10 of the best home guard dogs

Posted: 29th Sep 2022

Updated: 6th Aug 2025

Thinking about getting a dog that can protect your home as well as be part of the family? Some dogs just have that natural instinct to watch over the people they care about – and when you pair that with a good home security system, you’ve got a powerful combination. 

From large and loyal companions to serious burglar deterrents, we’ve pulled together 10 of the best security dogs that also make wonderful pets. Starting with…

1) German Shepherd 

Loyal, intelligent and highly trainable, German Shepherds are arguably the best protection dogs out there. Originally bred for herding, they now work in everything from law enforcement to search and rescue. They’re alert and naturally protective, quick to respond to commands, thrive on routine, and need plenty of mental stimulation. 

With the right care, a German Shepherd is just as much a family dog as a security presence. Their size and strength are matched by a calm, focused nature — as long as they’re trained well. 

2) Doberman Pinscher

The last thing any burglar wants to see is a Doberman. Fast, fearless, and incredibly smart, Doberman Pinschers are one of the top breeds for personal protection. Their sharp instincts make them excellent home guardians. 

Originally bred for guarding and security work, Dobermans are strong, alert, and not easily distracted. When trained from a young age, they’re also affectionate and eager to bond with family members. With regular exercise and structure, this breed becomes a dependable protector and a loyal companion rolled into one.

3) Airedale Terrier

Another breed that makes a fine home protection dog is the Airedale Terrier, otherwise known as “The King of Terriers”. The largest of the Terriers, these impressively-sized pups have been serving the human race for many years. The breed earned a reputation for immense bravery during World War I, when they were used to carry messages between the commanding officers and troops in the trenches. Not to mention, Airedales were one of the first dog breeds to be used in the British and German police forces.

The Airedale Terrier is a force to be reckoned with: it’s no wonder this fast-learning, powerful breed continues to be admired today. Despite their reputation, though, these gentle giants are brilliant with kids and have plenty of personality and charm.

4) Tibetan Mastiff

A breed originally bred in the Himalayas, the Tibetan Mastiff is widely recognised as being one of the best home guard dogs out there, and it’s also one of the largest dog breeds in the world. Its towering size, protective nature and ability to pick up slight changes in human moods all contribute to making this powerful pooch not just an all-round great family dog, but a dependable security companion too. 

If you’re thinking of getting a Tibetan Mastiff puppy, we recommend spending time with a fully-grown one before you do to get an idea of their final size – they really are enormous.

5) Akita

Akitas are dignified, powerful dogs with a strong guarding instinct. Originally bred in Japan to protect nobility and hunt big game, they carry that same sense of loyalty and determination today. 

Akitas are always aware of what’s happening around them, and are typically aloof with strangers but warm and affectionate with the people they trust. That loyalty makes them excellent home protectors; they don’t back down easily, and are naturally territorial.

6) Giant Schnauzer 

Strong, loyal and energetic, the Giant Schnauzer is a working dog that thrives when given a job to do. Originally used for herding and guarding property, they’ve also served in military and police roles thanks to their intelligence. 

Again, these dogs are naturally territorial, and you’ll often find them patrolling the home instinctively! They do need firm training and regular mental challenges to stay balanced, and their thick coats need a lot of upkeep. However, they make great companions for dog owners with lots of time to spare.

7) Great Dane

Almost everyone is familiar with the Great Dane, with one Scooby-Snack-snaffling example being the most famous dog since Lassie. But in reality, you’ll almost never see this breed fleeing in the face of danger. Measuring up to a whopping 30 inches in height, its imposing stature and loud, deep bark would leave any crook quaking, which is why they make great guard dogs. However, more similarly to Scooby Doo, Great Danes are gentle-natured and affectionate at heart – so they’re also fantastic family pets. 

8) Rottweiler

No list of the best security dogs could possibly be complete without the Rottweiler. A robust working dog, Rottweilers descend from the mastiffs of the Roman Legions, and were used during the Middle Ages for herding and bear hunting. 

Despite almost becoming extinct in the 1900s, Rottweilers came back with a vengeance, serving in police forces around the world and even helping with search and rescue after the 9/11 attacks. An easily trained breed, the Rottweiler is just as much a home guard dog as it is a lovable companion.

9) Estrela Mountain Dog

Thought to be one of the oldest dog breeds in Portugal, Estrela Mountain Dogs are named after the Serra de Estrela mountain range, where they were originally used to guard flocks of sheep. Working conditions here were harsh, especially when standing on summits 2,000ft above sea level – hence the thick and shaggy coat. 

Being a breed of great stature, it’s no wonder they were chosen as working dogs, and this trait also makes them a brilliant home guard dog. Gentle and protective, any family would be lucky to welcome an Estrela Mountain Dog into their home. 

10) Australian Shepherd

Being a breed that is far from aggressive in nature, it’s fair to say that the Australian Shepherd may not be the best guard dog on this list. However, their ability to protect is second to none. Their rich history serving as a herder makes them incredibly sensitive to loud and suspicious sounds, meaning that if they were to hear an intruder, they would alert you immediately. Keep these intelligent dogs mentally stimulated, and you’ll be rewarded with plenty of love and affection. 

Don’t stop at a security dog: ensure the entirety of your home is protected with SimpliSafe. We offer a completely customisable security system that’ll provide you with 24/7 protection. Have a chat with us today to discuss your requirements.