Small breeds like the Lhasa and Boston Terrier can be excellent watch dogs and are easy to manage when small kids are around. (If the dead coat is removed often enough it stays a lot healthier and many of these skin problems are avoided.). They’re solid, muscular dogs, and do well in little space, making the Boston … The second reason ACDs may not be right for your family is a lot more serious. If you are going to buy a puppy make sure the parents are checked and certified healthy. As for the best guard dog … We had a min Schnauzer 'Pepper' along with our Doberman Major and she was the boss in all respects. 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. With their long hair, however, they may be seen as a play toy by some kids and are thus not always the best of the medium sized guard dogs for families. Best 7 Medium-Sized Guard Dogs for Single Moms - PetHelpful - … If your kids are like mine, however, they are going to bring home friends to play, and your dog will probably not be able to tell what is a fight and what is normal play. If the kids are older, and the dog is well trained and socialized enough to accept their friends, they are a good choice. (A dog like a Shar Pei cross or a Chow cross may even be healthier and with an even calmer temperament than a purebred.) Standard Schnauzers are a healthy breed. Boston Terriers are by no means big dogs, but they can be very territorial, protective of both humans and property. A dog’s production of allergens can be seen in its total body surface, meaning, the smaller the dog, the less allergens to be produced and released and vice versa. If you do get one of these dogs, be sure to learn more about bloat since some dogs are affected. They are quiet, good for someone who works all day, but ready to guard their family when called to serve. If you do own your own home and decide to get a Bull Terrier, make sure to have the puppy checked for deafness before finalizing the sale and bringing him home to the kids. I hope your family is able to find the right dog for your needs. While I think that a single mom or woman living alone is better off having a large protection breed like a Doberman or Boxer, that is not always possible, since so many apartments are against large dogs. Most of them area healthy, but some lines do have eye problems, hip problems, and some skin diseases. Food coming out? If you are a single mom, and want more than a watch dog, but are not able to keep a large dog in your rented house or apartment, here are a few medium-sized dog breeds that may be what you are looking for. Many medium-sized dog breeds make good guard dogs. All throughout this article I have emphasized the importance of socialization. If you think all terriers are small, you’re in for a pleasant surprise with the Airedale. Dr Mark (author) from The Atlantic Rain Forest, Brazil on May 01, 2020: Anna, what did you write down here? And, of course, you need to learn more about socializing your new dog. Strangers at the door? 15 Best Attack Dog Breeds: Alert, Courageous, Energetic, and Devoted in Service. Here's AKC's list of the best guard dog breeds. So a guard dog is like an automated security system whereas a personal protection dog … Where? With its floppy ears and perpetual pout the basset too is a quite well known medium sized dog. Investing in a little training early will save you a lot of headaches down the road. Time to be aggressive and push to the front. This dog is medium-sized but longer than he is tall, muscular and compact. They can range anywhere from 40lbs-70lbs and do as well in large homes as they do in small apartments. If you feel better getting a small dog, there are several great breeds of small dogs that bark at strangers and will alert you if there are any problems. On the smaller side of the medium-sized dog category sits the cute, curious Icelandic sheepdog. Puppies can be really cute but this may not be the dog your kids are going to want. Like a lot of terriers, he does not always get along with those other pets, especially if he is poorly socialized. In China, the Shar-Pei was the common man´s fighting dog but they were also kept by royalty as palace guard dogs. (Make sure you start this young and continue to socialize your puppy as he grows!). Voted up, useful and interesting. Some landlords will not be able to distinguish a Bull Terrier from an American Pit Bull Terrier or a Staffordshire Terrier. Most breeders recommend Chow Chows be purchased and trained only by experienced owners. Their average lifespan is about 11, and they have several forms of skin disease. Australian cattle dogs can weigh up to 45 pounds (20 … commons.wikimedia.org File Troy haven logo. They are prone to a few genetic diseases but usually live to about 10. Not a perfect dog, but definitely one of the best medium sized breeds for a single mom and her family. As soon as one of the staff acknowledged him, he'd sit, without a command. It was developed by crossing Old English Bulldog and the extinct Bullenbeisser. Dr Mark (author) from The Atlantic Rain Forest, Brazil on March 21, 2014: Hi Bob! Dr Mark (author) from The Atlantic Rain Forest, Brazil on August 24, 2018: Irene, you need to be very cautious because of your daughter. Good luck. Dogs live to about 13. cc-by www.flickr.com sallywehner 5152870210. The eyelids can roll in (like with the Shar Pei), others can have glaucoma, hip dysplasia, or several types of skin disease. They do not have the strength of some of the larger breeds that compete in personal protection competitions (Schutzhund) and are unlikely to be strong enough to knock a full-grown man off of his feet. In the U.S. they are much less common but are over-represented in the dog bite