Watch Dog Breeds: Common Features, Species, and Tips for Choosing

Guard dogs have always been in demand and relevant. The best qualities of these animals were perfected for centuries. Weak individuals from the very beginning could not withstand skirmishes with stronger and more powerful opponents, and the strongest and most enduring representatives of the species subsequently gave the same offspring. That is why the guard dog breeds today are rightfully recognized as one of the most popular and popular.

Top guard dogs belonging to popular and sought-after breeds, have the following characteristic qualities that distinguish them from many other quadrupeds.

• Watchdog does not come into direct contact with the attacking object. It is valid only for the purpose of notifying the host of imminent danger.
• Such pets can live in a separate, properly equipped house or an ordinary comfortable booth. In most cases, watchdogs are kept on a chain of suitable length.
• Dogs that are small in nature may be no less useful and effective watchmen than their large counterparts. True, big dogs inspire great anxiety and fear. It is for this reason that most people give birth to large pets.
• "Watchmen" must constantly educate and properly educate proper training. Otherwise, the pet runs the risk of growing completely naughty and unmanageable. Such a dog will not be an assistant - it will become a burden for the owners.
• Such animals should be able to make all the necessary decisions on their own, as well as respond correctly to strangers.
• Watchdogs are undemanding to climatic conditions. They can live seamlessly at most temperature values.
• A good and intelligent watchdog must be absolutely incorruptible.
• Such animals should have a strong, physically developed body and a high level of intelligence.
• Guard dogs have remarkable keen ears, well developed intuition. Such pets should be cunning and quick-witted.

Some types of guard dogs do not need special training. These pets include ordinary guard dogs. These are universal creatures that need to be clearly aware of their main function. To do this, the owner will need to place all the accents in the period of the basic learning process.

The nature of the guard should be strict. Aggression should take place, but it can not be too much. Moderately aggressive dog - perfect. Only in this case, the animal will not throw absolutely all the people on the site entrusted to him. Needless to be cowardly and meek, such a pet should not be either. Such dogs will not be able to protect, if necessary, neither the owner nor his property.

The type of coat of a watchdog is also important. The watchman must have a thick and good wool, because he will have to spend a lot of time on the street, regardless of weather conditions and season. In the frosty winter, the four-legged protector will be more comfortable in a warm and thick fur coat.

There are several of the most popular and well-known guard dog breeds.Let's get to know them better.

This breed is considered one of the most ancient guard. Its representatives are famous for unsurpassed security qualities. Initially, this breed was bred to protect herds of sheep from the attacks of predatory animals. Because of the ability to frantically fight wolves, Caucasians are differently called "wolfhounds." Caucasian Shepherd Dogs do not tolerate strangers. The owners, they are committed to fanaticism. If there is a need, this pet of a large size, without hesitation, will rush to the defense of his person, even if it costs him his life.

The height at the withers of adult individuals of the breed can reach 75 cm, and the weight - about 60 kg. There are cases when a dog of this breed had an even more serious mass, 110 kg. Wool from Caucasians is ideal for the caretaker - it is long and thick. These shaggy big men feel great being on the street even in extreme cold. Due to the elegant coat Cossacks and look larger, voluminous and frightening to outsiders.

In another breed called Anatolian Karabash. Its representatives were withdrawn in Turkey. At present, these individuals are recognized as national Turkish heritage. Such watchmen grow tall, muscular and perfectly folded. They have a matched tail and powerful limbs of great length. Their average height is 75 cm, and their weight is about 52 kg.

The Turkish watchdog needs early socialization. Without competent education, this large dog will become uncontrollable, and will bring a lot of trouble to the owners. Anatolian Karabash are stubborn and naturally wayward animals that strive for independence and maximum freedom. Their guard instinct is well developed. If Karabash recognizes the leadership of his master, he will be an obedient, peace-loving and quick-witted four-legged comrade.

This breed is also called Commander or Komondor. Her representatives have a truly amazing appearance. They are characterized by a very long hair, which is not perfectly straight: it folds, forming peculiar dreadlocks. Komondor's eyes remain closed hair. Only the dark point of the nose will be noticeable.

