Working Dogs

A Working dog can make an excellent pet. Though very diverse in appearance, all the working dogs are large, sturdy, and strong. They were developed to be workhorses and are quick to learn their tasks. These are considered to be some of the most intelligent of the dog breeds. With firm consistent training they will quickly learn obedience, skills, tasks, and tricks. Though today these dogs are often valued more as companions than for their working abilities, many working dogs are still bred for a specific job. Some of work they are known for; rescue dogs, therapy dogs, Guide Dogs, and Search and Rescue Dogs. They also serve as a Police or Guard Dog.

Dogs of the Working Group were bred to perform such jobs as guarding property, pulling sleds and performing water rescues. They have been invaluable assets to man throughout the ages. The Doberman Pinscher, Siberian Husky and Great Dane are included in this Group, to name just a few. Quick to learn, these intelligent, capable animals make solid companions. Their considerable dimensions and strength alone, however, make many working dogs unsuitable as pets for average families. And again, by virtue of their size alone, these dogs must be properly trained.

The breeding of working dogs originated from selecting highly intelligent, hardy, alert mixed-breed dogs.

Working dogs resulted when dogs with similar desirable characteristics, such as loyalty and good temperament, were bred. As a result, many working breeds are sought after as family pets. Working dogs make excellent pets as long as potential owners realize that these dogs must be given ‘work’ to do. Dogs that are not to be used for their original purpose must be trained from a young age and are best suited to active persons and families. Obedience training, dog sports, informal or novelty shows, and trial work are all excellent channels for these breeds’ energy. At the very least they must have daily walks or other exercise at an appropriate level for the breed, given toys, played with, and provided with human company.

Working dogs that are chained, left alone, or ignored become bored, vocal, and even neurotic; they may exhibit malaise, lethargy, destructive behavior or attempt to escape. Working dogs inappropriately chosen as pets are often given away for adoption for these reasons.

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