best hypoallergenic guard dogs for families
9 Best Hypoallergenic Guard Dogs
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Are you in search of a reliable guard dog that wont trigger your allergies or leave a trail of fur behind? In a world where security matters, hypoallergenic guard dogs offer the perfect solution for those who prioritize both safety and cleanliness.
While many guard dog breeds boast thick coats for protection, shedding can pose a challenge for allergy sufferers and cleanliness enthusiasts. Fear not, as we introduce you to a selection of protective dogs that are both hypoallergenic and dedicated to safeguarding your home.
Say goodbye to sneezing fits and hello to peace of mind with these exceptional guard dogs that wont leave your home covered in fur.
Best Guard Dogs that Dont Shed
Discover the perfect guard dogs that keep your home secure without leaving a trace of shed fur behind.
1. Giant Schnauzer
The Giant Schnauzer, known for its toughness, intellect, and suitability for effective guard dog duties, is an ideal choice for those seeking a hypoallergenic guard dog. While their double wiry coat requires grooming and clipping every six weeks, they dont shed much, making them a low-allergy option.
Giant Schnauzers excel as guard dogs due to their loyalty and protective nature. They are known for having one of the highest recorded bite forces among dog breeds, measuring at 556 pounds per square inch.
These German dogs excel in various competitions due to their large size and intelligence, making them versatile and friendly companions. Although they may drool occasionally, their outstanding traits outweigh this minor inconvenience, making them a perfect hypoallergenic guard dog choice.
2. Poodle
Poodles are not only popular companion dogs but also excellent guardians. Known for their intelligence and keen senses, Poodles can detect threats and alert their owners with their barking. With remarkable hearing, they are sensitive to unusual sounds, making them effective watchdogs.
Additionally, Poodles are hypoallergenic due to their lack of shedding and drooling, making them ideal for families and individuals with allergies. Their calm and friendly nature also makes them great assistance dogs.
Standard Poodles are brilliant and eager-to-please dogs, making them easily trainable for specific alert purposes. However, these family dogs are generally considered high-maintenance due to their grooming needs, high intelligence, and energy levels.
3. Portuguese Water Dog
Portuguese Water Dogs are non-shedding and affectionate dogs with a loyal and protective nature. However, their dense coat requires regular grooming to keep them looking their best. Weekly brushing, regular bathing, and frequent trimming are essential to keep the Portuguese Water Dog looking and feeling fresh.
These athletic and intelligent dogs are great for families and excel in guard duties with early socialization and training. Portuguese Water Dogs are highly vigilant and quick to react to potential threats, making them excellent guard dogs.
Portuguese Water Dogs are natural-born swimmers with webbed feet and athletes, making them ideal companions for active individuals and those interested in competitive training. With their strong bodies and sharp minds, these dogs thrive in physically demanding activities and sports.
4. Airedale Terrier
Airedale Terriers are an ideal choice for allergy sufferers due to their short, wiry coats that dont shed. These terriers are the tallest among the terrier breeds and typically weigh between 50 and 70 lbs, with a potential lifespan of up to 14 years.
Airedales are natural guard dogs, thanks to their terrier instincts and protective nature. But needs plenty of exercise to stay happy and healthy.
Airedale Terriers are well-suited for families with children. They excel as alerting dogs and will vigilantly guard their owners in the presence of intruders. They are highly intelligent dogs, but training is essential to manage their barking tendencies.
5. Kerry Blue Terrier
The Kerry Blue Terrier, known for its stunning blue coat, is a non-shedding guard dog that requires frequent brushing to maintain its appearance. Their vigilant personality makes them an excellent choice for guarding your home and family, although they may not always get along with other pets.
Proper socialization and training are key to ensuring they fit well into your family dynamic. Kerry Blue Terriers are tough and alert and make great medium-sized guard dogs for families.
The Kerry Blue Terrier, originally bred for hunting and herding, is energetic, headstrong, and possesses strong watchdog abilities. Kerry Blue Terriers are quick learners and can be effectively trained using positive reinforcement methods.
6. Bouvier des Flandres
The Bouvier Des Flandres, originally bred for farm tasks like herding and protecting livestock, also excels as a guard dog outside of the farm setting. They possess a hardy and compact body that can reach weights of up to 110 lbs and have a lifespan of up to 12 years.
These dogs are highly protective of their owners while maintaining a generally calm and affectionate demeanor in day-to-day life. Their strong will and courage make them capable of confronting intruders effectively.
Their shaggy, dense coat requires regular grooming but doesnt shed much. This loyal and protective breed is an excellent choice for an ideal guard dog, provided they receive early socialization and training. Its important to note that herding dogs, in general, have a natural instinct to herd, so caution should be exercised around small children and pets to prevent herding behavior.
