Working Breeds

The Working Breed group includes:
Akita

Bullmastiff
Boxer
Doberman Pinscher
German Pinscher
Great Dane
Great Pyrenees

Mastiff
Newfoundland
Portugueses Water Dog
Rottweiler
Saint Bernard
Samoyed
Siberian Husky
Standard Schnauzer

Some basic characteristics of the working breed include an independent nature, a dominant disposition, and a tendency to become territorial and possessive.  Because these dogs were bred to work independently and do jobs like guarding and protecting people, they tend to become dominant.  It is important for an owner of this breed type to show strong, consistent leadership.  Because of this breed groups independent nature, you may see them as stubborn durning training.  It is important when training these breeds to follow the the training tool of "No Free Lunch" policy.  This means that these dogs must always work for something, and never be given anything for free.  Even if it is something as simple as sitting and waiting to be released to eat their dinner, they must work for it.

Visit the American Kennel Club's website for a full list of the Working Breed Group and more information.