Guard dog breeds: types, selection and training

Anyone who wants to get a dog should think about their goals. Someone is looking for a companion and a faithful friend, for someone the appearance of the pet and joint participation in competitions are important, but someone is going to take a reliable guard into the house.

In order not to be mistaken with the choice, it is necessary to carefully study which dog breeds fall into the framework of this category, as well as familiarize yourself with some of the characteristics of their temperament. In addition, special attention should be paid to the contact of the owner with the animal and the issue of education. Let us consider in more detail all the important nuances of choosing and interacting with guard dogs.

Perhaps one does not have to ask the question of destination when it comes to guard dogs. It's obvious that people keep such pets to protect apartments, adjoining territories and private houses, as well as the life of the owner and his family... But this does not mean at all that such dogs were created exclusively for these purposes, and they do not show themselves in anything else.

This opinion is erroneous, since the four-legged "guards" are very smart and quick-witted, they will be able to prove themselves during the game. And representatives of some breeds can even organize their leisure time on their own, and after that they involve family members in their game. In addition, like any other animal, a guard dog needs sweets to warm up his teeth and toys.

Animals of guard breeds will become not only reliable protection for humans, but also true friends. By showing friendliness and love for a person, the dog will be able to win a place in his heart and will expect in return a warm attitude, care and affection.

One cannot fail to note such quality as loyalty. Of course, this trait is not inherent in a rare dog, but there are still exceptions. Fortunately, they do not in any way belong to the four-legged "watchmen", because without loyalty these animals would not be able to fully perform their functions and would run away in case of danger in order to save their skin.

Besides, guard dog breeds have other features... For example, although their instincts are based on the protection of their leader or owner, the animals still have to be taught some rules for protecting humans, and the owner, in turn, will need to learn how to control the pet so that he does not harm anyone.

It is also necessary to monitor the physical development of the dog, since animals in this category must have a strong constitution and powerful muscles. To maintain the required shape, it is recommended to regularly train the dog on your own or in the presence of a dog handler.

There are many breeds of guard dogs that have both similarities and colossal differences. Animals can differ in size, color and other characteristics, in addition, some are very popular, while others are shunned and afraid to start in their home.

Consider the ranking of the most popular breeds with names.

Large dogs are considered by many to be the best in their field. There are several such breeds.

• Representatives of the Brazilian breed filo brasileiro are quite large, the height at the withers can reach 75 centimeters, and the mark on the scales is 50 kilograms. This breed is characterized by the presence of folds of skin, brown, red or darker color.

• Dogo argentino has a rather impressive and stern appearance. The dog is large, the height at the withers is up to 70 centimeters, and the weight is up to 45 kilograms. It should be noted that animals of this breed are prohibited in some countries, as they are considered overly aggressive. But with the right upbringing, the dog will not only be a good and loyal guard, but also an obedient, friendly and loving pet.

• Well developed physically, very intelligent, quick-witted and has many other positive qualities Central asian shepherd dog... The animal has thick wool, rather impressive size - also up to 70 centimeters at the withers, and up to 50 kilograms in weight.

• There is a specially deduced form - serbian protective dog... Outwardly, the dog is quite large, although it is not very tall - up to 70 centimeters at the withers, its weight can still reach 70 kilograms.

Like large dogs, medium sized dogs too can be quite dangerous, especially fighting breeds.

• A lively temperament, a high level of intelligence, sensitivity, courage, poise and nobility - all these qualities are inherent in mittelschnauzers... The weight of the dog reaches a maximum of 20 kilograms, and the height is 50 centimeters. Animals are always wary of strangers and stay away to the last until they consider the situation safe.

• Some prefer to take fighting breeds of dogs as guards, such as Staffordshire Terrier and American Pit Bull Terrier... Although they are of medium size, they are still quite strong and dangerous, therefore it is not recommended to have such dogs for owners who are not confident in their abilities.

You should never judge the quality of a dog by its size, and to be sure of this, Consider the top small breeds that are ideal for protection.

• Sometimes small or even the smallest dogs are the best guards for humans. For example, jagdterrier able to scare away not only small animals, but also other ill-wishers. The dog is very nimble and can deliver many painful bites in a matter of minutes.

• The weight boston terrier it can reach a maximum mark of only 11 kilograms, and it grew - 40 centimeters, but despite its rather modest size, the animal is an excellent protector for humans and their homes.

• Situations are not uncommon when representatives of other small breeds stood up to protect their owner. For example, spitz, chihuahua, yorkshire terrier and other representatives of breeds, which can be attributed more to decorative than to protection.

There are many factors to consider before introducing a particular Guardian dog. For example, the living conditions of the animal and the free space in the room. A large dog will be very cramped in a small apartment, and a small dog may experience discomfort due to the duty of guarding a huge house.

