The other day I was talking to a dog trainer and asking him, in his experience, which dog does he think was like the overall dog. By overall dog i refer to a dog that can guard, has the intelligence to do PP work, can be a good family companion, doesn't tend to get problems with hips, and other health concerns. So basically the points to take into consideration were: guarding temperament, intelligence, family companionship, and good health. The trainer said to me that his favorite breed was the giant schnauzer, but he thinks that a good german shepherd from czech lines would be his answer. I personally loved a good german rottweiler from working line, but I now that they tend to get fat when getting older. Another dog is the ca de bou. I, personally, have a female ca de bou, and her agility is amazing, like a shepherd, is very intelligent and healthy. Also, get very well with my friends and family, but not so friendly with other dogs. Another option to the question could be an hybrid american bulldog, in terms of health, guarding (some of them) and family companion. But in intelligence, i don't know if could be compare to a sheperd or to a rottie. I know that this topic, previously has been discussed, and people tend to pick with passion isntead of reason. But, I will like that the answers came from the mind, not so heart. Ohhhh, the Black Russian Terrier and the boerbel could be on the list. Any comments and experiences would be perfect for discussing those two mentioned breeds... Thanks