They may look like a cuddle buddy, but they are formidable guardians and were bred to guard anyone or anything that they deem their family.
They make excellent guards because of their strong-willed tendency, fearlessness, and independence. By nature, these shepherd dogs can be highly aggressive unless they’re very well trained. They’re also only really happy when they have a job to do; these dominant dogs can be a challenge even for the highly experienced dog owner.
Airedale Terrier
Notoriously clever and stubborn, Airedales are tricky simply because they’ve got a typical terrier temperament in a large dog body. Terriers are known for being independent thinkers and voracious predators.
While this can be cute in a Jack Russell, it can be tricky to manage with a larger breed like an Airedale. They are also quite vigilant and may be unfriendly to newcomers, which can be an additional challenge for owners who like to have guests.
Borzoi
The Borzoi, or Russian Hunting Sighthound, is a Russian breed of hunting dog of the sighthound type. These beautiful dogs were once used for wolf hunting and, until 1936, were known as the Russian Wolfhound.
Borzoi dogs are intelligent and very affectionate with their owners but are also independent and sometimes stubborn, so training may prove to be a challenge. Patience and consistency are key. Overall, they are usually gentle, well-mannered companions.
Anatolian Shepherd Dog
Protective and territorial, but also intelligent, patient, and profoundly loyal, these muscular avengers are prized as working guard dogs without equal. Anatolian owners must be strong leaders, willing and able to handle a dog as dominating and demanding as it is calm and loving.
The Anatolian Shepherd dog was first bred to work independently, make decisions on his own, and protect his flock from outsiders, so training the breed to respond to commands will definitely be a challenge.
Scottish Terrier
Scotties are tough little dogs that tend to be more on the feisty side. They have a stubborn streak and tend to be fearlessly independent.
Because of their stubborn nature, they can be difficult to train because they were bred to work apart from their owner without needing direction. A Scottie won't stop and ask you what to do next but will do it on his own.