Top 10 Best Guard Dogs for Security & Personal Protection :
- Worlds Top 10 guard dogs!
- Top 10 protection dogs!
- Top ten guard dogs for Security and Personal Protection!
- Worlds Top Ten Guard Dogs for Family!
- Best Dogs for Guard and Protection!
- Best Dogs for Protection but Gentle With children!
- Top Ten Family Guard Dog!
1. Bullmastiff
The Bullmastiff is a blended dog breed, consisting of 60% Mastiff and 40% Bulldog. It is very imposing with its large size, and generally prefers to use its body weight to knock an intruder down and pin him to the ground. Despite its size, 110-130 lbs. at maturity, the Bullmastiff is surprisingly quick and agile.
Naturally protective, the Bullmastiff is afraid of nothing. He will defend his family against any threat. By nature, the Bullmastiff is an alert, watchful guard dog. Due to its size and temperament, it should never receive guard dog training. Basic dog obedience, though, is essential.
The Bullmastiff has a good temperament, and does very well with older children. Care should be taken with small children - they can find themselves knocked over fairly easily.
A family dog, the Bullmastiff will become intensely attached to its owners and prefers to be indoors, spending time in the company of people. It is not a dog that likes to be left alone for long periods of time.
A Bullmastiff can be quite willful, and must be socialized with other dogs while still young in order to prevent it from becoming combative towards other animals.
2. German Shepherd ( This dog breed is best suited for Indian climate )
The third most intelligent dog in the world, the German Shepherd has long been a favorite family pet. His tolerant nature and protective instinct makes him an excellent choice for households with children. The German Shepherd is consistently listed among the top 10 companion dogs in the United States.
Large, strong, and agile, the German Shepherd is a social animal that enjoys the company of people. He will also get along with other animals but should be socialized from an early age.
Renowned as a police dog, his supreme intelligence and high degree of trainability make him well suited for learning sentry duty, police work, and search and rescue. The German Shepherd excels in obedience and Shutzhund competition, and makes an excellent assistance dog for the disabled.
The German Shepherd is a medium to large dog, 75 to 90 lbs. at maturity, with a strong, muscular body. He requires regular brushing but is otherwise easy to care for. This strong, agile dog makes a loving, loyal pet.
German Shepherd Dogs - Breed Introduction
The German Shepherd Dog, also referred to by the acronym GSD, the Alsation (in the British Commonwealth) or Deutsche Schaferhund (in Germany), is a member of the herding group of dogs and was originally developed for the purpose of herding sheep.
Today, however, this popular breed is capable of much more. In addition to making excellent companion dogs, the German Shepherds’ keen senses and intelligence make them well-suited to police and military work, avalanche search-and-rescue teamwork, and serving as companion guides for the blind.
German Shepherds average 22 to 26 inches (56 to 66 centimeters) in height; and weigh from 65 to 95 pounds (24 to 35 kilograms).
History of Breed
The ancestral line of the German Shepherd Dog, which descended from a variety of different types of shepherd dogs, can be traced back as far as the 7th century. However, its wolf-like appearance suggests that it may date back even farther. Cornelius Tacitus, a senator and historian of the Roman Empire, wrote of “the wolf-like dog of the country around the Rhine,” which resembled the German Shepherd.
However, it wasn’t until the late 1800s that the modern German Shepherd was developed. The breed as we know it today is credited to the efforts of German cavalry officer Max von Stephanitz, who wanted to develop a sheep-herding dog that would be handsome, responsible, and intelligent. He used longhaired, short-haired, and wire-haired local shepherd dogs from Wurtemberg, Thurginia, and Bavaria to achieve his goal.
In 1899, the Verein fur Deutsche Schaferhunde, which is the German breed club for German Shepherds, was formed. Through this club and the work of von Stephanitz, the breed was further developed for use with police and military organizations.
During World War I, the German armed forces used German Shepherds, which were widespread throughout Germany by then, as messenger dogs and to locate the wounded. Members of the Allied forces admired the dogs’ intelligence and courage, and many took German Shepherds home with them, thus spreading the breed’s roots to other countries.
More recently, German Shepherds have earned increased esteem through honorable careers as police and guide dogs.
Color and Coat
Most people picture German Shepherds as black and tan, but they may also be a variety of other colors. Black, sable, or black with tan or gray markings are American Kennel Club (AKC) standards for the breed, but German Shepherds can also be yellow, cream, or white. Most German Shepherds have short- to medium-length hair, but longhaired and wired-haired options also exist.