The incisors of the Hungarian sentry are large. These are powerful dogs that need space and serious physical exertion. For a city apartment such a pet is not suitable. The hair of the Hungarian sentry is light (white), therefore it always gets dirty quickly. Because of this, dogs often have to bathe.

Hungarian watchdogs grow up late. Up to 3 years, they behave like puppies. Independence predominates in the character of some individuals, others behave more affectionately and friendly. Regardless of character traits, the commander will be an excellent watchman. If he feels danger and aggression, then he acts lightning-fast and mercilessly.

These are very beautiful and energetic individuals. They are active, therefore they need serious physical exertion. Norwegians are smart and independent, but they remain gentle and friendly towards their masters. Best of all, they take root in families in which children either have already grown up or not at all.

These dogs are loyal and fearless. They are a little shy of strangers, but they always happily meet family members. Their character is independent, as well as at other northern breeds.

This is an ancient Chinese breed of guard dogs. Previously, such animals were used during the hunt, but at the moment they are excellent watchmen. There are dogs of this breed not very often. They are considered truly unique. The size of the Chinese watchmen is small. In withers they can grow up to 35-45 cm, and their average weight is 14-25 kg. At home, this breed is divided into 3 subspecies: small, medium, large (more than 45 cm).

Chinese bulldogs are squat and compact, but not too tiny. According to its structure, most individuals have much in common with the American Pit Bull Terriers. They are distinguished by an athletic body with a well-developed musculature, which is easily visible through short hair. One of the main features is the tail, which can be short or medium. It is raised above the line of the animal's back.

The Chinese bulldogs have both hunting and good guard qualities. They are very faithful to the owners. Dogs good-naturedly behave in relation to children - do not bite and do not bite. If the children are not from their family, then the pet will treat them carefully.

This is an Italian guard dog. Representatives of this breed behave discreetly and independently. Cane Corso are big stubborn, but still easy to train and teach new teams. These pets are characterized by a high level of intelligence. Raising them is not as difficult as it may seem at first glance.

The main functions of Cane Corso today are to be a protector of the family, a guard of property. These animals can easily cope with all the tasks assigned to them, while showing intelligence and ingenuity. Thoughtlessly Cane Corso never acts. For no reason, such a dog will not bark, and will not throw at absolutely everyone who comes to the door of the dwelling.

This is a popular Japanese breed. Its representatives are madly devoted to their masters, but this does not prevent them from regularly demonstrating their own independence and self-confidence. Such pets are funny, but very smart and clever. They are allowed to keep on the street and in the house. Shiba Inu is often purchased to acquire a reliable and intelligent guard. These pets do an excellent job with such functions. Their size can not be called too large. Shiba Inu, rather, the average individuals - their growth ranges from 31 to 41 cm, and weight - 8-12 kg.

Shiba Inu need proper education. The Japanese compare this process with the technique of origami - here you will need to show great patience, spend a lot of free time. One careless action can reduce to naught all the work done earlier on the education and training of the Japanese guard.

German Shepherd Dogs are known to the whole world for their strength and intelligence. They are often used as service dogs for investigative or security functions. Despite this, it is permissible for Germans to acquire and in order to acquire a kind and intelligent companion for the family.

These beautiful and large pets are docile, unquestioningly accept the authority of their beloved master. But they need human communication and impressive physical exertion. They can be kept not only at home, but also on the street. Security instincts in German shepherd dogs are developed perfectly. They treat any strangers with great care, regardless of the situation. It can be not only a house, but also a street during a walk. Without reason, the German will not behave abruptly and aggressively.

Representatives of this breed are large and very powerful. They are the blood of the most ancient Asian dogs. Males can reach a height of 78 cm in height, and females - 69 cm. The external features of animals are very well developed. Many dogs are compared with them, there have even been cases when alabay was given off as a representative of another breed. Despite the impressive dimensions and not the kindest expression of the muzzle, the alabai have a balanced and calm character. They are restrained, proud and independent. These pets do not behave fussily. Unreasonable aggression is usually not shown, especially if properly educated.

