Just keep a bat or something close, by since the lab will only alarm you, it wont beattacking anybody. This depends on its temperament. If you need assistance with training your dog as a guard dog, you may want to contact a behavioralist. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fn3j8uy2lCU), How much should my Labrador weigh? There is a chance that you might end up with a Labrador with aggressive behavior. Many guard dogs are trained to guard a specific place or even livestock. meanness factor. Labradors are a great dog breed to keep in the family. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'lovingyourlab_com-banner-1','ezslot_3',122,'0','0'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position != 'undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-lovingyourlab_com-banner-1-0')}; Sometimes watchdogs are referred to as alarm dogs because they sound the alarm. It may fit the physical requirements, but it fails at the mental requirements. Labradors are loving and affectionate dogs. To be clear, when I say a lab is willing to protect, I mean that it will bark, or under some rare circumstances attack. Even though its not in their nature to be a guard dog, you can train it to be one. The next step is obedience training, which will be a nice warm-up session for the actual training. Yet, that does not change the fact that your dog is protective over you. Train your dog in basic commands like sit, rolloever, and stay. Sometimes an intimidating bark is all that is needed to keep intruders away. Labradors are not that way by nature. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. The reality is that if you ask Are Labs protective? because you hope to turn yours into a guard dog, then you should reconsider? I had her in the house because it was a little cold outside. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. If theyre not well trained, they may get bored with watching the house and begin nosing around the garden or something else. Are Labs protective? This can help show Moses that you are the alpha leader and you are capable of providing safety and protection for yourself and for your family. I had to dig into that part, a bit more. Labradors are very popular pets, but do they make good guard dogs too? All you need to know is that it will protect you as long as it doesnt have to bite/fight anyone. You can learn all about whether or not a Labrador can be a guard dog or not, later on in the article. But, they are not as protective or territorial as other breeds. she started barking at something in our neighbors backyard. The question, however, is, do these friendly labs protect their owners? While it might be possible to train one to be a guard dog, they are not usually the best choice because they want to make friends with everyone. They usually start by showing a forceful display, like growling or charging, to try to scare the threat away. Well, yes, to a degree. They often bark a lot. For example, they can make a great alarm system. A guard dog, unlike its counterpart the watch dog, is I can think of multiple examples when my Labs tendency to bark has short-circuited someones plans of mischief. Moses is extremely loyal. How is it different from drive? It all comes down to training and personality. Not only does it put everyone in unnecessary danger, but it can dismantle any foundation of trust you and your buddy already have. Though Labradors cant becomeguard dogs, they do make an exceptional watchdog. I It is always there. Both dogs were tested in a protection situation. This one feature of breeding actually decreases Don't disregard advice from a vet. Reinforce the behavior with rewards like affirmations and treats. Can Two Female Labradors Live Together? For now, just recognize that the Labradors dig not latch onto a perp and drag him around until the police arrive. A Labrador is even-tempered, which means he isnt provoked easily to aggressive behavior. He runs to greet you every time you come home. that make them unsuitable for guard dogs. down the street. These are the 6 most loyal small dog breeds for you & your family, ranked, The week-by-week puppy training schedule every new pet parent needs, This viral video of a sheep who thinks its one of the dogs will warm your heart, What can I give my dog for diarrhea? opened the sliding glass door, and she stepped outside continuing to bark. But, I think it is important to distinguish what we are talking about. They have incredible traits that endear them to parents and owners of all ages. Put your hand in front of the dogs face and say attack. There are many factors that go into a good and effective guard dog. But it can always be trained to be a good guard dog. When The reality is that most Labs are not always You will need to do something more, to keep it from using its energy elsewhere aggressively chewing toys. They are awesome guard dogs because of both their temperament and breeding as well as their intimidation factor. Most of them are outgoing and friendly. Save 30% on your first Autoship Order with Chewy! Yet, it is important to know that this dog breed will not act aggressively towards their family, which you may have noticed in Moses. This is what you saw You can train your Labrador to be a guard dog by following the 7 steps given by Little Paws Training: Repeat each step as frequently as necessary for your dog to learn the behavior. (We live in a Most times, Labrador Retrievers will understand this and easily listen to the training that you are providing. They need to know they are doing a good job, so make sure to give them lots of love and treats when they do something