| Herding and working dogs are actually two | | | | working dogs it is important to note that |
| different categories in the American Kennel | | | | they are generally very gentle dogs although |
| Club but have only been divided into the two | | | | them may be aggressive or possessive around |
| groups since 1983. Previously the herding | | | | strangers. Dogs such as the Akita that has |
| group was included in the working group | | | | been bred to both hunt and protect will need |
| category since these groups have many of the | | | | additional socialization and training at an |
| same traits and attributes. Both groups have | | | | early age to prevent aggressive tendencies as |
| been bred to work closely with humans and to | | | | they mature. These dogs need to be very |
| be good, solid and dependable companion dogs. | | | | obedient simply because they are so large and |
| Working Breeds In generally the working | | | | could potentially hurt someone even by simply |
| breeds tend to be large dogs that have been | | | | jumping up. Usually very easy to train they |
| bred to pull carts, pull sleds, guard and | | | | require consistent and firm training with |
| even perform various rescues. Breeds in the | | | | lots of positive praise and attention. |
| working group include: · Akitas · | | | | Generally these dogs will be natural |
| Bernese Mountain Dogs · Boxers · | | | | watchdogs although they are not necessarily |
| Bullmastiffs · Great Danes · Doberman | | | | effective guard dogs. Some, such as the |
| Pinchers · Great Pyrenees · | | | | Doberman Pincher and the Rottweiler are |
| Newfoundland · Rottweiler · St. Bernard | | | | excellent as both watch and guard dogs with |
| · Siberian Husky There are also several | | | | the proper training. Professional trainers |
| other breeds including the amazing Komondor, | | | | can be very effective in training and working |
| known for its long, ringlet style coat. All | | | | with guard dogs. |
| of these breeds of dogs are large, usually | | | | |
| weighing in excess of 60 pounds, with many of | | | | For best results when training herding & |
| the larger males reaching over 150 pounds | | | | working dogs, proper rest is important. Use a |
| when full grown. When working with these | | | | high quality dog bed for added comfort. |