One of the earliest duties of the domestic dog was guarding the property of its owners, whether that property be land, livestock or his owner's home.
There is a distinction between guard dogs and watch dogs.
A watchdog simply watches the home and alerts others to the intruder by barking. Watchdogs typically are smaller, more excitable breeds that will bark vigorously at the presence of an intruder or in most situations they experience as out of the ordinary. Many small and toy dog breeds, which would not qualify as guard dogs are excellent watch dogs, as their only duty is to alert their owners with their barking.
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A guard dog not only watches and alerts but also threatens the intruder to the point of retreat. Most guard dogs will instinctively do anything possible to protect their human family and the area they consider as their territory, ranging from dissuasion towards potential intruders until, eventually, attack. Fortunately, their intimidating appearance and low voice often is enough of a deterrent to any would-be intruder. Nevertheless, the trainability of a guardian dog should be on the top list of the qualities required of a guard dog. It is this quality that will ensure that the natural sense of territoriality and protectiveness of a guard dog remains within the limits set by the law.