German Shepherds sport a weatherproof double coat. A thick undercoat is topped by an outercoat of thick, dense, coarse, flat hair.
Personality and Temperament
German Shephers are bright, active, playful, confident, and good-natured. To those who earn their friendship, they are both affectionate and extremely loyal. They develop very close bonds with their human families or handlers, and want to spend as much time with them as possible. In the company of strangers, German Shepherds initially tend to be reserved, though not hostile, and they warm up quickly.
Not surprisingly, the highly intelligent German Shepherd is very responsive to training, and is likely to be the star of his obedience class. Firm, fair, and consistent training is important, as these dogs will test you if you don’t provide solid guidelines, and they occasionally need to be reminded who’s boss.
German Shepherds are willing to learn and eager to please. They respond well to voice commands given with the appropriate intonation. From basic obedience, German Shepherds can go on to excel in agility, tracking, rescue work, or personal assistance work.
German Shepherds have a high activity level, and they need strenuous exercise. An ideal exercise routine for these dogs consists of four 30-minute exercise periods, or a total of two hours per day.
It’s a good idea to socialize German Shepherds while they’re still young, to help them overcome any reserve, and especially to acclimate them to children if they will be in a family setting. They generally do well with children, though it’s important for children to treat them with respect and not antagonize them. Most German Shepherds are also tolerant of other animals.
German Shepherds make excellent watchdogs. They are very protective, and will not back down if their owners or their property are threatened. Their jaws have a powerful grip, giving them the ability to detain a criminal, if needed.
Due to their energy levels, German Shepherds thrive in suburban areas or the country. They can adapt to city life, but their exercise needs must be met. These dogs do best with active families or individuals who have the willingness to train them and satisfy their need for both mental and physical stimulation.
Show Characteristics
Until 1915, both longhaired and wire-haired varieties were exhibited in addition to the typical short-haired type. Today, however, only the short coat is recognized for show purposes in most countries.
Black and tan, sable, black and grey, and solid black are acceptable colors for exhibition, while yellow, cream, and white varieties, though still routinely produced, are unacceptable in most countries.
German Shepherds should be muscular, and have an alert and noble appearance. These dogs are agile and graceful, and carry themselves with pride. They are well-balanced in the fore and hindquarters. Their build consists of smooth curves as opposed to a square appearance, and their length should be greater than their height.
The head of the German Shepherd features a long, strong muzzle; a moderately arched forehead with a subtle stop; and dark, medium-sized, almond-shaped eyes. The ears are open to the front and moderately pointed. A drooping or folded ear is considered a fault. Fitted lips close over the scissor bite. Dewclaws should be removed. The tail is bushy and low-set, and has the curve of a saber.
Typical Health Concerns
Many of the health problems German Shepherds are prone to have resulted from irresponsible breeders allowing hereditary conditions to proliferate over successive generations. The most common of these is hip dysplasia. Elbow dysplasia and arthritis are other bone diseases that German Shepherds may exhibit.
Others include bloat (a disease affecting deep-chested dogs), epilepsy, exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, spinal-cord paralysis, and congenital heart problems. Puppies are susceptible to cutaneous vasculopathy, which causes the ears and tails to be crusty, and the pads of the feet to become swollen and cracked.
Grooming
Daily brushing is the only grooming requirement of a German Shepherd. However, be advised that this breed sheds a lot. To avoid a wall-to-wall carpeting of hair, a rake and comb should be used when shedding is at its peak.
Country of Origin
Germany is considered the country of origin of the German Shepherd.
Average Life Span
The life span of the German Shepherd ranges from 9 to 15 years, with the average being 12 years.
3. Rottweiler ( This dog breed is best suited for Indian climate )
The history of the Rottweiler dates back to the days of the Roman Empire. Thought to be a descendent of the Italian Mastiff, it has a massive, powerful body that matures to between 85 and 130 lbs.
The Rottweiler is a very energetic dog, and loves to run, swim, and chase a ball. Easily trained, he performs very well in Schutzhund, obedience, and tracking competitions.
In order for a Rottweiler to be truly happy, he needs a lot of socialization and human companionship. He can be kept in an apartment or a house with a small yard, since he is a calm and relatively quiet animal at home.
A Rottweiler will bond closely with his family. Alert and watchful, he won't let a stranger get anywhere near his home. He interacts well with children and will learn to accept cats and other household pets.
