One of the many reasons people enjoy having dogs around is for a little extra protection. So choosing a breed that makes a good watchdog is a great option for many people. Another factor that plays a big role in one’s decision-making is size, as many don’t want to or cannot house a large or giant breed. For this reason, we’ve gathered a list of excellent watchdogs that are small in stature. But don’t worry, what they lack in physical size they make up for in personality!
1. Dachshund
Smart and vigilant, with a big-dog bark, they make fine watchdogs. Bred to be an independent hunter of dangerous prey, they can be brave to the point of rashness, and a bit stubborn, but their endearing nature and unique look has won millions of hearts the world over.
2. Shih Tzu
Being cute is a way of life for this lively charmer. The Shih Tzu is known to be especially affectionate with children. As a small dog bred to spend most of their day inside royal palaces, they make a great pet if you live in an apartment or lack a big backyard. Some dogs live to dig holes and chase cats, but a Shih Tzu’s idea of fun is sitting in your lap acting adorable as you try to watch TV.
3. Cairn Terrier
The double coat is harsh and wiry on top and downy beneath. A Cairn presents as a small, shaggy, alert dog, with head, tail, and ears up, and eyes shining with intelligence.
4. Chihuahua
The Chihuahua is a tiny dog with a huge personality. Chihuahuas possess loyalty, charm, and big-dog attitude. Even tiny dogs require training, and without it this clever scamp will rule your household like a little Napoleon.
5. Miniature Pinscher
The smooth, shiny coat comes in two shades of solid red, or chocolate-and-rust or black-and-rust. The dark, slightly oval eyes and high-set ears help bring out a self-possessed, ‘big dog’ personality. A distinguishing characteristic is the Min Pin’s high-stepping ‘hackney’ gait, reminiscent of a hackney horse at the trot.
6. Miniature Schnauzer
Created to be all-around farm dogs and ratters, they are tough, muscular, and fearless without being aggressive. The Miniature Schnauzer is a bright, friendly, trainable companion, small enough to adapt to apartment life but tireless enough to patrol acres of farmland. They get along well with other animals and kids. Minis are sturdy little guys and enjoy vigorous play. Home and family oriented, they make great watchdogs.
7. Toy Poodle
Forget any preconceived notions about Poodles you may have: Poodles are eager, athletic, and wickedly smart dogs of remarkable versatility. The Standard, with his greater size and strength, is the best all-around athlete of the family, but all Poodles can be trained with great success.
8. Lhasa Apso
The lavishly coated Lhasa Apso is a thousand-year-old breed who served as sentinels at palaces and monasteries isolated high in the Himalayas. Smart, confident, and complex, Lhasas are family comedians but regally aloof with strangers.
9. Scottish Terrier
The wiry topcoat and soft, dense undercoat coat can be black, wheaten yellow, or a brindle-stripe pattern. Bright, piercing eyes, and erect ears and tail, convey keen alertness’ a hallmark of Britain’s terrier breeds. The Scottie working style has been described as efficient and businesslike, and their aloofness toward strangers makes them excellent watchdogs.
10. West Highland White Terrier
Alert and active, Westies exhibit traits of a plucky and self-reliant ratting terrier: They require no pampering, they will chase after anything that moves, and their independence can make training a challenge. But, thanks to their faithfulness and keen intelligence, Westies will train nicely with time and patience.
