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Guard dog breeds

Are you looking for a protector as well as a friend? Guard dog breeds have been keeping their human companions safe for generations, and today they remain our loyal, steadfast and brave guardians and companions.

To make it easy for you, we have put together a list of the most popular guard dog breeds in Australia. Learn more about their history, temperament, common breed diseases and conditions and lots of other interesting facts to guide you to choose the right guard dog for you and your family!

If you’re interested in looking at the most popular guard dog breeds, see Top 10 Guard Dog Breeds.

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Airedale Terrier

The Airedale Terrier is the largest of all terrier breeds. The breed is tall and sturdy with a muscular body and covered in a thick, course coat of fur.

Akita

The Akita is distinctive large and powerful dog with an aloof attitude.  The Akita can be territorial and the dog is not usually welcoming of strangers.

American Bulldog

American Bulldogs are are strong, stocky dogs that look tough but have have a gentle and sensitive nature. They are friendly, affectionate and make great watch dogs.

American Staffordshire Terrier

American Staffordshire Terriers are muscular, energetic, medium size dogs suited to families who like to include their dog in their activities.

Australian Cattle Dog

Blue Heelers and Red Heelers are also known as Australian Cattle dogs.  These sturdy medium sized dogs have been used as working dogs on farms and cattle stations. 

Australian Shepherd

Aussie Shepherds are medium size dogs with a huge amount of energy and drive. This breed is ideal for an active family because they love plenty of exercise and most of all they love to work.

Bernese Mountain Dog

The Bernese Mountain Dog is a larger breed of dog with a tri-coloured thick double coat.

Boerboel

The Boerboel is a very large, strong and muscular working dog. Loyal to a fault, the Boerboel is a tough breed that was developed to guard the homestead in hard African conditions.

Boxer

The Boxer is a medium-sized domesticated dog with a very muscular and stocky build, short shiny coat and a long powerful tail.

British Bulldog

The English Bulldog is iconic for its wide-set frame, muscular physic and compact stubby legs.

Bull Terrier

These are mischievous, playful and endearing large-size dogs who are devoted to their family. They are strong, stubborn and independent dogs who are best handled by an experienced owner.

Bullmastiff

The Bullmastiff is a large strong breed of dog that has been used as a guard dog for many years. 
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