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If you’ve been thinking about welcoming a new dog into your home then you’re in good company – Royal Kennel Club (the new name for the UK Kennel Club) stats show that the number of people looking for puppies has surged to record levels.
Dogs come in all shapes, colours and sizes - there are 221 different pedigree dogs recognised by breeders in the UK, from Affenpinscher to Yorkshire Terrier (there are sadly no dog breeds starting with the letter ‘z’!).
So there’s plenty of thinking to do before you select your family’s latest four-legged addition – whether you want a large dog, family-friendly dog, or an easy to train dog.
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There is even scientific research to guide you, in particular psychologist Stanley Coren’s groundbreaking book The Intelligence of Dogs.
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.
Labrador Retrievers may be affectionate and popular, but they’re likely to welcome a burglar like a long lost friend - particularly if they come armed with a few tasty sausages.
On the other hand, other breeds are naturally suspicious of strangers, ever-vigilant and have the potential to be ferocious if challenged or confronted. It also helps if they look a bit scary.
Here are the 14 worst breeds of guard dog.
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9. 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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10. Greyhound
Greyhounds are usually calm, sensitive, and friendly dogs that prefer peaceful environments. Despite their impressive appearance and athleticism, they generally lack the territorial instincts associated with effective guard-dog breeds. The Italian Greyhound is even worse due to its smaller size. | Canva/Getty Images
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11. 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
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12. Beagle
Beagles are many things - curious, fun-filled, gentle and adorable - but they simply aren't territorial. Add in their default setting of 'friendly' and they barely even guard their own food. | Canva/Getty Images