Careful, focused training must begin at an early age in order to prevent having a very powerful, overly aggressive dog. Even with proper training and socialization, the Rottweiler can be aggressive towards other dogs and should always be kept on a leash in public.
Breed Introduction
A descendant of Roman cattle dogs, the Rottweiler has become far more versatile since the breed’s inception. In addition to working as a cattle driver, the Rottweiler has served as a military and police dog, a search and rescue dog, a guard dog, and a companion. It is popular throughout the world.
The American Rottweiler Club sums the nature of the breed up well in its statement, “The Rottweiler is an eager partner but a reluctant slave.” The Rottweiler is happy to accommodate a master he loves and respects, but he is simply too strong and determined to be forced.
The Rottweiler ranges from 22 to 27 inches (56 to 69 centimeters) in height, and weighs anywhere from 80 to 125 pounds (56 to 69 kgs).
History of Breed
Rottweilers are thought to have evolved from the Mastiff or the German Shepherd. They were used by the Roman army to drive and guard herds of cattle. Some members of the troops eventually settled with their dogs in what was later to become the town of Rottweil.
While still used to drive cattle, the dogs’ responsibilities were expanded to include guarding cattle sale profits and pulling carts and wagons. The breed played an essential role in the town’s economy until the mid-1800s, when cattle driving was outlawed.
Their numbers consequently declined almost to the point of extinction. However, in 1901, fans of the breed rallied to save it, and formed a club to renew the breed. That club lasted only briefly, but another took its place, and reintroduced Rottweilers into the workforce as police and guard dogs.
The breed was recognized as a working dog by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1931.
Color and Coat
The Rottweiler sports a distinctive coloring, as there are no variations. The coat is predominantly black with rust or mahogany markings on the muzzle, neck, chest, and legs. The coat is short and thick, and the hair is coarse.
Personality and Temperament
Although reputed to be tough, tenacious, and imposing, Rottweilers also have a softer side. They are extremely loyal to their family members, and regard them with affection. Courageous and hard-working, other traits of Rottweilers include power, agility, and stamina. Rottweilers are highly territorial, and make formidable guard dogs.
Control of this powerful dog is a necessity. Those who udertake the task of training Rottweilers should be strong and confident, and their training techniques should be firm, fair, and consistent.
Rottweilers have an aggressive and protective nature, and they will act instinctively in situations where they perceive it to be appropriate. Unfortunately, they don’t have the ability to distinguish between shouts of anger and voices that are raised simply to be heard, a threatening shove versus one person tripping over another in a game, or an intruder hiding in the bushes versus a gardener employed to trim them.
Thus, care must be taken to avoid placing the Rottweiler in situations where such judgment calls must be made. Dominance games, such as tug-of-war, should be avoided.
Rottweilers need an outlet for their energy to prevent them from engaging in destructive behavior. Long walks, active games, or free play in a fenced yard are all good choices. Rottweilers benefit from early and continuous socialization. The breed’s suitability with children varies from one individual to another.
The dogs may show their latent herding instinct by bumping and shouldering in an attempt to round children up, and due to their size, they are not suitable for children under school age. Rottweilers can co-exist with other household pets, as long as they are exposed to them early on; however, they may exhibit some same-sex aggression.
Rottweilers are best suited to rural or suburban environments, and should not be chained or tied up. Invisible fences are not effective with this breed. Rottweilers enjoy cold weather and can live outdoors in temperate to cool climates, as long as they’re given adequate shelter. They are not well-suited to hot climates, and may become overheated.
This breed is most compatible with an owner who is experienced in handling dogs, as first-time owners may find themselves out of their league with Rottweilers. These dogs are not for pushovers, the elderly, or the infirm.
Show Characteristics
Rottweilers are powerful, muscular, and deep-chested. They are slightly longer than they are tall. Their necks are arched and very well muscled.
They have a broad head; a short, broad muzzle; and their noses are black, with relatively large nostrils. Their short, triangular ears drop close to the head.
Their eyes are dark and almond-shaped, and their expression reveals the dogs’ alertness and confidence. The tail is docked short, leaving only one or two vertebrae.
Typical Health Concerns
Rottweilers are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, kidney problems, and neurological disorders, such as epilepsy.
Grooming
The grooming needs of the Rottweiler are minimal, consisting primarily of basic brushing. The coat may be groomed with a bristle brush or wiped down with a damp towel. The Rottweiler is a heavy shedder.
Country of Origin
Germany is considered the country of origin for the Rottweiler.
