Are Working Dog Breeds in Your Future?Working dog breeds vary from guard to rescue dogs. This group used to include the herding group but became so large it had to be split.
photo by hkno
This working dog breed originated in France. He was a guardian of sheep in the French mountains and migrated to the U.S. in the early 1800's. A long, powerful, large dog, the Pyrenees is a lovable animal. With a wedge shaped head and round, bright eyes showing intelligence, this dog is easily trained. The white coat is a mid length double and requires several times a week attention. He makes a great family pet, loyal, loving and protective. You may find him wandering around at night, checking out the house and family to make sure all is well. Size range if from 26-32 inches, weight from 90-130 pounds.
photo by Kerli'sPhotography
Canada is this breed's country of origin. It was bred as a working dog on Newfoundland. He would drag fishing nets from the shore and perform water rescues and still do today. They are big, lovable and dedicated to their job. Many times if a "Newfie" is near water and people are swimming or playing, the dog may get over anxious and jump in and "rescue" the swimmers! Large head and big, round eyes show an intelligent expression. The ears are long and drooping, the coat is longish and double. Colors are black, gray or brown. A great dog for families, this guy is sweet, friendly and gets on with everything. Size varies from 26-30 inches, weight from 100-150 pounds.
A few popular medium to large sized working dog breeds are: Bernese Mountain Dog
photo by greypoint
This dog originates in Switzerland. He was bred as a cart dog (pulling loaded carts and wagons) and as a guard dog for flocks. He is a large, sturdy dog with flat, broad head and round, dark eyes, drooping ears and long, double, tricolor coat. Brushing every few days will keep his coat in shape. Another ideal family dog, he is loyal, happy and easy to train. He gets along with all animals and people. Size varies from 24-28 inches and weighs 70-100 pounds.
The Siberian Husky originated in Siberia. Cold, snowy weather made this breed extremely hardy. He was used as a sled dog, pulling heavy loads and people over hundreds of miles of snow and ice. They were used in the harshest environments to deliver mail, supplies, medicines etc. to areas that cannot be reached by vehicle. Today, a competition called an Iditarod is held in Alaska and teams of dogs race to the finish to see which is the best and fastest. The Husky is a medium to large dog with a strong, compact body. The head is expressive with large eyes, either brown, blue or one of each and prick ears. The coat is double and needs brushing several times a week. Colors are black and white or red and white. This is an independent dog and tends to be a little stubborn. An experienced owner is needed. However, he does love his family and is loyal and friendly. He makes a great pet after you get past the stubborn streak. Size range 20-25 inches, weight range 50-70 pounds.
Devil, photo by Kerli'sPhotography
This working dog breed originated in Germany, and was bred for police and military work. He is popular today as a guard dog. This canine is large, powerful and leggy. His head is angular with dark eyes and large, prick ears which are cropped to keep them upright. His black and tan coat is short and easy to groom. The tail is docked. The Dobie is a loyal, friendly dog when trained and raised properly. In a non-aggressive environment, he gets along well with all animals and people. Size ranges from 24-28 inches and weighs 60-90 pounds.
photo by greypoint
Another original German breed, the Rottweiler was also used by the military and police. The Rottie is a large, strong, powerful dog with great muscle and drive. He has an angular head, round, dark eyes and V shaped droop ears. His black and tan coat is short and easily groomed. This breed also has a docked tail. Again, when raised and trained properly, this dog makes a great family pet. He is loyal, friendly and affectionate but standoffish around strangers. Size range from 23-28 inches and weighs 80 to 110 pounds.
These are a few of the popular working dog breeds you may be interested in adding to your family. Because of size, they may not be suitable for your home. Also, the giant dog breeds have a much lower life expectancy than smaller canines. So take this into consideration before you decide. If you need further information, please go to the
American Kennel Club website.
They are your best resource for anything related to working dog breed research.
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