Even if you're not a prepper, these dog breeds can prove helpful as protectors, hikers and hunters. It's a bonus that they're loving and intelligent as well. They'll be with you whether you're out in the woods or in bed falling asleep.

Outdoor/Hiking Dogs

I. Bernese Mountain Dog

Bernese can help with carrying your survival supplies, they are excellent trackers, they have a great level of energy, and they do well during harsh winter conditions.

Highlights:

• Strong
• Eager to please, loyal, and affectionate
• High level of energy; need constant challenges

II. Alaskan Malamute

This impressive, wolf-like dog just might be the perfect dog breed for any survivalist out there. They are expert hunters, diggers, and climbers.

Highlights:

• Sturdy, resistant, and powerful
• Independent nature, friendly with strangers
• Perfect hunters

III. Border Collie

These dogs apparently possess a supernatural amount of energy and stamina as they can run up to or even more than 50 miles per day.

Highlights:

• Highly sensitive
• One of the most intelligent dog breeds
• Live to work

General Guard Dogs

IV. Giant Schnauzer

This is the first guard dog on every professional list because its guardianship is absolutely instinctual. Their structure and weather-resistant coat make them perfect for any climate.

Highlights:

• Big dog, big personality
• Intelligent, obedient if well trained, agile
• Natural guardian

V. Akita

Akitas are courageous and profoundly loyal dogs. Being big, strong dogs, their powerful presence alone serves as a deterrent.

Highlights:

• Enjoys carrying stuff around
• Naturally fearless and protective; can easily become aggressive if not trained properly
• Won’t back down from any challenge

VI. German Shepherd

The reputable German Shepherds can instill fear on sight due to their notoriety as police and military dogs used for tracking, sniffing, and attacking, but they will excel at anything they’re trained to do.

Highlights:

• Intelligent, capable, hard-working dog
• High energy and courageous breed
• Require regular mental and physical exercise

VII. Chinese Shar Pei

Shar Peis must be trained very early and must learn who the “pack leader” is or else they will likely compete for the job.

Highlights:

• Tough and merciless dogs when needed
• Very territorial
• Calm, devoted to loved ones

VIII. Doberman Pinscher

They are ranked as the fifth most intelligent dog breed, and they will assume the alpha role in your household.

Highlights:

• Alert and fearless
• Loyal, obedient, and determined
• Super-intelligent; natural protector

Hunting Dogs

IX. Rhodesian Ridgeback

Being a hunting breed, this dog is the best protector from outdoor threats and will do anything in its power to make sure you and your companions are safe.

Highlights:

• Perfect fit for dry, hot climates
• Very intelligent
• High prey drive

X. German Shorthair Pointer

This is one of the few hunting breeds that can perform all gundog roles both in the field and water. If you lose sight of each other, this dog will always find its way back to you.

Highlights:

• Highly energetic, remarkably intelligent, and hard worker
• Versatile
• People oriented

XI. Labrador Retriever

Labs might be the ultimate hunting dogs due to their excessive energy, their willingness to go almost anywhere to retrieve the kills, and their love for both land and water.

Highlights:

• Bred for physically demanding jobs
• Stable temperament; intelligent
• Great fur for cold, rainy weather

XII. American Foxhound

The American Foxhound is a rare purebred that is known for its excellent hunting abilities and its easygoing, loyal, kind, and sweet nature.

Highlights:

• Incredible running skills
• Willing to chase down anything
• Gentle and tolerant but can be stubborn

XIII. Vizsla

This medium-sized dog was originally bred to work in the forest, field, and water. One special characteristic for this dog is their very affectionate nature.

Highlights:

• Superb scenting skills
• Excellent watchdog with great protective instincts
• “Talker”: barks, whines, and moans to make their “opinion” heard

XIV. Bluetick Coonhound

This breed is perfect for hunting big, fast game, such as mountain lions.

Highlights:

• Devoted, smart dogs at home and fearless on the trails
• High level of stamina and very powerful
• Hunters first

Let us know if you think any other dog breeds should be added to this list!

Article Source: Ask A Prepper