Epic dogs tales
Some dogs may have the appearance of formidable guardians, but their personalities tell a different story. These breeds, despite their robust and daunting looks, are more likely to welcome strangers with a wagging tail and a friendly lick. Here’s a look at 12 dog breeds that, while they may look the part of a fierce protector, are actually quite the opposite.
Bulldog
Bulldogs have a sturdy build and a fierce-looking face, but their hearts are pure gold. This breed is known for its loving and gentle nature. Despite their muscular appearance, they are actually quite laid-back and love lounging around the house more than anything. They are excellent with children and other pets, making them a family favorite. Bulldogs are more likely to greet an intruder with a lick than a bark. Their calm demeanor makes them excellent companions but not the best choice for a guard dog.
Boxer
The Boxer, with its muscular physique and strong jaw, might seem intimidating at first glance. However, this breed is known for its playful and affectionate disposition. Boxers are great with children and often become attached to their human families. They are high-energy dogs that require regular exercise to keep them happy. Despite their strong appearance, Boxers are more interested in playing games than guarding property. Their cheerful nature makes them more of a family clown than a fierce watchdog.
Great Dane
Great Danes are known for their impressive size and regal appearance, often referred to as gentle giants. They tower over many other breeds, but their hearts are tender. Great Danes are incredibly affectionate and enjoy spending time with their family. They are generally friendly and get along well with children and other animals. While they may look intimidating due to their size, they lack the aggression needed for guarding. Their primary focus is on being a loving companion to those they adore.
Saint Bernard
Saint Bernards are known for their massive size and fluffy coats. Despite their imposing appearance, they are incredibly gentle and friendly dogs. This breed is famous for its patience and affection towards children, often referred to as ‘nanny dogs’. Saint Bernards are not known for barking, making them poor guard dogs. They are more likely to welcome strangers with a wagging tail and a friendly sniff. Their main aim is to shower their family with love and be a comforting presence.
Newfoundland
Newfoundlands are large, powerful dogs with a love for water. Their size might intimidate some, but their temperament is nothing but gentle. They are known for their sweet nature and are excellent with children, often called ‘gentle giants’. This breed is more interested in swimming and playing with family members than guarding a home. Newfoundlands are incredibly loyal and will always be there to offer comfort and affection. Their friendly disposition makes them unsuitable as guard dogs.
Mastiff
Mastiffs are among the largest dog breeds, often used in historical times for protection. However, modern Mastiffs are known for their calm and gentle demeanor. They are incredibly loyal and loving towards their families. While their size and strength are undeniable, they prefer lounging at home rather than guarding. Mastiffs are more prone to being protective by standing in front of a family member rather than showing aggression. Their gentle nature makes them more suitable as a family pet than a guard dog.
Bullmastiff
Bullmastiffs have a strong and powerful appearance that may suggest they are excellent guard dogs. In reality, they are gentle and loving family members who prefer cuddles over confrontation. They are protective of their loved ones but lack the aggressive nature needed for a traditional guard dog. Bullmastiffs are more likely to stand in front of an intruder without showing hostility. Their calm and affectionate nature makes them wonderful companions but not formidable protectors.
Bernese Mountain Dog
The Bernese Mountain Dog, with its tri-colored coat and sturdy build, may look like a fierce protector. However, this breed is known for its gentle and affectionate nature. They are incredibly friendly and get along well with children and other animals. Bernese Mountain Dogs are more interested in being part of family activities than guarding. They are patient and loving, making them excellent family pets. Their gentle disposition means they are not the best choice for a guard dog.
Irish Wolfhound
Irish Wolfhounds are among the tallest dog breeds, known for their imposing stature. Despite their size, they are gentle and friendly creatures. Irish Wolfhounds are incredibly loyal and form strong bonds with their human families. They are more interested in companionship than guarding duties. Their calm and affectionate demeanor makes them excellent family pets. Although they may look intimidating, their lack of aggression makes them unsuitable as guard dogs.
Dogue de Bordeaux
The Dogue de Bordeaux, with its muscular build and distinctive wrinkled face, may look like a fearsome guardian. However, this breed is known for its calm and affectionate nature. They form strong bonds with their families and are incredibly loyal. Dogue de Bordeaux is more interested in being a part of family life than guarding. They are gentle and loving, making them wonderful companions. Their lack of aggression and calm demeanor makes them unsuitable as traditional guard dogs.
Leonberger
Leonbergers are large and fluffy dogs with a friendly and playful nature. Despite their size, they are incredibly gentle and loving companions. This breed is known for its friendly disposition and gets along well with children and other animals. Leonbergers are more interested in playtime and family activities than guarding. They are calm and affectionate, making them wonderful family pets. Their lack of aggression and love for companionship makes them unsuitable as guard dogs.
Tibetan Mastiff
Tibetan Mastiffs have a powerful build and fluffy coats, making them look like formidable guardians. However, they are known for their aloof and gentle nature. Tibetan Mastiffs are loyal and form strong bonds with their families. They are more interested in observing than engaging in guarding activities. Their calm demeanor and love for their family make them excellent companions. Despite their impressive appearance, they lack the aggression needed for traditional guarding roles.