The Most Intimidating Dogs To Frighten Intruders!

Dogs are bought for various reasons. Some are looking for a lap warmer or an animal companion for their children. Some are looking for a sports companion; Some even want their dog to be able to complete any work or hunting-related job.

Many people opt to purchase a pet for security. In exchange for the comfort of a warm bed and a belly filled and a regular scratching of the haunch, the owners want their pets to guard them. Many people choose to get a dog for protection. In exchange for a warm place to sleep, a belly kept full, and some regular haunch scratching, these owners expect their dogs to protect them from nefarious types.

For most owners, their primary goal is to have a frightening appearance dog that will keep unwanted guests and strangers away regardless of their behavior.

Protection Dogs Vs. Dogs That Provide Protection

The best protection dogs are highly trained four-footers who can be taught to intervene against attackers physically.

These dogs are trained to utilize all the tools available to them (strong jaws, bone-crushing teeth, and strong neck muscles) to end an attack. 

Some even had specialized training to be taught how to control the attackers until assistance arrived.

Police officers, military units, kidnapping targets, and other people who could be in danger utilize these types of dogs.

 Most people do not want such an intimidating and dangerous dog by their side. Most people simply require a dog as an element of deterrence.

The presence of any large dog is enough to make an average criminal take a second look. Many criminals are even hesitant to confront small dogs due to their habit of barking incessantly at the slightest threat.

This is why the majority of ordinary people would be better off with an intimidating or frightening dog breed that has been taught basic obedience and nothing else than that. That’s all people need to be deterred!

What Makes a Dog Scary or Intimidating?

Very few troublemakers are likely to attempt to determine your dog’s breed while weighing you as a potential attack target. Instead, they’re likely to be looking for important characteristics before deciding on the next step.

The most frightening dogs portray the following traits:

Size

In this case, bigger is better. A pitbull weighing 50 pounds is a terrifying animal when it bares its teeth while emitting one of the most terrifying barks ever and slamming into your face, but a 200-pound Great Dane barely has to glance at you to strengthen your sphincter.

Build

Things like a slender head, largemouth, and shoulders that are wide make a dog appear more intimidating.

Take, for instance, pit bulls, one of the breeds with the least size to be included on our list. One reason why pit bulls look so frightening – aside from all the myths about this breed- is their large head, square mouth, and shoulders that appear strong enough to do pushups one-handed.

Color

A small amount of empirical evidence shows that black dogs can be more intimidating than other breeds. The reasons behind this aren’t completely evident, but it could be related to Rottweilers, Doberman Pinchers, German Pinchers, and similar breeds that are predominantly black in the security, guarding, and attacks.

But, it’s important to keep in mind that this is just one element of the overall intimidating factor of a particular breed. Is a 175 pounds Great Pyrenees more intimidating than 95 pounds Doberman? It all depends on the person’s mindset giving you the willies.

Bark

A dog that has an aggressive and rough bark is enough to cause an intruder to make a run for his life – even if the dog is a softy.

Personality

Have you ever thought about how the 8-pound Chihuahua can cause a man of 200 pounds to jump back? This is the power of bluff, bluster, and swagger. While a Chihuahua weighing almost the same as a gallon of milk could sometimes intimidate foes, the 95-pound Rottweiler is likely to frighten rhinoceros.

The biggest black lab ever to live is more likely to touch your face rather than get his paws up. It’s the same as many other, non-intimidating breeds.

The Scariest Dog Breeds: Dogs That Will Terrify Intruders

While this list is subjective, we’ve tried our best to include a wide range of cute-looking dogs. The list has been broken into two distinct sections, with each section containing five and seven breeds.

The first category includes the most frightening popular breeds that you can find in a pet store or from any of the breeders in your area.

The second part covers the most feared breeds that aren’t commonly seen. Although you can often have pups of the breed available for sale, you’ll have to go a greater length(and spend more) to acquire them.

Important note: Many of the breeds below are prohibited in certain regions. So, you’ll need to research the legal requirements for your region before you add one to your pet’s family.

5 Common and Intimidating Dog Breeds

They are among the most frightened dogs that are pretty common- and you’re likely already familiar with them.

1. American Pit Bull Terrier / American Staffordshire Terrier

Yes, I am putting American pit bull terriers and American Staffordshire terriers in the same category. 

However, in this instance, the distinction between pit-mixes and purebreds isn’t significant – in actual, pit-mixes are usually exactly as terrifying as purebred dogs are. The majority of criminals assume that any 50-to 70-pound dog that appears pit-like should be given a wide berth.

