10 Myths About Guard Dog Breeds That Are Not Completely True

Written By

Mathew Abraham

Updated on

Mathew Abraham

Meet Mathew, Cat Dad and Animal Advocate! Mathew is the editor at PawDown, overseeing content strategy and quality. He's in charge of carefully curating the best pet stories, tips, and advice for you.

German Shepherd with other pets
YamaBSM/Pixabay

When it comes to guard dogs, there’s no shortage of myths and misconceptions. From their temperament to their abilities, many beliefs about these loyal protectors are completely off the mark. Whether you’re considering a guard dog for your home or just curious about the truth, here are 10 common myths about guard dog breeds that set the record straight. Understanding these myths is crucial for potential owners to make informed decisions. By debunking false claims, we can foster a more accurate appreciation for the intelligence and training of these remarkable animals.

1. Training Difficulties

Belgian Malinois with its trainer
Anton Kudryashov/Pexels

Training guard dog breeds is often surrounded by misconceptions. Many believe these dogs are naturally aggressive or difficult to train, but that’s not always the case. While guard dogs like Dobermans or Rottweilers may seem intimidating, they are typically intelligent, eager to please, and responsive to consistent training. The real challenge lies in proper socialization and establishing clear boundaries. When trained with positive reinforcement and firm leadership, these dogs excel in their protective roles without being overly aggressive.

2. Most Powerful Bites

Doberman Chewing toy
YamaBSM/Pixabay

Many people believe that guard dog breeds, like the German Shepherd or Rottweiler, have the strongest bites of all dog breeds, but that’s a myth. While these dogs certainly have powerful jaws, they don’t hold the record. The truth is, that breeds like the Kangal, a Turkish livestock guardian, have the most powerful bite, with a bite force measured at over 700 PSI. Guard dogs are known for their protective instincts, not necessarily their bite strength and their value lies more in their training and temperament than sheer power.

3. Outdoor Nature

A Doberman Pinscher indoors
Aysun Kahraman Öktem/Pexels

When it comes to outdoor nature, many people believe that guard dogs need vast amounts of space or constant outdoor access. However, this is a myth. While certain guard dog breeds, like the German Shepherd or Rottweiler, thrive with regular exercise outdoors, they don’t necessarily require huge yards or open land. In fact, many guard dogs adapt well to apartment living or smaller homes, as long as they receive daily walks and mental stimulation. Their protective instincts can be nurtured through training, regardless of their environment.

4. Eventual Threat To Owners

Training Angry Rottweiler
grigory_bruev/123rf

A common myth is that guard dog breeds pose a threat to their owners due to their protective instincts. In reality, well-trained guard dogs are highly loyal and protective, not aggressive towards their families. They can distinguish between a real threat and a non-threatening situation, and their primary goal is to protect, not attack. Proper training, socialization, and clear boundaries ensure that guard dogs are safe, reliable, and trustworthy companions, rather than potential threats to their owners.

5. Emotionally Aloof

Akita
esmalen/Pixabay

A common myth about guard dog breeds is that they are emotionally aloof or distant from their owners. While it’s true that some guard dogs are independent and reserved, many are actually deeply loyal and affectionate once they build a bond with their family. Breeds like the Rottweiler or Doberman Pinscher, often seen as standoffish, are known to be loving and protective, especially with their trusted humans. A guard dog’s protective nature doesn’t mean they lack affection—they simply prioritize loyalty and safety over constant attention.

6. Locking Jaws

Two german shepherds
Jozef Fehér/Pexels 

One of the most common myths about guard dog breeds is the idea of “locking jaws.” Many people believe certain breeds, like Pit Bulls, can lock their jaws during a bite, making them more dangerous. However, this is a misconception. No dog has the ability to physically “lock” their jaws. All dogs have the same jaw structure and mechanics, meaning their jaws do not lock. The myth likely stems from the strength and tenacity of certain breeds, which can bite and hold with incredible force, but there’s no special jaw-locking mechanism involved.

7. Pet Compatibility Issues

Differences Between German Shepherds and Huskies
Rachel/Pexels

Many people believe that guard dogs are always aggressive toward other pets, but that’s not necessarily true. While some guard dog breeds may have a natural protective instinct, it doesn’t mean they can’t coexist with other animals. Proper socialization and training from an early age are key to ensuring these dogs get along with pets like cats, other dogs, and even small animals. In fact, many guard dogs, when raised in a multi-pet household, can be calm and friendly with their companions. The key is understanding their individual temperament and providing proper training.

8. Family Compatibility Issues

German Shepherd with family
prostooleh/Freepik

Guard dog breeds are often misunderstood when it comes to family compatibility. While some people believe they’re only suited for protection and aggression, many guard dogs can actually be loving and gentle with their families. The misconception is that they’re always “on duty” and unfriendly, but in reality, most guard dog breeds are affectionate, and loyal, and form strong bonds with their family members. Proper training and socialization can ensure that these dogs are safe and well-adjusted around children and other pets.

9. Inherently Aggressive

german shepherd barking
PDPics/Pixabay

One common myth about guard dog breeds is that they are inherently aggressive. While some guard dogs can display protective behavior, aggression is not a trait that is automatically built into their nature. Most guard dogs are trained to protect, not to attack without reason. Their protective instincts are often geared toward alerting their owners to danger, not showing aggression. Proper training and socialization play a key role in ensuring these dogs remain well-behaved and balanced, not hostile.

10. Historically Bred For Fighting

Two Dogs Fighting
Benjamin Fay/Unsplash

Many people assume that all guard dog breeds were historically bred for fighting, but that’s not the case. While some guard dogs, like the Pit Bull or the Rottweiler, do have fighting backgrounds, most were originally bred for guarding, herding, or working alongside humans. For example, the German Shepherd was developed for herding sheep, and the Doberman Pinscher was bred as a guard dog for protection. The misconception comes from their protective instincts and strong builds, but not all guard dogs have a history tied to fighting.

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