This small to medium sized dog breed has moderate energy levels and loves to spend his time outdoors too. « » They can run fast, as they were originally bred as herding dogs. They are one of the most popular breeds in America for a reason. Guard dogs are strong, courageous, fearless and watchful. The breed possesses an instinct for guarding. Highlights: Active, Alert, Devoted To this day, the Lhasa Apso takes his role as guard dog very seriously. They have a tendency toward aggressiveness, but in a properly trained Staffordshire, that aggression will usually only become apparent when a family member is in danger. They are as follows: (1) Bullmastiff – This breed is incredibly strong and protective, but also gentle with family members. A well-socialized Cocker Spaniel that comes from a good breeder can still be protective. They were originally bred as mountain herders. If you would like a guard dog, but cannot manage or do not want one of the larger breeds in your home, these medium-sized dogs are some good choices. 3 For The Small Backyard & Small House . They’re not good with small children, since they dislike being approached suddenly, and also are not fond of loud, boisterous behavior. For one, they have a very startling bark. In this rating, there are smartest among the small dogs. While they do very well in family settings, their natural instincts allow them to do so much more than just lounge around. They have a keen sense of smell and can detect even small details in the distance. Assertive and independent, this breed does best with experienced owners. In fact, if I were to recommend a guard dog for apartment dwellers, the Chow Chow would be my top pick. Sexual Question: Do Male Dogs Have Nipples? There you go – 16 of the best small guard dogs for apartments. Beagles can be difficult to train, since their instinct is to take off if they’re not on leash. Properly channeled, though, this aggression can make for a passable small guard dog. (8) Rhodesian Ridgeback – Given that this breed’s original purpose was lion hunting, you could reasonably expect that the Ridgeback would make a pretty kick-ass guard dog. A well-trained Shih Tzu can be a perfectly pleasant companion, but can also be intolerant of strangers, loud children, and other animals. Let’s explore that question a bit, first by considering which dogs are best for protecting home and hearth. The Dachshund can be suspicious of anyone who isn’t a member of the “inner circle,” and takes a while to warm up to strangers. They have an aloof nature and very strong jaws, and are perfectly willing to bite if necessary. Do Dogs Have Belly Buttons? These dogs may not look intimidating at first glance. If you just want something that barks get a rat dog. It’s important, if you think that this might be the right dog for you, that you’re willing to commit to rigorous training and early socialization. With the ability to grow as tall as 24 inches in height, Thai Ridgebacks are on the higher end of the medium-sized breed spectrum. They can be difficult to train, and if not kept on lead in places where there are other dogs, often try to “mix it up,” even with dogs that are considerably bigger. These charming hounds make excellent companions for children. The little guys are just going to end up being collateral damage. Consequently, a Rough-Coated Black and Tan terrier was bred with an Otterhound. 3. Unless you’re an experienced dog owner, it’s generally best to leave training a dog of this breed up to the pros. (6) Giant Schnauzer – The Giant Schnauzer is a very powerful dog, with a tendency toward dominance. Best Dog Costumes for Halloween 2020, 15 Cute Holiday Outfits for Your Pup, How To Measure Your Dog for a Harness, Coat, Sweater, Collar or Muzzle, Top 31 Best Eco-Friendly Dog Products (toys, gear & grooming supplies), Top 7 Best Pet Couch Covers for Dogs (that stay in place), Top 7 Best Heavy Duty Dog Crates for Strong Breeds (Pitbulls, Mastiffs etc. They adapt well to just about any family routine, as long as it's with the ones they love. This dog is available in two sizes – small, and even smaller. The 10 small breeds that received the most votes are listed in the gallery below. Not a small one, even if it is one of the best small watchdogs, because a small watchdog is not a guard dog. They also have no idea how little they are! The Beagle is mainly known as a hunting dog, and noted for single-mindedness. However, these dogs can help you stay alert at all times. However, they have the personalities to provide some extra protection