Working Dogs

Working Dogs - Strong, Smart, Dependable


working dogsWorking dogs mainly refer to strong, large, herding guarding dogs that are learn, capable, quick to learn, and intelligent. They are very impressive companions, but because of how large and strong they are, they're not for every family.

When properly trained, all working dogs can be very calm and gentle, though they are happiest when given work to do. Many people gladly undertake this challenge because they want a loyal dog that will protect them and their family no matter what.

The working group can be confusing because different kennels place different breeds in different groups. For example, if the production of livestock is important to the economy of an area, pastoral type dogs will be called working dogs. Other areas will call those dogs Herding or Pastoral Dogs, placing the rescue, police, and guard dogs in the group of working dogs.

Working Dogs - The Breeds

Akita - These Spitz dogs were originally developed in Japan's mountainous northern regions. Akitas are known for being brave, alert, devoted to their family, and dignified. While they are territorial on their property, they will be very loyal and affectionate with friends and family. Like a cat, it will clean itself after eating and even preen other dogs.

Alaskan Malamute - These wolf like dogs were bred for use as Alaskan sled dogs. They are similar looking to Siberian Huskies, though they are known for having quiet and loyal temperament. They aren't used as much for sledding, thorugh they are still used for snow sports and performance competitions like dog agility and weight pulling.

Anatolian Shepherd Dog - These Turkish dogs are descendents of livestock guardian dogs whose job was to protect sheep from bears, cheetahs, wolves, and jackals. They are a powerful breed responsible for guarding flocks with no supervision or direction. This dog needs to be socialized to be a good companion, but because they're very intelligent they can be trained by a patient owner.

Beauceron - These French dogs were bred to guard and are also useful for herding cattle and sheep. They're very healthy, long lived, and athletic, and known to be calm, fearless, and intelligent as well. As adults, they are suspicious towards strangers and make great guardians. When with their owner, they will act how their owner does toward each stranger.

Bernese Mountain Dog - Originally bred as farm dogs in Switzerland, these large dogs are good natured, placid towards strangers, and self assured. They are more suited to the outdoors given their size and coat, though they can behave in homes if they are given enough exercise and activities. They should get along fine with all pets in the home as well.

Black Russian Terrier - These guard and police dogs are relatively rare outside of Russia but are starting to become more popular. These fuax terriers are highly intelligent, calm, loyal, and brave, and shouldn't ever be timid. Even though they can seem aloof at times, they love companionship and will form a deep bond with their family.

Border Collie - These extremely energetic sheep dogs are known for being among the most intelligent dogs. Because of this though, they need plenty of mental stimulation and physical exercise - without it, they will not be happy. They shouldn't be left around small children and cats because of their intense desire to herd.

Bouvier des Flandres - These Belgian herding dogs were bred for farm work like cart pulling, sheep herding, and cattle droving. They are used now as police and guard dogs. They are great family pets, and have a very loyal, rational, protective, gentle nature. They are even tempered and obedient, and will respond well to very consistent training.

Boxer - These large, German short-haired dogs have smooth coats and a powerful head. They're a very popular breed, and have an energetic, bright personality. They are great with children, but need to recieve sufficient exercise or else they'll be prone to things like chewing and digging. They also need to be trained properly to avoid becoming stubborn.

Bullmastiff - These huge working dogs are known for their massive size. Despite their huge size, they are obedient and docile. They will be extremely devoted and loyal to their family, though they should always be supervised around small children and animals because of their enormous power.

Canadian Eskimo Dog - These Arctic dogs are actually the rarest and oldest of the purebred domestic indigenous canine. They were originally bred to help with transportation in the snow, and are brave, loyal, alert, and intelligent. They love the cold and will often rather sleep outside.

Central Aisian Shepherd Dog (Ovtcharka) - These very large, strong dogs were originally bred in Russia to work. They desire to solve problems, are independent minded, responsible, and brave. They have strong territorial instincts and tend to guard things, so they are not recommended for someone without experience that doesn't plan to train them.

