10 Biggest Guard Dogs Perfect for Families

Throughout history, domesticated dogs have had the very important job of protecting their home and property from threats and predators. In fact, many dogs thrive on constant companionship and have a natural protective instinct that makes them ideal family guard dogs.

This is especially evident in homes where the bond between the dog and its family is very strong. Many experts even believe that puppies who grow up with young children develop a bond that’s similar to a sibling relationship.

In this article, we’re going to talk about the traits that make certain breeds more effective as guard dogs. Not only are these some of the largest guard dog breeds around, but they’re also breeds that make loving and loyal family pets.

Key Characteristics of a Good Guard Dog

Although some dogs can be both a watchdog and a guard dog, watchdogs are generally chosen for their tendency to alert their owners to intruders. Because of this, a dog of any size with an alert personality and a tendency for barking can make a good watchdog.

On the other hand, a great guard dog is large, powerful, and has natural protective instincts. A guard dog will actively protect people and property from humans and animals. The best guard dogs are also intelligent and obedient, as well as trainable and loyal.

Large guard dog breeds are often both intimidating to outsiders and loyal to their owners. For families looking for protection, a big dog’s size alone can be enough to make would-be intruders think twice. 

Guard dogs should also be well-muscled and fast, making them a great choice for protection against humans and predators alike. Of course, your guard dog should also be reliable, steady, and patient, especially if you have small children in your home.

10 Biggest Guard Dog Breeds 

Let’s dive into our list of the 10 biggest guard dog breeds that also make great family companions!

1. German Shepherd

The German Shepherd is one of the best guard dog breeds, well known for its intelligence and trainability. This breed is very popular as a military and police companion due to its powerful nose and physical strength, which also makes it a great choice as a family protector.

With proper training and socialization during the first six months of puppyhood, German Shepherds are typically good with children of all ages. They’re also extremely loyal to their humans and make great family pets. Regular brushing will help to keep shedding under control, making this breed fairly low maintenance.

2. Great Dane

If you want the largest guard dog breed, the Great Dane should definitely be at the top of your list. This easily recognizable giant dog is very tall, fast, and has an imposing presence that can be very intimidating to strangers.

The Great Dane is also smart and obedient, which makes them easy to train. They’re easy-going, love to be around people, and are typically non-aggressive. These traits make them an excellent choice as a protector and a family companion.

Great Danes require very minimal grooming. However, they are energetic and bright, so daily physical and mental stimulation is a must. 

3. Cane Corso

The Cane Corso is loyal, strong, alert and can be extremely intimidating to outsiders. The breed dates back to Ancient Greece, but at one point was nearly extinct. Cane Corsos were first brought to America in 1988, where they’ve steadily gained popularity due to their impressive appearance and muscular build.

This breed is wary and protective, making it an ideal guard dog. However, they also have a loyal personality and a calm and reserved temperament. The Cane Corso can be a wonderful family pet with proper socialization and obedience training starting in early puppyhood. 

4. Doberman Pinscher

The Doberman Pinscher is a large guard dog breed with an athletic build and plenty of physical strength to take on an intruder. This breed is very sensitive and responsive, as well as athletic and intelligent. 

The temperament of these dogs makes them ideal for families with older children and individuals who lead an active lifestyle. Dobermans are very low maintenance when it comes to grooming, but they do require daily exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom.

5. Great Pyrenees

The Great Pyrenees is a majestic and impressive livestock guardian dog with a beautiful fluffy white coat. This gentle giant was originally bred to fearlessly fight off large predators.They have a very intimidating bark and tend to be on high alert at night, which makes them ideal as both a guard dog and a watchdog.

Great Pyrenees are known for their protective natures, independence, and steady dispositions. They are very patient with small children and other pets. However, it’s important to note that this breed requires regular grooming to keep its coat in good condition and shedding under control.

6. Saint Bernard

Saint Bernards are one of the most famous giant breeds. They were developed in the Swiss Alps for search and rescue in the snow, and due to their massive and powerful statures and loyal personalities, Saint Bernards can be excellent guard dogs. 

