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THE BREEDS OF THE WORKING GROUP ARE AS FOLLOWS:
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Akita The Akita has long been used as a general guard dog, stemming originally from the country of Japan, where for many centuries it has been revered . In 1931 this dog was designated as a National Monument in Japan, and is considered one of the country’s national treasures. It is the largest of the Japanese breeds. It has been used as a working breed, guarding the family home, and also as a hunter of bear, deer, and wild boar. For many centuries it was used as fighting dog in Japan until that “sport” was outlawed.
Alaskan Malamute The Alaskan Malamute has a long history of being a companion to man, so it is no wonder that he is so affectionate. He is one of the dogs that often excels as a Therapy Dog, seeming to have an understanding of people that is beyond the norm, and many people react to this large, loving, bushy haired dog in the same way. He has gained popularity as a pet in the rural areas and loves to go on camping trips with his family, or jogging, or almost any outdoor activity. In the city this is a dog that brings admirers while out walking , and can do quite well in a townhouse or apartment as long as he is exercised daily.
Anatolian Shepherd Dog The Anatolian Shepherd is usually a fawn dog with black points and mask that is quite striking in appearance. In the United States the standard is not quite as strict and the color may be a light cream with or without a facial mask. It was used as a guardian dog in Turkey for the flocks of sheep and goats and is a bold dog that will fend off predators without any fear or hesitation. Because of its "guarding instinct" this is not a dog for everyone and puppies should be trained early to accept strangers.
Bernese Mountain Dog Berners achieved popularity on the farms of the mountain people of the Alps of Switzerland as strong dogs that were willing to pull carts and work side by side with their human companions without complaint and with happy enthusiasm for the jobs to which they were entrusted. In the United States and Great Britain the Berner has achieved the same sort of popularity, not because he is used as a working dog so much but because his temperament makes him a popular family pet.
Black Russian Terrier The Black Russian Terrier is a breed that was “engineered” by the Russians shortly after world War II for the specific purpose of producing a strong, fearless, and hardy working dog that could withstand the rigors of the cold russian winter and would be a strong and formidable protector. The nature of this dog is one of reliable guardianship. Without question this is a dog that should not be considered only a “pet” for he is by nature a dog meant to work. Without a job to do and adequate training from early on, this dog could very easily be destructive just because of boredom.
Boxer The boxer has been used as a guard dog, a guide dog for the blind, and as a police dog. The boxer is considered a “working dog” and has become an excellent family pet, non-drooling and easy care as far as coat. The Boxer is a naturally clean dog, exuberant as a youngster but usually settles into a well mannered and affectionate family pet in later years.
Bullmastiff In the 1800s the estates of Great Britain suffered serious losses from “poaching” or the stealing of livestock and game, and the Bullmastiff was bred to assist in eliminating poachers. This is a big dog, with a big attitude, but was not bred to attack but rather to hold at bay. The original cross of bull dogs with mastiffs produced this tractable yet powerful breed.
Doberman Pinscher The Doberman Pinscher is described in the A.K.C. standard as “ Elegant in appearance, of proud carriage, reflecting great nobility and temperament. “ and the temperament is further described as “Energetic, watchful, determined, alert, fearless, loyal and obedient. “ Owners of Dobermans should have a sense of responsibility and determination also, and if they follow through on good socialization and training for their dog they will have a dog that exemplifies every aspect of a great companion and watch dog for their family.
Dogue de Bordeaux The Dogue de Bordeaux is highly regarded not only for his protective instinct but also for his balanced temperament, being a dog that not only is fearless and powerful but also known and cherished by the people who own one as a devoted family dog who is extremely affectionate. He can be a large and quite destructive puppy and needs a tolerant owner. The Dogue made his appearance in Hollywood with Tom Hanks in the movie “Turner and Hooch” as the irrepressible and slobbery mastiff “Hooch”, becoming an overnight sensation and boosting his popularity in the United States and elsewhere.
German Pinscher The German Pinscher is a breed which is a bit taller than the average terrier and this length of leg prevents it from going to ground. The swiftness and determination of the dog makes up for this deficiency and it is a proficient rodent killer. A good ratter and naturally instinctive killer of varmints, the dog has proven itself to be useful on farms and in urban households. Besides its propensity to give chase to small animals, it is also an effective guarding dog with a noisy bark when strangers appear. It will not hesitate to attack if it feels that its human family is threatened, and it is large enough to do considerable damage.