Of course, anyone who has ever had a dog knows that they’re usually dogs that wag their tails, kiss their faces, and show lots of affection. However, they aren’t an aggressive breed, as the sensationalistic news headlines would lead you to believe. 

If raised in a loving family, they’re among the most friendly dogs you could wish for. However, they are extremely protective of their homes and their family members and will happily present a fierce display to dissuade anyone who gets too close.

It is vital to understand that, while many Pitbulls are very guardians, many experts consider Pitbulls to be too friendly to protect. But, a pit bull that is a nuisance around your home will probably deter criminals.

2. Akita

Akitas aren’t the largest dogs in the world. They weigh between 90 and 100 pounds. But, the combination of their big head and shoulders forward posture can make them appear very intimidating.

Akitas are instinctively driven to protect and guard their family. In fact, this is among the main reasons why the breed was created – safeguarding nobles and other high-ranking officials in the feudal times in Japan (they are also utilized for hunting big game like boar).

Despite their fearless and sometimes guardian characteristic, Akitas are often loving pets that love their families’. However, Akitas are not one of the breeds that are easy to train, so they’re not the ideal option for owners who aren’t experienced. They require constant, firm, and respectable obedience training and regular socialization starting at a young age.

3. Rottweiler

Rottweilers often appear on such lists, and it’s for obvious reasons. They’re a breed with all the characteristics of an intimidating dog. The size is impressive and covered with black fur. They’ve got extremely muscular bodies and are usually suspicious of strangers.

Nevertheless, Rottweilers aren’t just scary – they are also wonderful pets with a temperament that is affectionate, loving, and loyal. 

However, they aren’t fond of being separated from their owners. As a result, they’re not great pets for people who spend much time out of the home.

Furthermore, they are intelligent and headstrong dogs that require a person who can guide them confidently but lovingly.

In general, this old breed is not the best option for novice owners. However, a female Rottweiler dog is somewhat easier for first-time dog owners to manage.

4. German Shepherd

In the past, German shepherds were among the most popular breeds employed for military as well as police cases (although they’ve been replaced with Belgian Malinois over the last few years). They’ve been successful in these roles because of their intelligence, brave nature, and strong presence.

German shepherds may occasionally cross 100 pounds; however, they are typically closer to the 80-90 pound mark. They usually appear bigger than that due to their long, thick fur. They also have big ears that further boost the size of their appearance.

Their instincts to protect are simple to observe, and a huge German shepherd is certainly among the more terrifying breeds you can meet in a dark alleyway.

While they’re loyal pet dogs that are among the breeds that are easiest for training, German shepherds are not suitable for homes with allergy sufferers. They shed with a flurry and will quickly cover your possessions under an ancient layer of hair.

5. Great Pyrenees

A unique breed on our list is the Great Pyrenees. They can grow quite massive (some males are over 150Pounds) and are extremely protective.

They also appear like giant Teddy bears (which is actually the intention because it allows the sheep to be comfortable with their dog companions). They’re covered in long, fluffy hair, and they’ve got round faces and adorable ears.

The Great Pyrenees were initially developed to protect livestock, including sheep, which is the main reason they are so fluffy. They were responsible for not only keeping an eye on their livestock and defending it from wolves and other predators through physical means if needed. But, the overall impression of the Great Pyrenees can be quite frightening, particularly for people who aren’t comfortable with dogs.

The Great Pyrenees are one of the most gentle breeds that we’ve listed, but they’re not the best option for every owner. For example, Great Pyrenees do not do well with apartments lifestyle and are Olympic caliber shedders. They can also be difficult to train and are a little stubborn.

7 Dog Breeds That are a bit intimidating

You might occasionally see one or more of these breeds in the dog park; however, you’re unlikely to meet them as frequently as dogs like German Shepherds or any other breeds mentioned above.

Although many of them can make wonderful, loving family pets, they all require a lot of training and are not suitable for owners who are not experienced.

1. Cane Corso

While cane corsos are nearly 28 inches tall at their shoulders, they do not attain the heights of Great Danes or other similar breeds. They typically weigh between 90 and 120 pounds.

However, cane corsos are certainly among the most terrifying dogs around, and their eyes alone are sure to cause chills through the spine of the most reckless criminal.

Cane Corso requires respect and shouldn’t be bought at random or without careful care and consideration. They need a vast area and are unlikely to be the pet you can take out to an animal park.

