Are you looking for a dog that can protect you while still being a loving pet? There are a variety of dog breeds that are quite loyal and loving to their owners but have the potential to be aggressive should a threat arise. A dog that has the potential to be fierce or aggressive doesn't necessarily make a high risk pet. With proper training, this type of dog can be a real asset and quite capable of forming a loving bond with you, your family, and friends. Plus, you can be assured your dog will protect you should a dangerous situation arise. Here are some potentially fierce dogs that, with proper socialization, can make loving pets:
Potentially fierce dog - Caucasian Mountain Dog
The Caucasian Mountain dog is a massive and powerful dog breed that has the capability of being a strong and capable protector of home and family, although they will need a great deal of training since they tend to be strong willed. They possess an almost uncanny ability to discriminate real threats from unimportant ones which makes them very effective guard dogs. If given proper socialization, they also have the potential to be quite gentle towards family members. Despite this, they're probably not the best selection for a first time dog owner.
Potentially fierce dog - Neopolitan Mastiff
The appearance of this massive dog with its beastlike appearance and hanging jowls is enough to frighten away even the most intrepid intruder. Weighing up to 150 pounds, this dog breed possesses speed and agility which makes him quite a match for any intruder who dares to take him on. The Neopolitan Mastiff was bred during ancient times to fight leopards as a spectator sport and frequently emerged victorious during these barbaric competitions. This breed with competent training and socialization can be a loyal pet.
Potentially fierce dog - German Shepherd
The German Shepherd dog is a strong and capable working dog breed with the willingness and capability of protecting you from imminent threat. This dog breed tends to form a very strong bond and are willing to lay down their life for their owners should the need arise. This is why you see German Shepherds so often employed in police work. Their fearlessness and intelligence are legendary. As with any dog this strong and motivated, proper training is needed to channel his energy in a positive direction.
Potentially fierce dog - Rottweiller
If you've ever seen a male Rottweiller, you know how densely built and massive they can be. Despite their rather fierce appearance and large body type, this dog breed is quite capable of serving as a loving family pet. Their innate intelligence makes them adept at distinguishing potential threatening situations from less serious ones. They can be quite loving towards strangers once they discover they aren't a threat to their family.
Potentially fierce dog - Doberman
The Doberman is another dog with a reputation for being intimidating to strangers, yet gentle and loving to their owners. Their fierce loyalty, intelligence, and easy trainability make them natural guard dogs. The majority of Dobermans are extremely affectionate towards their owners and family. With a bit of training and socialization, a Doberman can make a magnificent family pet.
Although all of these potentially fierce dog breeds will need appropriate training to modify their potential aggressive tendencies, the reward can be a loving pet that will make you feel more secure just by having them around.