Their love for their human family members also makes them a great choice as a family companion. Daily walks are important for keeping this breed healthy and fit, but at the end of the day, St. Bernards are quite happy to live a couch potato lifestyle. Regular brushing is all that’s  required to control shedding and keep the coat in good condition.

7. Bullmastiff

The Bullmastiff is a large, powerful dog breed that can weigh as much as 150 pounds. This loyal dog is more than capable of tackling an intruder should the need arise, but it’s also very intelligent and trainable.

The Bullmastiff was originally bred to guard country estates and game preserves in the English countryside. This breed responds well to positive reinforcement, but as with most dogs, socialization and setting boundaries beginning in early puppyhood will be essential. 

Bullmastiffs have gentle temperaments and they’re lovable and loyal companions. They generally make wonderful family pets who enjoy an active lifestyle as much as a lazy day on the couch. Mastiffs shed very little, so they can be a good choice for those with allergies.

8. Rottweiler

The Rottweiler was originally bred to be a protector and that tradition has continued throughout the breed’s history. Rottweilers are self-confident dogs by nature. They’re also fast learners who are very loyal to their owners.

In spite of the Rottweiler’s large size, this breed is capable of moving fast when the need arises. They also have an intimidating look and fierce reputation that will make most intruders think twice before entering a home uninvited.

9. Boxer

Boxers are one of the smaller breeds on our list, so they’re a great size for families who live in urban areas or in smaller homes. They have very strong jaws and can be quite intimidating to intruders and predators alike.

Boxers are loyal and intelligent protectors who make wonderful companions for families with young children. This breed requires little grooming, but it is high-energy and enjoys an active lifestyle with plenty of mental and physical stimulation.

10. Rhodesian Ridgeback

The Rhodesian Ridgeback was originally bred to hunt lions, so taking down an intruder or predator isn’t an issue for these incredibly intelligent dogs. These protective dogs are extremely loyal and devoted family pets with boisterous personalities that make them ideal for homes with older children.

If you’re looking for a running buddy who can keep up with you over long distances while also keeping strangers at bay, you can’t go wrong with a Rhodesian Ridgeback. This breed can also be a great choice for those with allergies since it sheds very little and has a smooth coat.

Parting Thoughts

There’s no reason you can’t have a guard dog that is also a loyal and loving family pet. For further guidance on which breeds make wonderful protectors and companions, take our Breed Match Quiz. It just takes a minute and will help you narrow down your choices based on your needs, personality, and lifestyle!

FAQs

Which breeds is considered the biggest guard dog?

Four of the largest guard dog breeds include the Cane Corso, Bullmastiff, Caucasian Shepherd, and Dogue de Bordeaux. These breeds have a reputation for their intimidating size and strength, but are also known for their intelligence and loyalty which makes them excellent choices for guarding and family safety.

Which giant guard dog breeds are suitable for homes with children?

Big guard dog breeds like the Saint Bernard, Newfoundland, and Bernese Mountain Dog are known for their gentle disposition towards children, despite their imposing size. They make excellent kid-friendly companions for families with children of all ages.

How do large guard dog breeds balance family life and protection duties?

Large guard dog breeds like the Bullmastiff and the Akita balance family life and protection duties by being naturally protective against strangers yet being gentle and affectionate with family members, especially children. They enjoy spending time with their families while retaining a spidey sense of danger.

Are there any low maintenance guard dogs that are also big and protective?

Yes, breeds like the Boxer and the Doberman Pinscher are considered relatively low maintenance guard dogs. They are big and protective, but also require minimal grooming. That said, they do need fairly regular exercise.

What are the best big guard dogs for first-time owners?

For first-time dog owners, guard dogs like Boxers, Bullmastiffs, or German Shepherds are recommended. These breeds are not only protective but also easy to train and adapt smoothly to family environments.

What should I consider when looking for big guard dogs for sale?

Always start with the reputation and experience of the breeder. From there, make sure you understand the dog's temperament, health history, and whether their size and learn more about the breed to make sure that its exercise needs and requirements suit your lifestyle.