Everything you need to know about the working group dog.
Like I’ve said before, i think the working group dog is the overall superior dog breeds out there. Yes, I’m still very biased as Shiva fits into this group. You can almost teach these breeds anything you want, from some fun attention grabbing tricks to helping you out with the laundry, they can and will learn how to do so! Also it’s not a good idea to sneak up on me in the night, as Shiva will great you first.
What is a Working Group Dog breed?
Working group dogs are known for being powerful, smart and adaptive. They have been bred to assist humans is all kinds of different task like; guarding, pulling sleds or rescuing. Very reliable, capable and hard working, their goal is to satisfy their owners. Their protective nature makes them great guardians and loyal companions.
Characteristics of Working Group Dogs
Let’s check out some common traits of the working group dog breeds.
- Powerful and Agile. These dogs have been bred to do tough jobs, just think about the work that a police dog does, in a big variety of fields. They have been used for pulling heavy loads or protecting their families.
- Very smart and trainable. They learn super quick, are naturally very obedient and they want to please their owner. They compete a lot in competitive dog sports.
- Loyal and protective. Shiva is always by my side, and if not, she will not like the situation. Even though she can stay alone or with others, her biggest desire is to be by my side. Whenever we face a dangerous situation outside on the streets, she will let me know there’s something going on and most of the time pulls me away from the danger.
- Confident. If you have done proper training these dogs are amazingly confident. No matter what you’ll ask, they will do it! This does require good and consistent training up front.
What you should consider before getting a working dog
The considerations are pretty similar to the sporting & hound groups, make sure to can apply all of the necessities before taking a working group dog. If you can’t fulfill their needs it’s very easy for them to develop bad behaviors.
- Have enough Spare Time: You’ll need to go on regular big walks, hikes or take your dog running with you. Besides that there’s still need for training and mental exercises. So having enough train to keep these dogs happy and satisfied is a must.
- Big Enough Space: Provide working dogs with enough space which they can guard as their territory and where they can release their high amounts of energy. A big fenced yard would be very nice to satisfy your dog.
- Experience in Teaching: You don’t want these breeds to become bored and develop unwanted behaviors like excessive barking and destroying your house. Consistently training, utilizing positive reinforcement, is a must. Having some experience with dog training is definitely a recommendation with these breeds.
Training Working Dogs
Training a Working Group dog is not an easy task. Even though they want to learn, you will still have to take the time, dedication and patience to give them the training they need. It’s important to start early with training and socialization. Use the positive reinforcement training method and be very consistent in your commands and training method.
We recommend the “complete pack” training course, from the online dog trainer, for regular household who want to train their working group dog breed.
For a more ‘professional’ approach K9 Training Institute has created an online training good for working group dogs, using the positive reinforcement. Currently they have a Free Workshop, so you could see if it something for you.
Taking care for Working Group Dogs
Taking care of your loyal working group dog comes with some responsibilities. Here are some tips to prepare yourself. Take the dog out on a daily basis for walks, hikes or runs. This makes sure they stay happy and fit. Provide mental stimulation by training consistently. This way your dog is tired at the end of the day and you can trust your dog more in and outside house. It’s also important to keep an eye on a balanced diet. If i don’t walk enough with Shiva and give her a little to much food, she gains weight within a week. I can also tell you that Shiva would convince me to go for a raw diet as she loves it!
Raw Wild is definitely the top provider out there if you’re looking into a raw diet.
Popular Working Group Breeds
Let’s take a look at the most common working group dog breeds
German Shepherd
Originally bred for herding sheep, the German Shepherd is now used in police, military, and service work. I had to put the German Shepherd here, but if you’re into the German Shepherd i would recommend looking into the Belgian Shepherd as well. Both are very Loyal, courageous, and intelligent, making them excellent protectors and companions.
Rottweiler
Known for guarding and protecting, Rottweilers were originally used to drive cattle and pull carts. Confident, strong, and protective, they make excellent family guardians.
Siberian Husky
Originally bred to pull sleds over long distances, so the Siberian Huskies are known for their endurance and stamina. Energetic, friendly, but a little bit stubborn, Huskies thrive on physical activity and social interaction. Make sure you’re not in a too hot climate.
Boxer
Used for guarding and working roles, Boxers are known for their athleticism and playfulness. Loyal, energetic, and intelligent, for this reason they are great family pets and protectors. Your kids will be save when there’s a Boxer around.
Doberman Pinscher
Bred as guard dogs, Dobermans are known for their alertness and loyalty. Intelligent, fearless, and trainable, for this reason they excel in obedience and protection work.
Mastiff
Historically used as war dogs and guardians, Mastiffs are powerful protectors. They are Calm, dignified, and devoted, Mastiffs are gentle with family but protective when needed. Make sure you train them properly.
All by all
Working Group dogs are amazing companions known for their power, intelligence, and loyalty. They excel in different roles, from guarding and service work to being beloved family pets. If you’re thinking about adding a Working Group dog to your home, be prepared to train a lot and make sure you have enough spare time to meet their physical and mental needs. Doing so, you will gain the very best friend you could image. Thank you Shiva!
Read about all the different groups or our find your breed guide if you haven’t found the perfect breed for your household just yet.
Have a wonderful day and remember..
There’s a dog waiting for you
