Working Dog Breeds
37 working breeds to explore. Strong dogs bred for guarding and pulling.
Akita
Working · Large
The Akita is a large and powerful dog breed with a noble and intimidating presence. Originally from Japan where they are revered as symbols of health and loyalty, they are famously devoted to their families but can be wary of strangers and other animals.
Alaskan Malamute
Working · Large
The Alaskan Malamute is a powerful and sturdy arctic sled dog known for its endurance and strength. Originating from the Mahlemut tribe in Alaska, these dogs are affectionate family companions that thrive in cold weather and active environments. They are famous for their wolf-like appearance, thick double coats, and friendly, outgoing personalities.
American Bulldog
Working · Large
The American Bulldog is a powerful and athletic breed originally developed for farm work and hunting. They are incredibly loyal to their families and protective of their home, making them excellent guardians, though they require experienced handling and early socialization.
Anatolian Shepherd Dog
Working · Giant
Originating from the Anatolia region of Turkey, this ancient guardian breed was developed to protect livestock from predators like wolves and bears. They are exceptionally large, powerful dogs that possess a calm but highly alert nature. While deeply loyal to their family, their independent spirit and size make them best suited for experienced owners with large, fenced properties.
Bernese Mountain Dog
Working · Giant
Originally bred as farm dogs in the Swiss Alps, Bernese Mountain Dogs are known for their striking tricolor coats and gentle, 'heart of gold' personalities. They are versatile working dogs that excel at carting and drafting, but their favorite job is being a devoted and patient family companion.
Black Russian Terrier
Working · Giant
Developed in the late 1940s as a versatile military dog for the Soviet Union, the Black Russian Terrier is a powerful and intelligent giant. They are deeply devoted to their families and possess a natural protective instinct, making them excellent guardians who are surprisingly calm indoors.
Boerboel
Working · Giant
The Boerboel is a massive and powerful mastiff-type breed from South Africa, originally bred to protect homesteads from large predators. They are deeply loyal and protective of their families, possessing a calm yet watchful demeanor that makes them exceptional guardians. While intimidating in size, they are known for being remarkably gentle and affectionate with their own children.
Boxer
Working · Large
The Boxer is a sleek, muscular dog known for its boundless energy and playful, almost puppy-like nature that lasts well into adulthood. Originating in Germany, they are fiercely loyal protectors of their families and are celebrated for their distinctive 'boxing' style of play using their front paws.
Bullmastiff
Working · Giant
A massive and powerful guardian breed developed in England to assist gamekeepers in capturing poachers. Despite their imposing size, they are affectionate 'gentle giants' at home who are deeply loyal to their families. They combine the speed of the Bulldog with the size of the Mastiff to create the ultimate silent protector.
Cane Corso
Working · Giant
The Cane Corso is a powerful Italian mastiff originally bred to hunt big game and guard property. Known for its imposing presence and deep loyalty, this breed forms an intense bond with its family and serves as a vigilant protector. While intimidating in appearance, they are remarkably sensitive and intelligent companions when properly trained and socialized.
Caucasian Shepherd Dog
Working · Giant
A massive and powerful guardian breed from the Caucasus Mountains, originally bred to protect livestock from predators like wolves and bears. They are deeply loyal to their families but possess a fierce protective instinct that requires experienced handling and firm leadership.
Chinook
Working · Large
The Chinook is a rare and versatile sled dog developed in New Hampshire, known for its exceptional power, speed, and gentle disposition. They are deeply devoted to their families and excel in various activities ranging from hiking and dog-sledding to therapy work. Their calm demeanor and patience make them wonderful companions for active households.
Danish-Swedish Farmdog
Working · Small
A versatile and cheerful companion, the Danish-Swedish Farmdog originated as a multi-purpose farm dog capable of herding, hunting, and guarding. They are known for their compact, sturdy build and a personality that seamlessly transitions from an active outdoor worker to a calm and affectionate indoor companion.
