The term “work like a dog” is a nod to the tireless efforts that working dog breeds put in to get the job done. Throughout history, dogs have been called on to perform various jobs in the home, on the farm and even on ships. Today, most dogs are tasked with providing companionship, but there are still a number of breeds that retain their roles as essential workers!
What Are Working Dogs?
Working dogs were bred to excel at specific tasks. Most working dog breeds have impressive resumes with the skills and temperaments that are ideal for tasks ranging from pulling sleds and protecting livestock to sniffing out contraband and identifying invasive species.
There are large working dog breeds and small working dog breeds. Although the tasks working dog breeds perform vary, these pups have a few common characteristics that have allowed them to climb the career ladder (while earning several “employee of the month” awards along the way).
· Active
· Confident
· Focused
· Loyal
· Intelligent
· Determined
What Are the Working Dog Breeds?
There are 31 dog breeds in the American Kennel Club (AKC) “Working” group, that perform a range of different jobs. Working dogs come in all sizes, coat lengths and colors but all share a common desire to get the job done.
Meet the breeds that are considered working dogs.
- Akita
- Alaskan Malamute
- Anatolian…