7. Komondor
The Komondor, despite its long corded fur, is a non-shedding breed. These dogs were originally employed as guardians of sheep flocks, entrusted with the task of warding off wolves and other threats.
Komondors are renowned for their intelligence, cooperation, trainability, and unwavering loyalty. Their fearless appearance is a testament to their bravery, and they have a lifespan of 10-12 years.
If you seek such courage in your guard dog, the Komondor is an excellent choice. However, its worth noting that Komondors tend not to get along well with other dogs, so they may not be suitable for multi-pet households.
8. Briard
The Briard is a prime example of a handsome and excellent guard dog. This breed is known for its toughness, excellent personal protection instincts, and its ability to be a formidable guard while maintaining an appealing appearance. In fact, the French army has utilized Briards as guard dogs in the past.
While Briards dont slobber excessively, they may be a bit messy indoors because their facial fur tends to become wet when they drink. Its important to note that their non-shedding coat, while stunning, comes with maintenance requirements. Their fur is prone to matting and should be brushed daily to prevent tangles.
Additionally, these brilliant dogs have a strong prey drive and are better suited for experienced owners who can handle their energetic nature and training needs.
9. Standard Schnauzer
The Standard Schnauzer is a fine choice for those seeking a non-shedding guard dog. While the Giant Schnauzer is featured on this list, the Standard Schnauzer offers similar vigilance in a more compact size.
Moreover, the Standard Schnauzer does not shed at all, in contrast to the Giant Schnauzer, which sheds minimally. To maintain their coat in optimal condition, regular grooming, clipping, and hand-stripping are necessary.
Originally bred in Germany as rat catchers and protectors, these small guard dogs with non-shedding coats have a unique appearance with their dense fur and distinctive beards. Schnauzers alert and obedient disposition make them exceptional watchdogs.
Conclusion
These hypoallergenic dogs offer both protection and allergy-friendly companionship. These breeds, known for their minimal shedding and protective instincts, make excellent choices for individuals and families seeking a vigilant and allergy-sensitive guard dog.
20 Best Guard Dogs for First Time Owners & Families With Kids
Are you looking for the best guard dogs?
With so many breeds and information, it can be challenging to know where to turn.
But have no fear. Were here to help you find the perfect pooch to keep you safe.
Best Guard Dogs
Feeling protected ranks among the main reasons people get a pup, but you still need to know what exactly youre looking for.
In our book, theres no such thing as the best dog. Still, some breeds are better at specific tasks than others.
Best Small Protective Dogs
When you think of the guard dogs, you probably dont imagine a small pup. But despite their pint-sized appearance, some of these breeds can do the job.
1. Chihuahua
Theyre famous as ankle biters and for a good reason. Chihuahuas hate situations they arent familiar with and can be aggressive at times. While these are usually seen as negative qualities, the tiny wonders will always let you know when the danger gets close.
Chihuahuas are also known for standing up to animals and humans about 100 times their size. Somewhat of a Napoleon complex, its still one of their brilliant characteristics.
These are the best guard dogs for seniors in our book. Plus, theyre easy to walk, meaning they wont be walking you, and theres less chance of accidental falls.
Chihuahuas are the smallest on our guard dog list, weighing a mere six pounds on average. They dont tolerate cold weather well, so we recommend looking into dog house heaters or calming dog beds.
2. Jack Russell
These are some of the cutest pooches globally that are also the best dogs for home protection.
The Jack Russell is a proud breed that wont go quietly. If theyre upset or feeling forced into a situation, theyll let you know the second theyre unhappy.
Besides, theyre incredibly loyal and build unbreakable bonds with their owners.
This small breed is slightly bigger than the other two in the category, weighing around 1317 pounds.
Although their bark may not be as intimidating as larger breeds, theyll sound off if theres any danger, no matter how small.
3. Pomeranian
I keep a big place in my heart for these tiny furballs. My friend owned four of them, and they could fill the house with barks for hours on end.
I know from personal experience that these pups are some of the best guard dogs for apartments. Any noise or sight thats out of the norm will set them off like your very own alarm system.
Usually weighing around seven pounds, these dogs are tiny, but their long and luxurious hair makes them look much bigger.
Pomeranians are bold and curious, so you can rest assured that theyll protect every inch of your home.
Best Medium-Sized Guard Dogs
Moving up a size, lets explore some of these sweet but fearless breeds.
4. Chinese Shar-Pei
They might look like our grandparents but dont let the wrinkles fool you.
These pups are known as some of the best guard dogs throughout history. Bred as a fighting dog, the Chinese used them for palace protection for over 2,000 years.