right. To do this, you can use everyday situations like eating and walking to train them to respond to your command. It makes for super cute Instagram photos, but the barking and growling is a problem when the neighbors come over for a visit. Instead, they barked. Which Lab is Best Yellow, Chocolate, or Black? It is because of their manors and patience. Because labs love to be busy and helpful, you can train them to be effective watchdogs. A watchdog is expected to stay alert at all times, and to alarm you about any intruder. it is just not in their personality. A large the best when it comes to perceiving a threat. Most people do not know what their dog will do if someone She never That is not to say that there are not mean A watchdog will warn of intruders. Do you want one that will aggressively protect your family and property, or one that will simply sound the alarm if anything is amiss? Are Labs protective? They can definitely do so in some situations, but typically they mouth to be intimidated, They are bred to be around strangers on a regular Generally, a Labrador doesnt have it in their nature to attack someone. They want to protect you from harm so they will let you know if they perceive any threat. Lady (8 years-old) and Odin (5 months-old) are my two Labs at the time and we have a great time together. They will be trained to display signs of aggression before biting. Watchdogs, however, dont engage strangers. Additionally, Labradors can be excellent drug detection and good chance that instead of the fight mechanism kicking in, your Labrador will Roborocks Q5+ smart vacuum cleans for you, How long can cats go without food or water? On the flip side, you do have the friendliest good-natured dog. The dog should be one that fits well with your family dynamic, is well trained, and is capable of defending your home. There are tons of factors that affect a pups ability to alert and protect many of which have to do with their breed so its important to do your research before diving into the deep end of this process. the house altogether. Some dogs can be trained to alert their family or owners if Labs are great guard dogs.. The reality of this question is that some Labs make great guard dogs while others are more likely to lick a perp than to bite him. the ideal ROBO-PUPPY to serve and protect.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'easyretrievertraining_com-leader-1','ezslot_10',139,'0','0'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position != 'undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-easyretrievertraining_com-leader-1-0')}; To reiterate, there is some benefit from having a large dog They were bred to catch small birds or even dear, but not people. Then they are happy to step back and let the pack leader take care of it. Every breed has its variation from dog to dog. How to Choose Your Dog by Its Behavior(1988). Lassie doing in those old black and white TV shows. deterrent when it comes to crime. Before even thinking about that, though are Labs good guard dogs? They will bark to keep you safe and they are wonderful and affectionate family dogs. Before I go into the details, lets clarify the difference between instincts and drives. You can let them roam freely around children, without any worry. Therefore, their loyalty is extremely strong and they are not timid when it comes to protecting their owners from anything that may seem dangerous because it is just a part of their canine nature. Click on one of the Share Links below to share it with a friend. This can mean your son coming to visit, or it can mean a burglar. With guard dogs, the bigger and the more intimidating, the better. What we are talking about here is not a guard dog. Learn more about us. To train a lab to become a guard dog, you can reach out to an expert. something is out of place or there is a threat present. Breeding matters! (Source). the trick. You may also find that this breed works in law enforcement sometimes and Labrador Retrievers usually are bred to work as guide dogs. However, he also barks at every person, animal, and car that goes by your house. Their strong and intimidating appearance may convince you that it is a good guard dog. We love our Labrador, Trooper. retrievers have been bred for their ability to find birds and retrieve to hand. like its thing is being approached. Male vs. In fact, you will need to engage the Labrador in more than one exercise. A Labrador is the most loyal dog you can find, but dont expect them to fight. intervening with physical aggression. A guard dog is expected to react aggressively, but this doesnt mean attacking anything or anyone. They love to run around with people and interact with them. You just need to follow the five steps listed in the article. It is not being mean or judgmental to recognize that breeds have different traits and tendencies based on breeders preferences. However, they will not engage or attack. Easy Retriever Training is owned and operated by Forgotten Recreations LLC, a Utah limited liability company. 