Doberman Pinscher - Dobermans are very popular, intelligent companions. They were originally bred in Germany for police work and as guard dogs, but because of how popular they are, they're mostly family pets now. They're not bred to be as aggressive anymore, but still need to be socialized early on to do well with other pets.

Dogue de Bordeaux - These strong French dogs have been around for a very long time. They have been used for pulling carts and hauling heavy objects to protecting flocks and guarding European castles. Even though they are protective and vigilant, they are not known to be aggresive. By socializing them early on, you will make them an excellent family companion.

Entlebucher Mountain Dog - These Swiss working dogs need early socialization, plenty of training, and a lot of activity. They should be a devoted and happy family member, though it isn't common for them to be suspicious around strangers.

German Pinscher - These smaller German dogs are gaining popularity very quickly, and they can have black or tan coats. They are known for even temperaments and make loving companions. They're very intelligent and easy to train, and can do well with other animals and children. THey should not be shy around strangers.

Giant schnauzer - These powerful, large Schnauzers need plenty of exercise, and can sometimes have herding instancts. They need to be socialized in order to prevent them from showing aggression to strangers and other dogs. They love the water, and will swim whenever they have an opportunity.

Great Dane - These huge dogs are known primarily because of their size and gentle nature. They do very well with people, other animals, and other dogs, though they can be aggressive if they feel threatened. They need a fair amount of exercise, but it is important that they don't get too much when they're growing, as that could lead to bone and joint problems.

Greenland Dog - These Husky types were originally bred in Greenland to hunt seal and polar bears. They're a very old breed, still used primarily for work because of their speed and strength. They need a very confident owner that will be a strong leader. With the proper owner, they will be very protective and loyal.

Great Pyrenees - Pyrenean Mountain dogs are bred for guarding livestock. They have thick white coats, though their faces can have tan, gray, or rust on them. They are not very common as pets outside of France and Spain, though they tend to be featured in popular culture quite a bit.

Greater Swiss Mountain Dog - These very large Sennenhunds are very popular in Switzerland. They are quite powerful and agile, still very capable of all farm duties. They make great family dogs because they are active, social, dignified, and calm, and they're even pretty healthy relative to other very large dogs. They should get a large amount of exercise and not be confined to kennels.

Hovawart - These German dogs were bred to guard estates, and are excellent guard dogs. Because of this, they are reserved around strangers. They will be devoted and loyal towards their family, and will be happiest if they get plenty of training and jobs to do.

Italian Corso Dog - Cane Corsos are Italian bred hunting, guardian, and companion dogs. They do very well with obedience training, and bond closely with their owner. As a puppy, they need to taught not to be aggressive, so when they're adults their protective instincts will be manageable. They need to be carefully introduced to new people and animals, as they don't like new things.

Komondor - These Hungarian livestock guardians have easily recognizable long, corded coats that resemble mops. They're valued as a national treasure of Hungary, and bred to make it's own decisions and act independently. They are great with families and children and will accept strangers if they don't sense any danger.

Kuvasz - Kuvaszok are Hungarian livestock guards, but they are very popular family pets as well. They're a clownish breed known for being extremely loyal and intelligent. They are the happiest when they are given work and jobs to do, and will do well with a family that teaches them tricks.

Leonberger - These large working dogs were originally bred in Germany to be similar to a lion and appear on crests. These submissive, well socialized dogs are perfect family companions. They are kindly, robust, intelligent, self disciplined around children, friendly towards strangers. Because of that, they can really be taken anywhere.

Maremma Sheepdog - Originally bred in Central Italy, these livestock guardians helped to protect flocks from wolves. In places like Abruzzo, they are still used mainly for this purpose because of how important sheep herding is to the economy and because wolves are still an active threat. If given enough space, they can be great family companions.

English Mastiff - Mastiffs are known for their gigantic size, tan colors, and massive head with a black mask. They are generally affectionate and calm, though can protect their owner if they feel it necessary. Rather than attacking any perceived threats though, they tend to growl and pin the intruder. With their family, they are very gentle and easygoing for their size.

