Protecting businesses has never been more vital. According to recent government data, 26% of businesses in England and Wales fell victim to crime last year. This alarming statistic highlights the urgent need for effective security measures. One popular and reliable solution is employing trained security dogs, often handled by professional dog-handling teams, to safeguard against threats such as theft or vandalism.

German shepherds are one of the most widely used dog breeds for security purposes. For over a century, they have served in demanding roles within the police force and military, earning a reputation for their intelligence, strength, and reliability.

In this article, we’ll delve into the traits that make German shepherds ideal for protection work. From their exceptional physical capabilities to their specialised training, we’ll explore why this breed remains a top choice for businesses looking to enhance their security measures.

Is a German Shepherd a Security Dog?

German shepherds are commonly partnered with security personnel, excelling as reliable and effective security dogs. Renowned for their protective instincts and exceptional abilities, they are consistently recognised as one of the top breeds for security roles. In fact, various online surveys rank German shepherds as the second-most popular choice for protection work, underscoring their strong reputation in the field.

3 Historic Facts About German Shepherd Guard Dogs

German shepherds have a rich history of serving in diverse roles, including working with police, military, farmers, and security teams. Their adaptability and proven reliability make them a top choice for security dog-handling operations.

To understand why German shepherds are so well-suited for security work, let’s first take a closer look at their history. Exploring their background will shed light on the traits that have made them a trusted partner in protection roles.

German Shepherd Guard Dog Fact 1

The modern guard dog originated in Germany in 1899, where German shepherds were specifically bred to herd and protect sheep on farms.

After World War I, these highly adaptable dogs were introduced to the United States and the United Kingdom, where they quickly became valued for their versatility and reliability in various working roles.

German Shepherd Guard Dog Fact 2

Following World War II, the UK Kennel Club temporarily renamed the German shepherd to “Alsatian wolf dog,” fearing that its German heritage might negatively impact its popularity. However, as time passed, the breed’s reputation endured, and it eventually reclaimed its original name, German shepherd, returning to its ancestral roots.

German Shepherd Guard Dog Fact 3

Before Labradors became the standard breed for guide dogs, German shepherds were the breed of choice due to their strong desire to help, unwavering loyalty to their owners, and exceptional intelligence.

With such a rich history of service, it’s no wonder that German shepherds are once again in high demand for modern security roles. Their proven skills and reliability make them a trusted option for a wide range of security applications.

What Age Do German Shepherds Start Guarding?

German shepherds generally being to show protective instincts around one year of age, although some may exhibit guarding behaviours as early as six months. Training for security work can start as early as eight to twelve weeks, allowing these dogs to develop their protective skills while still puppies. As a result, it’s not unusual for German shepherds to begin guarding or displaying protective instincts at a very young age.

Do Male or Female German Shepherds Make Better Guard Dogs?

Male and female German shepherds are both highly effective protection dogs, with each gender bringing district strengths to the role. Male German shepherds are typically more focused on guarding property, exhibiting strong territorial instincts. Female German shepherds, on the other hand, often show a deeper protective instinct toward people, demonstrating greater loyalty and care for their handlers. Neither gender is superior; the choice depends on the specific security needs of the situation.

Are German Shepherds Good Guard Dogs?

German shepherds are widely recognised as outstanding guard dogs, thanks to their strong protective instincts and unwavering loyalty. These traits, along with their overall temperament, make them a top choice for security roles. Below, we’ve outlined six key characteristics that make German shepherds so well-suited for protection work.

Height

Male German shepherds typically stand between 60 and 65cm tall, while females range from 55 to 60cm. Their weight varies, with an average that falls between 34 and 43kg.

Temperament

German shepherd guard dogs are renowned for their calm and balanced temperament, displaying a naturally steady and level-headed demeanour.

Intelligence

German shepherds are one of the most intelligent dog breeds, surpassed only by Border collies and Poodles. This high level of intelligence makes them exceptionally trainable. With proper training, they can be taught to respond only to actual threats, while remaining calm and friendly in everyday situations.

Energy

German shepherds are naturally energetic and require at least two hours of exercise each day. This should include both on-leash walks and off-leash activities in a secure, safe area where they can run freely and explore.

Speed

German shepherds are known for their impressive speed, capable of reaching upwards of 30 miles per hour (48 kilometres per hour). This combination of speed and agility makes them well-suited for tasks that require quick movement and precision.

Ability to Work Well With Other Animals

German shepherds are known for their ability to get along well with other household pets, including cats and dogs, especially when introduced to them early in life.

With their strong protective instincts and loyalty, it’s no surprise that German shepherds make excellent security dogs, effectively deterring criminals from attempting to break into homes or businesses.

Whether as a guard dog or a beloved family companion, German shepherds are an ideal choice for both home and business security, offering unwavering loyalty, love, and protection.

Are German Shepherds Always On Guard?

German shepherd guard dogs are highly regarded for their excellent alertness and strong protective instincts. This often raises the question of whether they are always on guard. The answer varies, as it depends on the individual dog’s temperament, upbringing, and training. While some German shepherds may remain vigilant, their level of alertness is influenced by factors such as their environment and how they have been raised.

Which German Shepherd is Best for Security?

A common question about German shepherd guard dogs is which type is best for security purposes. There are five main lines of German shepherds:

• West German Working Line
• East German DDR Working Line
• Czech Working Line
• American Show Line
• European Show Line

For security work, the East German DDR Working Line and the Czech Working Line are the most suitable. East German DDR Working Line shepherds are larger in size and often used as police, military, and security dogs, as well as in search-and-rescue missions.

Are German Shepherds Good for Security?

German shepherds are an outstanding choice for security work, thanks to several key qualities that make them highly effective in protective roles:

• Speed: German shepherds can reach speeds of up to 30mph, far outpacing the average human, who typically runs at only 8mph. This speed enables them to quickly respond to threats or pursue intruders.
• Intelligence: Known for their high intelligence, German shepherds are highly trainable and excel in learning complex commands. This makes them perfect for specialised security tasks, from patrolling to detection work.
• Senses: With their exceptional sense of hearing and smell, German shepherds act as natural surveillance systems. They can detect potential break-ins or security breaches before they occur and are also skilled at identifying contraband, making them invaluable at events like festivals or in environments with heightened security needs.

How Modern Security Utilises German Shepherd Guard Dogs

The bond between a dog handler and a German shepherd guard dog is vital to their effectiveness. A well-trained security dog team can often replace up to three regular security guards due to the threat they pose to intruders and criminals.

German shepherds in security roles perform a range of important duties, including, but not limited to:

• Deterring Criminals: Their mere presence serves as a strong visual deterrent, reducing the likelihood of criminal activity or security breaches.
• Detecting Break-Ins: With their sharp sense of hearing and smell, German shepherds are highly effective at detecting potential break-ins or suspicious activity before it escalates.
• Providing Support for Handlers: German shepherds also offer emotional support to their handlers. Research shows that interacting with dogs, such as petting them, can increase endorphin levels, improve mood, and reduce stress.
• Contraband Detection: Their keen senses make them ideal for detecting contraband, such as drugs, at festivals, clubs, or event entrances, enhancing security in crowded or high-risk environments.

So, Why Are German Shepherd Guard Dogs Used in Security?

German shepherd guard dogs are often selected for security roles due to their natural protective instincts, loyalty, and strong alertness, which makes them highly effective at safeguarding both people and property.

To stay updated on the latest security trends and information, visit our news and insights page. You’ll find articles on How to Become a Security Dog Handler and How Much Do Security Guards Cost?