While the Chinese Shar-Pei is compact, itll always defend you if needed. They weigh between 4560 pounds and are well known for their sweet nature and love for families.
The puppies are the best. Their wrinkles dont fit, causing a roly-poly ball of cuteness.
5. Standard Schnauzer
Theres nothing standard about this breed. Considered one of the best hypoallergenic guard dogs, the Standard Schnauzer is perfect for people with allergies.
Highly trainable and full of energy, these pups will protect you and your family. Males weigh between 3550 pounds, while the females are 3045 pounds.
Their adorable face fur (or, as I like to call it, their mustache) makes them look like a Victorian-style detective, and thats not too far from the truth. Theyll investigate anything out of the norm.
6. Chow Chow
This breed is pretty serious-minded. Its hard to tell from its appearance that its one of the most protective dog breeds. These dogs keep it calm and tranquil, but they stay alert and ready to fight.
The Chow Chow has a very distinctive mane, making them look more like a lion, and trust us, they fight like one when its necessary.
They weigh between 4570 pounds, and theyre generally very muscular, making them a great defense.
Fun fact: Their tongues are entirely black, so no need to panic if you see one. Its one of the breeds distinctive features. Their tongues have highly pigmented cells a tell-tale sign that you have a purebred pup.
7. American Staffordshire Terrier
Even if this breed is one of the best dogs for protection, its also part of the Pitbull family, which holds a lot of controversy in the US.
But Pitbull breed characteristics arent all bad. Theyre tenacious, protective, energetic, obedient, agile, and love their families.
Because of the Pitbulls protective nature, early training is a must to socialize these pups.
Unfortunately, many owners mistreat Pitbulls, which leads to dog behavioral problems. So if you adopt this breed, make sure youre willing and financially able to train your pet properly.
Best Large Guard Dogs
I dont know about you, but the following breeds are the first that come to mind when I hear about top guard dogs.
8. Rottweiler
These pups look scary. With a weight of up to 100 pounds and their infamous bark, theyll frighten off anyone trying to invade your home.
But theyre one of the best loyal guard dogs youll ever find. Rottweilers are super loving and will protect you with all they have if theres a need.
Keep in mind that dogs cant differentiate situations, and often they can react negatively to a non-threatening event. Thats why you need to train your animals. Keeping your pets safe on your property is paramount, so consider getting a wireless fence for dogs..
9. Boxer
This muscular breed is one of the more popular protective dog breeds for families. It ranks number 11 out of 197 breeds in the US.
They have a loving nature and build fantastic bonds with children from a very young age. Boxers are brilliant and can be very playful, so youll want to keep them busy with indestructible dog toys.
They take their job very seriously and always do their best to protect your family.
10.Boerboel
Heres a breed that originated from my home, South Africa.
Boer is the Dutch word for a farmer, and these dogs were initially trained to protect farmers. Theyre one of the best farm guard dogs you can get calm, confident, and intelligent.
With this breed, what you see is what you get. While they enjoy playing, Boerboels wont hesitate to attack an intruder.
They can weigh as much as us (150200 pounds), so be ready for some rough and tumble come playtime.
Best Mixed Breed Guard Dogs
Some mixes are just as great as pure breeds at protecting us.
11.Borsky
This breed is a mix between a Border Collie and a Husky, hence the name. Theyre beautiful and, thanks to their parents, come with unique personality traits.
The Borsky is very clingy and will become obsessed with their owner, especially if kept alone without another dog in the house. This breed would be fantastic for those looking into the best guard dogs for women.
Theyre also brilliant so prepare lots of dog puzzles to keep them busy.
A Borsky can spend hours playing outside, so if youre considering this breed make sure you can set aside enough time and energy for your animal companion.
12.Golden Shepherd
Now, heres one of the best guard dogs for families.
As the name suggests, its a mix between a Golden Retriever and a German Shepherd.
This breed gets the best of both parents. Its more protective than the Golden Retriever but more chill than the German Shepherd.
These pups love to play and get along great with older kids that can keep up with their need for high-energy play. Also, theyre super protective of the ones they love and will always be there when you need them.
13.German Shepherd Pit Bull
Its another German Shepherd mix, but this time with the American Pitbull Terrier. This breed tops my list of best guard dogs.
Besides, if you get the German Shepherd mix with Pitbull, youll have a hardworking, intelligent, and loyal pet.
Either breed needs proper training, but thats easy to achieve as they always strive to impress their owner. Its also why the police force prefers this breed.
The German Shepherd Pit Bull can be aggressive if left untrained. So always remember that safety comes first.
Best Home Guard Dogs
14.Akita
This breed is known throughout history as the ultimate protector, particularly in the Japanese culture. The pups have a fantastic work ethic and weigh between 100130 pounds. Since they were bred for work since the 17th century, they have excellent instincts.