Average Life Span
The life expectancy of the Rottweiler is 8 to 12 years.
4. Doberman Pinscher ( This dog breed is best suited for Indian climate )
The Doberman was originally engineered to be the ultimate dog in protection and companionship, and has been bred as a guard dog for over 100 years. Officially recognized by the German Kennel Club in 1899, the Doberman's loyalty, medium size, and short, hard hair make him the ideal house dog.
Highly intelligent and sharply focused, the Doberman Pinscher is a very sweet and docile family pet. He is a dog that bonds easily with his family, and loves human interaction and physical closeness. The Doberman is fine with older children, but should not be trusted with small pets or strange children unless he has been properly socialized. This also prevents the dog from becoming overly protective.
Muscular and athletic, the Doberman is very easy to train. He is determined and assertive, with great strength, energy and stamina. The Doberman requires exercise on a regular basis and solid obedience training. He requires handlers that will firmly enforce the rules - the Doberman can become pushy if he is allowed to have his way too often.
Breed Introduction
A relatively new breed. the Doberman Pinscher wasn’t developed until late in the 19th century. The Doberman was bred to serve as a guard dog, a task at which he excels. However, contrary to popular opinion, Dobermans are not universally vicious. They can make wonderful family pets as well.
History of Breed
Louis Dobermann, a door-to-door tax collector and reputedly keeper of the local dog pound in Thuringen, Germany, is credited with developing the Doberman Pinscher in the late 1800s. As the story goes, he wanted to create a guard dog that could accompany and protect him in his unpopular line of work.
He is believed to have crossed the German Shepherd with the German Pinscher, and then subsequently bred the results of this cross with other breeds. The exact definition of those “other breeds” is open to speculation, and it’s been theorized that Weimaraners, English Greyhounds, Rottweilers, black-and-tan Manchester terriers, and Beaucerson may have played a role in the outcome.
The development took place over a very short period of time, and the first breed club was organized in 1899. The Doberman is thought to have arrived on United States soil in 1908, where its excellent guarding capabilities made it a top choice for guarding, military, and police work.
It was equally popular for these reasons in Europe. It eventually became valued as a family pet and a show dog as well. In 1977, the Doberman was the second most popular breed in the United States.
Color and Coat
Dobermans have short, smooth coats that are hard and thick, and lie very close to the body. Available colors include black, red, blue, and fawn.
All feature prominent rust-colored markings above the eyes and on the muzzle, throat, chest, legs, and feet, and below the tail. There may be a small white spot on the chest.
Personality and Temperament
Doberman Pinschers are strong, speedy, agile, assertive, and determined. Some consider their appearance and propensity for guarding to be indicators of viciousness, but this is not inherently the case.
Dobermans do make excellent watchdogs, but they are loyal and devoted to their families, and can even make wonderful therapy dogs if trained at an early age. They are known to be very gentle and affectionate with the elderly.
Dobermans enjoy being challenged mentally, and they are very intelligent. They perform extremely well in obedience training. They do, however, have a tendency to be somewhat pushy, and thus they need firm guidelines. Every member of the family should be capable of enforcing them. Dobermans respond well to positive reinforcement.
Dobermans need to be challenged physically, as well as mentally. Without this stimulation, they may become frustrated and destructive. Long walks on a leash or runs in safe areas, such as fenced yards, are good forms of exercise for this breed.
Socialization of the Doberman should begin in puppyhood, and the dogs should be handled frequently by a number of people. Dobermans do well with older children who are capable of holding their own with the breed. They may adapt to other pets, but have a tendency to be aggressive toward strange dogs.
Dobermans can adapt to city or country living, though suburban and rural settings are typically best. They are sensitive to cold and cannot tolerate being left outside in cold weather for an extended period of time.
Show Characteristics
Dobermans are squarely built, compact, and muscular. Both the front and hind legs are straight, attributing to the breed’s well-balanced appearance. Dobermans’ heads are long, blunt, and wedge-shaped, with long, tapered muzzles. They have strong jaws and their teeth meet in a scissors bite.
Their noses are typically solid black on black dogs, dark gray on blue dogs, dark brown on red dogs, and dark tan on fawn dogs. Their eyes are almond-shaped and range in color from fawn to dark brown, and the iris blends well with the markings on the dog. The eyes have an energetic, intelligent expression.