In addition, it is necessary to take into account the number of family members, as well as the number of children, since their contact with an oversized animal may be somewhat difficult. Even if the dog has a friendly disposition, there is no guarantee that the child will not be intimidated by its size.

It is recommended to take the animal only in a good, proven kennel, where breeders vouch for the quality of the litter and the health of the puppies. Otherwise, you can run into scammers and become the owner of a dog with problematic health. It is also necessary to take into account the individual characteristics of each breed, the structure of the coat and the behavioral reactions of the animal.

Let's take a closer look at the features of choosing pets for protection.

Undoubtedly, a dog with protective qualities living in an apartment is an advantage, since in such a company the owner and his family will feel safe. But it often happens that with the wrong choice of the breed of a pet, everyone experiences discomfort, including the dog itself.

That's why do not pay attention to too large breeds that require a lot of space in apartmentse. Also, discomfort will begin to experience animals with a thick wool, because they will simply be hot, and at a comfortable air temperature for the dog, the owner will begin to freeze.

Representatives of small or medium breeds are perfect. For example, the Airedale is quite compact, so keeping it in an apartment will not cause any particular difficulties. In addition, the animal has a slightly harsh coat, which does not need special care - it is enough just to regularly comb it and, if necessary, remove the dead pile.

Representatives of this breed have an enviable intellect, are very obedient and show unprecedented tenacity in the process of training and training.

In addition to the original appearance, the Giant Schnauzer also shows watch qualities and will always be able to stand up for its owner. The dog is unpretentious in its care, has a rather restrained character and compact size, therefore, an animal of this breed is quite suitable for living in an apartment.

But you should be careful in matters of education, because during puppyhood, the animal can spoil the things of the owner. But, thanks to the high level of mental abilities, Giant Schnauzers very quickly realize their guilt and do everything to make amends.

Surprisingly, but representatives of such a breed as a boxer also fit perfectly into the framework of living in an apartment... Despite its rather large size, the dog will not cause discomfort to other inhabitants of the house. Firstly, this is due to the wool, since short pile falls out during shedding in small quantities, giving no reason for frequent cleaning. Secondly, it is because of the meek and obedient nature.

Also Shar Pei, Samoyed Laikas and Chow Chows, which have the qualities of guard dogs, are quite suitable for keeping in an apartment. But if the maintenance of the first animal does not cause difficulties, except for the care of the folds of the skin, then for the residence of the representatives of the second and third breeds, you will have to acquire an air conditioner.

It is absolutely not necessary to choose a big fluffy "bodyguard" to protect a person. Small breed dogs are perfect, especially when it comes to families with small children. In this case, the advantage of small guard breeds is that the dog will not be able to harm the child, but will always defend his safety until his last strength.

An excellent option would be a pet of the beagle breed, whose sizes fall between the category of small and medium dogs. - at the withers, an adult dog can reach 40 centimeters. Outwardly, the dog looks quite strong, and with proper physical exertion, it has pronounced muscles. Among the colors, the most common combination of three colors: white, brown and black.

This breed is characterized by a high level of activity, but at the same time a very restrained character, so the dog will not conflict with others if it does not feel a threat to the owner or the child.

Dwarf pinschers, which are sometimes called small copies of Dobermans, have good protective qualities. Dogs of this breed have a slender physique, small stature - only up to 30 centimeters at the withers, and light weight - about 10-15 kilograms. Most often it has a black-brown or black-red color. The Miniature Pinscher is a very sociable and loving dog that shows independence in matters of games and organizing their own leisure. As for the protective qualities, they are well expressed in the animal, but problems may arise due to the fact that the dog obeys only one owner, whom it recognizes.

Small breeds also include French Bulldogs and Dachshunds. Despite their pretty appearance, representatives of these breeds can provide the necessary safety for the owner and his family.

There are also some large dogs that are perfect for families with children. For example, a very original and not quite common breed of guard dogs bred in South Africa is the Ridgeback. Dogs of this breed, despite their impressive size - up to 68 centimeters at the withers, are still very compact. They are famous for their unpretentiousness, have a rather pretty appearance and a brown color with a slight darkening in the nose area.

This breed is ideal for a family, since the dog will always try to fill the house with a friendly atmosphere, and quite often will initiate games with representatives of the younger generations.

Various types of shepherd dogs are also excellent guards.that get along well with a person in any territory. For example, Malinois, German or Australian Shepherds, if properly raised, will make great companions for an adult and best friends for children.

The choice of a "guard" for a private house must be approached with special responsibility, since often the safety in the house depends on the dog. A dog can prevent unwanted guests from entering the territory of the house and, if necessary, even attack ill-wishers and protect the family in which it lives.