Doberman Pinscher
Working · Large
The Doberman Pinscher is a sleek and powerful dog possessing a magnificent physique and keen intelligence. Originally developed in Germany for protection, they are one of the world's finest working dogs and loyal family guardians. While they are known for their fearless nature, modern breeding has emphasized a stable and affectionate temperament with their families.
Dogo Argentino
Working · Large
The Dogo Argentino is a powerful, athletic breed originally developed in Argentina for big-game hunting, including wild boar and pumas. Known for their striking white coat and unwavering loyalty, they are fiercely protective of their families while remaining gentle and affectionate with those they trust. They require a strong leader and plenty of physical and mental stimulation to thrive.
Dogue de Bordeaux
Working · Giant
A powerful and ancient French mastiff, the Dogue de Bordeaux is famous for its massive head and soulful expression. Despite their intimidating size, they are remarkably gentle, loyal, and deeply devoted to their families, often acting as quiet guardians. Their popularity soared after appearing in the film 'Turner & Hooch,' showcasing their affectionate yet droopy-jowled charm.
Estrela Mountain Dog
Working · Giant
The Estrela Mountain Dog is a large, powerful livestock guardian from the mountains of Portugal, known for its distinctive double dewclaws and thick, protective coat. Deeply loyal to their families, these dogs are courageous and independent, making them excellent guardians but requiring firm, consistent training. They are one of the oldest breeds in the Iberian Peninsula, traditionally used to protect flocks from wolves and other predators.
German Pinscher
Working · Medium
As one of Germany's oldest breeds, the German Pinscher is the elegant progenitor of both the Doberman Pinscher and the Miniature Pinscher. They are highly versatile working dogs with a sharp intellect and a vivacious personality, serving as both vigilant guardians and affectionate family companions.
Giant Schnauzer
Working · Giant
The Giant Schnauzer is a powerful, imposing dog with a thick wiry coat and a commanding presence. Originally bred as a cattle-driving dog in the Bavarian Alps, they have evolved into versatile workers often used in police and military roles due to their intelligence and loyalty. They are devoted companions that require plenty of physical exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy.
Great Dane
Working · Giant
Known as the 'Apollo of Dogs,' the Great Dane is a majestic giant that combines power with a remarkably gentle spirit. Despite their imposing size, they are affectionate 'couch potatoes' who thrive on human companionship and make devoted family protectors.
Great Pyrenees
Working · Giant
The Great Pyrenees is a majestic guardian breed originally developed to protect livestock from predators in the Pyrenees Mountains. Known for their Zen-like calm and immense strength, they are steadfast companions that balance a gentle nature at home with a serious, independent protective instinct. Their thick, weather-resistant white coat and imposing presence make them one of the most recognizable giant breeds.
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
Working · Giant
The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is a large, powerful worker developed in Switzerland as a multi-purpose farm dog for pulling carts and herding cattle. They are faithful companions with a striking tri-colored coat and a sturdy, dependable nature. Despite their size, they are gentle giants who form deep bonds with their families and thrive on having a job to do.
Komondor
Working · Giant
The Komondor is a powerful Hungarian livestock guardian known for its iconic corded white coat and calm confidence. Bred to protect flocks from predators, this breed is deeply loyal to family, naturally suspicious of strangers, and highly territorial. With early socialization and consistent handling, a Komondor becomes a devoted, courageous companion and watchdog.
Kuvasz
Working · Giant
The Kuvasz is a majestic Hungarian livestock guardian known for its striking white coat and imposing presence. Historically serving as a protector of kings and sheep alike, this breed is deeply loyal to its family but possesses a strong, independent streak that requires experienced handling.
Leonberger
Working · Giant
The Leonberger is a giant, affectionate working breed known for its calm confidence and family-friendly nature. Developed in 19th-century Germany, it was bred to resemble a lion and became popular among European nobility. Despite their impressive size, Leos are famously gentle companions who thrive when included in daily family life.