Dobermans’ ears are usually cropped to stand erect; however, left in their natural state, they have a medium drop and resemble hounds’ ears. The tail is generally docked at the second joint. Dobermans carry their tails above their backs when alert.
In the mid-1970s, the white, or albino, Doberman emerged, and controversy ensued as to whether these dogs should be allowed in the show ring, as white is not considered an acceptable color for the breed.
The Doberman Pinscher Club of America convinced the American Kennel Club (AKC) to tag those dogs likely to carry the albino gene with a registration number using the letter Z. This allowed breeders to identify and avoid breeding dogs carrying the undesirable gene.
Typical Health Concerns
The most common medical problems experienced by this breed are cardiomyopathy, hypothyroidism, bone cancer, wobbler syndrome (cervical vertebral instability), and von Willebrand’s disease.
As mentioned earlier, albinism is seen on occasion. Blue Dobermans often suffer from alopecia (hair loss), while white Dobermans are prone to the most serious medical problems.
Grooming
Minimal grooming is required by the Doberman Pinscher. Brushing or cleaning of the coat with a soft cloth once or twice a week is usually sufficient. The breed is a moderate shedder.
Country of Origin
The Doberman Pinscher originated in Germany.
Average Life Span
The life expectancy of the Doberman Pinscher ranges from 10 to 15 years, with 12 being the average.
5. Komondor
The Komondor, also known as the Hungarian Sheepdog, is a very rare breed. It's large body - up to 125 lbs. - combined with its unusual coat gives the dog a very commanding presence. Evolved to blend in with the sheep he protects, the Komondor's coat resembles a giant mop, or dreadlocks. Despite the long fur, they shed very little and are easy to care for.
Originally bred to guard livestock against bears and wolves, the Komondor is very territorial and highly protective of his family. He has a calm and steady demeanor and is serious, confident, and alert. The Komondor can be a good family dog if he is raised with children from puppyhood, but is generally not recommended for most families.
From his sheepherder roots, the Komondor is very quick, agile, and powerful. It is a hearty breed known to have very few health issues.
Only experienced dog owners should consider a Komondor as a pet. Very smart but easily bored and quite willful, he requires firm, consistent training.
6. Puli
Much smaller and friendlier than the Komondor, the Puli shares the same corded, dreadlock-like coat. Also known as the Hungarian Water Dog, the Puli makes an excellent watchdog. He is wary of strangers though not aggressive by nature, and will bark vigorously when he senses a threat or danger.
Friendly, cheerful, and loyal, the Puli makes an excellent family dog. His smaller size - around 20 to 35 lbs. - and highly adaptable nature make him a suitable pet for nearly any environment. The Puli is an affectionate, loving animal that will bond closely with his family, and is equally happy living in the country or in the city.
Care of a Puli is quite easy. He requires regular bathing, and it can take a very long time for the thick coat to dry - anywhere from a few hours using a hair dryer, to two days if left to dry naturally. The long cords need to be separated by hand on a regular basis, but does not require brushing. The Puli is a healthy, hardy animal that sheds minimally.
Energetic, intelligent, and easy to train, the Puli does very well in obedience and agility competitions.
7. Giant Schnauzer
Large and powerful, the Giant Schnauzer was used for many years as a police dog in Germany. Once placed with a family, the Giant Schnauzer bonds for life. He is a guard dog by nature and considers it his job to protect his home and his family. In fact, he will do so without receiving any formal protection or guard training.
The Giant Schnauzer is a highly territorial dog, whose life is entirely oriented around pleasing his owners. He is bright, loyal, and sensitive, yet can be a real handful if not exercised regularly and trained properly. Obedience training is of the utmost importance with the Giant Schnauzer, but care must be taken - too much harshness will cause emotional harm to this loving, devoted dog.
He has a dominant personality and will usually not tolerate another male dog in the house. The Giant Schnauzer loves to please and is happiest when he is given a job to do. When properly trained and exercised, the Giant Schnauzer can be one of the most rewarding dogs to own.
Description: The Schnauzer family comes in three sizes: giant, standard and miniature, but they are each considered separate breeds. The Giant Schnauzer is an unusual looking dog who has high spirits, stamina and loyalty. They are Independent and intelligent and need firm and consistent training. The Giant Schnauzer may be aggressive with strangers and make an excellent watchdog.
Other Names: Riesenschnauzer
Height: 23.5 - 27.5 inches
Weight: 70 - 77 lbs.
Colors: Pure black, or pepper and salt.
Coat: Harsh, hard and wiry.
