Worst Guard Dogs 2026: These are the 14 breeds of adorable dog that can't be trusted to guard your home - including the loving Labrador 🐶

These dogs are likely to welcome the average intruder like a long lost friend.

If you’ve been thinking about welcoming a new dog into your home then you’re in good company – Royal Kennel Club (the new name for the UK Kennel Club) stats show that the number of people looking for puppies has surged to record levels.

Dogs come in all shapes, colours and sizes - there are 221 different pedigree dogs recognised by breeders in the UK, from Affenpinscher to Yorkshire Terrier (there are sadly no dog breeds starting with the letter ‘z’!).

So there’s plenty of thinking to do before you select your family’s latest four-legged addition – whether you want a large dog, family-friendly dog, or an easy to train dog.

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There is even scientific research to guide you, in particular psychologist Stanley Coren’s groundbreaking book The Intelligence of Dogs.

Choosing the right breed is absolutely essential – for example opting for a small dog if you don’t have much room at home, or a hypoallergenic dog if you suffer from allergies.

And one thing you might like to consider is that some dogs are naturally better guard dogs than others.

Labrador Retrievers may be affectionate and popular, but they’re likely to welcome a burglar like a long lost friend - particularly if they come armed with a few tasty sausages.

On the other hand, other breeds are naturally suspicious of strangers, ever-vigilant and have the potential to be ferocious if challenged or confronted. It also helps if they look a bit scary.

Here are the 14 worst breeds of guard dog.

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1. Bloodhound

The Bloodhound has the best sense of smell in the canine world so could happily track down a burglar. Just don't ask them to stop the crime in the first place though - they'll welcome all and sundry into their home. | Canva/Getty Images

2. Pug

Pugs are easy to train because their sole aim is to please everybody they meet - even those they really shouldn't. Their love of a quiet life means they'll avoid drama at almost any cost. | Getty Images for CMT

3. Basset Hound

The Basset Hound is one of the most sociable breeds of dog, well known for getting on with everybody. Unfortunately that includes complete strangers, such as potential intruders. | Canva/Getty Images

4. Old English Sheepdog

Unless your idea of guarding a home is licking intruders into submission, then the Old English Sheepdog just isn't up to the task. | Canva/Getty Images