I actually have a large dog. What is the toughest small dog I can get her? As such, bonds are strong and a dog that wants to be with his owner nonstop will also want to protect his owner from danger. is described as a seemingly innocent looking dog but was actually bred for the purpose of protecting Buddhist monks and monasteries. Beagles can be very affectionate toward their humans, but they need owners who are comfortable being the boss. describes a beagle as a dog that can easily become bored, so you may not want to leave him for long periods of time unattended in your apartment. 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. One disadvantage to the Pomeranian is that he’s among the “barkiest” of the toy breeds, and in this regard, perhaps not one of the very best small guard dogs for apartments. In other words, just about all of the small dog breeds that are known to be yappy. They are devotedly loyal to their owners (I can, of course, attest to this), and will likely follow their chosen person to the ends of the earth. They have both the strength and obstinacy of a bulldog and the alertness and intense nature of a terrier. There you go – 16 of the best small guard dogs for apartments. They are protective and energetic. They’re not good with small children, since they dislike being approached suddenly, and also are not fond of loud, boisterous behavior. It’s hard to imagine the adorable Cocker Spaniel as a guard dog, but make no mistake, the Cocker can be aggressive. We’ve categorized them by size: small, medium and large dog breeds. They are smart, friendly dogs, but can be known to bark obsessively, which may help to deter unwanted intruders. As a result, we decided to get a small guard dog. They are devotedly loyal to their owners (I can, of course, attest to this), and will likely follow their chosen person to the ends of the earth. The Standard Poodle makes an outstanding large guard dog, and the Miniature Poodle is considered to be one of the best small guard dogs. Although a beagle can be harder to train, as he was bred to focus on hunting and therefore he has the instinct to run if not on a leash, it is worth putting the effort in. Ultra Ball, Small (2 Inch) 2 Pack$8.27$8.99$9.00$7.99$4.99-----Buy on AmazonBuy on AmazonBuy on AmazonBuy on AmazonBuy on AmazonKONG Marvin Moose Cozie Dog Toy, Small$8.27-Buy on AmazonZippyPaws - Zoo Friends Burrow, Interactive Squeaky Hide and Seek Plush Dog Toy - Monkey ‘n Banana$8.99-Buy on AmazonKong refillables yellow stuffed bird cat toy with catnip$9.00-Buy on AmazonKONG - Classic Dog Toy - Durable Natural Rubber - Fun to Chew, Chase and Fetch - for Small Dogs$7.99-Buy on AmazonChuckIt! They are great watchdogs as they size up anyone who approaches their kingdom, making them excellent at determining whether or not someone is a threat to their owner. They are different from guard dogs because guard dogs are bred and trained to actually fight intruders, whereas watchdogs simply let you know there is an intruder. When you’re worried about someone who is intent on stealing your belongings or vandalizing your home, small or medium sized guard dogs might be enough to get the job done. It was developed by crossing Old English Bulldog and the extinct Bullenbeisser. So although they’re not the best guard dogs, I think they deserve a place on the list of best small guard dogs for apartments. Small Hypoallergenic Dogs. Maltese is a small sized dog and is famous for his minimally-shedding properties. Boxers are regarded as one of the best guard dogs because they are extremely protective of their family. I am an unashamed admirer of Mr. Millan, even though I know that his approach to training has sometimes been questioned by other trainers, and his lack of formal credentials ridiculed. 3. If I were doing the list according to aggression level, though, the Chihuahua would take top honors. “My dog had a bad breath (smells like dead fish) before using this product. ” According to the American Kennel Club, these brave, loyal, and protective breeds are the best guard dogs that will keep watch over your family and belongings. Even without a propensity to “rage syndrome,” if your puppy is not well-socialized, he can become aggressive. "They are brave and energetic but require limited exercise due to their size, making them great dogs for small spaces," explained the American Kennel Club. Native to Ireland, Kerry Blue Terriers are medium-sized dogs whose original role was that of farm dogs. Since they are supposed to be the best guard dog for elderly, the doggo should stay on its owner’s side.-Size. It’s because not everybody’s lifestyle permits the ownership of a large dog. Nonetheless, the breed is an excellent pet companion for kids and families. Its small size makes it easy to travel with, but it’s feisty, terrier-like personality means you’ll want to keep a close eye on this breed’s antics, Smith says. These charming hounds make excellent companions for … However dogs can bee gullible and smaller dogs can be kicked aside or injured. The Dachshund comes by his aggressive nature honestly, having been bred to enter tunnels and thickets in search of vermin. Many years ago, when my husband and I worked opposite shifts, I was alone much of the time while he was away at work. They are typically on guard as is their natural way, so you may have to watch how aggressive they get, if you have children, this may be a dog to avoid. Good small watchdogs are probably never going to disable an intruder, and realistically, someone desperate enough and bad enough to want to get into your home and take your stuff, or hurt you, is probably not going to be deterred by barking, but your average, garden-variety burglar might very well decide, upon hearing a yappy little dog, that it’s not worth the bother. Also, his distinctive bark will often warn away intruders, since Beagles often sound a lot bigger than they actually are. Accordingly, the following breeds are among the most aggressive, toughest small dogs. They are territorial dogs and should be kept on a leash when not left in the apartment or home. I can tell you, though, that I’ve met a lot of Pomeranians, but never one that wanted to immediately run up to me and be my best buddy – and I’m someone who usually gets along well with just about any dog! But my Chihuahua loves me, and would fight to the death to protect me; isn’t that worth something? And even then, there’s no real guarantee that you’ll be completely safe. The dachshund has many nicknames: doxie, wiener dog, sausage dog, hotdog, and more. Watchdogs are dogs that alert their owners to strangers approaching or any unusual activity in or around their homes. If possible, avoid canines that love to wander around. They are one of the most popular breeds in America for a reason. And as is the case with some of the other small breeds we’ve talked about, Chihuahuas sometimes operate under the impression that their human has to be “protected” even from people who intend no harm. This exceptionally great guard dog has big muscular body. Boxer dogs were originally bred to be a guard dog of medium size. Beagles were bred as hunting dogs… They’re solid, muscular dogs, and do well in little space, making the Boston Terrier one of the best small guard dogs for apartments. Do you see a trend here? In the right hands, the Lhasa Apso can be a loyal, protective companion. These charming hounds make excellent companions for children. The little guys are just going to end up being collateral damage. Well, I did tell you that some of these questions would make you laugh – poor Joey! A watchdog, on the other hand, is a dog that you can expect to alert you to the presence of an intruder or other “bad actor,” giving you time to take measures in order to protect yourself. No. They are born to protect the family as well as your house and properties from intruders. When they feel threatened, they’ll emit what’s known as the “Shiba Scream,” which could in and of itself be enough to scare off an intruder. Schnauzers are friendly, but they always keep a suspicious eye on strangers. - Vickie S. “Our puppy had warts in and around her mouth and they wouldn't go away. The one that says “My Doberman can reach the fence in 2.5 seconds – can you?” It’s actually pretty accurate. 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