Rhodesian Ridgeback
In all honesty, some breeds just don't have the disposition or temperament to be protective or good guard dogs. The Rhodesian Ridgeback is not one of these dogs.
When Europeans were first colonizing Southern Africa, they bred their dogs with local hunting dogs to create the Rhodesian Ridgeback.
Smart and loyal, this breed is also pretty fearless given they were utilized to keep lions at bay until their master arrived to finish the hunt.
We figure any dog that is willing to stare down a lion must be pretty brave and protective.
Today, the Ridgeback continues to be popular.
Professionally, this breed is known for making a very good guard dog. In the home, this dog is sought after because of its beautiful color and unique ridge that runs up its back.
However, the Ridgeback is known to show great loyalty to its family.
In fact, showing a strong link with the lion hunters of the past, if this dog detects a threat, it won't usually bark, growl or attack.
Instead, it will place itself between its human and the perceived threat. So, if something wants a piece of you, it's got to come though the Rhodesian Ridgeback first.