Working group dogs were bred to perform jobs — “working” isn’t just a clever name! American Kennel Club working group dogs are used to guard property, pull sleds, and assist in rescue efforts. Working dogs have also been seen carrying messages in wartime, guiding the blind, and working with police.
Don’t confuse working dogs with herding or hunting dogs — in the American Kennel Club, these are separate groups of dogs.
In general, working group dogs are intelligent, capable, and quick to learn. They also tend to be very large, and may not be the best pets for families with small children or little desire to work on obedience and training.
Examples of working group dogs include:
- Akita
- Bernese Mountain Dog
- Boxer
- Doberman Pinscher
- Great Dane
- Great Pyrenees
- Newfoundland
- Rottweiler
- Saint Bernard
- Samoyed
- Siberian Husky
Working dogs are happiest when they have a job to do. These breeds tend to be alert, active, and loyal to their families. Your working group dog may like obedience training, flyball or agility, or other dog sports. Find one your working dog likes and stick with it — the activity will be a good outlet for his energy and a good way for the two of you to bond. At the very least, your working group dog will need plenty of exercise, play time, and human companionship. A working dog without a job or without attention can become vocal and destructive. A lonely working dog can become quite the escape artist!
Working group dogs are commonly used for search and rescue efforts. The Saint Bernard is known throughout Europe as a rescuer in case of avalanche and lost climbers; Newfoundlands are known for water rescues both from shore and from boats. During World War I, search dogs (from the working group) helped locate wounded soldiers in the field. After September 11th, search dogs looked through the rubble for survivors and remains.
Love big dogs? Check out Gentle Giants Rescue.