2022 Wag Labs, Inc. All rights reserved. So, if you have been reading about how protective and loyal Labs This is about a watchdog, which is also known as an alarm dog. Even if you decide to only take the watchdog route with your pup, you should never take these lessons lightly. A Labrador is a good pet, if not the perfect. Even so, you should never purposely provoke your dog. I like a dog that enjoys people. I always think it is cute when a dog becomes maternal over a new baby in the Whether youre worried about a break-in or just interested in adding a little extra security to your home, a guard dog can not only be a great alarm system, but it can be the first line of defense against a home invasion. Digital Trends Media Group may earn a commission when you buy through links on our sites. This site is owned and operated by Tim & Dona Baker. A few of the most common breeds used as guard dogs are the Doberman, German Shepherd, Rottweiler, Bullmastiff, and Giant Schnauzer. left her side. 2022 Retriever Advice - Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, Chesapeake Bay Retriever, Flat-Coated Retriever, Curly-Coated Retriever, Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, 10 Reasons Why Labrador Retrievers Are The Best Dogs, How Fast Can A Labrador Run? Another thing to consider is when are Labs protective and how they express that trait in those moments. A guard dog is normally big in size, to appear more threatening to the attacker. These types of guard dogs are usually specifically trained for their specific duties. While training it to be a watchdog, simply give your lab a treat every time it barks at you after someone comes into the house. It is a friendly and playful breed; not a threatening, protective one. Instead, look for a breed that is loud when needed but also able to decide what is and isnt worth an alert. A Labrador will come to the rescue, but to an extent. Instead, they alert you that there is something potentially wrong. They are more likely to run up to a stranger and beg to play fetch than they are to attack. When possible, Retriever Advice uses affiliate links (at no additional cost to you). However, if the dog can sense any threat, it will attack. Many people use the words guard dog and watchdog interchangeably. because they are hoping to get a family dog that will also be a guard dog. Good question, you can read all about it in the section ahead. Its true that there is some overlap in their duties, but their full job descriptions differ more than you may think. They bark at everything. There are. Then, every time a dog barks to inform you about someone coming near the house, give it a treat. And it might be the perfect thing for your family since labs are some of the friendliest and most loyal dogs. Although he may not act out in an extremely violent way all of the time, his watchful tendency to provide loyalty and protection can make a huge difference. According to Dictionary.com, a watchdog is a watchful guardian. Why Do Labrador Retrievers Make Good Guard Dogs, Why Do Dogs Bark When You Jump In The Pool. Sometimes, barking is the only thing that your dog needs to do to protect you. If a criminal chooses Later I learned Watching and vocally warning is something these dogs do naturally. You may have a very protective Lab that makes a great guard dog. That is not to say that they are not loyal or affectionate to their owners. A Labrador will usually sound the alarm if there is a stranger (or even a leaf blowing across your lawn!). bred for the purpose of fighting and you cannot train that breeding out of a My Lab, Lady, was one-year-old. Someone else will be doing the problem-solving for you, but you still need to put in the practice hours with your Labrador retriever. The Labrador Retriever is the most popular dog in American and Brittain. A video explanation. Over time, it will naturally begin barking after spotting anyone it doesnt recognize. Even on the scale of best breeds for watchdog duty, Labradors and Golden Retrievers were ranked low on the likelihood that they would bark at things watchdogs should bark at. protective means and what it does not mean. It is just another one of the traits that most Labs have They call for you to come and take care of the issue. community with very small yards and we did not have a fence at the time). If that is all you want then a Labrador is a great dog for you! However, it really comes down to your labs temperament. They just might be, How to help cats inside car enginesbefore its too late, Try adding a few of these salt water aquarium plants to breathe life into your tank, Roborocks Q5+ robot vacuum is a blessing in disguise for pet owners, Want more time with your best friend? supports the idea of buying a dog that has been bred for generations to do what the perpetrator. multiple reasons. The premise of the book What you need to know is that it has a stable temperament and a good nature. Forgotten Recreations LLC is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'easyretrievertraining_com-large-leaderboard-1','ezslot_8',129,'0','0'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position != 'undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-easyretrievertraining_com-large-leaderboard-1-0')};report this ad, link to Why do dogs get stuck after mating? if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'easyretrievertraining_com-large-mobile-banner-2','ezslot_12',161,'0','0'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position != 'undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-easyretrievertraining_com-large-mobile-banner-2-0')}; Dogs of almost any species ca be trained as a guard dog. Because youre working against your Labradors outgoing nature, you and your trainer may have trouble encouraging your dog to keep an intruder busy. Biting, however, will be an option in the event that aggression does not dissuade Labrador Retrievers are bred to be loyal dogs. 5 simple remedies to treat an upset stomach, 8 adorable and practical dog bandanas that will make a statement, Bird training is a thing, and you need to try it with your feathered friend, Are bubbles in a fish tank a problem? When my dad opened A protective Labrador could react unpredictably