Welcome to our list of the top 10 best purebred watch dog breeds under 100 pounds. A watch dog, also known as a guard dog, is a dog that is trained to protect its owner’s property and alert them of any potential threats. While many watch dog breeds can be large and imposing, not everyone has the space or resources to accommodate a giant dog. This is why we have curated a list of the best watch dog breeds that are medium/large in size, weighing less than 100 pounds. These breeds are known for their protective nature, loyalty, and obedience, making them excellent options for those looking for a slightly smaller, yet effective watch dog.
1. Belgian Malinois
Belgian Malinois are highly valued as watch dogs due to their intelligence, energy, and protectiveness. They have a strong instinct to guard their family and territory, and their courage, agility, and alertness make them highly effective at deterring intruders. On average, a Belgian Malinois weighs between 40-80 pounds and can grow up to 24-26 inches tall at the shoulder. Belgian Malinois are also highly prized for their abilities in police and military work. They are highly trainable and have a strong work ethic, making them ideal for demanding roles such as sniffer dogs, protection dogs, and search and rescue dogs. Their energy, drive, and intelligence make them some of the most sought-after dogs for these types of work, and they are widely regarded as one of the top breeds for these applications.
2. Doberman Pinscher
Doberman Pinschers are highly regarded as excellent watch dogs due to their loyalty, intelligence, and protectiveness. They are the largest dog on this list (we know-technically, by breed standard they can reach 100 pounds) They have a natural instinct to guard their family and home, and their courage, strength, and alertness make them effective at deterring intruders. On average, a Doberman Pinscher weighs between 60-100 pounds and can grow up to 28-29 inches tall at the shoulder. Doberman Pinschers were originally bred as guard dogs, and they are still commonly used in that capacity today. They are also frequently used in police work, as they are highly trainable and excel in roles such as protection dogs and sniffer dogs. Their high energy levels and strong work ethic make them ideal for demanding roles, and their loyalty and protectiveness make them valued members of law enforcement teams.
3. Thai Ridgeback Dog
The Thai Ridgeback Dog is a rare and ancient breed that is known for its loyalty, protectiveness, and intelligence. This breed is highly alert and will bark at any unfamiliar person or animal that enters their territory. Thai Ridgeback Dogs are highly trainable and respond well to obedience training and protection training. They are also very active and energetic, making them a great choice for those who want a guard dog that can double as a working dog or a companion for outdoor activities. The breed’s average weight is around 60-75 pounds.
4. Giant Schnauzer
Giant Schnauzers are known for their alert and confident personality, making them excellent watch dogs. They are highly intelligent and independent, with a natural instinct to protect their family and territory. Their size, strength, and courage also contribute to their effectiveness as watch dogs, as they can intimidate intruders and effectively deter potential threats. On average, a Giant Schnauzer weighs between 55-85 pounds and can grow up to 27-28 inches tall at the shoulder. Giant Schnauzers are also often used in police work, as they are highly trainable and have a strong work ethic. They excel in roles such as sniffer dogs and protection dogs, making them valuable assets to law enforcement agencies.
5. Boxer
The Boxer is a high energy and athletic breed that is also known for its loyalty and protective instincts. Standing at a height of up to 25 inches and weighing 60-85 pounds, the Boxer makes a great guard dog for those who want a medium sized pet. This breed is known for their courage and fearlessness, making them well equipped to protect their owners from any potential danger. Boxers have a strong and muscular body, which gives them the strength and agility to protect their owners. They are also very alert and always on the lookout for any potential danger. Additionally, their short, smooth coats are easy to maintain and clean, making them a great choice for pet owners who want a low-maintenance dog.
6. German Shepherd Dog
German Shepherds are well known for their versatility and adaptability, making them suitable for a variety of roles, including as watch dogs. Their natural instincts for protection, combined with their strong sense of loyalty, make them an excellent choice for families and individuals who are looking for a trustworthy and dependable companion. In addition to their ability to deter intruders, German Shepherds are also known for their strong sense of smell and hearing, which allows them to detect potential threats before they become a danger to their owners. Furthermore, they are highly intelligent and trainable, which makes it easy for owners to teach them specific watch dog behaviors, such as barking on command when someone approaches their property. Despite their size and strength, (65-90 pounds) German Shepherds are also known for their gentle and affectionate nature, making them great family pets in addition to their role as watch dogs. With proper training and socialization, German Shepherds can be a valuable and dependable addition to any household.
7. German Shorthaired Pointer
The German Shorthaired Pointer is a versatile breed that was originally bred in Germany for hunting. This breed is highly intelligent, trainable, and energetic, making them great guard dogs. They are also friendly and playful, making them great companions for families. They typically weigh between 55-70 pounds and have a strong, athletic build. German Shorthaired Pointers have a keen sense of smell, making them great at detecting potential threats. They are highly alert and always on the lookout for any danger. They also have a loud and powerful bark, which can deter intruders and alert their owners of any potential threats.
8. Norwegian Elkhound
The Norwegian Elkhound is a strong, loyal, and courageous breed that makes for an excellent guard dog. This breed has been used for centuries in Norway to guard homes, livestock, and even hunt game, making them well-suited for this role. They are highly intelligent, trainable, and have a keen sense of hearing, which makes them alert to any potential dangers. With a weight of around 60-70 pounds, the Norwegian Elkhound is small enough to be manageable in a household, yet big enough to make an impression. They are friendly and affectionate with their family, but wary of strangers, which makes them an excellent choice for those looking for a guard dog that is both protective and social.
9. Rhodesian Ridgeback
The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a large and powerful breed, weighing in at around 70-85 pounds. This breed is well-known for its courage, strength, and loyalty, making them a top choice for those looking for a guard dog. They were originally bred in southern Africa to guard farms and homes from predators, and have since become popular around the world for their protective instincts. The Rhodesian Ridgeback is an independent breed, but they are also highly affectionate with their family, and will do everything in their power to protect them. They are intelligent, trainable, and have a strong sense of hearing and smell, which makes them excellent at detecting potential dangers.
10. American Staffordshire Terrier
The American Staffordshire Terrier is a strong and athletic breed, weighing in at around 55-70 pounds. This breed is known for its courage, strength, and loyalty, making them a top choice for those looking for a guard dog. The American Staffordshire Terrier was originally bred in England and America for bull-baiting, and has since become popular around the world for their protective instincts. They are highly intelligent, trainable, and have a strong sense of hearing, which makes them alert to any potential dangers. They are friendly and affectionate with their family, but wary of strangers, which makes them an excellent choice for those looking for a guard dog that is both protective and social.
When it comes to finding the best guard dog breeds under 100 pounds, there are many options to choose from. Whether you are looking for a larger sized pet or a smaller compact size, each of the breeds listed above offers unique strengths and abilities that make them excellent choices for those who want a protective and loyal companion
