Working DogsWorking dogs assist man in many different ways. Being a Shepherd Mix, I have a special affinity for hard-working canines. If you see me really get going on a walk, my ears are back, my tail is up and I am acting as if I have a job to do - give me a cart to pull!
The Working Brown Dog
While some breeds are more inclined toward particular tasks, many non-working breeds and mixed breeds (yes!) can also be trained for a specific job. Types of JobsOne of the most typical jobs we see for dogs are those working in a K-9 unit - police dogs. In fact, dogs are in civil service all over the world, working in anti-terror security and as guard dogs in various security roles.They have important roles in search and rescue operations and can also be trained to find human remains. They have roles in detection relative to many types of things - explosives, illegal drugs, and even termites! On the farm or ranch, dogs are trained to manage livestock by herding and guarding. A good hunting dog can be invaluable in finding, tracking and even retrieving their master's game. In snowy, difficult terrain, sled dogs provide what is, perhaps, the only viable mode of transportation. All you have to do is watch the movie, "Eight Below," to see how smart and strong my cousins are! Dogs also serve in some very humanitarian roles as service dogs for people with disabilities. And, therapy dogs provide unconditional love and companionship to the elderly and those in hospitals. I even like the service provided by those dogs being trained by people who are incarcerated, to assist in their own rehabilitation. Yes, those "dogs in training," are working dogs too! TV and movie dogs also fit into the working class. So do canine mascots for that matter. Have you seen that University of Georgia bulldog, Uga? A fine fellow! Working Dogs as PetsWorking dogs are very smart and are generally also loyal, with a great temperament. Sounds like me! So, working dogs can be good family pets.The most important thing to understand about this is that these dogs must work. As the owner, you must enable them to fulfill their purpose. They must be given daily walks or provided other exercise. You can roller skate, play Frisbee with them or try to run them through an obstacle course. Get them involved with you in any kind of high octane activity. Of course, consider the dog's age. A retired, older dog will still want to perform his task and please you, but you will need to be careful not to overwork him.
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