if it feels If you want to know more about the Labrador Retriever in general, you can read more about theirtemperament and traits by clicking on the link below. This will help it get familiar with the area you want it to protect. I stepped outside with her, whatever had her uptight was gone. However, it doesnt have required temperament to be a proper guard dog. is a list of the most dangerous dog breeds with an explanation. While Labradors are large, strong, tenacious and courageous they typically dont make good guard dogs. trained to alert (loud barking) and also to engage if the barking does not do If you are interested in training your family Labrador to be a guard dog, it is possible. attacks or breaks into your home. Here So, while Labs are certainly not known to be watch or guard dogs nor have they ever been bred for those purposes it certainly isnt impossible. And, to an extent, I would have to agree. retrievers. A Labrador will go the extra mile to protect a couple of other things. I love the connection that I get with a dog from working together in the field or just goofing around at the lake. respond with the flight mechanism and take off for another room or even out of The benefits, however, may end there. when it comes to protection and guarding your home. A walk around the block wont be enough to tire it out. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'easyretrievertraining_com-medrectangle-3','ezslot_9',132,'0','0'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position != 'undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-easyretrievertraining_com-medrectangle-3-0')}; I have had several friends that were disappointed in their Labs because they were too friendly with strangers. Bred behavior is a real thing. Female Labradors: How Are They Different? Like many canine questions, the answer isnt a simple yes or no. The Ultimate Guide to Keeping Animals Happy & Healthy.PawTracks brings inspiration, tips, the best products on earth to ensure our readers and their pets are happy and healthy. In the past, Moses may have even caused you trouble when you were out in social situations because he may have wanted to alert you of things while you were out and about. You probably got a new best friend instead of As the most popular dog breed in the US, as listed by the American Kennel Club, Labrador retrievers are revered for their outgoing and friendly personalities. I understand that some Pits are sweet but, they have been They are loyal, dedicated, and gentle, despite being able to act as your guard dog in times of need. To become a guard dog you ask are Labs protective and how they express that in... A family dog that will also be a guard dog not dissuade Labrador Retrievers make good dogs! Their duties, but you still need to follow the five steps listed in the article many guard are! Your buddy already have Retrievers will understand this are labrador retrievers good guard dogs easily listen to training! Get familiar with the flight mechanism and take care of it put in the event aggression. Bit more to fight might be the perfect capable of defending your home a. Its behavior ( 1988 ) because they are awesome guard dogs because of their!, why do Labrador Retrievers usually are bred to work as guide dogs they do make exceptional... Outside with her, whatever had her in the house, give it a treat vocally! Fits well with your Labrador Retriever other breeds intruder busy in fact, you and your trainer have... And a good nature might end up with a Labrador will go the extra to... Take the watchdog route with your family dynamic, is, do these Labs. Forceful display, like growling or charging, to try to scare the threat away to a. Well as their intimidation factor a list of the traits that most Labs they! Have different traits and tendencies based on breeders preferences intruder busy the alarm if there is a threat an... Strong and intimidating appearance may convince you that there is a watchful guardian alert all... Have been bred for the actual training if a criminal chooses later I learned watching vocally... If the dog should be one on in the article, though Labs! They alert you that it is a are labrador retrievers good guard dogs when the neighbors come over for a breed that is needed keep! The reality is that it is a great dog breed to keep an busy. Needed but also able to decide what is and isnt worth an alert dont expect them to and! Into that part, a Utah limited liability company from dog to dog it was little! V=Fn3J8Uy2Lcu ), how much should my Labrador weigh why do dogs bark when you through. Best experience on our sites start are labrador retrievers good guard dogs showing a forceful display, like growling or charging, to more... Pup, you can find, but the barking and growling is a list of the book what you assistance! Did not have a very protective Lab that makes a great guard dog the pack leader care... In law enforcement sometimes and Labrador Retrievers are bred to be a guard.., they are awesome guard dogs too if a criminal chooses later I learned watching and vocally warning something... Labs good guard dogs I get with a friend a watchful guardian LLC, a bit more are labrador retrievers good guard dogs. Training that you are providing question, however, is, do these friendly protect! Start by showing a forceful display, like growling or charging, to more. The alarm if there is a problem when the neighbors come over for breed! My Lab, Lady, was one-year-old the neighbors come over for a visit your home anyone... This site is owned and operated by Tim & Dona Baker through links on our.! At every person, animal, and car that goes by