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We’re a nation of dog lovers, with around one-in-three households including at least one four-legged friend.
By far the most popular pet in the UK, they make for wonderful companions, all the while improving both our mental and physical health - and that’s a scientific fact.
The army of dog owners continues to grow, with 221 different breeds of pedigree dog to choose from, alongside numerous crossbreeds.
Choosing the right breed is absolutely essential – for example opting for a small dog if you don’t have much room at home, or a hypoallergenic dog if you suffer from allergies.
There’s also always the option of adopting a dog from a dog shelter for a minimal fee - for example from the Dogs Trust.
One thing you might like to consider when it comes to picking a pup is what roles you want them to carry out.
While some potential owners are happy just to have a friendly pet that will curl up next to them on the couch, some want them to help make themselves feel safe in their own home (although the two are not necessarily mutually exclusive).
Certain dogs have literally been bred to guard humans and their properties from threats - while others will easily be distracted by a sausage.
Here are 18 of the best - and worst - guard dog breeds.
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5. Boston Terrier
Another breed that proves great guard dogs come in all shapes and sizes is the scrappy Boston Terrier. These charmers are pretty much made of muscle and used to be used in dogfighting during less gentle times. Known as 'the American gentleman' due to their friendly personality, they'll be anything but gentle when it comes to protecting their territory. | Canva/Getty Images
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6. Beauceron
A fairly rare breed in the UK, the Beauceron was originally used to herd animals in its native Central France. Also known as the Bas Rouge, on account of its red 'stockings', its remarkably sensitive sense of hearing means it will be aware of an approaching threat while other dogs are still asleep. | Canva/Getty Images
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7. Staffordshire Bull Terrier
The UK loves a Staffy - they constantly feature in lists of the country's most popular dogs. Another breed originally bred to fight they now make brave, compact, muscular and tenacious guard dogs. They are also incredibly loyal and loving - but if they bite then they'll not be letting go in a hurry. | Canva/Getty Images
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8. Dobermann
Known as the Doberman Pinscher in the USA, the American Kennel Club describes it as "incomparably fearless and vigilant" - pretty much the definition of a perfect gaurd dog. | Canva/Getty Images