11 Best Guard Dog Breeds For Families With Children

Are you looking for guard dog for your family home with children?

You may be looking for a medium-to-large dog with a watchful temperament, underlying desire to protect the home but capable of mixing with children.

There are some dog breed that probably come to mind such as German Shepherds and Golden Retrievers – but there are some other good choices too.

In this article, we’ll hear from a number of different experts, ranging from experienced dog owners to pet behaviorists, veterinarians to dog trainers.

With the introduction complete, let’s take a look at the best guard dog breeds for families with children.

Great Pyrenees

Great Pryrenees (Photo: Adobe Stock)

I would generally recommend families with young children avoid higher-intensity guard dog breeds like German Shepherds, Belgian Malinois, or Dutch Shepherds. Instead, I would recommend something with a more mellow temperament such as a livestock guardian breed like a Great Pyrenees. This large breed makes an excellent watch dog with its deep, intimidating bark. They will not only provide an excellent visual deterrent against crime, they are known to grow very attached to their families and may tolerate the antics of young kids better than more intense guardian breeds. Pyrenees make great guardians for your family, as well as for your home and property.

Suggested by Josh Snead, CEO Of Rainwalk Pet Insurance

Boxers

Boxer dog (Photo: Adobe Stock)

The Boxer enjoys being with its family despite being instinctive guardians. Their craving for human affection, particularly from children, is one of the breed’s most noteworthy personalities. In addition, they are tolerant, passionate, and loyal with children, but also protective, making this breed a popular choice for families. They are always on the lookout for any potential danger or intruder, making them an excellent guard dog for families with children. The Boxer does not require much grooming, but it does require daily exercise.

Suggested by Aaron Rice, Dog Trainer At Stayyy

American Bulldogs

American Bull Terrier (Photo: Adobe Stock)

Known for their gentle demeanor and large presence, these gentle giants have the ability to integrate into a family setting seamlessly. American Bulldogs are affectionate, loving, intelligent and hard working – making them the perfect fit for a family protection dog.

Suggested by William Ellinger, Co-Founder And Head Trainer Of Integrity K9 Services

Giant Schnauzers

Giant Schnauzer (Photo: Adobe Stock)

Giant Schnauzers make incredible protection dogs, especially in houses where allergies are a concern. Their non-shedding and hypoallergenic coats ensure that you won’t have to sacrifice comfort for protection. For hundreds of years, Giant Schnauzers have been used as protection, guard, police and detection dogs. They are loving and gentle, yet able to protect the entire family at a moment’s notice.

Suggested by William Ellinger, Co-Founder And Head Trainer Of Integrity K9 Services

Czech Shepherds

Czech Shepherd (Photo: Adobe Stock)

Czech Shepherds are beautiful, large shepherds with incredible smarts and fierce loyalty. They bond easily with their family and love to work. Czech Shepherds have a keen sense of emotion and are able to decipher human emotion easily. This makes them empathetic dogs that will comfort family members in times of stress as well as protect in times of danger.

Suggested by William Ellinger, Co-Founder And Head Trainer Of Integrity K9 Services

German Shepherds

German Shepherd lying down (Photo: Adobe Stock)

In my opinion, the German Shepherd is the best guard dog for families with children. It originates from Germany and it was bred as a herding dog. Nowadays, it’s one of the most popular dogs in the USA due to the fact that it can be trained to work as a police dog, military dog, guide and assist the handicapped, etc. The German Shepherd is a very intelligent and energetic dog which means it learns quickly and you can do lots of activities with him. It’s not very friendly with other dogs, but it makes a terrific family dog that likes spending time with children and has the ability to protect your family and your home.

Suggested by Cliff Thomas, Editor At DogFoodPoint

Bullmastiffs

Bullmastiff (Photo: Adobe Stock)

Bullmastiffs are another great choice for guard dogs for families with children. They are small, but they can still be an incredible threat to intruders. They have an innate sense to understand who belongs to the property and bark accordingly.

Suggested by Leonardo Gomez, Founder At Try Run Ball

Great Dane

Great Dane (Photo: Adobe Stock)

This dog breed is known for its huge size, and makes for an excellent guard dog as they are intimidating and intelligent. However, they are gentle giants, and do very well with families that have children, especially as they are very loving and loyal. The only warning I give is that due to their size they can accidentally knock a child over when excited!

Suggested by Jacquelyn Kennedy, Founder And CEO At PetDT

Doberman

Doberman (Photo: Adobe Stock)

Originally bred in 1860 by a German tax collector, Dobermans are one of the finest security dog breeds. With a sleek and muscular build, this medium-sized dog is useful for several dog sports, military, and police activities. We give bonus points for the breed’s loyalty.

Suggested by Paul Andrews, Canine Expert And Founder At The Upper Pawside

Staffordshire Bull Terrier

Staffordshire Bull Terrier (Photo: Adobe Stock)

Staffordshire Bull Terriers are amazing dogs for families with children. Their instinct is to guard and protect, hence, they’re commonly referred to as a ‘nanny’ dog. They are extremely loyal and will treat children as one of the pack to be on the look out for at all times. While they are protective of their ‘family’, they generally won’t express aggression to threats unless provoked, making them excellent guard dogs and family dogs.

Suggested by Melissa Smith, Former Dog Trainer, Canine Expert And Content Manager At Raw & Fresh

Caucasian Shepherd Dog

Caucasian Shepherd Dog (Photo: Adobe Stock)

At first glance, this dog looks scary and you might not want him anywhere near your kids. But if you have a yard where he can enjoy and spend time, you will get the best possible family guard dog.

Caucasian Shepherd Dog is way too gentle, loving, and affectionate with children. Do not let his gigantic size scare you. Plus, they are amazing guard dogs. They set the boundaries, and anyone trying to cross the line, will hear a loud roar and bark that will make them think twice.

Suggested by Aleksandar Mishkov, Editor Of The Daily Tail