You’ll have to give your cane Corso adequate exercise because he’s got such an athletic body and a strong back. These dogs were created to hunt and conquer the large game, and they’ll not be content when they don’t alleviate plenty of energy!

2. Dogue de Bordeaux

Dogue de Bordeaux Dogue de Bordeaux is a gorgeous breed; however, its large body, bulky muscles, and massive head make this one of the most challenging dogs to handle.

Females typically weigh around 90 pounds; the majority of males weigh over 100 pounds and measure 26 or 27 inches tall on the shoulders.

DDBs (as they’re commonly referred to) are very strong dogs that never hesitate when faced with threats. While they’re incredibly affectionate with their families (including youngsters), DDBs are not something you’d consider welcoming to strangers. 

Although they have a simple short coat that is easy to maintain, they also make a lot of drool and have loose skin, which is a turnoff for many potential owners.

If you think you’ve been around one of these dogs in the past but can’t identify the place, I can help: Hooch was one of the Dogue de Bordeaux.

3. Dogo Argentino

Dogo Argentinas are absolutely terrifying; However, this unforgiving appearance actually hides their fun-loving persona.

The AKC describes these dogs as adorable, humble, and pleasant; Dogo Argentinos are big dogs sporting large muscles, heads, and largemouths. They are all about strength and power; however, it is essential to recognize the fact that they don’t have inherent aggression.

At 27 inches in height and weighing in at 100 pounds (females are a bit smaller), Dogo Argentinos -or Argentine Mastiffs are often referred to as strong runners developed originally to hunt large game. Hunters still employ them to hunt wild pigs.

Dogo Argentinas require lots of exercise to maintain their health and require ample attention from their families to avoid depression and avoid the development of destructive behavior.

4. Boerboel Mastiff

Boerboels were initially developed in the 17th century by South African pioneers to carry out many tasks, such as hunting and livestock guarding. 

They were also expected to be ready to defend against predators as powerful as hyenas and leopards. They are now mostly companion dogs.

With a briskness that defies their size and weight, Boerboels can be seen confidently moving across the globe, facing obstacles head-on.

They don’t back down to challenges and show unique courage among other breeds. They are a difficult breed for beginners to train and manage; however, those with experience discover them to be delightful.

5. English Mastiff

The English mastiff is a huge dog that typically weighs 150 – 170 pounds and can reach nearly three feet on the shoulders. But despite their huge and daunting size, they’re generally friendly, calm dogs that are able to get along with the majority of people they meet.

It doesn’t mean they’re not prepared to defend their family when they need to; However, they don’t go through lives with the suspicious mentality of the Cane Corso or any other.

Due to their calm confidence and disposition, English mastiffs are probably the most appropriate breeds among the less well-known breed suitable for first-time dog owners; however, caution is necessary. 

Appropriate training and socialization are required to ensure that they remain happy. The gentle 170-pound dog could cause severe injuries if not Appropriately trained and socialized.

6. Perro de Presa Canario

Perro of Presa Canarios (aka Canary Mastiffs) are big intelligent, and safe dogs; they require proper training (they’re gorgeous thanks to their brindle-colored coats).

The weight of their bodies can be 120 pounds, or more Presa Canarios are a mastiff-family breed that was first created in the Canary Islands.

 While their family members love them, Presa Canarios are rarely as sweet and syrupy in the same way as English mastiffs or Rottweilers.

Presa Canarios can be very aggressive dogs and are not awestruck by strangers or other animals. 

They cannot adapt to living in a home and require moderate amounts of exercise to stay healthy and content. From all of the dog breeds we have on the list, it might be the least suitable for first time dog owners

7. Caucasian Shepherd Dog

Caucasian Shepherd dogs are flock-guarding giants that appear larger than they actually are because of their fluffy, long coats. They were originally developed to protect against wolves; these dogs are ferocious and are not tolerant of strangers, including humans, cats, and other dogs entering their home.

Caucasian shepherd dogs from Caucasians are typically difficult animals that push the boundaries of their owners’ authority. They require strong but affectionate leadership and regular training starting from a young age to ensure that they are solid and secure.

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Are you able to think of any other frightening breeds that we’ve missed? Let us know the breeds we’ve missed and what breed you’d prefer as a security dog to ensure your family is safe by leaving a comment below.

We’d love to hear about your impressions of anyone breed mentioned above – especially those listed on the rare list!