This breed has the potential to be a devoted pet who is loyal to your family, as well as a competent watchdog. The great Pyrenees tend to be strong-willed and stubborn, however, so a determined training regimen will need to be in place. It does not have the reputation of being an easy dog to live with, but with a strong socializing and training effort at home, he can be a good companion for the whole family.
These dogs are gentle with children and calm inside the house. Outside, this dog will require secure fencing and is not recommended for off-leash walks. Drooling is common. The Great Pyrenees was bred as a flock-guarding dog in the Pyrenees mountains of France and Spain. This background makes the Great Pyrenees a brave and effective guard dog. Its nature is watchful, protective, and attentive to its family.
Basenji
A Basenji is a poor choice for a family pet. Owners of the high-strung breed are known to share stories of its mischievous acts of destruction. As an intelligent dog, it knows which of your possessions are held most dear. This breed is smart and independent, with the characteristics of a cat. It’s curious and reserved, inquisitive and clever.
With its perky ears and tightly curled tail, it looks as full of energy as it is. A Basenji cannot bark, but they make plenty of original sounds you have to hear to believe. They howl, shriek, and yodel. The Basenji is a primitive breed discovered by Pygmy hunters in the African Congo. Always vigilant, these dogs make great watchdogs, but they must be trained early.
St. Bernard
Saint Bernard got its name assisting monks high in the Swiss Alps at the Saint Bernard Hospice. The monks used the dogs for search and rescue missions to track down lost travelers. These dogs saved thousands of lives. With a reputation as a gentle giant, Saint Bernard doesn’t fall far from the label. They are gentle, friendly, and patient with children.
Dog Breed Info calls them patient, obedient, extremely loyal, eager, and willing to please. However, the assessment comes with a warning. “Teach this dog not to jump on humans starting at puppyhood. Bear in mind that an unruly dog of this size presents a problem for even a strong adult if it is to be exercised in public areas on a leash.” A dog of this size is capable of creating a very dangerous situation. It is also prone to heat exhaustion and prefers to stay inside. But watch out! This dog drools profusely and likes to chew up your personal belongings.
Dalmatian
Dalmatians were bred to run. Originally, they ran alongside horse-drawn carriages and ultimately were known for running with the fire brigade. So, if you go for a 10-mile jog each morning, that will help. However, it won’t cure its high-strung proclivities. It is one of the most excitable breeds.
This striking white and black-spotted dog with a tall frame, a long tail, and floppy ears can be trained to be a good watchdog, but it’s not easy. Without training, Dalmatians become aggressive and destructive. They are high-maintenance pets who are capable of digging a crater-size hole in your backyard, and they are too excitable to be around small children.
Chow Chow
The Chow Chow has the personality of a cat—aloof, independent, dignified, and sheds like one too. Its Arctic coat makes the Chow Chow a bad fit for mild climates, and its dominant breed type makes it a bad fit for humans who want to be in charge of this adorable part-teddy bear, part-lion, and part-black-tongued chimera. The unique but vociferous dog is one of the world’s oldest breeds. The ancient breed is believed to have originated in China.
But he won’t make many neighbors happy with a strong tendency to yap. And it will work tirelessly to hold the alpha position of your human household until every human relents. They don’t do well with children or strangers and may become aggressive. If there is an experienced handler in the house, the dog can be nurtured into a well-socialized Chow, but the breed is not recommended for families without a strong, disciplined leader who is familiar with dogs.