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There are many breeds of dogs that will serve as faithful protectors to you and your family. Not all dogs have the aggressive and obedient traits needed to defend you from harm. This brings us to the question, are huskies good guard dogs?
Huskies entertain their families with their energetic, loving, and stubborn natures. They thrive on attention and hate being left alone. If an intruder were to break into your house, it is more than likely that your husky would lie down and ask for a belly rub than attack. So, in short, they do not make for good guard dogs.
While they are big, fluffy, lovable giants, they do carry some characteristics that could save your life when under threat.
Why are Huskies Good Guard Dogs?
Aggression is not the only quality a dog needs to have to be able to protect their families. A canine that alerts the members of the household of potential danger can be a great asset. Huskies are very vocal animals and use their voices often. Usually, they will notify their owners when someone is on or inside the property with a low howl or high pitched yap.
Huskies are medium-sized dogs, but their thick fur makes them look much bigger than they actually are, wolf-like even. This is very intimidating to strangers who don’t know the kind nature of this breed. Just one look at the massive size of this dog and the sound of their deep howl is enough to scare any attacker away.
But besides barking and size, the husky offers no other guard-like abilities that most people look for when seeking a dog for protection.
Different Husky Traits
If you are searching for an energetic, loyal, and trusting companion for your family, a husky should be one of your options. Huskies love people and are good with children.
They require a lot of attention and need a lot of physical activity as they have a lot of energy. Their gentle nature and loving spirit mean that generally, they will not harm anyone, no matter who they are.
Are they Easily Trained?
No, Huskies are terribly stubborn and notoriously hard to train. Experts recommend that first-time dog owners should not get a husky as they will soon feel overwhelmed.
Many of these dogs land up in shelters or rescues because people cannot handle their energetic and strong-willed personalities.
It is impossible to train your husky to be aggressive, no matter how well they receive basic commands. It is just not in their nature, and nothing can change that.
Social but Independent
They love hanging around people and getting attention, but they will not consistently seek it out. Although they want to be surrounded by people most of the day, they do not require repeated petting and affection.
Energetic
Owning one is a full-time job on its own. They were used as working dogs and need to stay active throughout the day. This is will aid in both their mental and physical well-being.
Routine Driven
Giving your husky a strict routine will benefit both you and him. Huskies thrive under a routine, and it will keep your home and life organized. It is also an important step to effective training.
Playful
Huskies are extremely playful animals and enjoy fooling around. They can keep you entertained for hours when their silly and mischievous side comes out.
Questions you should Ask Yourself before Buying/Rescuing a Husky
To ensure you are prepared for this life-changing decision, we have put together a list of questions to ask yourself:
- Do you work a lot?
If you work at an office and spend a lot of time there, a husky is not the dog for you.
- Are you away from home a lot?
This canine requires a lot of attention and will not do well being home alone all the time.
- Are you an active person?
To keep up with your husky, you will need to take them out walking/running daily.
- Do you have a daily routine?
Routine is essential for this breed. Therefore, living in a chaotic environment will not benefit their well-being and might cause behavioural issues.
- Are you prepared to groom your dog once a week?
Their fur is thick and long and tangles easily. To avoid matting (which is painful and hard to remove), you would need to groom your furry friend at least once a week.
- Are you ok with shedding?
Huskies shed a lot, and their fur gets into everything. While some people are perfectly ok with this, others won’t be able to tolerate it.
- Are you prepared to have a very vocal dog?
They are not afraid to use their voice and love to howl. If your neighbours live on top of you, you might want to reconsider and choose a more placid breed.
- Are you able to keep your dog mentally and physically stimulated?
Huskies need to be stimulated both mentally and physically. Will you have the time for training and daily exercise?
- Do you have a lot of love to give?
Huskies are very fond of people and love attention. These dogs thrive off affection and seek it often.
- Do you need a guard dog or a family dog?
If you are looking for a protective canine, look elsewhere. Although huskies are loyal and loving, they generally won’t attack. However, if you are looking for a fun-loving and energetic family dog, huskies are a perfect choice.
Alternative Breeds that make Good Guard Dogs
So if Huskies aren’t good guard dogs, who are? There are a few dog breeds that are known to be the ultimate guardians. They all have aggressive traits but are incredibly loyal to their families and will protect loved ones with their lives.
- Bullmastiff
If you want a large, intimidating dog, a bullmastiff won’t disappoint. They are a mix of bulldog and mastiff and can reach a weight of 130 pounds. Unfortunately, bullmastiffs don’t usually get along with other dogs and must be kept in a fenced-in property.
- Akita
Another large breed, no-nonsense dog, Akitas were bred in Japan explicitly to protect royalty. They are highly loyal, and you will need to introduce them to close friends and loved ones at an early age so they know who to protect.
- Australian Shepherd
Australian shepherds might not be as big as many of the other breeds on this list, but they sure are feisty if they need to be. They were bred to herd animals and are very protective of their loved ones.
- Doberman Pinscher
Dobermans are known for their speed and aggressive nature. I’m sure you’ve seen a movie or two with a female villain sporting two Dobermans on each side, waiting to unleash them on her victims. They exude fearlessness and loyalty.
- Rhodesian Ridgeback
Rhodesian Ridgebacks are naturally alert and protective; they are highly independent and would rather stand guard than socialize. However, they are loyal to a tee and will protect you with their lives. Their bark is rare, so when you do hear it, pay attention!
- German Shepherd
Ultimately one of the most popular dog breeds, German Shepherds, have been used by soldiers, police officers, and civilians for protection over the years. They are easy to train and really good with children, so German Shepherds make excellent family pets and guard dogs.
- Giant Schnauzer
Giant Schnauzers were bred to protect and have a whole line of history to back up this fact. They were herders, protected factories, and served on the police force. Giant Schnauzers are very clever and learn quickly, making training a breeze. They make an excellent family dog but need a lot of grooming.
- Puli
If you don’t know what a Puli is, it’s that dog that looks like a mop. They make fantastic guard dogs due to their enhanced eyesight, sharp ears, and their wariness of strangers. Because they are not very social animals, you might find it hard to introduce them to new people in your life.
- Rottweiler
Rottweilers can be terrifying specimens. Their enormous stature, along with deep growl and bark, is enough to scare off the most seasoned attackers. They are naturally programmed to be protectors, and that, paired with their intelligence, loyalty, and strength, makes them the ultimate companion.
- Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Staffies are the number one choice for families looking for a guard dog. They love people and children and will protect them to the very end. They are intelligent, brave, and fearless, not to mention extremely powerful as well.
Are Huskies Good Guard Dogs? – The Answer
When it comes to the question, are huskies good guard dogs, you will get conflicting answers. Most experts say they are not wired to be aggressive and typically don’t make ideal protectors. Alternatively, you will find experienced owners who swear their husky is the best guard dog they’ve ever had.
You and your family need to decide what the right choice is for you, one that makes everyone comfortable and happy.