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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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17. English Bulldog
The English Bulldog's forebears would have been superb guard dogs, but this is a breed that has long since had their aggression bred out of them. Now they are unlikely to even stir from napping on the couch should something untoward be happening. | Canva/Getty Images
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18. Havanese
Many small dogs are quite effective at guarding homes, being vocal and potentially aggressive. That's not the case with the Havanese which is one of the least yappy small dogs. It often seems their sole aim in life is to find a lap - any lap - to curl up in. | Canva/Getty Images