The natural instinct of a dog is to protect and provide companionship for its owner – irrespective of its size or health status. Noticing any event or scenario putting its owner’s life in jeopardy brings out the superhero in them. Most times, people associate guard dogs with a considerably large size, but small guard dog breeds exist.
The truth about small guard dog breeds is; they are physically unfit to battle with intruders when the need for it arises, but they have all the necessary skills and requirements bigger guard dogs possess too. There are so many reasons to love small guard dogs; their petite size makes it easier for you to feed and build a kennel for it too, without worrying about space. They make great breeds for scared children too, all thanks to their small stature, which makes them appear less intimidating.
Although most small dogs are swift and are always prepared to guard their owners, keeping them as guards isn’t a good option. Guard dogs are usually big and strong enough to intimidate intruders and go in physical combat when necessary – this is where small dogs fail to qualify as guard dogs. The physical inability of small guard dogs to battle intruders make them more of watchdogs than guard dogs.
If providing security and protecting your apartment from danger is your main reason for keeping a dog around, make your selection from one of these guard dog breeds with a bigger size. Now that we know when to keep watchdogs and guard dogs around, let’s talk about the best dog breeds that give you the required level of protection you need;
Best Small Guard Dog Breeds
- Beagles
The looks of a beagle could be quite deceiving to intruders – small stature, round eyes and a tail that wiggles happily every single time. The appearance of beagles doesn’t match their ability to protect, they are almost harmless but will switch up when they sense any attack or danger.
Beagles are smart and quick; their hound nature makes them great at tracking down a lost item or person by their scent. The nose is its greatest asset. Being fun and loving dog, beagles make great home keepers and are great with children. However, it is quite difficult to train beagles to become fierce protectors, but with patience and consistency, they’ll make great guard dogs.
- Chihuahua
Chihuahuas are adorable dog breeds that get territorial most times. They adore and praise their owners like gods and will get jealous whenever you give just a little attention to another pet. Cute, right? Above all these, chihuahuas make great watchdogs, their love for their owners also make them overly protective, and is ready to attack anybody that pose as a threat.
Quite aggressive with a big heart, they are fearless and will bark at any strange or unfamiliar object; this could be a big problem, but with proper training, they’ll transfer that energy to danger, not just anyone.
- Boston terrier
Boston Terriers are agile and affectionate dogs, always dressed in a sleek tuxedo with its neatly arranged black and white fur. These strong dogs were formerly used as fighters for sporting and betting, but now they are hardworking home keepers. They are intelligent, muscular and always at alert too.
Having this small guard dog breed keeps the home safe, leaving you with a great companion too. They are mostly hyperactive and stubborn, which makes them fun bringers and difficult to put to rest at the same time. Filled with compassion and strength, they make great home protectors and would do anything to save who they love.
- Dachshunds
We have another scent hound here on our small guard dog list today. Dachshunds have a unique physique, short muscular legs, and a long body. They are playful and great human lovers, which makes them the perfect family dog. Dachshunds are animators’ favorite dogs due to their unique stature and, they love the game of fetch especially when a tennis ball is used.
Dachshunds are strong, courageous and great watchdogs with a surprisingly loud bark that’ll alert the whole household whenever they sense danger. They are fast diggers and their long body makes them enter tunnels easily. If you love a playful small guard dog, keep a Dachshunds.
- Bull Terriers
Bull terriers are fierce and courageous dogs. Do not be mistaken, they have a big hear too, showing love and affection to anyone they get familiar with. Bull Terriers are loyal dogs and will stay with their owners until the end. Their muscular build makes them perfect watch dogs, slowing down an intruder’s action by distracting them with a little wrestle.
Bull terriers are gentle-spirited, they only get aggressive when they sense danger. They are also easily trained to be full-time guard dogs.
Conclusion
Small guard dog breeds are great for homeowners who find it difficult to train big dogs or barely have enough room to accommodate them. Never underestimate the abilities of watchdogs to protect, training them to become full guard dogs is possible but takes patience.
Always remember to treat them like normal dogs too, they take them for a walk and participate in fun activities they’d love. They’ll only feel the need to protect you if they love you, so treat them right. Personally, I feel small guard dogs are perfect for many homeowners and keeping one around the house is a great idea.