and security. This medium-sized dog is known for its square muzzle and strong jaws. Make your decision accordingly. While they have a somewhat sordid reputation, these medium-sized dogs make exceptional guard dogs. While they are often associated with the finer things in life due to their perfectly coifed hair and adorable looks, Pomeranians are big barkers. They can be good with kids, but it takes training – both of the dog and the kids. Again, early socialization is very important. As a result, they will bark at anything unfamiliar. The Manchester Terrier is lively, intelligent and energetic, and also very playful. a watch dog's biggest asset is their bark. With proper training and early socialization, the Manchester Terrier can rightfully claim a place on this list of best small guard dogs for apartments. Many owners choose dogs that are capable of keeping them protected on top of being good companions. Manchester Terriers are not good around smaller animals (again, because of the prey drive), but they are typically fine with kids, especially older children who understand the need to treat the dog gently and respect his space. How to Heat a Dog House … (3 best ways), Top 5 Best Dog Life Jackets (all dog sizes), 7 Tough and Durable Dog Toys for Aggressive Chewers. There are good small watchdogs, but there are no good small guard dogs. The Bull Terrier is not good with other small pets, and needs an assertive owner. Also, his distinctive bark will often warn away intruders, since Beagles often sound a lot bigger than they actually are. Australian Kelpie. Lhasa Apsos are very intelligent, and trainable provided you’re willing to put up with a bit of stubbornness. They can alert you and your family of any possible danger so that you have time to act appropriately. The Boston Terrier was originally bred to kill vermin, and in many dogs of this breed, the prey drive is still present. ... high intelligence and easy trainability combined with agility and strength make poodles and poodle mixes excellent small to medium guard dog breeds. (9) Kuvasz – This breed has a natural aloofness with strangers, and a strong sense of protectiveness when it comes to family, making it a very suitable guard dog breed. Often, owners need to train their Skye Terriers to calm down and take it a bit easy. In essence, the Shih Tzu is an aggressive little dog that does well in an apartment or other limited space, and needs little exercise. These fluffy little pups can make very good watch dogs. It’s hard to imagine the adorable Cocker Spaniel as a guard dog, but make no mistake, the Cocker can be aggressive. They'll go into any obstacle headfirst without giving it a second thought. While guard dogs can use physical force to stop an intruder, a watch dog's biggest asset is their bark. Just don’t let your Jack Russell get the idea that he’s the “alpha,” because once he does, it will be very difficult to convince him otherwise. The breed is believed to be descended from Chow Chows, and was originally used in China for hunting and boar fighting, as well as for fighting other dogs. 7 Luxury Dog Kennels and Crates to Pamper your Pooch & Style your Home, Top 10 Best Police Dog Breeds at Work in Law Enforcement services 2021, Top 10 Best and Worst Dog Breeds for First Time Owners, The10 Best and 10 Worst Breeds for First Time Dog Owners. Despite their very small size, Chihuahuas can be very aggressive. The Chow Chow will react instantly and aggressively to any threat, real or imagined. There are all kinds of good small watchdogs! The Bull Terrier is one of the best small guard dogs for apartments because of his background – these dogs were bred originally for pit sports. Early socialization is also vital if the Shar Pei’s natural aggression is to be properly channeled. A watchdog’s biggest strength is in his bark. A watchdog is another thing entirely. In an attempt to answer this question, I turned, as I often do, to dog whisperer Cesar Millan. Keeping all this in mind, if you can choose another small breed, I’d strongly suggest that you do so. Their tiny statures make them a pretty easy obstacle to get around. I actually have a large dog. This has led to a condition known as “rage syndrome,” in which the dog becomes aggressive toward just about anyone – even family members – and then suddenly calms down. The Beagle is a small to medium-sized scent hound originally bred for hunting and is still a prized rabbiting dog today. They were originally bred to hunt bears! 3 2. 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