One of the reasons people trust dogs is because canines are highly capable of protecting them and their property. Guard and protection dogs are scary dogs alright, but they are indispensable and a significant asset to people. Those who have criminal intent are always afraid of encroaching on property that has dogs that are more than ready to defend their turf and family. In this article, we are going to discuss canine breeds which are intimidating yet keen and capable of being the best protection breeds.
What Makes an Excellent, Scary Protection Dog?
While appearance is also key in deterring intruders out of your property, there are other significant attributes that make a good protection dog. Here are the important factors.
- Physique
Ever wondered why pit bulls look so imposing? This is due to their muscular build, big heads and a strong jaw. These characteristics combined result to a canine that is quite scary-looking.
- Bigger size
Most mean looking dogs are often larger in size and this is a threat to smaller dogs and humans.
- Disposition
This is probably the attribute you have to pay attention to the most since even smaller dog breeds like Yorkshire terriers aren’t afraid of putting up a fight when provoked. A mean temperament combined with a low, menacing growl and bared teeth is a picture that can definitely frighten intruders.
- Bark
A ruffled bark from a guard dog typically means somebody might be on the premises. Protection and guard dogs usually have throaty barks that will keep prowlers at bay.
15 Scary Dog Breeds List
Dogs are intelligent creatures, absolutely devoted to their humans and they make for the best company. However, we have to keep in mind that before dogs were domesticated, they were wild animals and weren’t exactly made to interrelate with people.
We hear and read about reported cases of canines striking other individuals and at times, even their masters. Thus, it is crucial that we are mindful of our responsibilities as dog owners. We have to be conscious about the dangers intimidating dogs can impose on us and other animals if they’re not handled properly. The dogs in this list are indeed scary if they weren’t trained and disciplined carefully. But then again, if we want to have loyal and loving canines in our midst, we have to handle them with care, firmness and love.
Rottweiler
Rottweilers are big black doggos with distinctive light brown highlights on their muzzles and abdomen. Most Rotties have a peaceful, pleasant demeanor but remember that these canines centuries before have been trained to become antagonistic, assertive guard dogs. Rotties are quite strong and have a big bite, always protective of their turf and their family.
Perro de Presa Canario
The Perro de Presa Canario breed was borne in the Canary Islands. They are also referred to as the Canary mastiff. These mutts are recognizable thanks to their sizable and droopy ears. Canary mastiffs can grow to be massive canines, are quite strong and can be dangerous when threatened or protecting their family. Trained properly, they get to be amazingly friendly canines.
Dobermann Pinscher
This German dog breed is one smart doggy that’s quite agile, utterly loyal and can be trained to accomplish guarding tasks. These dogs do present an agreeable disposition and are playful but they can be very aggressive if need be. Because of their strength, a Dobermann pinscher’s attacks can be deadly. Hence, they are always included in big scary dog lists.
Pit Bull
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The pit bull is a British breed that is adored by many dog lovers all over the world. One of its most distinguishing features is their broad mouth, which makes these doggos look as if they’re grinning all the time. Bullies are typically brown in color with a scattering of white markings but this coloring varies because of selective breeding. Pit bulls are amiable, cheery and sweet canines but unfortunately these doggies can present an aggressive disposition. This is due to the fact that they were bred selectively to be used for dogfighting. Pit bulls are also on top of lots of canine-related attack incidents all over the world. Do your research about fighting dog breeds first before getting one and have them trained properly to curb their killer instinct.
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Wolf/Dog Hybrid
Wolf and dog hybrids came about because of natural occurrences or by means of a breeding procedure. Wolf and dog hybrids often feature longer fur coupled with a smattering of grey, black or white hues. It is true that dogs came from wolves but the latter is still a wild animal. Thus, wolf/dog hybrids can be highly aggressive and protective of their family or territory.