Akitas are some of the best family-friendly guard dogs when it comes to their own family. Theyre very apprehensive of new people and dont do well with children teasing unless theyre part of their family.
Since thats what they were bred for, Akitas are first and foremost protection animals. Plus, your family will gain one of the most loyal companions out there.
15.Australian Shepherd
Always in the top 20 of the most popular dogs in the US, this breed is also among the best guard dogs for families with small children.
The Australian Shepherd is incredibly smart, but that doesnt stop its goofy side from showing. Its a breed that loves to play, and that makes them great with kids.
Youll need to start training them from an early age. Otherwise, the pup will herd your kids like a flock of sheep, which might sound pretty adorable, but with a weight between 5065 pounds, its not the best idea to encourage.
These tough pups will protect your family, and especially the kids.
16.Doberman Pinscher
Doberman Pinschers might not be as fluffy, but theyre sleek and shiny, making them one of the best short-haired guard dogs.
When I think of a protective dog, theyre the exact picture that comes to mind. With a weight of 75100 pounds,they look scary and will attack if threatened.
These pups remain vigilant and on constant guard to ensure their owners safety. Theyre fast, too, giving intruders no chance of even attempting to run away.
The breed, known as a protector worldwide, is a massive deterrent for home invasion.
Best Guard Dogs for Kids
17.German Shepherd
These pups are built for training and love to learn. Their instinct to protect in a way that wont harm their family is why theyre considered one of the best kid-friendly guard dogs.
German Shepherds are often used as service dogs because of their keen environment awareness, solid physical features, and ability to learn quickly.
With a weight between 65 and 90 pounds, they can take down a human in a few seconds if their family needs protection.
This muscular breed is courageous and loyal without fault. Itll bring your family lots of fun but, above all, protection.
18.Saint Bernard
It turns out that Disneys Peter Pan had a point. The Saint Bernard classifies as one of the best guard dogs for babies.
This giant breed weighs between 140180 pounds, making it one of the largest on our list, but that doesnt mean its the most aggressive.
Saint Bernards are kind, sweet, and caring. Theyre patient with children and usually keep watch over everything the little ones do.
If youre looking for a kid companion, theyd be the best choice, but only if you have enough space. Saint Bernards require a lot of room and need daily walks to stay in good shape.
Best Guard Dogs for First Time Owners
19.Rhodesian Ridgeback
I have a lot of personal experience with this breed, and let me tell you, the protective instinct is there from the moment they open those puppy eyes.
If this were a competition, the Rhodesian Ridgeback would be my number one pick for the best guard dogs of 2022. The pups look fearsome, generally weighing about 95 pounds, but theyre the most loveable and affectionate breed once they get comfortable with you.
Bred to track lions, the Ridgeback will alert you to any danger, from the squeak of a mouse to a home intruder. Theyre an easy-going breed that can handle different situations well, making them suitable for first-time owners.
20.Border Collie
The Border Collie is one of the best guard dogs since its in their DNA to serve and protect their owners.
The breed has high energy, so it needs a lot of attention and exercise. But youll find it on constant alert to any out-of-the-norm situations.
Border Collies weigh around 3055 pounds. Theyre not the biggest, but theyre one of the most intelligent breeds and love completing tasks.
When its downtime, this fluff ball will snuggle you half to death, so if you want a loveable yet easy-going breed, this could be a great option.
So, What Is a Good Guard Dog?
Youll find protective instincts in breeds of all sizes, weights, or coat types.
Plus, a well-trained pup is a must. Dogs that thrive off completing tasks do well here.
But the most significant aspect is loyalty. If you build a close bond with your pup, it wont let anything happen to you, and thats why it might become aggressive if the situation calls for it.
The trick isfinding the balance between an all-around aggressive dog and one that can put on a fighting face when needed. Thats where training comes in.
Wrap Up
The question is what are the best guard dogs for your needs?
Small breeds are like little alarm systems, including the Chihuahua, Jack Russel, and Pomeranian. Some of the best medium dogs with solid protective instincts are the Chinese Shar-Pei, Standard Schnauzer, and Chow Chow.
That said, people usually imagine large dogs when they think of the best guard dog breeds, like the Rottweiler, Boxer, and Boerboel.
If you want to protect your home, the Akita, Australian Shepherd, and Doberman Pinscher are breeds to look into. Keep in mind that the German Shepherd and Saint Bernard are also great company for kids. Lastly, if youve never had a protective dog, consider the Rhodesian Ridgeback and Border Collie.
Theres a great variety when it comes to the best guard dogs. The trick is finding one that fits your lifestyle and needs.