Miniature Schnauzer - These German Schnauzers are extremely popular across the world because of their smaller size and desirable temperament. They are willing to please, friendly, and intelligent, known for being very trainable and good watchdogs. They are very playful and should be watched around children because of their energy. They need to be trained to live with cats, but it is possible.

Neapolitan Mastiff - These large Italian guard dogs are bred to defend families. They're a fearless and intelligent breed that thinks independently and learns quickly. They will accept strangers if given enough socialization, but without it they tend to be aggressive towards other dogs. They respond the best to positive training early on as a puppy.

Newfoundland -  These larger workers were originally bred to help fisherman in Newfoundland. They are quite at home in the water and are great for lifesaving and rescue missions because of their webbed feet, muscular build, swimming abilities, and their thick double coat. It's a great family dog and will be very gentle and docile around children.

Portuguese Water Dog - These working dogs were bred in Portugal to herd fish right into the nets of fishermen. They would also help get broken nets and lost tackle. They make fantastic companions and do well with obedience and agility training. They'll even be friendly to stragners after being introduced and enjoy having their fluffy coat petted.

Pyrenean Mastiff - Pyrenean Mastiffs are very large Spanish dogs known for being calm and self reliant. They are protective of children, docile, and even tempered. Even though they are on the gentle side, they are not afraid to defend their family against what they believe to be threats. They have a large, long coat that needs to be brushed and combed constantly.

Rottweiler - Originally bred in Rottweil, Germany, these large dogs were used for pulling carts that carried butchered meat, along with other products to the market and herded livestock. They have a good natured temperament, a placid disposition, and very eager and biddable to work. It is a very intelligent and hard dog and has a strong desire to protect and guard their family.

Saint Bernard - These huge working dogs were bred in the Swiss and Italian Alps for rescue. They do best when they're socialized from an early age, though they are a very affectionate and loyal breed. Because they are so large, they need to be trained while they're young and manageable and supervised around children to prevent accidentally hurting them.

Samoyed - Bjelkiers are nomadic reindeer herders from Siberia. They have a friendly disposition and are rarely aggressive. They are playful no matter how old they get, and are great companions and calm around small children and other animals. They can be great watch dogs because they bark when anything comes near.

Swedish Lapphund - These Swedish Spitz types were bred to guard and herd reindeer. They are the happiest and make great companions when given plenty of physical and mental stimulation. They do very well in rally obedience, herding events, dog agility trials, and obedience training. The can become excessive barkers if not trained as a puppy.

Shiba Inu - These small, agile Japanese dogs were originally developed to hunt. They're an ancient breed, known for being intelligent and independent. They can be slightly challenging to train, and need to remain on leashes due to their strong drive to chase prey. Unlike most other dogs, they will actually make an effort to keep clean.

Siberian Husky - Huskies are wolf-like working dogs from Siberia. They're a very resilient, active, and energetic breed developed for pulling heavy loads for very long distances across difficult conditions. They are highly intelligent dogs that do well in obedience training, but they can get bored if not constantly given new commands and activities.

Standard Schnauzer - These wiry coated breeds were developed in Germany and have long eyebrows and beards. They have a salt and pepper coat and are the smallest of all the working dogs. They have guardian instincts and make loyal family dogs. They are tolerant and patient in most situations and will be good around chilren with a strong willed owner training them from a young age.

Tibetan Mastiff - An ancient dog that was originally bred by nomadic groups from Central Asia. They can be confront predators as large as leopards and wolves, or they can be socialized to thrive in a nice spacious yard as a family companion. They prefer to sleep throughout the day so they can be active at night and need strong obedience training.

Working Dogs - Should You Get One?

When it comes to difficult tasks and jobs, the working dogs are a clear choice. They're strong, dependable, and happiest when they're put to work. Just because they're so adept at work doesn't mean they're necessarily easy to train, however. They're all extremely intelligent, but some are stubborn and will require persistent obedience training.

If you don't have a lot of space or a yard and can't commit to exercising working dogs each day then they're probably not the ideal companion for you. You also need to make sure to properly socialize them to other animals and small children very early on to make sure that they will be controlled at all times. When you do all those things, you'll be able to raise a very healthy, happy working dog.
Working Dogs - Strong, Smart, Dependable

Working dogs mainly refer to strong, large, herding guarding dogs that are learn, capable, quick to learn, and intelligent. They are very impressive companions, but because of how large and strong they are, they're not for every family.

