The Best Family Guard Dog Breeds

Bringing a watchdog or guard dog into your home is a great way to enhance security as well as have a loyal friend and companion for life. When researching various guard dog breeds and deciding on which type you'd like to bring into your home, you should consider your options carefully, depending on your particular circumstances.

There is a difference between a watchdog and a guard dog. Watch dogs act as an alert, barking to warn occupants of approaching strangers. A number of dog breeds may fit this role, including Chihuahuas, however, guard dogs breeds, on the other hand, possess the physical ability to make a potential intruder incapable of harming his owner through restriction or injury.

Several dog breeds can be considered watch dog or guard dogs. Owners and families wishing to adopt this kind of dog should examine a number of factors before choosing a breed. Watchdogs and guard dogs often possess the same characteristics which include:

• A sense of territory
• Aggressiveness
• Strength
• Courage
• Resistance to counterattack
• Loyalty
• Tendency to protect family
• Tendency to be properly trained

Here is a list of some of the most popular watch dog and guard dog breeds. Keep in mind that there are several more; this is just to get you started in your search:

• Bull Mastiff. These dogs are very strong physically because they possess a large amount of muscle. They are also intelligent, highly alert, and courageous. Despite its watch dog ability, it is obedient within a family environment, making it a great pet.

• Doberman Pinscher. Like the Bull Mastiff, they are also strong, intelligent, alert, and fearless; they are also loyal and obedient to owners. Doberman Pinscher's are fast runners, making them capable of hurting an intruder and able to protect a household with a large lot.

• Rottweiler. These dogs have strength, confidence, and courage, proving their ability to be a watch dog or guard dog. They tend to be aloof to strangers, making them a great protector. Along with all of their watchdog characteristics, Rottweiler's also show loyalty to their family members.

• German shepherd. This breed usually remains calm until an occasion arises where its assistance is needed. They keep a detached attitude that allows it to resist being influenced by superficial attempts and befriending.

Special Note: Pit Bulls have been the center of quite a bit of controversy in over the last few decades. However, despite their seemingly "bad reputation", they can make very sweet and loyal family dogs. Read more about adopting a Pit Bull if this is the kind of dog you'd like to bring into your family.

Many small breeds can act as watch dogs, but are not necessary guard dog breeds, because of their ability to bark liberally when danger to their owner is a possibility. Some of these breeds include: Scottish terrier, Miniature Schnauzer, Yorkshire terrier, Chihuahua and Dachshund.

Remember that watchdogs and guard dogs still need to be cared for like any other pet you bring into your home. Although they might seem somewhat independent, they require companionship and affection from their families in order to return it. Also keep in mind that you will also need to put in some time for proper training.

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Top 10 Family Dog Breeds

After much discussion - and perhaps a bit of wheedling from the kids - you have decided to bring a dog into the family. Congratulations! The addition of a dog to your home provides much love and happiness and allows you to bond with your family as you learn to care for your furry, four-footed friend. Once the decision is made, though, next comes the question of what breed to adopt. A number of factors will determine the size of your new pet - whether you live in a house or an apartment, whether or not you live near good parks - but there are also recommended breeds that are considered best suited for families.

Let's take a brief look at ten of the more popular family dog breeds:

Basset Hound - The droopy personality of the Basset may not inspire many active trips to the park, but this lovable hound is rather low maintenance.

Beagle - Beagles have great dispositions and are often high-spirited. Many love to play, and they are very loyal.

Collie - The active Collie is a good choice for a family with older children, and active families that like to spend time outdoors.

Dachshund - The well-known "weiner dog" is a popular breed with families and singles. Some believe they are easier to care for than other breeds, and they are quite loyal and friendly despite a tendency to bark.

Golden Retriever - A popular breed among families, the Retriever is arguably also one of the friendliest types of dogs.

Irish Setter - Known for their gorgeous long russet coats, Irish Setters are easy to train and amiable around families.

Labrador Retriever - Whether it's a Black or Golden Lab, you can be assured of many fun memories with this loving breed.

Newfoundland - Hardy and playful, the Newfoundland can grow to be a rather large dog, so if you have a good-sized yard or access to a dog park this may be the breed for you.

Papillon - "Papis" are adorable and very smart, and good if you live in an apartment. They are also quite delicate, and therefore is recommended for homes with older children.

Pug - With it's scrunched-up face and inquisitive eyes, the Pug may not win beauty contests but the breed is very active and able to keep up with your kids.

Of course, there are many other breeds of dog to consider for your family as well. It is important, regardless of breed, to choose the right one for you. Take your time and get to know potential dogs before bringing one home.

Kathryn Lively is a freelance writer specializing in articles on dog supplies and pet supplies.

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The Best Dog Breed For Kids

When choosing the best dog breed to buy or adopt for your kids, one can only give you suggestions. Even experts cannot tell you which breed of dog is best for kids because generally any dog can be best, even mutts. But despite the lack of clarity, there are a few things to consider when choosing the best dog breed for your kids.

First, you have to consider the age of your children. Toddlers and large breed dogs don't mix. Dogs love companionship and they love to play around. A medium sized dog running at full speed can knock down a toddler. A large dog running at half speed can trample your toddler. So consider this factor very careful because the safety of your children is at stake.

The second factor to consider is the personality of the dog. Any family with kids needs a dog that has good temperament and intelligence. Dogs that have this personality are naturally good with children. Some dog breeds to consider are Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, Beagles, Poodles, German Shepherds and Collies among many others. But among these dog breeds, one of the best dogs for kids is a mutt. Because they are mixtures of different breeds, mutts are generally mild-mannered, well-balanced and intelligent.

As mentioned earlier, any dog breed has the potential to be the best for your kids. As long as they are trained very well and you give them the love, support and companionship they need, any dog breed will do for your kids.

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