Mastiff
Working · Giant
The Mastiff is a massive, powerful dog whose lineage dates back to ancient civilizations, serving as a noble protector and loyal companion. Despite their imposing size, they are known as 'gentle giants' with a calm, affectionate nature toward their family. They require early socialization and consistent training but are happiest when relaxing at home with their people.
Neapolitan Mastiff
Working · Giant
The Neapolitan Mastiff is a massive Italian guardian known for deep wrinkles, heavy bone, and a watchful, devoted nature. Descended from ancient Roman mastiff-type war and estate dogs, the breed was developed to deter intruders through sheer presence and courage. With family they are affectionate and steady, but they need early socialization, consistent training, and experienced handling.
Newfoundland
Working · Giant
The Newfoundland is a giant, powerful working dog known for its sweet disposition and exceptional swimming ability. Originally used by fishermen, these 'nanny dogs' are famous for their life-saving instincts and deep devotion to their families.
Portuguese Water Dog
Working · Medium
Originally bred to herd fish into nets and retrieve lost tackle, the Portuguese Water Dog is a spirited and athletic companion known for its waterproof coat. They are highly intelligent, people-oriented, and possess an adventurous spirit that makes them excellent partners for active families.
Pyrenean Mastiff
Working · Giant
The Pyrenean Mastiff is a noble giant from Spain, originally bred to protect livestock from predators like wolves and bears. They are famous for being 'gentle giants'—extremely affectionate with their families and remarkably patient with children. While they are calm and quiet indoors, they remain vigilant guardians who are wary of threats but friendly to guests once properly introduced.
Rottweiler
Working · Large
The Rottweiler is a powerful, steady working dog known for deep loyalty and natural guarding instincts. Descended from Roman drover dogs and later developed in the German town of Rottweil, the breed was historically used to drive cattle and pull butcher carts. With consistent training, socialization, and purposeful activity, Rottweilers are devoted family companions who combine strength, intelligence, and composure.
Saint Bernard
Working · Giant
Originally bred for rescue at the Great St Bernard Pass hospice, the Saint Bernard is a legendary 'gentle giant' known for its massive size and calm, affectionate nature. They are deeply loyal to their families and possess a patient temperament that makes them excellent companions, provided you have enough space for them.
Samoyed
Working · Large
Known as 'smiling sled dogs,' Samoyeds were originally bred for hunting and hauling sleds in the Siberian Arctic. They are famous for their stunning white coats and gentle, social personalities that make them wonderful family companions.
Siberian Husky
Working · Medium
The Siberian Husky is a medium-sized working dog breed that originated in Northeast Asia. Known for their incredible endurance and wolf-like appearance, they are friendly, energetic dogs that require significant exercise and thrive in cooler climates.
Spanish Mastiff
Working · Giant
The Spanish Mastiff is a massive livestock guardian developed in rural Spain to protect flocks from wolves and other predators. Despite their imposing size, they are typically calm, loyal, and deeply devoted to their family, with a naturally watchful nature around strangers. Their combination of ancient working heritage, quiet confidence, and gentle demeanor at home makes them a distinctive giant breed.
Standard Schnauzer
Working · Medium
The Standard Schnauzer is a bold, clever German farm dog originally bred to guard property and hunt vermin. They are lively companions with a strong watchdog instinct, famous for their distinctive beard and eyebrows. With consistent training and daily activity, they become loyal, engaging family dogs full of personality.
Tibetan Mastiff
Working · Giant
The Tibetan Mastiff is an ancient guardian breed developed in the Himalayan region to protect livestock and homes from predators. Calm and affectionate with family but naturally aloof with strangers, this powerful dog is known for its strong territorial instincts and dignified presence. Its lion-like mane, deep bark, and independent mind make it one of the most distinctive guardian breeds in the world.