People have all sorts of preconceived notions about different dog breeds, both positive and negative. Working breeds can be an intimidating concept for some, but it’s important to understand that if a working breed dog’s physical and mental needs are met that they can be incredible companions! Plus, more dogs qualify as working breeds than you may expect…
What is a working breed?
Working breeds are dogs that have historically and currently been bred for highly specific jobs, such as herding, livestock guarding, hunting, or other tasks. These can include German Shepherds, Great Pyrenees, Huskies, Beagles, Cane Corso, and more. Many of these dogs are considered desirable not only for their physical appearance, but also for the very traits that made them ideal for agriculture or hunting.
Guardian dogs include: Great Pyrenees, Akitas, Mastiffs, or Anatolian Shepherds.
Herding dogs include: Border Collies, Corgi, Sheepdog, Australian Shepherd, German Shepherd, Bernese Mountain Dog, Heelers, and many more.
Hunting dogs include: Golden Retriever, Beagle, Pointer, Basset Hound, Jack Russell Terrier, Poodles, and plenty of others.
Why should pet owners care?
Understanding what kind of working breed your dog may be, or that a dog you are considering is, can help you to better respond to some of their breed-specific behaviors or needs. Even if your pet is only part working breed, it may inform some of their choices that you otherwise could see as bad behavior.
Some people choose guardian dog breeds for the security that comes with knowing their furry friend will always have their back. Dogs that historically were given guarding jobs may need more socialization and forethought with introducing new people, as they will prioritize protecting their owner or family as a whole. Livestock guardian breeds are often a first choice for owners with livestock of any kind, but they must be trained with the livestock from an early age, and some breeds require plenty of space to roam.
Working breeds whose history is based in herding have a reputation for plenty of energy, and that is very true! Herding breeds were bred to chase and direct sheep, goats, and cattle; so exercise is a high priority for them. Herding breeds often also compete in agility challenges, providing them with an outlet for their intellectual and physical needs. These dogs will require plenty of space and time for training, but are often favored for their love of the outdoors and ability to learn many tricks or tasks.
Hunting dogs historically have keen eyes, ears, and an exceptional sense of smell.
Being a hunter is not a prerequisite for owning a dog with hunting in their lineage, but it does allow for the kind of stimulation that will meet many of the dog’s needs. If an owner chooses not to hunt with their hunting breed, they will need to be committed to providing enrichment activities and spending time outdoors for the sake of their pet. Something else to consider when owning a hunting breed is their prey drive, which may crop up if they encounter smaller animals inside or outside of the home. For dogs with a high prey drive, it can be difficult for them to distinguish between “fluffy small animal that must be retrieved by any means necessary” and the family cat. It is important to be cautious whenever introducing new smaller animals to dogs regardless of breed, but to take special care if you have concerns about their prey drive.
Enrichment is Key
Any breed of dog (purebred or not) will need enrichment to make sure they have a good quality of life. This can be playtime indoors or outdoors, puzzle toys, training, socialization activities, and more. Choosing an enrichment activity for a working dog breed has everything to do with what the dog’s motivations are, and the space available for activities.
In-depth training not only provides a working breed dog with necessary skills (recall, basic commands, tricks), but also the opportunity for them to use their intelligence in a scalable and functional way. Dogs that are food motivated may engage in this activity for treats, and others may simply engage in it for praise and the experience of a challenge.
Outdoor activities are also a form of enrichment for your dog. Spending time outside of your yard and home provides them with new smells and sounds, and the chance to socialize with other dogs. It is imperative that dogs be socialized with humans and other dogs, as it can relieve anxiety for them and give them more opportunities to spend time with dogs that are not in their household. Agility courses are also something you can build or borrow to give dogs with a lot of energy an engaging outlet.
If the weather is unpleasant or your schedule doesn’t allow for flexibility, there are plenty of enrichment activities that can be done indoors. Snuffle mats and other food puzzle toys are both available commercially and with do-it-yourself instructions, to create experiences for your dog where they are rewarded with food. These may not be ideal for a dog without a food motivation, but it is always worth a try to see what your pet may like! There are also plenty of suggestions for indoor agility training, and scavenger hunts to engage your dog’s sense of smell.
Working breeds are deeply loved by those who know them, and can fit well into a family or one-on-one environment if all of their needs are met. They’re appreciated for their clever personalities, physical prowess, and attractive visage. Dogs mixed with working breeds can also retain some of the personality or physical characteristics that make them so desirable, with less health concerns than a purebred dog.
Looking for your own working breed dog or working breed mix? Journey Home Animal Care Center often has working breeds in as strays, surrenders, and transfers that are looking for their forever home. Meet one of our wonderful pups to see if they’re the right dog for you.
DISCLAIMER: This post has been reviewed by any pertinent staff members of JHACC. Artificial Intelligence has in no way been used to create this content, and it is considered correct to the best of our knowledge as of the date of publication.
SOURCES:
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/get-to-know-the-livestock-guardian-dog-breeds/
https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/best-guard-dogs/
https://www.rd.com/list/guard-dog/
https://www.hillspet.com/dog-care/new-pet-parent/herding-dog-choices
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/best-dog-breeds-for-hunting/
https://www.purinaproclub.com/articles/sporting/right-hunting-dog-for-you
https://longwoodvetcenter.com/pet-socialization-raising-a-well-adjusted-dog/
https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/dog-care/canine-diy-enrichment
https://www.humanesociety.org/resources/easy-enrichment-ideas-pets