Fila Brasileiro
Also known as the Brazilian mastiff, the Fila Brasileiro is a strong dog that was bred first in Brazil. It was trained to serve as a working dog. These canines feature dark muzzles, lengthy saggy ears, dark markings all over their bodies and light-colored brown fur. Once trained and completely aware of his place in the family, the Brazilian mastiff makes for a wonderful, lovely companion. Remember though that they possess a dangerous bite and will show their devotion and fierce defense for their family once provoked.
German Shepherd
One of the most handsome and unique among dog breeds is the German shepherd. German shepherds typically feature brown, black or light brown fur. The well-trained kind are gentle and nice to play with. But remember that these canines are also one of the most intelligent and aggressive among breeds. That is why they are frequently picked by defense forces and the police – they are capable of smelling and detecting a wide range of items and substances, are fiercely loyal and uncompromising.
Chow Chow
Appearances can be deceiving at times – this is especially true with Chow Chows, one of the oldest among dog breeds. This adorable fluffball’s origins hail from Northern China, domesticated since the Tang Empire. The most distinguishing marks of the Chow are their dark tongues, round, furry face, small eyes and curved tails. These doggies are playful and good-natured but they do have a tendency to strike people unprovoked. Chows are actually one of the most reported dog breeds that bite humans.
Tosa Inu
Continuing this list of the scariest dogs is the Tosa Inu. The Tosa Inu is often referred to as the Japanese mastiff, a fighting dog which was first bred in Japan. It’s aggressive and has a tendency to attack smaller animals thus this is not the breed for you if you have other dogs or cats around. While the Tosa Inu was not trained to act hostile to humans, it’s quite strong and nimble. So make sure that you are aware of your responsibilities if you want to adopt this breed. Guarantee that the dog is immensely socialized, trained and kept under control. You have to be assertive enough in order to properly train this fierce canine.
American Bulldog
American bulldogs went nearly extinct back in the day, but thanks to the efforts of one John D. Johnson, this affable yet powerful breed was saved. American bullies are strong, have a muscular body with fur colors that range from white to a darker brown. These canines are very confident, genial and obedient but show aggression and attack when threatened.
Dogo Argentino
The Dogo Argentino, also known as the Argentinian Mastiff, was bred exclusively for big game hunting. This is one powerful, fearless canine that possesses sizable energy but also presents a peaceable nature at home. Due to their being a hunting dog, majority of Dogos are quite prone to chase after scurrying smaller animals. If you plan on adopting a Dogo, first have them trained and socialized well to prevent these plucky hunters from scaring off or destroying small animals.
Boerboel
The Boerboel is a smart, dominant canine bred to protect property. This breed is quite powerful, valiant, confident and utterly responsive when it comes to threats. To avoid attacks, make sure that you keep your eyes on your Boerboel if you have other people around the house. Introducing them to the whole family, your friends and other pets will also help tame its aggression.
Cane Corso
The Cane Corso originated from the southern parts of Italy. This fur baby has a solid, calm disposition coupled with a strength that makes the breed an ideal guard dog. The Cane Corso is also very good at hunting big game. Proper training is especially needed for this breed most particularly if you have other pets at home.
Tibetan Mastiff
For some, the Tibetan mastiff may look like a creepy dog but most people admire them for their huge build and stature; they’re like the lions of the Tibetan Plateau. However, it’s not the perfect playmate if you’re after one; the dog is especially bred for guarding flock, family and territory. These are independent, fierce, serious and devoted scary looking dogs who have a strong will to defend their turf and family until the end. In spite of this breed’s size, they are perfectly agile and capable of jumping and scaling 6-ft. fences. Thus, proper training and handling these fur babies with care is always a crucial task for its owners.
Boxer
Boxers were bred first in Germany and came from the Old English bulldog breed. They have brown, white or black fur with dark or light-colored markings around their ears. These cute canines are smart, energetic and always ready for some play. Most of them have gentle dispositions but they can be quite territorial and protective, always ready to protect both family and turf.