To strangers Alabai relate with distrust and wariness. They do not feel angry with other animals and are in no hurry to attack. A similar attitude to the younger members of the family. Alabai are great guards. They are ways to seamlessly protect the territory entrusted to them, showing aggression to all alien and outsiders.

Representatives of this breed need timely socialization and training. Immediately, the Alabai will not obey the master, as he is proud and wayward. In raising a dog you will need to be patient and have plenty of delicacies.

Representatives of this Russian breed are hybrids of St. Bernard and famous Caucasian Shepherd Dog. They were withdrawn by Soviet dog handlers on the order of the USSR Ministry of Defense.

At present, Moscow watchdogs are most often established to guard a house. They are powerful, durable and unpretentious in care. Such a dog can be not only a guard, but also an excellent family friend. The Moscow Watchdog loves to play and treats children well, if it’s up to time in its upbringing and socialization. The tendency to dominate these pets is moderate. They rarely attack people they know and rarely give a voice. At the same time, the reaction of the Moscow sentry lightning. They instantly attack an object that represents a danger to their home.

Choose a guard for a private house or apartment should be balanced and deliberately. It should be based on a number of basic criteria.

• Consider the size of the pet. If you plan to keep the guard on the street or in a spacious aviary, it is better to choose a large individual. The bigger the dog, the more impressive it will look. If you are looking for a security guard for an apartment, it is better to choose an animal of medium or small size. Such dogs will have enough space. The main thing is to take them for a walk in time, and not to be locked up all day and night.
• It is necessary to take into account the wool of the animal. If you live in regions with cold winters or harsh climatic conditions, it is better to purchase a fluffy watchman with a good wool cover. This is especially true of pets who will live on the street. Shorthair guards are suitable for southern territories, where there are no too low temperatures.
• If you want to buy a purebred puppy, should be addressed to special nurseries with an impeccable reputation or to experienced conscientious breeders. The baby should be bought with all documents and medical certificates.
• A thoroughbred watch puppy should not be too timid or too aggressive. Of course, much depends on the upbringing of the animal, but the original character traits of the dog play a significant role.
• A puppy must be healthy. Ears and eyes should be clean, without discharge and suppuration. It should be clean and under the tail.
• Pay attention to the behavior of the baby. It should not be too lethargic and painful in appearance.

In order for a good caretaker to grow from a puppy, it will take a lot of work with him. Without a proper upbringing, the pet will bring more trouble than good, and is unlikely to become a true friend.

It is necessary to raise a puppy from an early age. The simplest basic commands can be mastered by a small guard at the age of 3-4 months. After this period, you can move on to more difficult trainings. The animal will be easier to train yourself, if you establish a good relationship with respect and understanding. If you are not sure that you can independently raise a dog, it is better to turn to specialists.

Watchdog dogs who live on the street, you need to equip a good kennel or house. There should be a soft and warm bedding. If the dog is sitting on a chain, it should not be too short - it will bring the pet a lot of inconvenience and discomfort. If a small watchman lives in an apartment, he also needs to be allocated a separate corner where he will sleep and eat.

Each owner himself decides how to feed the dog: ready-made feeds (exceptionally high classes) or fresh food. If the latter option is chosen, then it is necessary to ensure that the pet has sufficient protein content. Too greasy, salty, sweet, fried, pickled or spiced foods should be avoided.

The dog must be given due attention and monitor its health. Pet's ears and eyes should be kept clean. Any selection should be cleaned with a cotton pad. If pus appears, the dog is best shown to the vet. Dogs should be treated for fleas and ticks, especially if they reside outside. Wool must be combed, and the thicker and thicker it is, the more often it will have to be done. It is permissible to bathe guard animals, but only when necessary. It is advisable to use special shampoos.

For large dogs it is necessary to allocate a spacious place of detention For example, the Moscow watchdog will be crowded in a small courtyard, and for a city apartment this breed is not suitable at all.

As a watchman, you can use the Staffordshire Terrier, but we must remember that these animals are very capricious and fearless. Their character is contradictory, and sometimes unpredictable. Raising Stafford is quite a complicated matter, and it is better to entrust it to specialists. Also, do not keep the guard dog on a too short chain.

Top 10 dog breeds to protect a private house, see the following video.