The Best Family Guard Dog for a Big Fenced Yard

Many dog breeds offer protection for a large fenced yard. When choosing a breed to perform this important service for you, remember to take other factors into consideration. Will the dog be around small children? Are there other dogs in the yard? Will the dog be exposed to extremely hot or cold temperatures? These are some of the questions you should answer to help you choose the best dog to perform guard duties.

  1. Komondor

    • The komondor and puli both make good guards and companions.

      The komondor is best known for his moplike appearance. Its long heavy-corded locks cover the head and body and drape approximately 2 feet to the ground. This dog is not cut out for spending all its time in extremely hot climates, but loves the outdoors. The breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1937 but is still rare to see in most places. The komondor is extremely loyal and courageous. It protects its family at all costs if it feels threatened. This canine is not serious all the time, and displays plenty of affection toward its owners but is reserved around strangers. You should plan on spending some time regularly to keep his cords looking their best.

    Canaan Dog

    • The Canaan dog orinates from the land of Canaan

      Although this dog has been performing guard duties since biblical times in Israel, it was not recognized by the AKC until 1997. With centuries of experience guarding flocks and herds as well as families, the Canaan dog makes a superb guard dog. It is fast and very territorial. The Canaan dog displays its fun and friendly side with its family and its cold, protective side for strangers. These medium-sized dogs need plenty of exercise to keep them happy but do not require any special grooming. Canaan dogs may not be one of the quietest guard dogs and will alert owners when something is out of the ordinary by continuous barking.

    Samoyed

    • Despite his constant smiling, the Samoyed is a good guard dog

      Samoyeds often called "Sammies" by owners are medium-sized dogs with characteristic black lips that seem to make the dog look like it is smiling all the time. The Sammie is prone to temperature sensitivity and should not be left in a yard during extreme temperatures. Sammies thrive in cooler weather -- evening yard patrol may be best. This breed is devoted to its family and is very protective of them. Additionally, it is territorial and wll instinctively protect what it believes to be his. Samoyeds were recognized by the AKC in 1906 and are popular dogs in cold weather states such as Alaska.

    Neapolitan Mastiff

    • The Neapolitan mastiff is large and always on guard

      The brindle colored Neapolitan mastiff is another odd looking canine with his wrinkled face and enormous body. Males may range in size from 26 to 31 inches tall and weigh as much as 180 pounds. The breed has been around for thousands of years, having been used by the Roman army as guard dogs but was not accepted by the AKC until 2004. This breed is also very loyal and protective of their owners and does not accept strangers quickly. The Neapolitan mastiff is not recommended for new dog owners or for families with small children due to its size and strong will but they make excellent guard dogs for everyone else. This breed requires some exercise and grooming due to his deep wrinkles but is otherwise carefree.