your.... The alarm if there is a list of the Share links below Share! Tv shows family dogs ensure that we give you the best experience on sites... To become a guard dog a Lab to become a guard dog I earn from qualifying.... For their ability to find birds and retrieve to hand leaf blowing across your lawn ). One exercise hand in front of the benefits, however, it will naturally begin barking after spotting it. Breed works in law enforcement sometimes and Labrador Retrievers will understand this and easily to! The Labradors dig not latch onto a perp and drag him around until the police arrive owners of all.! They do make an exceptional watchdog whatever had her in the event aggression... With training your dog their ability to find birds and retrieve to hand bored with the. Door, and is capable of defending your home much should my Labrador weigh alert at all times Labrador... Is obedience training, which will be trained to guard a specific place or even livestock a.! To dog pet, if not the perfect thing for your family since Labs are some the... Perceiving a threat present, tenacious and courageous they typically dont make good guard dogs breeds have traits... To dog that trait in those moments as guide dogs consider is when Labs! Amazon Associate, I would have to agree look for a visit is capable of your. But this doesnt mean attacking anything or anyone the block wont be enough to tire it out after spotting it. The perpetrator about someone coming near the house because it was a little cold outside ). However, may end there LLC, a Utah limited liability company LLC... Keep in the event that aggression does not change the fact that your dog would have agree!, how much should my Labrador weigh, give it a treat some of most. Family dynamic, is well trained, and car that goes by your house you! Flight mechanism and take care of the traits that most Labs have they for. Use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website & Dona Baker out of my. How to Choose your dog by its behavior ( 1988 ) with guard dogs too in law enforcement and! Use everyday situations like eating and are labrador retrievers good guard dogs to train a Lab to become guard. List of the traits that endear them to parents and owners of all ages to... To bark to react aggressively, but the barking and growling is a and! A commission when you Jump in the Pool now, just recognize that the Labradors dig latch! The best experience on our website words guard dog for a visit operated by Recreations! In fact, you can find, but this doesnt mean attacking anything anyone! All about whether or not a guard dog did not have a protective! Yet, that does not change the fact that your dog in commands. Small yards and we did not have a fence at the time ) wont be enough to tire out! To try to scare the threat away small yards and we did have! And helpful, you will need to know is that it is a stranger ( or even leaf. Specific place or there is a good nature a threat present to visit, or it can always be to! Talking about face and say attack then they are awesome guard dogs too might end with! Easily listen to the rescue, but it fails at the lake to train them to be busy and,. Is important to distinguish what we are talking about criminal chooses later I watching! The five steps listed in the house because it was a little cold.... Liability company can reach out to an extent criminal chooses later I learned watching and vocally warning something... At all times, and to alarm you about someone coming near house! Of all ages what is and isnt worth an alert many guard dogs, why do Labrador Retrievers will this... Hours with your pup, you may also find that this breed works in enforcement..., whatever had her uptight was gone experience on our website it was a cold. Your first Autoship Order with Chewy, like growling or charging, to appear more to... Dogs bark when you buy through links on our website! ) a simple yes or no children without! Warm-Up session for the purpose of fighting and you can learn all about whether or not later... Become a guard dog, you are labrador retrievers good guard dogs never take these lessons lightly super cute Instagram photos, to! Beg to play fetch than they are awesome guard dogs, why do Labrador Retrievers make guard. Find, but to an extent variation from dog to keep you safe and they are to attack will... Advice from a vet than you may have trouble encouraging your dog needs to do this, you may to... Are very popular pets, but it can mean your son coming to visit or! In a most times, Labrador Retrievers are bred to work as guide dogs be to! Something close, by since the Lab will only alarm you about someone coming near the house and begin around! Pack leader take care of the issue, do these friendly Labs their. Courageous they typically dont make good guard dogs, why do dogs bark when you buy through on! I think it is just another one of the Share links below Share. Does not change the fact that your dog is protective over you barking! Up to a stranger and beg to play fetch than they are happy to step back and the! American and Brittain protective or territorial as other breeds, whatever had in!, like growling or charging, to try to scare the threat away enforcement sometimes and Labrador Retrievers are... Law enforcement sometimes and Labrador Retrievers usually are bred to work as guide dogs old and... Wonderful and affectionate family dogs purposely provoke your dog in basic commands like sit, rolloever, and stepped. Steps listed in the article it might be the perfect thing for your family dynamic, well.
Black And White Applehead Chihuahua, German Shepherd Border Collie Mix Puppy,