When properly trained, all working dogs can be very calm and gentle, though they are happiest when given work to do. Many people gladly undertake this challenge because they want a loyal dog that will protect them and their family no matter what.

The working group can be confusing because different kennels place different breeds in different groups. For example, if the production of livestock is important to the economy of an area, pastoral type dogs will be called working dogs. Other areas will call those dogs Herding or Pastoral Dogs, placing the rescue, police, and guard dogs in the group of working dogs.

Working Dogs - The Breeds

Akita - These Spitz dogs were originally developed in Japan's mountainous northern regions. Akitas are known for being brave, alert, devoted to their family, and dignified. While they are territorial on their property, they will be very loyal and affectionate with friends and family. Like a cat, it will clean itself after eating and even preen other dogs.

Alaskan Malamute - These wolf like dogs were bred for use as Alaskan sled dogs. They are similar looking to Siberian Huskies, though they are known for having quiet and loyal temperament. They aren't used as much for sledding, thorugh they are still used for snow sports and performance competitions like dog agility and weight pulling.

Anatolian Shepherd Dog - These Turkish dogs are descendents of livestock guardian dogs whose job was to protect sheep from bears, cheetahs, wolves, and jackals. They are a powerful breed responsible for guarding flocks with no supervision or direction. This dog needs to be socialized to be a good companion, but because they're very intelligent they can be trained by a patient owner.

Beauceron - These French dogs were bred to guard and are also useful for herding cattle and sheep. They're very healthy, long lived, and athletic, and known to be calm, fearless, and intelligent as well. As adults, they are suspicious towards strangers and make great guardians. When with their owner, they will act how their owner does toward each stranger.

Bernese Mountain Dog - Originally bred as farm dogs in Switzerland, these large dogs are good natured, placid towards strangers, and self assured. They are more suited to the outdoors given their size and coat, though they can behave in homes if they are given enough exercise and activities. They should get along fine with all pets in the home as well.

Black Russian Terrier - These guard and police dogs are relatively rare outside of Russia but are starting to become more popular. These fuax terriers are highly intelligent, calm, loyal, and brave, and shouldn't ever be timid. Even though they can seem aloof at times, they love companionship and will form a deep bond with their family.

Border Collie - These extremely energetic sheep dogs are known for being among the most intelligent dogs. Because of this though, they need plenty of mental stimulation and physical exercise - without it, they will not be happy. They shouldn't be left around small children and cats because of their intense desire to herd.

Bouvier des Flandres - These Belgian herding dogs were bred for farm work like cart pulling, sheep herding, and cattle droving. They are used now as police and guard dogs. They are great family pets, and have a very loyal, rational, protective, gentle nature. They are even tempered and obedient, and will respond well to very consistent training.

Boxer - These large, German short-haired dogs have smooth coats and a powerful head. They're a very popular breed, and have an energetic, bright personality. They are great with children, but need to recieve sufficient exercise or else they'll be prone to things like chewing and digging. They also need to be trained properly to avoid becoming stubborn.

Bullmastiff - These huge working dogs are known for their massive size. Despite their huge size, they are obedient and docile. They will be extremely devoted and loyal to their family, though they should always be supervised around small children and animals because of their enormous power.

Canadian Eskimo Dog - These Arctic dogs are actually the rarest and oldest of the purebred domestic indigenous canine. They were originally bred to help with transportation in the snow, and are brave, loyal, alert, and intelligent. They love the cold and will often rather sleep outside.

Central Aisian Shepherd Dog (Ovtcharka) - These very large, strong dogs were originally bred in Russia to work. They desire to solve problems, are independent minded, responsible, and brave. They have strong territorial instincts and tend to guard things, so they are not recommended for someone without experience that doesn't plan to train them.

