What are we looking for when we select a dog to be our companion and full time room mate to us and our immediate family members? Cute dog? Flufffy dog? Watch dog? Guard dog? Or all the above?

Of course our dog of choice is the miniature schnauzer. While the mini doesn’t check the guard dog box from the above questions it does a fantastic job on the other three.

Miniature schnauzers are excellent watch dogs. They are known to be alert, protective, and have a strong instinct to watch over their family and territory. They often have a loud bark and are quick to alert their owners of any potential threats or unusual activities. However, it’s important to note that every mini is different, and individual temperament and training can also play a role in their effectiveness as watch dogs.

But what is the difference between a watch dog and a guard dog? What are the similarities? Keep reading to find out.

Function and Training

– Watch Dog: A watch dog is primarily responsible for alerting their owners or residents to any potential threats or intruders by barking or raising an alarm. They are trained to be attentive and vigilant, keeping a close eye on their surroundings and reacting to any unusual activity.

– Guard Dog: A guard dog, on the other hand, is trained not only to alert but also to take more active measures in protecting their territory or the people they are assigned to. They are typically trained in obedience, attack commands, and self-defense techniques. Guard dogs are often used in security work or by law enforcement agencies.

Level of Protection

– Watch Dog: A watch dog’s main focus is to act as a deterrent by alerting occupants to suspicious activities or potential threats. Their purpose is to discourage intruders and thieves from entering a property or causing harm.

– Guard Dog: A guard dog is trained to provide a higher level of protection and intervene physically if necessary. They are capable of restraining or subduing an intruder, and their training may include biting, holding, or restraining techniques.

Breed Selection and Training

– Watch Dog: Many different breeds can be trained as watch dogs based on their natural attributes and alertness, such as Miniature Schnauzers, Beagles, Yorkshire Terriers, or Dachshunds. Their training focuses more on alertness, territorial behavior, and developing a strong bond with their owners.

– Guard Dog: Guard dogs are usually chosen from specific breeds known for their protective instincts and physical strength, such as Giant Schnauzers, German Shepherds, Rottweilers, or Doberman Pinschers. They require more extensive training, including obedience, attack training, and controlled aggression.

Temperament and Socialization

– Watch Dog: Watch dogs can be more easily integrated into family or social environments as they are trained to be aware and alert without exhibiting extreme aggression towards strangers or visitors. Proper socialization is essential to ensure they do not become overly territorial or aggressive.

– Guard Dog: Guard dogs, due to their specialized training and protective nature, may display more territorial behavior and aggression towards strangers. They require careful and extensive socialization to distinguish between friend and foe to avoid any unnecessary aggression.

It’s important to note that both watch dogs and guard dogs should receive proper training and socialization to ensure their behavior is controlled and appropriate in various situations.