Giant Schnauzer The Giant Schnauzer is a large dog that is still in use today as a general livestock guardian on many German farms, besides being a much loved family guardian and pet. The breed gained popularity after World War I. The dog was used as a military dog during the war, where it’s strong working abilities were much admired. During the war the dog often served as a messenger dog, often braving the enemy fire to travel to its destination carrying the orders of the day. It is still used in the world today in some places as a military dog, bomb sniffer, and search and rescue dog. The typical personality of this large dog is one of friendliness and willingness to work for people.
Great Dane Great Danes do well at the job of guard dog while at the same time being a gentle family pet, allowing children to climb on them and tug on them without a hint of aggression. For the most part, the Great Dane is quite happy to just lie around the household and sleep. Owners need to be aware that to keep this giant dog in good health, they should give it plenty of exercise, it will not choose to do so on its own!
Great Pyrenees The Great Pyr was popular only as a Show Dog or a pet for many years in Great Britain and the United States, but as its herding instincts became known, it has been used more and more often for its original purpose in the United States. Farmers in the midwest nowadays prize this breed for its protective nature and it is heavily used as a flock guardian to ward off predators, especially the coyote. Surprisingly, this breed was placed in the "Working Group" even though it's instincts are that of a herding breed and flock guard.
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog The "Swissie" possesses an even temper and a love for children, family, and all other people. It is a friendly and affectionate dog with a stable temperament and a desire to please people, altogether it is a dog that is a quick learner with an eager attitude and yet a placid and calm manner. This is a breed that has become a favorite for those families who have had the pleasure of owning one.
Komondor When one first sees a Komondor, it is an unforgettable experience. This dog quite literally resembles a very large white floor mop. The heavy mass of hair is completely “corded” over the whole body, including the face, to the extent that one wonders how the dog can see at all. About the only recognizable part of the body that can be seen besides the coat is the nose, and maybe the tongue is the dog’s mouth is open. The Komondor is a Hungarian breed of ancient origin, as long as there have been sheep in Hungary, there has existed this large white flock guarding dog. The corded coat serves a dual purpose, for it not only protects the dog from the elements, and makes it appear to be a sheep, which is a camouflage for the dog, but it also creates an impenetrable barrier against the teeth and claws of predators.
Kuvasz The Kuvasz is used in both North and South America as a flock guardian., and sometimes more rarely as a family pet. It is a dog that can be quite formidable and is highly prized as a breed that will ward off coyotes and even cougars when it functions as a flock guard. Sometimes the breed is confused with the Great Pyrenees but there are considerable differences. The Great Pyrenees can have some biscuit coloring while the Kuvasz is always white. The Great Pyrenees has double dew claws on the rear feet. The Kuvasz never has dew claws on the rear, let alone double ones. The Great Pyr has a soft deep muzzle almost as deep as it is broad, while the Kuvasz has a longer narrower muzzle. Both dogs perform the function of a flock guardian quite well, but the Great Pyr seems to be a dog that is more able to accept integration into a household as a pet.
Mastiff From Wikipedia: "Mastiffs are inclined to be lazy but they will keep fitter and happier if given regular exercise. Like all dogs, the American Mastiff should be taken on daily regular walks to help release its mental and physical energy. It's in a dogs nature to walk. They should always be leashed in public. The American Mastiff can do acceptably well in a small household or apartment if he is sufficiently exercised. They are comparatively inactive indoors, so their ideal living conditions would consist of at least a small yard or daily walks." and "The American Mastiffs love children and are totally devoted to their families. Dignity rather than gaiety; quiet, calm, loving, loyal and devoted. They should be protective, but not aggressive. They are neither shy nor vicious. This dog breed is not for everyone but, for the right owner and family, they are loving and loveable companions and are docile and gentle."
Neapolitan Mastiff Neopolitan Mastiffs are indeed really quite ugly, with a huge head and massive wrinkling. Because they are not naturally inclined to be aggressive, they are loyal and affectionate companion dogs, being good house dogs, except for their innate messiness in terms of slobber and drool. The Neopolitan Mastiff of the modern world has a large number of fans. He is a dog whose ugliness is almost endearing. The old saying “he has a face only a mother could love” is definitely true of this breed.
