When it comes to guard dogs, people have certain expectations of what makes a good candidate. Guard dogs should be alert, protective, intelligent, and trainable, with a loud bark being an asset. But what about Border Collies, a breed known for their herding abilities and intelligence? Can they also be considered guard dogs?
The answer is yes, to some extent. Border Collies can make excellent guard dogs for certain situations, depending on what type of guard dog you need. If you want a dog that will watch your house, alert you to danger, and startle strangers with some good barking, then a Border Collie might be perfect. However, if you are looking for a dog that looks scary, acts aggressively, and might attack someone trying to do you harm, you will probably want to look at a different breed.
Border Collies were originally bred to herd and have many traits that make them ideal guard dogs for certain homes. They are very intelligent, working dogs who like having a job to do and are easily trainable. They also have great eyesight, which is an advantage in keeping an eye out for danger. However, they will not be great at patrolling an outdoor space or serving as a visible deterrent.
It should be noted that there is a difference between a watchdog and a protective dog. Watchdogs are very sensitive to noises and strangers and will alert their owners when someone approaches the house or when something seems out of place. On the other hand, protective dogs are more aggressive and attached to their owners, and may even bite or attack strangers. Border Collies are better suited as watchdogs rather than protective dogs. They are not aggressive and will not attack people unless they feel threatened.
If you want a more protective dog, you might want to consider a different breed. However, if you want a dog that will keep a lookout for you and alert you to the presence of strangers, Border Collies can excel in this role. They are great watchdogs and can be trained to do well in this capacity.
In conclusion, Border Collies can be great guard dogs for certain homes and situations. They have traits that make them well-suited as watchdogs, such as intelligence, attentiveness, and a loud bark. If you are looking for a protective dog that may attack strangers if necessary, then a different breed may be a better choice. However, if you want a dog that will keep watch over your home and alert you to danger, a Border Collie may be the perfect addition to your family.
