Guard Dog Characteristics

What Are The Characteristics Needed To Be A Competent Guard Dog?

For the novice person, the selection of a dog or puppy for guarding potential should not be left solely to that individual. The assistance of an experienced professional is highly recommended - this is a big decision.

There are a few general characteristics necessary for a competent dog:

Outstanding Temperament

This cannot be stressed enough! It is essential to see as many adult dogs in the pedigree of your potential puppy as one can. It is also important to attempt to view any potential puppies on neutral ground, not their home turf. Any signs of fear, anxiety, or overt aggression (meaning unprovoked) should be avoided at all costs! Remember, what you see in the adults is in the pedigree of the puppies.

Confidence

A dog must be confident in himself and his surroundings to be a good guard dog. Is he curious about new sights and sounds or is he anxious? A dog cannot be sound sensitive and cannot be shy about newcomers or new things if he is to be a competent and trusted guard dog.

Assertive

Some people will refer to this as dominance, but a better terminology is assertive. It is key that a puppy you're looking to fill the role of a family protection dog be assertive and bold in temperament. Out of a litter of puppies, which one is the first to approach new things? Who pushes his way to the front to get the toy? Assertive doesn't equate to aggressive or mean. It simply means that the dog is comfortable, confident, and will get what he wants.

Sociability 

Guard dogs are not Labrador Retrievers by any means, but a level of sociability is required. Most standards for natural guard dog breeds list characteristics like "aloofness" and "wary with strangers". This is true and is classic in adult form, but aloof doesn't mean aggressive. A guard dog must be able to acknowledge a stranger in its owner's presence without becoming intimidating.

Fight Drive 

This is very much related to a dog's temperament, assertiveness, and confidence, but this is the drive the dog has to protect itself and/or the owner. These dogs are sensitive to the movement and actions of others, and while they will not start the fight, if the need arises, they will eagerly and without hesitation meet the challenge.

Trainability 

There are some breeds, like the Chow Chow, which are naturally suspicious of strangers, but they are independent and far less trainable than other breeds. Select dog breeds known for a high level of trainability as well as breeds with a proven track record of guard dog capability.

Loyalty 

Loyalty cannot be underestimated. A dog that is bonded to an owner is far more likely to defend that person. A breed like the Russian Black Terrier is known for a high level of owner devotion.

Because of the nature of the kind of temperament the ideal guard dog possesses, these dogs are not suggested for a novice person or first time dog handler. They require knowledge and experience because a headstrong, assertive dog can quickly overtake an owner's home and life. You must know how to correctly educate and guide one of these dogs.