Did you know the Bloodhound is considered one of the oldest breeds dating back over a thousand years, tracing back to monks at the Saint-Hubert Monastery in Belgium? Its original name was actually the St. Hubert Hound. However, don’t let those droopy ears and sad eyes fool you. This breed has a nose that is unmatched in the canine world, able to track scents for miles and display unwavering tenacity in hunt. They are the Sherlock Holmes of the dog world, perfect for hunting and tracking. However, does that make them excellent guard dogs? Let’s dive in and find out!
Firstly, it’s beneficial to understand what it means to be a ‘guard dog.’ A guard dog is trained to protect a property, personal possessions, or people. They use their natural instincts to identify potential threats, act defensively, and show assertiveness when necessary. Common breeds used as guard dogs include the German Shepherd, Rottweiler, and the Doberman Pinscher.
Bloodhounds, on the other hand, were primarily bred for tracking than for guarding. They are known to have the keenest sense of smells among all dog breeds. Not only did they assist in hunting games in the olden days, but modern Bloodhounds serve as formidable tools for law enforcement in search-and-rescue missions and in tracking down criminals. That nose knows no bounds!
That being said, could a Bloodhound be a good guard dog? The answer is not quite black and white. One of the key reasons people often mistake Bloodhounds for good guard dogs is their sizable appearance. Bloodhounds are large dogs weighing between 80-110 pounds and standing up to 27 inches at the shoulder. Their big, robust frame and deep, loud bark can be intimidating and might deter any ill-intentioned person.
However, their temperament tells another story. Bloodhounds are incredibly friendly, agreeable dogs. They love people and get along swimmingly with other animals too. These gentle giants are more likely to welcome a stranger with a wag of their tail rather than a growl. This hospitable disposition, while wonderful in a family pet, isn’t ideal in a guard dog.
Moreover, their incredible sense of smell can sometimes serve as a distraction rather than a benefit when it comes to guarding. A Bloodhound’s nose could lead them on a wild goose chase, completely disregarding their guarding duties. They can be so determined in following a scent that they might even leave their post unprotected. That’s not exactly what you want in a guard dog.
But does that mean that a Bloodhound can’t be trained to be a guard dog? Not necessarily, but it might require more patience and skill than with traditional guard dog breeds. Their natural instincts to trust and accept individuals, including strangers, may take time to overcome in training to act as efficient guard dogs. As scent hounds, their primary interest would be to track and not necessarily protect or guard.
However, that shouldn’t discourage you if you have your heart set on a Bloodhound. These dog breeds are epitomes of loyalty and will care for their families deeply. While they might not deter a stranger with a snarl, they are likely to alert you to the presence of one with their bark.
On top of that, they excel as ‘watchdogs.’ While a guard dog is expected to engage in protecting its family, a watchdog’s role is to alert its owners to unusual or suspicious activities, which a Bloodhound can do excellently thanks to its keen sense of smell.
In conclusion, while the Bloodhound might not be the best choice for a traditional guard dog, they can still play an essential role in your home’s safety. They are great with families, giving you love and affection in spades. Their watchdog capabilities ensure that even though they may not make the first move against an intruder, they will sound the alarm for you.
Remember, every dog, regardless of its breed, is unique. If you’re considering getting a Bloodhound as a guard dog, spend time training, and consider professional help. After all, the incredible bond that blossoms between a dog and its owner far outweighs its potential as a guard dog!
