1.) American Bulldog
The authors top choice for a guardian dog. The great size and agility of the American Bulldog are traits which have finally beed discovered by those involved in Schutzhund competiton.
2.) American Pitbull Terrier
The APBT is an athletic, tough dog well suited for K9 protection.
3.) German Shepherd
The German Shepherd dog has been the traditional image of a police dog, however it can be challenging to find one with a suitable temperament for training without going overseas. They can be great dogs, with a great coat, minus the year long shedding, tough, easily trainable and expensive if bought from a reputable breeder of working line German Shepherds. GSD’s can be whiney!
4.) Rottweiler
The Rottweiler is a formidable, intimidating breed whose looks are enough to frighten most human beings. I have read these dogs can be difficult to train. However, in my experience as a dog trainer at my local kennel club, we have several Rottie’s in our classes that are excellent working dogs. I think it comes down to the individual trainer’s abilities. Can be intimidating, stubborn or wimpy.
5.) Belgian Malinois
Big dog in a small package, good coat, not a dog for wimps. When he’s awake, he’s wired. Very expensive.
6.) Giant Schnauzer
The giant Schnauzer, a breed similar to the Bouvier des Flandres, has been used extensively in Germany as a protection and police dog.
7.) Bouvier Des Flandres
The Bouvier Des Flandres is a big dog with a long history as a working breed. His inherent guarding ability, strength, and size make him an ideal protector. A fuzzy but good choice. Needs frequent grooming.
8.) Bullmastiff
The Bullmastiff is a large, powerful dog with a gentle disposition, making it a good choice as a personal protection dog. Great home guardian. Affordable!
9.) Belgian Tevuren
The Belgian Tervuren , a breed similar to the German Shepherd dog, is agile and multi talented, used worldwide as a police, military and guide dog.
10.) Belgian Sheepdog
The Belgian Sheepdog’s inherent protective qualities and versatility make it an ideal watchdog and family guardian.
11.) Doberman Pinscher
Once a popular guarding breed, the Doberman Pinscher has lost it’s popularity as a police dog because it is becoming increasingly difficult to find one with the correct temperament for training.
12.) Kuvasz
The Kuvasz, whose name derives from the Turkish word kawasz, which means “armed guard of the nobility” lives up to his name as a guardian breed.
13.) Neopolitan Mastiff
The Neopolitan Mastiff is a large dog and a staunch defender of home and property.
14.) Dogue De Bordeaux
The Dogue de Bordeaux, or French Mastiff, is an ancient breed known throughout the ages as a hunter, guardian, baiter and fighter. This dog’s intelligence and large size were recently displayed in the USA on the big screen.
15.) Presa Canario
The Presa Canario, or Canary Dog, has been described by many as a over sized version of the American Pit Bull Terrier.
Mike Harlow
K9 Officer & Dog Trainer