Newfoundland There are varying theories of where and how the Newfoundland came about. Suffice it to say that for centuries this dog has been used a fisherman's helper off the coast of Newfoundland and Nova Scotia to help haul in the fishing nets, and has instinctively served mankind as a "water rescue" dog. It is a "giant bred", with a heavy water resistant black coat, although other colors are seen also such as the "landseer" , and grey, grey and white, brown, and brown and white. It is without a doubt one of the gentlest of breeds and is known for its kindness towards children and the infirm and elderly. Instinctively, this is a dog that serves mankind.
Portuguese Water Dog The P.W.D., as he is known to fanciers of the breed, is in most respects a dog that is affectionate and loyal and makes a great family dog. Because of his long history of partnership with humanity as a dog that was used as a fishing boat guardian dog and a swimming dog that would help to actually "herd fish" off the coasts of Portugal, this dog is quite a willing worker and anxious to please. Easy trainability is one of its characteristics, and it will not need harsh correction. It adapts easily to city or rural life and although it likes exercise it will be fine in a small yard or being taken on daily walks. He will serve as a watchdog when necessary for he is naturally suspicious of unusual activity. He has gained notoriety laely as this was the breed that was chosen by President Obama and his family to be the "first dog."
Rottweiler The Rottweiler of today is noted for its high intelligence and trainability. In Germany, which requires strict control of the breeding population, and is the home of the ring sport of Schutzhund, the Rottweiler is a superior competitor and often a strong contender for some of the highest titles. The dog has gained in popularity in the United States where it has continued to serve mankind in many areas, including a dog for military use, a guide dog for the blind, a police dog, a search dog, and a family guardian and pet.
Saint Bernard The St. Bernard has a long history of servitude to mankind. Their origins are the Swiss valleys around the centuries old Hospice of St. Bernard, where the original dogs were used as guard dogs and companions for the community of monks living and working within the Hospice. The Hospice was used as a way stop for travelers crossing the passes that linked the Swiss Alps with Italy. Because of the treacherous snows, wayfarers often became lost or disoriented or tragically died. Eventually some of the monks began to train these large and gentle dogs to go out on missions to save these passers-by. These dogs seemed to posses an inherent desire to seek out and locate the lost and the missing people, and also possessed the kind of coat that not only protected them but did not cake with snow and ice. Ever since these early years, the Saint Bernard has been noted as a protective and extremely gentle breed, closely comparable to the Newfoundland, except that it's "guarding instincts" are a little more noticeable, and the breed is more "territorial" in nature than the Newf.
Samoyed The Samoyed Tribe of Siberia is the home base of this breed. Used as a herding dog for the reindeer herds of this Nomadic tribe, they lived in the tents with the families. In the summer they were used to pull boats along the streams carrying loads of hides and meat. The Samoyed dogs of that day were much the same as they are today. They were first brought out of the country of Siberia to the U.K. by a British traveler, Mr. Kilburn Scott, in 1889. From this original dog which he purchased, a great interest in this beautiful breed developed, and he soon bought more of them and established a kennel. Samoyeds became popular quickly in the U.K. and in the United States.
Siberian Husky The Chukchi tribe of the great northern plateaus in Siberia was the nomadic tribe which bred the Siberian Husky dogs. The tribe was well known for their remarkable aptitude for breeding these fine dogs as early as 3000 years ago. They were a people who lived inland and hunted along the coastal shores, and they used the dogs for pulling back the game, many times over very long distances. Their dogs were bred purely and selectively, and consequently the Siberian Husky of today is very directly descended from the original dogs belonging to the Chukchi tribe. He is an adaptable dog, but definitely needs plenty of exercise, for he was bred to be a working dog and needs to be kept busy or he will find something to occupy himself with. He is above all an “easy keeper” and a happy companion dog who loves to work for his master.
Standard Schnauzer (from the Standard Schnauzer Club Of America) "The Standard Schnauzer is a handsome, robust, squarely built, medium sized dog with aristocratic bearing. The original of the 3 sizes of Schnauzers, he is pepper and salt or solid black in color with a wiry minimal-shedding coat. Standard Schnauzers are noted for guarding the home and for their affectionate devotion.Known as excellent family companions, the Standard Schnauzer also is outstanding as a working dog excelling in conformation, obedience, agility, tracking, herding and therapy. Please explore our site and see our Standard Schnauzers at work and play.'
Tibetan Mastiff The Tibetan Mastiff is a highly intelligent breed that can be quite independent but is willing to please and tireless in its loyalty. He is a dignified member of the household when grown, making a calm and gentle pet for the children and a brave and fearless watchdog and guardian of his family.