Doberman Pinscher - Dobermans are very popular, intelligent companions. They were originally bred in Germany for police work and as guard dogs, but because of how popular they are, they're mostly family pets now. They're not bred to be as aggressive anymore, but still need to be socialized early on to do well with other pets.

Dogue de Bordeaux - These strong French dogs have been around for a very long time. They have been used for pulling carts and hauling heavy objects to protecting flocks and guarding European castles. Even though they are protective and vigilant, they are not known to be aggresive. By socializing them early on, you will make them an excellent family companion.

Entlebucher Mountain Dog - These Swiss working dogs need early socialization, plenty of training, and a lot of activity. They should be a devoted and happy family member, though it isn't common for them to be suspicious around strangers.

German Pinscher - These smaller German dogs are gaining popularity very quickly, and they can have black or tan coats. They are known for even temperaments and make loving companions. They're very intelligent and easy to train, and can do well with other animals and children. THey should not be shy around strangers.

Giant schnauzer - These powerful, large Schnauzers need plenty of exercise, and can sometimes have herding instancts. They need to be socialized in order to prevent them from showing aggression to strangers and other dogs. They love the water, and will swim whenever they have an opportunity.

Great Dane - These huge dogs are known primarily because of their size and gentle nature. They do very well with people, other animals, and other dogs, though they can be aggressive if they feel threatened. They need a fair amount of exercise, but it is important that they don't get too much when they're growing, as that could lead to bone and joint problems.

Greenland Dog - These Husky types were originally bred in Greenland to hunt seal and polar bears. They're a very old breed, still used primarily for work because of their speed and strength. They need a very confident owner that will be a strong leader. With the proper owner, they will be very protective and loyal.

Great Pyrenees - Pyrenean Mountain dogs are bred for guarding livestock. They have thick white coats, though their faces can have tan, gray, or rust on them. They are not very common as pets outside of France and Spain, though they tend to be featured in popular culture quite a bit.

Greater Swiss Mountain Dog - These very large Sennenhunds are very popular in Switzerland. They are quite powerful and agile, still very capable of all farm duties. They make great family dogs because they are active, social, dignified, and calm, and they're even pretty healthy relative to other very large dogs. They should get a large amount of exercise and not be confined to kennels.

Hovawart - These German dogs were bred to guard estates, and are excellent guard dogs. Because of this, they are reserved around strangers. They will be devoted and loyal towards their family, and will be happiest if they get plenty of training and jobs to do.

Italian Corso Dog - Cane Corsos are Italian bred hunting, guardian, and companion dogs. They do very well with obedience training, and bond closely with their owner. As a puppy, they need to taught not to be aggressive, so when they're adults their protective instincts will be manageable. They need to be carefully introduced to new people and animals, as they don't like new things.

Komondor - These Hungarian livestock guardians have easily recognizable long, corded coats that resemble mops. They're valued as a national treasure of Hungary, and bred to make it's own decisions and act independently. They are great with families and children and will accept strangers if they don't sense any danger.

Kuvasz - Kuvaszok are Hungarian livestock guards, but they are very popular family pets as well. They're a clownish breed known for being extremely loyal and intelligent. They are the happiest when they are given work and jobs to do, and will do well with a family that teaches them tricks.

Leonberger - These large working dogs were originally bred in Germany to be similar to a lion and appear on crests. These submissive, well socialized dogs are perfect family companions. They are kindly, robust, intelligent, self disciplined around children, friendly towards strangers. Because of that, they can really be taken anywhere.

Maremma Sheepdog - Originally bred in Central Italy, these livestock guardians helped to protect flocks from wolves. In places like Abruzzo, they are still used mainly for this purpose because of how important sheep herding is to the economy and because wolves are still an active threat. If given enough space, they can be great family companions.

English Mastiff - Mastiffs are known for their gigantic size, tan colors, and massive head with a black mask. They are generally affectionate and calm, though can protect their owner if they feel it necessary. Rather than attacking any perceived threats though, they tend to growl and pin the intruder. With their family, they are very gentle and easygoing for their size.

