The Saint Bernard got its name assisting monks high in the Swiss Alps at the Saint Bernard Hospice. The monks used the dogs for search and rescue missions to track down lost travelers. These dogs saved thousands of lives. With a reputation as a gentle giant, a Saint Bernard doesn’t fall far from the label. They are gentle, friendly, and patient with children.
Dog Breed Info calls them patient, obedient, extremely loyal, eager and willing to please. However, the assessment comes with a warning. “Teach this dog not to jump on humans starting at puppyhood. Bear in mind that an unruly dog of this size presents a problem for even a strong adult if it is to be exercised in public areas on a leash.” A dog of this size is capable of creating a very dangerous situation. It is also prone to heat exhaustion and prefers to stay inside. But watch out! This dog drools profusely and likes to chew up your personal belongings.
Dalmatian
Dalmatians were bred to run. Originally, they ran alongside horse-drawn carriages and ultimately were known for running with the fire brigade. So, if you go for a 10-mile jog each morning, that will help. However, it won’t cure its high-strung proclivities. It is one of the most excitable breeds.
This striking white and black-spotted dog with a tall frame, a long tail, and floppy ears can be trained to be a good watchdog, but it’s not easy. Without training, Dalmatians become aggressive and destructive. They are high-maintenance pets who are capable of digging a crater-size hole in your backyard, and they are too excitable to be around small children.
The Great Pyrenees
This breed has the potential to be a devoted pet who is loyal to your family, as well as a competent watchdog. The great Pyrenees tend to be strong-willed and stubborn, however, so a determined training regimen will need to be in place. It does not have the reputation of being an easy dog to live with, but with a strong socializing and training effort at home, he can be a good companion for the whole family.
These dogs are gentle with children and calm inside the house. Outside, this dog will require secure fencing and is not recommended for off-leash walks. Drooling is common. The Great Pyrenees was bred as a flock-guarding dog in the Pyrenees mountains of France and Spain. This background makes the Great Pyrenees a brave and effective guard dog. Its nature is a watchful, protective, and attentive to its family.
Basenji
A Basenji is a poor choice for a family pet. Owners of the high-strung breed are known to share stories of its mischievous acts of destruction. As an intelligent dog, it knows which of your possessions are held most dear. This breed is smart and independent, with the characteristics of a cat. It’s curious and reserved, inquisitive and clever.
With its perky ears and tightly curled tail, it looks as full of energy as it is. A Basenji cannot bark, but they make plenty of original sounds you have to hear to believe. They howl, shriek and yodel. The Basenji is a primitive breed discovered by Pygmy hunters in the African Congo. Always vigilant, these dogs make great watchdogs, but they must be trained early.
Bullmastiff
The Bullmastiff is a breed from 1860's England that was used to protect the livestock on large estates from murderous poachers. It’s a brave and powerful dog that weighs up to 130 pounds. This breed is good with children but terrible with other dogs. These dogs will drool, slobber, and snore.
Bullmastiffs are stubborn and require consistent training. On the other hand, the Bullmastiff is a dedicated guard dog with a mild temperament. They are calm and loving. Once this dog is provoked, it is ferocious, true to its breeding. They require full obedience training and to always be leashed. While the Mastiff is a dominant breed, a Bullmastiff is even more so.