However, because these small terriers were originally bred to hunt vermin, they are often overly confident of their abilities. The Yorkshire’s excellent hearing combines with exceptional intelligence and alertness to make them wonderful watchdogs. However, their need for dominance means that they are not always a good match for families with small children. Yorkshire Terriers are loyal, loving dogs that are gentle around adult owners. Yorkshire Terriers, also called Yorkies, are famous for combing adorable looks with fierce, insistence yaps. By teaching your Chihuahua the difference between friends and foes, you will not only reduce your stress, but you will also help your pup relax. Without proper training, they can become biters. Chihuahuas are alert and naturally protective. However, as with all pups, short daily walks are a must. Since they don’t need or want much exercise, they are a great apartment dog. They don’t do well in extreme heat or cold and need a mild climate to thrive. They adore their owners and are good with children. The tiny Chihuahua is loving, loyal, and enthusiastic watchdog. Finally, these fluffy little puppies want and need a fair amount of brushing and grooming. However, training is required since overexcited Pomeranians have been known to be ankle biters, or exhibit destructive behavior. Their combination of curiosity, alertness, and loyalty makes them a natural watchdog. While short daily walks are needed, they don’t need as much vigorous exercise as other breeds. They don’t like to be alone and are very protective of their owners. They prefer adults and don’t always do well in a house with young children. Pomeranians are curious and love to play. They may be tempted to nip at moving targets like joggers or running children. Since they are a herding breed, you’ll find they like to chase, group, and herd people and animals. These alert pups are natural watchers and barkers, making them a good watchdogs. Because they are intelligent, teaching them complicated tasks like fetching specific items, picking up their toys, or solving dog puzzles, are excellent ways to help them stretch their mental muscles. They also need a fair amount of attention and don’t like to be left alone for long periods of time. Australian Shepherds do best in homes with large yards, or with an owner who can take them on long, daily walks. Like most herding breeds, they need lots of exercise and intellectual stimulation to keep them calm and centered. They are relatively easy to train and respond well to lots of love and attention.
Australian ShepherdsĪustralian Shepherds are highly intelligent pups who love kids and families. Choose the breed that makes the most sense for your home, your personality, and your ability to provide appropriate exercise. If you’re ready to bring a watchdog into your life, and you’re prepared to spend extra time training them to bark at appropriate dangers, there are many great breeds to choose from.
(See note at the end of this blog.) Our list of watchdogs will bark if they sense something different in their territory, and will warn you consistently. It’s important to note that the breeds we’re discussing here are watchdogs, not guard dogs. By training your dog to limit his barking to select “dangers,” you’ll reduce barking and help reduce your dog’s stress level. Teach your pup to save their barks for unknown people or animals. You should take the time to train your puppy to ignore common visitors, family, and friends. They may try to protect you from relatively harmless elements such as doorbells, guests in the neighbor’s yard, passing bicycles, joggers, and mail carriers. After all, watchdogs are not always good judges of what constitutes a threat. While a watchdog’s bark can be one of its most appealing features, it’s also desirable to train your dog when NOT to bark. While breeds like German Shepherds, Doberman Pinchers, and Rottweilers are well-known as fierce watchdogs, many smaller, less intimidating breeds are also adept at warning you of approaching strangers. Watchdog breeds are loyal, intelligent, and naturally inclined to bark to alert owners of new or potentially threatening activity. Tenacious Terriers, Smart Sheepdogs, and One Adorable Lapdog