Characteristics: Watchdog Ability

A poor watchdog is likely to greet a burglar with an affectionate wag and wet kisses. A fair watchdog will bark to alert you to strange sounds or people, but doesn't look very intimidating, such as a Yorkshire Terrier. A good watchdog was originally bred for sentry duty, is large and can look intimidating, and will bark to warn you of any strange noises or people -- think German Shepherds, for instance. If you want a dog to do more than bark, you should think carefully. A good protection dog who will be safe around your friends, family, and innocent "strangers" requires extensive handling and training. And although many intruders will be discouraged by a barking dog of any breed, a determined and experienced criminal knows how to disable a guard dog -- with mace or a gun.

-- Select Characteristic -- Affectionate with family Amount of shedding Apartment appropriate Cold tolerance Compatible with kids Dog friendly Drooling potential Ease at being home alone Ease of training Easy to groom Energy level Friendly toward strangers General health Good for novice owners Heat tolerance Intelligence Mouthiness Need for exercise Playfulness Potential for weight gain Predatory tendencies Sensitivity Tendency to bark or howl Vigor Wanderlust Watchdog ability

See Full Breed Characteristic List