Miniature Schnauzer - These German Schnauzers are extremely popular across the world because of their smaller size and desirable temperament. They are willing to please, friendly, and intelligent, known for being very trainable and good watchdogs. They are very playful and should be watched around children because of their energy. They need to be trained to live with cats, but it is possible.

Neapolitan Mastiff - These large Italian guard dogs are bred to defend families. They're a fearless and intelligent breed that thinks independently and learns quickly. They will accept strangers if given enough socialization, but without it they tend to be aggressive towards other dogs. They respond the best to positive training early on as a puppy.

Newfoundland -  These larger workers were originally bred to help fisherman in Newfoundland. They are quite at home in the water and are great for lifesaving and rescue missions because of their webbed feet, muscular build, swimming abilities, and their thick double coat. It's a great family dog and will be very gentle and docile around children.

Portuguese Water Dog - These working dogs were bred in Portugal to herd fish right into the nets of fishermen. They would also help get broken nets and lost tackle. They make fantastic companions and do well with obedience and agility training. They'll even be friendly to stragners after being introduced and enjoy having their fluffy coat petted.

Pyrenean Mastiff - Pyrenean Mastiffs are very large Spanish dogs known for being calm and self reliant. They are protective of children, docile, and even tempered. Even though they are on the gentle side, they are not afraid to defend their family against what they believe to be threats. They have a large, long coat that needs to be brushed and combed constantly.

Rottweiler - Originally bred in Rottweil, Germany, these large dogs were used for pulling carts that carried butchered meat, along with other products to the market and herded livestock. They have a good natured temperament, a placid disposition, and very eager and biddable to work. It is a very intelligent and hard dog and has a strong desire to protect and guard their family.

Saint Bernard - These huge working dogs were bred in the Swiss and Italian Alps for rescue. They do best when they're socialized from an early age, though they are a very affectionate and loyal breed. Because they are so large, they need to be trained while they're young and manageable and supervised around children to prevent accidentally hurting them.

Samoyed - Bjelkiers are nomadic reindeer herders from Siberia. They have a friendly disposition and are rarely aggressive. They are playful no matter how old they get, and are great companions and calm around small children and other animals. They can be great watch dogs because they bark when anything comes near.

Swedish Lapphund - These Swedish Spitz types were bred to guard and herd reindeer. They are the happiest and make great companions when given plenty of physical and mental stimulation. They do very well in rally obedience, herding events, dog agility trials, and obedience training. The can become excessive barkers if not trained as a puppy.

Shiba Inu - These small, agile Japanese dogs were originally developed to hunt. They're an ancient breed, known for being intelligent and independent. They can be slightly challenging to train, and need to remain on leashes due to their strong drive to chase prey. Unlike most other dogs, they will actually make an effort to keep clean.

Siberian Husky - Huskies are wolf-like working dogs from Siberia. They're a very resilient, active, and energetic breed developed for pulling heavy loads for very long distances across difficult conditions. They are highly intelligent dogs that do well in obedience training, but they can get bored if not constantly given new commands and activities.

Standard Schnauzer - These wiry coated breeds were developed in Germany and have long eyebrows and beards. They have a salt and pepper coat and are the smallest of all the working dogs. They have guardian instincts and make loyal family dogs. They are tolerant and patient in most situations and will be good around chilren with a strong willed owner training them from a young age.

Tibetan Mastiff - An ancient dog that was originally bred by nomadic groups from Central Asia. They can be confront predators as large as leopards and wolves, or they can be socialized to thrive in a nice spacious yard as a family companion. They prefer to sleep throughout the day so they can be active at night and need strong obedience training.

Working Dogs - Should You Get One?

When it comes to difficult tasks and jobs, the working dogs are a clear choice. They're strong, dependable, and happiest when they're put to work. Just because they're so adept at work doesn't mean they're necessarily easy to train, however. They're all extremely intelligent, but some are stubborn and will require persistent obedience training.

If you don't have a lot of space or a yard and can't commit to exercising working dogs each day then they're probably not the ideal companion for you. You also need to make sure to properly socialize them to other animals and small children very early on to make sure that they will be controlled at all times. When you do all those things, you'll be able to raise a very healthy, happy working dog.

 



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