For hundreds of years, humans have used dogs to alert us to the presence of danger. Dogs are naturally protective, making them well suited for the function of alerting his “package” when something is wrong. Guard dogs and guard dogs are not the same. A watchdog not only alerts the family to danger, which is large and powerful enough to intimidate and subdue an attacker. A guard dog usually will not attack, but will alert their owners every time a stranger approaches.
A dog does not have to be particularly large or aggressive to make a good watchdog. A loud bark is all you need to alert the family to a stranger approaches. The would-be intruders are often discouraged to hear only the crust. Almost any dog that barks when something unusual is happening can serve as a watchdog. However, there are some breeds that are known for their excellent tracking dog.
1. Boston Terrier:
One of few truly American breeds, the Boston Terrier is compact, yet muscular. They are protective of their home and family while being gentle and friendly at the same time. Boston Terriers have a strong bark that alerts their owner when a stranger approaches.
2. American Eskimo:
The American Eskimo is a small to medium sized dog that descended from the German “Spitz” line. They were bred for hundreds of years as watch dogs. The Eskimo forms a close bond with family and has a strong distrust of strangers. They are excellent at watching over people and property.
3. French Bulldog:
The French Bulldog is a natural guardian and devoted companion. They do not have the biggest bark, but they always alert their family to approaching strangers or unusual noises.
4. Chihuahua:
The Chihuahua may be small, but they pack a huge bark. As if trying to make up for their small size, they bark vigorously and ensure you are aware when someone is approaching your property.
5. Pekingese:
The Pekingese’s bark rivals that of the Chihuahua. They are a regal toy breed with an incredibly enthusiastic bark. They enjoy being pampered, but take the job of alerting their family to danger very seriously.
6. Miniature Pinscher:
Many people assume that the Miniature Pinscher is a descendant of the Doberman Pinscher. To the contrary, the Miniature Pinscher is the older of the two. They are a cross between terrier and greyhound. The Miniature Pinscher is a very inquisitive breed and will always alert their owner when a stranger is nearby.
7. Irish Setter:
The Irish Setter is energetic, friendly and beautiful. While larger than some watch dogs, they won’t attack an intruder, but they are excellent at alerting you to potential danger.
8. Standard and Miniature Schnauzer:
Both of these German breeds make great watch dogs. They are not only protective, but intelligent and reliable as well.
9. Schipperke:
Nicknamed Skips, Schipperke (pronounced “skipper-kee”) were bred to be hunters, companions and watchdogs. They excel in all three areas.
10. Norwegian Elkhound:
The ancestors of these courageous watch dogs served with the Vikings. They are brave, bold and athletic.
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