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Best guard dog breeds

Four of these five carry the label in AKC's own text: protector, guarder or protection dog. The Giant Schnauzer earns its place on the wording of its breed standard.

Guard dog breeds for family homes

  • Black and tan Doberman Pinscher standing on a purple show floor

    Doberman Pinscher

    AKC calls the breed incomparably fearless and vigilant and places it among the world's finest protection dogs. AKC pairs that with keen intelligence and a sleek, powerful build.

  • Black and tan Rottweiler lying on grass with its tongue out

    Rottweiler

    A working breed descended from the mastiffs of the Roman legions. Inside the family it is a gentle playmate. Toward the outside world AKC describes self-assured aloofness.

  • Black Giant Schnauzer standing in profile on a lawn

    Giant Schnauzer

    The Standard Schnauzer scaled up in size and power. The breed standard asks for a bold and valiant figure of a dog. AKC says intelligence and loyalty make it a stellar worker and companion.

  • Akita with a tan and white coat standing on a sandy ridge against a blue sky

    Akita

    Ancient Japanese lineage. In Japan the Akita is venerated as a family protector and as a symbol of good health, happiness and long life. AKC names dignity, courage and loyalty.

  • Brindle Bullmastiff standing on grass at a dog show

    Bullmastiff

    Bulldog and Mastiff crosses that pursued and held poachers in England. AKC sums up the temperament as fearless at work and docile at home.

Size and life expectancy from AKC

BreedHeight, male / femaleWeight, male / femaleLife expectancy
Doberman Pinscher26 to 28 / 24 to 26 inches75 to 100 / 60 to 90 pounds10 to 12 years
Rottweiler24 to 27 / 22 to 25 inches95 to 135 / 80 to 100 pounds9 to 10 years
Giant Schnauzer25.5 to 27.5 / 23.5 to 25.5 inches75 to 95 / 55 to 80 pounds10 to 13 years
Akita26 to 28 / 24 to 26 inches100 to 130 / 70 to 100 pounds10 to 14 years
Bullmastiff25 to 27 / 24 to 26 inches110 to 130 / 100 to 120 pounds7 to 9 years

Sources

Photos via Wikimedia Commons: Akita by Biser Yanev, CC BY-SA 4.0; Bullmastiff by Canarian, CC BY-SA 4.0; Doberman Pinscher by Pets Adviser from Brooklyn, USA, CC BY 2.0; Giant Schnauzer by Bohemianroots, Public domain; Rottweiler by mar_qs, CC0