The aforementioned shepherd dogs are great both for protecting a person and his family, and for protecting the territory of a country house. The most suitable variety for this is the Caucasian Shepherd Dog. The animal has a very impressive size, powerful and strong constitution and thick coat, which needs regular care.

The dog's disposition is peculiar, therefore, in the absence of the necessary education, a massive dog can become dangerous for the people and animals around him. But with the right approach and competent interaction with the dog, it will become not only a faithful guard, but also an affectionate pet of the family, and also will not show aggression towards other pets.

For reliable protection, the Dogue de Bordeaux is perfect, which is famous for its strong grip. The dog will not only stop the attackers by physical impact, but also scare away other ill-wishers with its size and harsh appearance. An adult can grow up to 60 centimeters and weigh 55 kilograms.

The dog also has a very wayward character and can to some extent show harmfulness and arrogance. But, despite this, in relation to children, the dog will always be very kind, neat and attentive, and with proper upbringing, it will not cause trouble for the owner.

An ideal option for guarding the courtyard of a country house is the Moscow guard dog. Breeds such as Alabai, Black Terrier, Moscow Diver and Newfoundland will do. Representatives of all these breeds correspond to the requirements stated for the protection of the territory of the courtyard, and also have sufficient wool cover, allowing them to winter in outdoor conditions.

Breeds such as the Doberman, Rottweiler, Great Dane, Cane Corso and Bullmastiff are also excellent guard dogs, but they have a rather short coat without a warm downy undercoat.

A dog of far from every breed can become a reliable, worthy guard, therefore it is very important to distinguish them from those who, in principle, are unable to protect a person or his home. Consider the categories of dogs that will make great pets, but will never be able to perform guard functions.

• It is believed that representatives of the Tibetan Mastiff breed, despite their impressive size, are unable to guard the territory of the house. Dogs are too good-natured and will not be able to harm anyone even in an attempt to protect property.
• Also, breeds of sled dogs are not classified as watchdogs, since they also have a rather friendly disposition and perform completely different functions. Therefore, huskies, huskies and malamutes will be great pets, but not guards.
• Animals with strong hunting instincts are incapable of being good, focused guards. When it comes to protecting the yard and livestock, such a dog will be the first to harm other animals.
• Rescue dogs and guide dogs will also not be able to fully protect a person, since they are overly good-natured and will delight any guest in the house. These breeds include Drahthaars, Labradors, Golden Retrievers, and St. Bernards.
• And, finally, small representatives of various breeds will not be able to perform a protective function, since they themselves are often rather shy and cowardly. For example, Toy Terriers, Pugs, Affen Pinschers, Shih Tzu, West Highland White Terriers, Bichon Frize or Chinese Crested. All these animals will become wonderful friends for humans and children, but, unfortunately, it will not be possible to bring up guards from them.

Undoubtedly, the issue of education and training of guard dog breeds should be paramount. Due to the peculiarities of their temperament, big problems can arise with an untrained animal, since the dog will not only be uncontrollable, but even dangerous for others, and sometimes for the owners themselves.

That's why training processes should be started from an early age, from about 3 months... It is very important that your pet learns and masters all the basic, most important commands in the first year of life, since adult dogs are much worse off learning and training.

To properly educate an animal, it is necessary to correctly build the training process. Since this pet is a security breed, all the minor commands can be sidelined, and it is very important to learn the basic signals.

The first step is to teach the animal the command "place" so that the dog, if necessary, immediately goes there. To learn this command, the puppy must understand that he has a place in your home or in its adjacent area. Training takes place through encouragement and praise every time the puppy leaves for this place. Soon he will understand the effect of a positive reaction and learn the command.

The second, no less important lesson will be teaching forbidding commands, such as "fu" and "no", which will mean the immediate cessation of any action, be it aggression towards a person or simply lifting various objects from the ground that the dog intends to eat ... This is the only command for which you will have to resort to punishment - the dog should develop an appropriate reaction.

The basic commands that you will need to train your pet relate to its position: "lie down" and "sit". In this case, you may need a slight physical impact on the puppy's body - in order for him to sit down, it will be necessary to slightly press on the back of his back, and to lie down, you need to slightly direct the front part of his body. In this way, it is necessary to act until the dog itself begins to carry out these commands.

Since the dog is designed to guard the territory and the person, it is also necessary to train it in the following commands.

• "Own" and "strangers" - the commands are used in case of emergency. For example, if someone is encroaching on your health or your home, and also if the dog's aggression is not justified.
• Commands "face" or "take" are used in cases where there is a direct threat to the life of the owner.

For the best guard dog breeds, see the next video.