, making them ideal guard dogs for first-time dog owners. They are highly intelligent, making them easy to train, but will require supervision always due to their protective nature.

What is the easiest guard dog to train?

Dogs such as the German Shepherd (GSD) are highly regarded for personal protection and guardian duties. In addition to being intelligent and easy to train, GSDs are large and powerful enough to perform the job. If a GSD is properly socialized and trained, excessive aggression is not an issue.

Do males or females make better guard dogs?

There is no statistically significant difference in territorial or protective behavior between male and female dogs. Territorial or protective behavior occurs more frequently in dogs that have not been altered than in dogs that have been neutered, and breed also plays a role.

What is the no. 1 guard dog in the world?

It is impossible to get past a Tibetan mastiff. This giant, watchful, powerful, and intimidating animal cannot be overcome.

Conclusion

For first-time owners, getting a dog is a significant commitment that requires time, energy, and money, as well as significant commitments. It is important that new pet parents consider their expectations, capabilities, and lifestyle when getting a pet. Dogs require a great deal of time and cannot and should not be left alone all day. Not every dog is the right fit for every owner.

There are several helpful resources and support systems available for dog parents, and all dogs require a degree of socialization and training to thrive. Choosing the right dog for your family can be very challenging as there are many right dogs, and personalities tend to differ even within a breed. Use your best judgment when selecting the dog that will be the best fit for your family, and you will soon find that you cannot imagine life without them.

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