statistics. The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is one of a few breeds that fall under the umbrella term of "Pit Bulls." Breeders like to point out that the dogs have a good sense of humor and are good with kids and a lot of fun for their family. If you do decide to get your new pet from the animal shelter, however, be sure to get an older puppy or an adult dog. If your family has experience with dogs, and is looking for a loyal and protective guard dog, consider a Fila. Pembroke Welsh Corgis are a medium dog breed in a small dog’s body because of their short, stumpy legs. They do bark, a lot compared to some other breeds, so if you are worried about neighbors complaining about your dog they might not be right for you. Take your kids with you to meet the dog, and, if the shelter allows it, take the dog out for a walk with the family so you can see how he reacts to the world outside. Time for a walk? He does guard, though, and does it quite well. Suggestion: the best seven dogs that are babe magnets. They were originally fighting dogs and have an alert personality, but if they are properly socialized they can be a good family dog. A medium-sized dog can do that. I think the breeds that bark all the time are worthless, since the owners just learn to ignore them. The Dalmatian is, of course, known for its distinctive spots. Most of these dogs do bark a lot, and since they dont shed much they have to be groomed. Time to get to the front and guard the house. As long as a dog does not bark too much, most of them make good watchdogs. Image Credit: jarobike, Shutterstock. Now, if you're an equal opportunity veterinarian, how about a helpful article for men. However, a small dog cannot defend himself against strangers. The Shar Pei pics bring back fond memories of Mr. Wrinkles, a dog that would accompany his owner to my store a few times a month. A lot of potential owners looking for a guard dog turn to large dog breeds, although they’re not the only ones who put up a fight. Thanks for reading--and it is good to see you back. cc-by www.flickr.com adamclyde 4671363378. The ACD is a good medium sized guard dog. ... Hypoallergenic Guard Dogs. Unfortunately, some people develop a rash when around these dogs and hugging a Shar Pei is like squeezing a steel wool pad. The dog is from a puppy mill and is more likely to grow up with behavioral problems. However, the Dalmatian's weight range is 45 to 70 pounds, so its final size generally depends on the dog's breeding. Can you tell me whether there is a dog breed that matches what I wrote down here? Dr. Mark is a veterinarian. Medium dog breeds needs moderate exercise, which makes it possible for them to adapt in any environment without requiring so much space. German Shepherds, in our opinion, top the list of best family guard dogs due to their natural instincts to listen, learn, and obey. Guard duty is their top priority, so barking and chasing every little critter are common for these breeds. Get up and make sure it happens. Keep in mind that medium dog … The Shar-Pei has lots of wrinkles and some people consider him too cute to work. This makes them fit in any travel crate, which means that you can fly with them to any destination. This is an interesting and valuable hub. If you like the way he looks, and are willing to deal with the bristly coat, the Shar-Pei is one of the best dogs on this list. If you do choose a puppy from a breeder, make sure she knows that the dog is going to be a pet in a home with children. They usually only weigh about 15-20 kilos (around 30-45 pounds) and a lot of them seem smaller than that—not a dog that most people would think of as a ferocious guard. The Basset hound is another medium dog that is full of character. Some also have allergies but that is not something you will notice until later on in life. I guess it was a popular subject. Most of them are great with kids, and, although they have a lot of energy, as long as they are walked every day will not become bored and destructive. Like with all of the dog breeds on this list, socialization is vital. This is also not a list of small watch dogs. I would not recommend one of these dogs for a single mom with small children. Some dogs have a natural instinct to protect their home and family and they make excellent Guard Dogs. If you are not willing or able to walk your dog every day, do not get a Standard Schnauzer. And, with all that hair, they look even bigger! Dogs are amazing companions. Even if the shelter tells you that the dog has been examined and is found to be healthy, I recommend you take him to your local vet and have him checked out again before agreeing to adopt the dog. Penny Leigh Sebring from Fort Collins on August 21, 2016: Good information. There is apparently no limit to the jobs they can perform, like herding and carting to name a few. If you are willing to pay for one of these dogs and put up with some of the terrier behavior they are a good choice for your family. The dogs were bred to be workers, driving cattle all day long, and are very active. Weight: 25 - 30 pounds. Dr Mark (author) from The Atlantic Rain Forest, Brazil on April 28, 2016: Wow, I actually wrote that one about two years ago, and then before I published it afriquenet came out with almost the same thing! However, the Australian Cattle Dog might surprise you. Some dogs are prone to allergies and skin infections, many have ear problems, and most suffer from entropion, an eyelid disease where the hairs roll in and can eventually make the dog blind without surgery. Some guard dogs (in fact most) will be fine with your friends and family, but you do need to be aware that if you train your dog to be a guard and he does bite someone you are going to have more legal difficulties. To kick