The Working Dog Breed

If you had to summarize the working dog group, it's that they are strong dogs who are bred to help people in a specific way. Working dogs love having a 'job' that will keep them out of trouble, and allow them to feel fulfilled and at peace. The largest dogs fall into this group, such as the Leonberger and the Mastiff, but not all working dogs are characterized by their size: Siberian Huskies for example are known for their endurance and ability to handle cold weather. Working dogs are oftentimes confused with Shepherds since they too are bred to have a job- except that they all share the innate ability to herd animals. On the other hand, working dogs vary widely in what they are bred for, but they are all fast learners and motivated to work and help their families.

Breed Hierarchy
Dog Breed Groups
Working Breed Sub-Groups
  • Sled Dog|
  • Shepherd / Sheepdog|
  • Mastiff|
  • Mountain Type|
  • Ancient|
  • Nordic Hunting Dog|
  • Nordic Watchdog and Herder|
  • Water Dog|
  • Schnauzer
Most common questions

Do working dogs make good personal protection dogs?

Absolutely. Working dogs need very dedicated owners who are willing to give them the exercise, training, and even mental stimulation that they require. If they can get all 3 of these pillars, then a majority of working dogs can make excellent personal protection dogs. There is a wide range within the working dog group- so a Dogo Argentino will make a much more suitable personal protection dog than a Samoyed for example, but all of the working dogs will be loyal and protective of their family to some extent. This does require extra responsibility on the side of the owner, as it is even more important to socialize them with people and other dogs from a young age so that they do not become overly aggressive and reactive.

What dog breed is best for personal protection?

For a family who is willing to put in the effort into training and discipline, Rottweilers, Doberman Pinschers, Giant Schnauzers, and Malamutes are excellent options. They are very protective but can learn to be friendly with people and other dogs relatively easily if they are socialized from an early age. There is the next tier of protection dogs such as the Akita, Cane Corso, Dogo Argentino, Neapolitan Mastiff, and Presa Canario who are naturally even more defensive of their family and property but are not recommended to families without prior experience with the breed unless they are willing to get professional training.

What dogs are considered working dogs?

Additional common questions

Do working dogs make good police dogs?

A good number of working dogs certainly have the physical presence for a police K9. However, even more important than the physical intimidation factor, is how well police dogs can listen, and how motivated they are to do their job. Rottweilers, Dobermans, and Giant Schnauzers are all working dogs that can make excellent police dogs. However, in recent times shepherds such as Belgian Malinois and German Shepherds, have been the more common K9 police dogs because of their intense focus which allows them to pass k9 dog training academy.

Which dogs are best for guarding property?

For protecting livestock and guarding large land, the Great Pyrenees or Caucasian or Central Asian Shepherd dogs are excellent options. They can do well as outside dogs, and naturally like to take on the role of protecting their farm and land. For protecting only your home- the Boerboel, Bullmastiff, and Rottweiler naturally serve as excellent protection dogs.

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