7 Guard Dogs that Don’t Shed

Dogs are better and purer than any human that has walked the Earth. They don’t know how to hate, they genuinely want to protect, and they typically have only the best of intentions. Guard dogs can be just as happy and fulfilled as a dog who spends his days snoozing on the couch, as long as they are treated right. Any dog that is going to be used for guarding purposes needs to have proper training. He also needs to be loved and to have his basic needs covered. A mistreated guard dog can turn on its owners, and who can blame them? If your guard dog is spending his time watching over your family and home, the least you can do is treat him like the absolute hero that he is.
However, as with any animal (other than hairless mole rats or those weirdly adorable Sphynx cats – neither of which are primed for guarding hearth and home), there are certain not-so-fun things that come along with them – like shedding. Shedding is a big factor that keeps some from having a watchdog or even owning one as a family pet. Luckily, not all dogs are the same and some shed quite a bit less than others, while the other does not shed at all. The following 7 breeds are terrific candidates for guard dogs that don’t shed.

Komondor

We start the list with one of the most unique-looking entries. The Komondor, which hails from Hungary, was originally bred to be a sheep and cattle herding dog. This means that the qualities needed for guarding are already ingrained. They are vocal, loving, and natural protectors.
They are sometimes referred to as the ‘Mop Dog’ due to their unusual corded coat. Their coat is usually white in color and will be fully grown out, typically, by the age of 3. It does require quite a bit of maintenance until then, but is generally low-shedding from puppyhood and beyond.

Argentine Mastiff

The pointed ears, strong, powerful, and muscular body, and short hair, these pups can scare you off with just a look. Once considered to be one of the most aggressive breeds, the Argentine Mastiff, or Dogo Argentino, as he is also known, is generally not as mean as he might look. True, they do tend to be wary of strangers, and are more than willing to protect what’s theirs – a great characteristic for a watchdog – but when it comes to family, they are all loyalty, love, and lots of affection. Due to their breeding background, which includes a history of being fighting dogs, the Argentine Mastiff will definitely need proper training as well as socialization.

Giant Schnauzer

The Giant Schnauzer is the largest of the Schnauzers, standing up to 28 inches at the shoulder and weighing in at about 110 lbs. Like his smaller cousins, the Giant Schnauzers’ short and wiry coat means that he shed rarely and that too quite lightly. While they are known for their calm and good-natured disposition, they make great guard dogs. Powerfully built, dignified, and strong-willed, this big guy will put his life on the line to protect both his family and property.

Briard

The Briard, also affectionately known as ‘wet beards’ for their uncanny ability to carry excess water around in their chin hair, is another great option for a family guard dog that sheds rarely. Their longish, shaggy fur needs regular grooming, especially to avoid painful matting, but also to keep their light shedding to even more of a minimum.
Although not aggressive by nature in any way, the Briard is a highly alert and sensitive dog – one that will happily bark, loudly, when needed. If being used primarily as a guard dog, be sure to shower them with plenty of affection and attention as the Briard is unhappiest when left alone and without human companionship for too long.

Catahoula Leopard Dog

The official state dog of Louisiana, the Catahoula Leopard Dog is certainly a sight to behold – he is absolutely gorgeous, namely, his lovely patterned, low-shedding coat, in particular. But, he is also incredibly inquisitive, loyal, and agile – all great qualities for a top-notch canine protector. When not at ‘work’, these energetic and playful furballs still need an appropriate amount of exercise and weekly brushing to remove dead skin cells and excess fur.

Spanish Water Dog

The Spanish Water Dogs are considered a low-shedding breed and they are quite good at multitasking. They can go from fiercely protecting their territory to giving puppy snuggles on the sofa in the blink of an eye. Their strong herding instincts give them an upper hand (or paw) in the watchdog game.
Plus, when they see something that they don’t like, or someone that is unfamiliar to them, they are always more than happy to use their doggy voice to let you know all about it.

Staffordshire Bull Terrier

Stocky and muscular, these guys may be of smaller stature than some of our other contenders, but they can protect with the best of them. Naturally vigilant, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier enjoys being the guardian of the family and they are never afraid to let their voice be heard. Courageous, brave, and with a tenacity like no other, these precious dogs will protect with their life and love with the whole of their heart.