things off, the Poodle is the second smartest dog … A watchdog needs to alert the family to suspicious activity, so any size will do. If you think this dog breed is going to be right for your family, make sure you take your kids to meet some adult dogs. But, some dogs can be distracted by food, so a burglar may try that to gain entry safely. If the dog is vicious around other dogs or fearful outside of the shelter he may or may not grow out of that behavior. If he is large enough to have a fierce bark, he should also scare away any intruders. This dog is on my list of the healthiest dog breeds. Question: How could I make my dog aware of strangers, but also friendly to other people? Guard dogs are strong, courageous, fearless and watchful. They are a lot more energetic than some of the good apartment dogs, but they do not shed much, and if groomed regularly are pretty easy to maintain. Not all of these breeds are easy to find and if you do not find a breeder or an animal on Petfinder.com you may go to a local animal shelter to find the right dog. If I can help at all be sure to leave a comment below. Petfinder.com is another site that can help you find the dog you are looking for in shelters outside your immediate area. How old is she?A Boerboel or a Neopolitan Mastiff both make good family guard dogs, but be aware that if your daughter has friends over there is a chance that the dog can get worked up seeing the kids playing and might even bite. Dr Mark (author) from The Atlantic Rain Forest, Brazil on November 01, 2019: Dee, I think Standard Schnauzers, Kerry Blues, and some Airedales are good choices. This is an article about the best medium-sized dogs for single moms but it is not a list of the best dog breeds for kids. They are born to protect the family as well as your house and properties from intruders. They do need daily exercise but not as much as the Terriers or Standard Schnauzer. Some dogs can have a lot of health problems so if you are going to be too busy to take him to the vet he is not a good choice. This dog is originally a farm worker but they make loyal family dogs for the home and are a good medium sized pet. Kerry Blue Terrier owners report that their dogs have a sense of humor. Also, the effect of a dog’s size can be counted as a factor too in determining whether a certain dog breed is hypoallergenic. Answer: You really need to decide if you want the dog as primarily a guard or as a friend to your friends. They are not good with other dogs, and require obedience training, but are such good guards that they have even been used as police dogs. Another helpful article, Doc. 15 Medium Sized Low Energy Dog Breeds. best medium-sized dog breeds for an apartment, How to Train A Dog for Personal Protection. Most at home on a ranch or in a rodeo, these dogs are natural herders and will take any opportunity to get other animals in line. I especially like the fact that you encourage adoption from a shelter or rescue group. I was wondering where you have been lately. If an intruder gets a look at his dog, he probably will not think he has come up against much of a guard. Is it safe to say that most any dog that barks when someone is outside can be a good guard dog because they serve as a deterrent? Sometimes that size just not matter, does it? Puppies are black but become bluer (grey, actually) as they age. Since they are a one-family type of dog, if they are going to be around other people, especially friends of your kids, they will need a lot of socialization. 10 Worst Behaved Dog … There are always a lot of great dogs available at animal shelters, but make sure you choose correctly. Another good terrier for a family looking for a medium sized guard dog is the Kerry Blue. However, that is not what guarding a house is all about. If you do decide on one of the breeds in this list, do a lot more reading and visit some dog shows to meet breeders and make yourself familiar with the breed before taking that next big step. This Irish dog is not popular, nor is he easy to get ahold of in most of the world, but he is a good farming and a great medium-sized guard dog. They really hit all the recommended requirements for kids, beginners, seniors and busy owners. They don´t shed much so do need to be kept groomed, most of them live over 12 years, and the only two major health problems (hip dysplasia and retinal disease) are rare. You might do your best and still end up with an aggressive Whippet or a shy Chow. Some others have hip dysplasia or eye problems but most of them are pretty healthy. This dog, despite his appearance, is actually closely related to the wolf, and some of his personality traits reflect that. Best Medium-Sized Guard Dog Breeds - PetHelpful - By fellow … In Germany this breed was known as “kinderwatchers” since they are good at looking after kids. Standard Schnauzers are also healthy and do not have as many problems as their miniature and giant varieties. This breed can also be expensive, so meet several breeders and discuss prices and health screening before making a final choice. Hi I am looking for a guard dog I have a American Staffordshire she is very sweet and licks anyone who comes in the house looking for a companion however a dog that is cautious of people my daughter's dad is getting out of prison soon and need a dog just in case he finds where we are can you please recommend a breed? They do like to bark, are active and intelligent, and can get along with other pets in the household too. Five Best Dog Breeds for Single Women Living Alone. Even if you like his looks and think that this is the type of guard dog you are looking for, consider carefully. Kerry Blues are also one of the breeds that do not shed much, but since their coats grow continuously they do need regular grooming. So what is the best medium sized guard dog breed in the world! They are intelligent and easy to train but can be very active so will require daily training and also plenty of exercise every day. A good guard dog, though, has to really do something to defend his territory, which I think the Shar Pei is so different than so many more mellow breeds. Some puppies are born with eyelid problems (entropion), a lot of them develop chronic ear infections, and quite a few dogs have skin allergies. The Appenzeller Sennenhund is tri-color, medium-sized, and almost squarely built and balanced. Dogs are usually less than 18 kilos (about 40 pounds) but they are solid enough to act as guards. ... 