Temperament: The Giant Schnauzer is loyal, protective
With Children: Yes, as long as they are socialized to children.
With Pets: Yes, usually gets along with other dogs and pets.
Special Skills: Watch-dog, guard-dog and family pet
Watch-dog: Very High
Guard-dog: Very High
Care and Exercise: Brush the wiry coat of the Giant Schnauzer daily with a short wire brush to prevent matting. Their coat should be stripped to prevent it from becoming soft and woolly. Pluck the coat twice a year, trim around the eyes and ears. Clean whiskers after meals. The Giant Schnauzer is an energetic dog and requires daily exercise of a long, brisk walk and off the leash play sessions.
Training: The Giant Schnauzer enjoys mental and physical activity and is responsive and easily trainable, but will become bored with repetitive exercises. Keep in mind that they have their own ideas and will not follow every command. Known to do well in various sporting activities, especially defense dog trials.
Learning Rate: High, Obedience - Medium/Low, Problem Solving - Very High.
Activity: High
Living Environment: A home with a fenced yard is essential as they are an active breed. To be an owner of a Giant Schnauzer you should be strong confident, and patient.
Health Issues: Hip dysplasia eye diseases and orthopedic problems.
Life Span: 12 - 15 Years
Litter Size: 5 - 8
Country of Origin: Germany
History: Originating from an area near Munich, Germany, they were first known as the Riesenschnauzer. It is believed that the Giant Schnauzer was crossed with smooth-coated drover dogs, rough-coated shepherds, Great Danes and the Bouvier des Flandres. Used to work cattle, the Giant Schnauzer almost became extinct. After the First World War they were primarily used as a guard dog. German fanciers have worked hard to secure the popularity of this breed.
8. Rhodesian Ridgeback
The Rhodesian Ridgeback, also called the African Lion Hound, is the only registered breed of dog indigenous to South Africa. Originally bred to hunt lions and keep them at bay, the Ridgeback has excellent tracking abilities and is very courageous.
Distinguished by the stripe of hair running the wrong way up its spine, this dog matures to a size of around 85 lbs., but has been known to grow as large as 160 lbs.
The Ridgeback is loyal, intelligent, gentle, and loving. He prefers to be indoors with his family, and can be emotionally injured if handled too roughly. The Ridgeback is brave, loyal, and reserved with strangers. He makes a very good watch dog and is highly protective of his owner. His high energy and endurance make him a great jogging companion.
The Ridgeback can be clever, strong-willed, and mischievous, and therefore should only belong to an experienced dog owner. Due to his propensity to get into trouble, the Ridgeback tends to not make a good first dog.
9. Kuvasz
Another of the Hungarian dog breeds, this white sheepdog was bred to protect sheep flocks from wolves. He is intelligent, bold, brave, territorial, and extremely protective of his home and family. Even though he may appear to be stand-offish, he bonds very strongly with his owner. His personality makes him seem quite reserved, and he is highly suspicious of strangers.
The Kuvasz is easily house trained, but should not be kept in an apartment. He is energetic and requires vigorous daily exercise. He is best suited for a fenced yard, and prefers a cold climate to a warm one.
Through the centuries, the Kuvasz has learned to work independently and therefore is very strong-willed. He needs a firm master who has a great deal of patience to oversee his obedience training. He is a sensitive dog who must be treated fairly and cannot be treated harshly. All members of the family should learn how to properly handle the Kuvasz.
He can be socialized, beginning at six to seven weeks of age, with other animals in the home. Once introduced, he will vigorously defend all members of his family against danger.
10. American Staffordshire Terrier
The American Staffordshire Terrier is many times mistaken for the American Pit Bull Terrier. Similar in size and appearance, it matures to between 57 lbs. and 66 lbs., with a short coat and stocky body.
Originally bred for bear and bull fighting, the American Staffordshire Terrier is not a natural guard dog. He is, however, quick to recognize dangerous encounters and will courageously defend his owner. It would be a very bad idea for someone to threaten physical harm to a Staffordshire Terrier's family.
The American Staffordshire Terrier is devoted to his family, fearless in his defense of it, and adaptable to change. He has a friendly nature and is highly stable around children and other animals. Despite his ominous appearance and willingness to defend, the American Staffordshire Terrier is a very sweet, loving animal.
Care should be taken when training the Staffordshire Terrier. He is highly intelligent, but can learn bad habits just as quickly as he can learn good ones. For that reason, attention to detail and consistent training is important.
