Can Labrador Retrievers be guard dogs?

Labrador Retrievers can be guard dogs, but they are naturally friendly, social, and eager to please. These traits make them excellent family companions, but not ideal for serious guarding work.

That said, most Labs will bark to alert their people if someone unfamiliar approaches the house. They can be protective of their family, especially if they sense a real threat, but they’re more likely to greet strangers with a wagging tail than aggression. If you’re looking for a dog to deter intruders, a Lab might not be your first pick — but if you want a smart, loyal dog who will let you know when something’s up, they can definitely fill that role.