Best guard dog breed for a family?

Question

Looking for opinions on breeds that do well with children, but are naturally wary of strangers and protective of the household. I know that any dog will bark to protect its owner, but prefer the larger guardian breeds such as the GSD, Bullmastiff, and Rottweiler, etc. I'm currently in my early 20s and single, but expect to have children during the dog's lifespan and would prefer to look for a breed that is known to do well with kids. At the same time, I do not like to own overly friendly and outgoing dogs such as spaniels and retrievers (although they are great dogs for the right type of person). Any suggestions would be appreciated, especially from those who have owned guardian breeds and later brought kids into the house. Thanks!

Answer 1

Mercy!!!... You sure got lots of advice! Here's my input:
In 1964 I worked away from home and wanted a dog that was big enough to command respect, but also good with children. I purchased and read the AKC book of dogs. From what I read, the Bullmastiff was my choice. I bought one and it was everything and more as described in the book. I was so taken with this dog that I became active in breeding them, and was an active breeder for 25 years. I never regretted it. You will not find a better guard/companion.

Answer 2

Any dog that will fit in with your family situation and proper training will be a great guard dog, depending on what your needing the dog to "guard" exactly if you just want a dog who will bark when the doorbell rings, pretty much the entire canine community does that lol If you need something to "scare" people yes a bigger breed would be more likely to do so, however bigger breeds require more care, exercise, and will need a yard unless you plan on walking him/her everyday, just depends on your living situation. Any dog can bite! What triggers a bite is not the breed its the natural instinct in any animal when they feel threatened. American Pitbulls can be wonderful dogs as any dog can be so long as you socialize, train, and care for it properly. P.S Everyone will tell you a different breed because everyone has individual experiences and/or a favorite. Pick what you feel is best for YOUR situation.

Answer 3

Any of the breeds you mention would be an excellent guardian, but I don't think any of them would be appropriate in the situation you describe (dog first and kids later). Any one of those breeds could tear a baby or child (or an adult, for that matter) to pieces if it took a dislike to one.
Of the three, the bullmastiff is the more easygoing.

A dog that is very wary of strangers (though not aggressive), protective of its people AND property, and absolutely ADORES kids, is the collie. And, they're gorgeous!

Answer 4

Be careful. Sounds like you could end up with a dog that bites the UPS driver, a neighbors child or your kids. You'll need a firm hand when training these protective breeds like German Shepard's. If you want protection from intruders it is a fact that a house with ANY dog is far less likely to be entered. You may want to find a dog that is considered a good watch dog, meaning it barks when someone approaches. Many dogs have this trait. In my personal experience I have found it easier to bring a puppy into a child's life rather than an infant into a dogs life. My recommendation to you:
Boxers, they are one of the best breeds with children.
The AKC Boxer Breed Standard of 1938 states that:

"The character of the Boxer is of the greatest importance and demands the most solicitous attention. He is renowned from olden times for his great love and faithfulness to his master and household. He is harmless in the family, but distrustful of strangers, bright and friendly of temperament at play, but brave and determined when aroused. His intelligence and willing tractability, his modesty and cleanliness make him a highly desirable family dog and cheerful companion. He is the soul of honesty and loyalty, and is never false or treacherous even in his old age."

Answer 5

1/4 to 1/2 wolf we saved one in Calif that was ordered to be put down only because of its breed its the only dog i have had that knew what a baby was and would not even let you raise your voice around the baby he does not bark till your right up on the door step then surprises the only thing that's negative about him is its hard to keep him locked up he can climb a 12 foot fence when were are gone too long --he goes out looking for us
he is 1/2 wolf and 1/2 husky big dog and i trust him fully.
he growls low if we argue or yell at each other and protects the one being the quietest if i am friendly to a new person he is too if i am not he wont let that person even pet him

Answer 6

I have two rottweilers at home. One is definitely the guard dog of our family (male). He even waits in bed with us until we fall asleep, and then goes to the front door to sleep. Beware, though... it is difficult to rent or own a condo with certain breeds. Keep this in mind before adopting/buying a dog. We had a VERY difficult time finding a place. I think most larger breeds are good guard dogs, though. It would be training, and also their nature. (which unfortunately doesn't ALWAYS go along with breed)

Answer 7

I'm no breeder or vet, just an everyday average Joe, so my opinion is all I have. At any rate I've had several different breeds of dogs, purebred and crossbred, mixed and muts.
My favorite without question was my American "Pitbull" Staffordshire Terrier.
I got him when he was six weeks old, the last of his litter, he circled me and plopped his brick like head on my foot. In essence he picked me, I didn't pick him.
My son was newborn at the time so we kept the puppy pretty much at bay when baby was around. but after short period of time baby was in walker and puppy abit bigger they could kinda chase each other around and "bond".
My son adored the dog for years and they were very close.
Actually my son could sit on the dog and ride him like a horse till he was about , was fun to see this.
Anyway the dog was quite protective of my son as I am and needless to say, no one, but no one ever got too close to my son without being forwarned by "his" guardian that "you try to hurt this kid and you gonna get bit".
Over the years the dog became more protective of other kids that were around as well and he seemed to know who was "okay" and who was not.
Deep loud bark and will definately make you aware someone is near or god forbid in your home, but he will protect you and yours with his life.

Answer 8

GSD , Rottweiler , Doberman or Boxer . But these dogs need training such as Schutzhund in order for them to be really balcnced when attacking .But if you do not want to put up with big dogs like these thne i wouldnt reccomend these dogs .

Answer 9

I think that a Perro de Presa Canario would be a really good dog. But I think you have to have it from the time its a puppy while you're children are living with you so it knows they're ok. I read about them a while ago & ever since I've wanted to get one so bad!! They're a type of mastiff from the Canary Islands...they're really loyal. So maybe, if you decide on one, you could get it around the time you're family is beginning to develop, ya know? But anyways, I hope you find what you're looking for. You may wanna check my source for further information! Good luck!!

Answer 10

I would say a Pitt-Bull Mix. They are great around family and react well to people that you like, but are not overly friendly to strangers. They are good with kids too. Find a rescue and tell them the dog needs to be child friendly and they will help you out. Pitt-Bulls get a bad rap but they are great dogs.