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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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13. Old English Sheepdog
Unless your idea of guarding a home is licking intruders into submission, then the Old English Sheepdog just isn't up to the task. | Canva/Getty Images
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14. Saint Bernard
A classic gentle giant, the enormous Saint Bernard may look intimidating but they have less aggression than a tiny Chihuahua (who make surprisingly good guard dogs). Maybe an unwanted visitor might slip up on this dog's drool, but that's about the only resistance they'll typically put up. | Canva/Getty Images
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15. Pug
Pugs are easy to train because their sole aim is to please everybody they meet - even those they really shouldn't. Their love of a quiet life means they'll avoid drama at almost any cost. | Canva/Getty Images
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16. Golden Retriever
What's true of the Labrador Retriever also usually applies to their close cousin the Golden Retriever - including their lack of guard dog attributes. If they think there's a snack in it for them, they'll probably happily share the location of your valuables. | Canva/Getty Images