Pint-Sized Protectors: The Best Small Guard Dogs for Mighty Home Security

Confession, anyone? Most of us have, at one point, assumed that only large, ferocious-looking dogs are cut out for the role of a guard dog.

Well, contrary to popular belief, there are small to medium-sized guard dogs that have what it takes to fiercely protect you and your property. And yes, these breeds are just as reliable in fulfilling their guardianship duties as large guard dogs (we see you, German Shepherds, Rottweilers, and the like).

So, if you’re on the search for the best small guard dog for a family ‌— a dog that hits that sweet spot between being a great companion and fiercely protective ‌— you’ll be glad you bumped into this list.

But wait…..

Before we dive right into the world of the best small guard dogs, it’s worth clarifying what exactly makes these breeds suitable for guarding tasks. Generally, good, small guard dog breeds possess a high dose of territorial suspicion, protectiveness, alertness, and barking prowess. They’re keen to alert their owners of anything unusual by barking loudly and incessantly and potentially scaring away the threat.

Well, these small dogs may not necessarily knock down the bad guy to the ground and sit on their chest until cops arrive. With proper training, though, they can take their guarding instincts to the next level: physically confront an intruder who fails to heed their barking warning.

With that in mind, here are the top 10 best small guard dog breeds to own:

1. Chihuahua

Close-up of a Chihuahua, the Chihuahua is among the best small guard dogs to own
Credit: https://commons.wikimedia.org/

2. Dachshund

A close-up of a Dachshund, Dachshunds are among the best small guard dogs to own
Credit: https://commons.wikimedia.org/

3. Yorkshire Terrier

A Yorkshire Terrier standing on the grass, Yorkies are among the best small guard dogs to own
Credit: https://commons.wikimedia.org/

4. Jack Russell Terrier

A Jack Russell Terrier lying on the grass with tongue out, Jack Russell Terriers are among the best small guard dogs to own
Credit: https://commons.wikimedia.org/

5. Beagle

Close up of a Beagle standing with a clack collar on its neck, Beagles are among the best small guard dogs to own
Credit: https://commons.wikimedia.org/

6. Miniature Schnauzer

Close up of a miniature schnauzer standing with a red collar on its neck, Miniature Schnauzers are among the best small guard dogs to own
Credit: https://commons.wikimedia.org/

7. Pomeranian

Close up of a white Pomeranian, Pomeranians are among the best small guard dogs to own
Credit: https://commons.wikimedia.org/

8. Miniature Pinscher

A Miniature Pinscher standing on the grass with a red, polka dot collar on its neck, Miniature Pinscher are among the best small guard dogs to own
Credit: https://commons.wikimedia.org/

9. Miniature Bull Terrier

A white miniature Bull Terrier standing on a field with short, green grass, Bull Terriers are among the best small guard dogs to own
Credit: https://commons.wikimedia.org/

10. Lhasa Apso

Close up of a long-haired Lhasa Apsos are among the best small guard dogs to own
Credit: https://commons.wikimedia.org/