Guard Dogs and Protection Dogs: The Differences
All of us are quite protective of our home and property that is why we install the latest alarm systems around our territory. However, these systems at times are not enough. For most homeowners, having a well-trained guard dog around is a sound decision since some dogs are perfectly capable and ready to defend their home and family. Before getting one, you should be first aware that there is a difference between a guard dog and a protection dog. Here are some of the basics about these types of canines.
The Guard Dog
The guard dog is specifically trained to serve as a working dog. It is not a pet. They are mostly used as dogs for the military and the police’s K-9 units. Due to their guard dog nature, this type of canine cannot switch off all of the training they have learned. Guard dogs are capable of serving in 3 security levels.
- Alarm
The dogs used for alarming purposes are usually big in size and stature with an intimidating, deep bark. The dog will bark when threatened but it will not attack. Its bark is forceful enough to put off interlopers.
- Sentry
Guard dogs used for sentry purposes are often placed outside bigger properties like shipyards or warehouses. They are free to roam about without their owners and were trained specifically to attack intruders.
- Attack
Attack dogs are basically trained to strike and even kill intruders if his handler gives him any of those commands. They’re often used as military service dogs or as a part of the police’s K-9 units. Dogs who were trained to serve this purpose are not appropriate as pets.
The Protection Dog
Protection dogs are usually family dogs; they are trained to safeguard families from threats. Popular protection dog breeds include the German shepherd, Giant schnauzers, Dobermann pinschers and Rottweilers. All of the breeds mentioned are extremely devoted to their family, fearless and protective. With appropriate training, protection dogs are sociable and can get along with children, other animals, relatives, friends and neighbors.
In order to foster well-trained protection dogs, trainers should consider such breeds’ nature to protect. Protection dogs should undergo obedience training and must be aware of their standing in the family’s rank and file. The dog breeds mentioned can be domineering thus it’s crucial for the owner to establish themselves as the alpha. Apart from training, these dogs also need lots of physical and mentally-stimulating activities in order to curb boredom and unneeded aggression.
Thus, the primary difference between a protection dog and a guard dog is the training involved. If you have finally settled on what you want from your canine, then it is recommended that you seek the help of a professional for the appropriate training needed to accomplish the job.
Protection Dog FAQs
One of the concerns you need to tackle at home is your own personal security. Whether the area you live in has a high crime rate or is virtually crime-free, it is always recommended that you invest in a good protection system. Having a protection dog not only means you have a companion by your side at all times, but a fiercely defensive ally as well, willing to protect you and the property. Here are common protection dog questions with the answers you need.
- Are protection dogs usually hostile?
A protection dog who underwent excellent training is sociable and can get along with other people and pets. A well-trained dog will wait for his human’s commands before striking at a threat.
- Will a protection dog bark at every person appearing on my property?
This situation will be determined by the kind of training the dog underwent. Excellent protection dog trainers can hone a canine’s innate propensities to modify the training based on the client’s setting or situation.
- Are protection dogs advisable for families with children?
There are dog breeds who are quite patient with children. Ask the help of a competent and experienced trainer to guarantee that the canine will get along with the young ones. It’s also crucial for you to teach your children about appropriate dog etiquette and responsibility. Make sure to pay attention to your children as well whenever they’re around dogs.
- Is it okay for my protection dog to live inside the house?
Canines that serve as protection dogs like Rotties, German shepherds and Giant schnauzers are quite compliant and adjust easily. They can live anywhere, from a farm to a city apartment.
- Will protection dogs attack without owners’ command?
A protection dog that underwent excellent training will only bite or attack upon command.
- Are there laws related with protection dogs?
This is important since there are specific cities that require a certain registration for this type of canine. There are also areas that restrict particular dog breeds. So, if you want to get a protection dog make sure that you have done your research and checked with your city and regional offices for dog-related ordinances and laws.
This ends our discussion about the scariest dog breeds. These bad boys are a fearless bunch who are super-loyal to their owners. Remember, a good boy and appropriate training go hand-in-hand. If you want the best home and family security, a well-trained protection dog will keep you safe.
