We’re officially a nations of dog owners, with the UK’s most popular pet living in around one-in-three households (and still rising).
That means that there are around three million pooches living here, with more people choosing to join the army of dog lovers every week.
Of course, if you are looking to welcome a dog into your family, there are 221 different breeds of pedigree dog to choose from, alongside numerous crossbreeds, so there’s plenty of thinking to do before you select your family’s latest addition.
There’s even academic guidance to seek out, with Psychologist Stanley Coren’s book ‘The Intelligence of Dogs’ ranking breeds by instincts, obedience, and the ability to adapt.
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.
And one thing you might like to consider is that some dogs are naturally better guard dogs than others.
Labradors may be affectionate and popular, but they’re likely to welcome a burglar like a long lost friend - particularly if they come armed with sausages.
On the other hand, other breeds have been bred to be suspicious of strangers, ever-vigilant and ferocious when challenged.
Here are 13 of the best guard dog breeds.
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
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
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
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