12 Dog Breeds with Unexpected Working Histories

Written By

Mathew Abraham

Updated on

Mathew Abraham

Meet Mathew, Cat Dad and Animal Advocate! Mathew is the editor at PawDown, overseeing content strategy and quality. He's in charge of carefully curating the best pet stories, tips, and advice for you.

dogs pulling sled
badamczak80/Pixabay

Ever wondered if your snuggly little furball had a career in their past life? Some dogs lounging on our sofas today have a lineage filled with surprising jobs you’d never expect! From dainty lap dogs with guard duties to toy-sized terriers with exterminator cred, here are twelve breeds with fascinating, unexpected working histories that might make you look at them differently.

1. Poodles

Poodle on a beach
Dmitriy Piskarev/Pexels

The image of a perfectly groomed poodle might scream “high society,” but poodles weren’t always about the fancy life. Originally bred as hunting dogs in Germany, these curly-coated cuties were designed to retrieve waterfowl. Their curls are more than just style; they keep the dog warm while swimming in icy waters! The classic poodle cut even helped with agility, making it easier to move through water. So, the next time your poodle gives you a prissy look, remember they come from some tough hunting stock. They’re more than a ball of fluff; they’re a powerhouse in a posh package.

2. Dalmatians

Dalmatian
RebeccasPictures/Pixabay

While Dalmatians are now best known for their spots and Disney fame, they have a long history in firefighting. Originally, Dalmatians were trained to run alongside horse-drawn fire carriages, clearing a path and calming the horses at the scene of a fire. Their loyalty and affinity for horses made them perfect companions. Even today, they’re known as “firehouse dogs,” though their job is more symbolic. So, if you see a Dalmatian chilling around a fire station, remember: that dog’s ancestors were saving lives, not just posing for kids’ coloring books.

3. Bulldogs

English Bulldog
Cyril/Pixabay

With their stout bodies and strong jaws, bulldogs were originally bred in England for the brutal sport of bull-baiting. These stocky pups were bred to clamp onto the bull’s nose and hold on—talk about tenacity! Thankfully, once bull-baiting was banned, bulldogs were bred for gentler traits, becoming the mellow, friendly companions we love today. But underneath all those adorable wrinkles and snores, bulldogs still carry the spirit of a brave and formidable worker. Now, their job is more about being couch potatoes, but it’s well-earned after all that early grit!

4. Dachshunds

Daschund playing fetch
ksuksa/123RF

Their long bodies and short legs might make dachshunds look like they’re built for lap warming, but these tiny dogs were once fierce hunters. Bred in Germany to chase badgers, dachshunds’ small, sturdy bodies allowed them to tunnel after their prey. Their bravery is still part of their charm; they’re fearless and independent, with a bark that doesn’t match their size. They might only chase a tennis ball now, but every wiener dog has a hint of that fierce badger-hunting spirit still coiled inside. So don’t let those cute, sausage-shaped bodies fool you—they’re little warriors at heart.

5. Shih Tzus

Shih Tzu
Edyta Stawiarska/Pixabay

The Shih Tzu might be the epitome of a lap dog, but they were originally bred as little guardians for Chinese emperors. Thought to have a lion-like spirit, they served as palace watchdogs, alerting their royal owners to any intruders. Their loyalty and sharp bark made them surprisingly effective at their job. Today, Shih Tzus are more about being pampered than guarding palaces, but they still have a protective streak. If your Shih Tzu ever barks at the neighbor’s cat, just remember that this little “Lion Dog” has centuries of guarding royalty in their genes!

6. Great Danes

Great Dane
Mtajmr/Pixabay

Recognized for their remarkable stature and calm disposition, Great Danes were originally bred as protectors and hunters. In Germany, they were known as “Boar Hounds,” charged with taking down wild boar. They’re also historically linked to nobility, often guarding the estates of German and French aristocrats. Today, their intimidating stature often belies their friendly and gentle personalities, but Great Danes were once the first line of defense against wild predators. Next time you see one lounging like a gentle giant, know they’re a regal protector deep down.

7. Corgis

Corgi
huoadg5888/pixabay

Those stubby little corgi legs weren’t meant just for waddling; they were built for herding cattle! Originally from Wales, these quick-footed pups would nip at the heels of livestock to herd them along. Their low stature kept them safe from kicks, making them surprisingly effective at controlling a herd. Nowadays, corgis are more often pampered than put to work, but if you give one a task, you’ll see that herding instinct kick in. Their adorable size and smiley faces hide a hard-working, focused worker who’s always ready to “heel” and hustle.

8. Chihuahuas

Chihuahua
maerchenkiste/Pixabay

It might be hard to imagine that the Chihuahua, with its pint-sized frame, was ever bred for anything more intense than sofa sitting. But these tiny dogs were bred as sacred companions by ancient Aztec and Toltec civilizations in Mexico, often used as guardians of spiritual places. Chihuahuas would alert their owners to strangers, making them early alarm systems! Their loyalty and sharp, watchful eyes still make them quick to sound alert. While they may be small, they’re fierce and determined, with a heritage that’s nothing short of legendary.

9. Saint Bernards

Saint Bernard
Ilona Krijgsman/Pixabay

If you think Saint Bernards are just huge, slobbery pets, think again! These gentle giants were bred by monks in the Swiss Alps to rescue travelers trapped in snowstorms. Known for their amazing sense of direction and tolerance for cold, Saint Bernards would help dig people out of the snow and lead them back to safety. Their massive size allowed them to plow through deep snow, and they were even known to carry small barrels of brandy! Today, Saint Bernards may be snuggle bugs, but they’ve got a heroic past that’s downright inspiring.

10. Lhasa Apsos

Lhasa Apso
Lisa Fotios/Pexels

It’s hard to imagine the dainty Lhasa Apso as a watchdog, but that’s exactly what they were bred for! Originating from Tibet, these small dogs served as sentinels in Buddhist monasteries, alerting monks to any intruders with their piercing bark. Known for their keen senses, they were the first line of defense in a sacred space. Today, they’re more likely to be a pet parent’s pampered buddy than a fierce guard, but their alert nature is ever-present. Don’t underestimate their size—Lhasa Apsos are mini-guardians with a noble background.

11. Border Collies

Border Collie
Saskia Plötz/Pixabay

Border Collies may still be known for herding, but their intelligence and work ethic are so impressive they deserve a shoutout! These dogs were bred along the English-Scottish border to herd sheep, and they developed the reputation of being one of the smartest dog breeds in the world. Their ability to understand commands and think independently is why they remain popular on farms today. Border Collies have evolved from mere herders to canine problem-solvers, and they’ll take on any task with determination and brains to boot.

12. Greyhounds

Greyhound
Elisabetta Bellomi/pixabay

Long before they were track stars, Greyhounds were used as hunting and courier dogs in ancient Egypt. Their speed made them perfect for quickly delivering messages across large distances. They were prized for their agility, endurance, and loyalty. Though they’re often associated with racing, Greyhounds have an ancient history tied to royalty and swift service. While modern Greyhounds are happy just to sprint a few laps at the park, they carry the legacy of a reliable, noble, and swift messenger in every stride.

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