Dogs in the working breed group are typically large, strong, intelligent, and faithful. They are called "working dogs" because they put in significantly hard work that benefits their owners in important ways.
Other dog breeds work as well, but you can think of "working group" dogs as dogs that put in physical labor that requires strength, stamina, and persistence, with few exceptions.
This article will explore the primary features and functions of working group dogs to give you a better understanding of this collection of dogs as a whole, their needs, and the responsibilities of owning a working group dog.
What are Working Breed Dogs?
The Working Group is defined by dogs bred to perform jobs that assist humans in significant, often physically demanding ways. In many instances, the jobs these dogs perform are ones that humans are incapable of doing.
For example, the St. Bernard was bred to assist in rescue efforts in the Swiss Alps. Not only are St. Bernards large, and strong enough to help retrieve stranded travelers, but they're also equipped with a keen sense of smell that could track those travelers in white-out snowy conditions. These are qualities that humans don't possess.
These breeds are recognized by the American Kennel Club and similar organizations for their strength, intelligence, and historical importance. Unlike Sporting or Herding groups, Working dogs were not developed solely for companionship or agility—they’re functional powerhouses.
(That doesn't mean they're not great companions, though!)
Historical Origins of Working Dogs
Working dogs go back thousands of years. From war dogs in Roman times to sled pullers in Arctic cultures, they’ve been essential partners to human survival and work.
Early civilizations relied on them for security, transport, and rescue work. Archeological remains from Jordan show that large working dogs were likely treated well, despite early impressions that these dogs were treated simply as working animals.
As companions and co-workers, dogs have assisted in pulling, hunting, tracking, and general labor for thousands of years.
Many modern Working breeds have ancient roots and are still used for some of the same roles today—a testament to their value and enduring usefulness.
Even today, dogs around the world are conducting search and rescue missions, and guarding livestock, guiding their owners through complex environments, pulling sleds, and defending farms.
Common Traits of Working Group Dog Breeds
Working group dogs vary significantly from breed to breed, but the prevailing similarity is that they tend to be larger than other dogs. With a few exceptions such as the Standard Schnauzer, working group dogs tend to weigh between 50 and 100 pounds, with some breeds weighing much more.
Additionally, these large and confident dogs tend to have very friendly demeanors toward humans. While they can be protective and intimidating, especially to predators or threats, they are wonderful companions with loving personalities in most cases.
Their size and capability contribute to a deeper sense of confidence, and their intelligence allows them to be very trainable. Working group dogs are among the dogs who can form the deepest bonds perform the most reliably.
- Size & Strength: Most working breeds are large and muscular.
- Intelligence: They’re quick learners but require consistent training.
- Protectiveness: Naturally inclined to guard their people or territory.
- Confidence: Not shy or timid—these dogs are sure of themselves.
- Loyalty: Deep bonds with handlers, often preferring one main person.
What Were Working Group Dogs Bred For?
Working group dogs were bred to perform physically, often in ways that would be nearly impossible for humans to replicate. The most fundamental roles that working group dogs hold are hunting and protecting.
Working dogs often guard our homes, our farms, our livestock, and our communities. Many of these dogs were bred to be large, intelligent, and tough enough to outwit and back down massive predators.
The Boerboel, for example, has reliably defended some African homes from lions and baboons for years.
- Guarding: Farms, homes, and livestock.
- Pulling: Sleds, carts, and heavy loads in cold or rural regions.
- Rescue: Water rescue (Newfoundlands), Alpine search (Saint Bernards).
- Military & Police: Dobermans and Giant Schnauzers have long worked in service roles. The Cane Corso was bred as a military asset for the Roman empire at its height.
- Hunting & Tracking: Some Working dogs hunted large game or helped in recovery efforts.
Do Working Breed Dogs Have Common Health Issues?
Due to their size and lifestyle, Working dogs are prone to specific health issues. The primary issue that these large dogs face is hip dysplasia, something that evolves from excess pressure and strain that large, active dogs experience over time.
The mobility challenges of large working dogs also extend to arthritis and elbow dysplasia. Additionally, working group dogs can experience degenerative myelopathy, which is a degenerative disease that causes muscle loss and and challenges with coordination.
Working group dogs may also experience heart issues at a higher rate. Primarily, these dogs can suffer from cardiomyopathy, which is a general term for disease of the heart muscle.
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Bloat (gastric torsion)
- Heart conditions (e.g., DCM in Dobermans)
- Arthritis and joint wear
- Shorter average lifespans for giant breeds
You can support your large dog by supplementing and taking early preventative measures long before these issues start to present themselves, especially when it comes to hip & joint issues.
Are Working Dogs Good for Families?
Many Working breeds make loyal and protective family companions, but they do best in homes that meet their physical and mental needs. Specifically, working group dogs tend to do best when they live in homes with substantial space to roam, and adequate human interaction and training.
- Pros: Loyal, steady, trainable, excellent guardians
- Cons: Need space, time, and strong guidance
If you have an active lifestyle, and you're someone who has owned dogs in the past, you will likely make a perfect partner for a large working group dog. Additionally, it's best to give your dog as much physical space and ability
Notable Working Group Breeds
- Rottweiler
- Siberian Husky
- Saint Bernard
- Great Dane
- Doberman Pinscher
- Bernese Mountain Dog
- Mastiff
- Newfoundland
- Boxer
- Portuguese Water Dog
Final Thoughts
Working Group dogs are more than companions—they’re partners. With the right training, environment, and purpose, they become fiercely loyal members of the family who live to serve and protect.
But owning one isn’t casual—it’s a commitment that requires time, space, and consistency. These dogs have amazing capacities, and living life alongside one can be a great gift.