10 medium-sized dog … 10 Guard Dogs That Are Good with Cats . Shar Peis have several advantages and are one of the few breeds on this list that are actually bred as medium sized guard dogs. He has been working with dogs for more than 40 years. This is another medium sized dog that can be great but is definitely not for everyone. They do shed but don’t bark much, which can be very important to some people. One of the best medium-sized dog breeds for an apartment, the Standard Schnauzer can also be trained as a personal protection dog or used as a guard. Standard Poodles may be the best low maintenance option among medium-sized dogs. If you’re looking for the best guard dog for elderly owners, this breed might be what you’re looking for. Mr. Wrinkles sounds like an exception. That is impressive for a medium-sized dog. Dr Mark (author) from The Atlantic Rain Forest, Brazil on March 19, 2014: Chows are like Basset Hounds--many of them are large medium, and are too big to really be a medium sized dog. Both are great; neither of them are small enough to make a “medium-sized” list. ... Search. The medium-sized Aussie is both beautiful and brave. I have seen a lot of them about the size of a Siberian Husky, but they can get up there, 75 pounds or so---I really know what you mean. I had a Schnauzer growing up, and I always knew he wouldn't let anything happen to me! I am always entertained by your comments, despite the fact that some of them are too witty for my thick skull. Do not buy your new puppy from a pet shop or internet puppy warehouse. Some breeders select dogs that are fierce and not really fit to be family pets. Thanks for taking the time to leave a message. 15 Most Timid Dog Breeds. Fleas and ticks can be a problem because of the long coat, and I have even seen dogs with hot spots that the owner was not even aware of. At least with most pets. Some people looking for a good medium-sized guard dog will also choose the Staffordshire Terrier, which is a little smaller than the American Pit Bull Terrier. He is a good dog, but if you rent some leases will not allow this dog, if you own some insurance companies will not cover this breed, and since most of his aggression is dog-to-dog and he is not really the best choice for guarding the home. If you like these dogs, I cannot emphasize enough that you need to READ your lease carefully. cc-by www.flickr.com andrea_arden 7993645925. Medium Sized Non Shedding Dogs… This dog needs regular walks and playtime, plus they love exploring around. If you need to learn more about this subject do plenty of reading before obtaining your new puppy. Not too big; not too small: These dogs are the definition of a happy medium, and probably why they show up on our list of most popular dogs year after year. Like the Airedale, they are tough dogs and need good socialization to get along with other pets. He may jump in and end up biting a friend. The majority of medium dog breed weighs around 40 to 60 kg. So, although they are good medium-sized guard dogs, they are not the easiest guard dog to work with. The dog's watchdog abilities were not affected by inbreeding and over breeding. Chows, while only large medium sized, are often as good a guard dog as some of the larger breeds that may be forbidden in your lease. Size Smallest Small Medium Large Giant Characteristics Hypoallergenic Fluffy Best family Smartest Best guard … There are several reasons they barely make this list, however. This medium-sized dog is known for its square muzzle and strong jaws. I am in need of a more aggressive dog Thank You. (I have one of these dogs and am happy with her calm temperament.) Personal protection dogs, on the other hand, are also guard dogs but they mainly work intimately with people. Airedale Terrier. Most are good watchdogs since they do not bark all of the time. All breeds need to be socialized early, during the sensitive socialization period, and all will need adequate exercise and mental stimulation. If you do get a medium sized dog to guard your household and be with your kids, be sure to invest in training. Your lease, and maybe even your city, may prohibit ownership of these dogs. Digging and barking are other favorite hobbies, and ones that take training and patience to subdue. This dog would probably be rated even higher on this list except for his name. Australian Cattle Dog This medium-sized dog is not too tall, compact, and muscular, but one of the best protection dogs for first-time owners. Pamela N Red from Oklahoma on March 19, 2014: Chows are really big at least all of the ones I've seen. Hack notes that this breed is your “classic guard dog,” and the AKC says that if properly trained, the intelligent and confident Rottweiler makes an excellent guard dog for families. They bond strongly with their owner but do not do as well with strangers and may herd small kids. A medium-sized dog, from about 25 to 50 pounds, is a great alternative and will often be okay on the lease. 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