Active dogs are important for active owners. Some dog breeds are energetic and hardworking by birth. They can’t seem to sit still and like having a job to do. Whether they are on a farm, driving cattle, or outside the house guarding the estate, most dogs enjoy doing various tasks.
A few decades back, dogs were favored for their abilities rather than their temperaments. Watchdogs were important for guarding livestock, while hunting dogs were used for retrieving game for hunters. Herding dogs were used for herding cattle, and war dogs were used for police and military work. No matter the breed, every dog took its job seriously.
In this article, we’ll discuss 7 working dogs that never say no to more work or exercise. They have high endurance and high energy, which makes them popular canines for active families, vigorous hunters, and dynamic individuals.
Dog Breeds That Pull Heavy Loads Without Tiring
1. Alaskan Malamute
An Alaskan Malamute is a sled dog, originally bred for pulling heavy loads over long distances. They were specifically developed for their strength, tolerance to tough weather conditions, and endurance. All these qualities are visible on its body. The Alaskan Malamute has a strong yet compact body, a deep chest, and powerful hindquarters.
They are a bit stubborn and require training when they are puppies. If proper socialization and training are not given, they are known for resisting commands and acting dominant. The best way to get through to them is positive reinforcement with tasty treats.
Other Interesting Facts
Many dog owners wonder if their Alaskan Malamute could do dog sports, and considering their athletic bodies and high energy levels, the answer is a resounding yes. Dog sports for this breed include agility and rally competitions.
Fun fact: they can pull up to 3,000 pounds, according to the Alaskan Malamute Club of Canada.
2. American Bully
The American Bully is not exactly a working dog. It is a direct result of breeding between the American Pitbull Terrier and other Bulldog breeds. Although their name indicates otherwise, these dogs are not inherently mean or aggressive.
They are highly intelligent with a strong prey drive. They also have a high pain tolerance, which makes sense because they are often the main contenders in dog sports. They have muscular but compact bodies.
Other Interesting Facts
The American Bully is a high-energy dog that enjoys exercise and mental stimulation. Their bodies and energy levels match their enthusiasm for weight pulling and athletic competitions. They are popular dogs because of their athletic build, gentle demeanor, and loyal temperament.
3. Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
The Great Swiss Mountain Dog was known for its roles of being a herder, drafter, and pasture dog. Also known as Swissy, this is a large, rare breed that can pull carts with loads up to 3,000 pounds, according to the American Kennel Club. Few dogs can match this strength and endurance!
It is a high-energy dog that effectively protects its territory. They need to stay active and mentally stimulated due to their history; otherwise, they will get bored. Due to their strong herding instincts, they also need to be trained not to chase other smaller animals.
Other Interesting Facts
The Swissy has a friendly temperament and is very gentle with people and children. Because of their cart-pulling history, it is important to make sure their leashes are secured. They have a tendency to pull on walks. They share a common ancestor with the Bernese Mountain Dog.
4. Chinook
Another sled dog, the Chinook, is a rare dog breed that almost became extinct in the 20th century. The Chinook was developed by Arthur Walden, who wanted a dog that had these qualities: speed, power, endurance, and good temperament, as per the Chinook Club of America.
Carrying and pulling hefty loads is no big deal for them. Due to their incredible work ethic and social nature, they are also often recruited for search and rescue operations. This rare dog also has keen intelligence and responds well to training.
Other Interesting Facts
They are the official state dog of New Hampshire and get along well with children and other dogs. They are even friendly with strangers when properly introduced.
5. Canadian Eskimo Dog
Also known as the Canadian Inuit Dog, these are friendly and active dog breeds. They were bred for companionship as well as pulling sleds. They are medium-to-large dogs that enjoy an energetic lifestyle and require regular physical activities to keep happy.
They are also excellent watchdogs because they are wary of strangers and other animals. The Canadian Eskimo dog is a sled dog. They have a square-shaped muscular frame and a dense double coat.
Other Interesting Facts
In appearance, they look like a cross between an Alaskan Malamute and a Siberian Husky. They also have keen hunting instincts, excelling at tracking and catching prey. A Canadian Eskimo dog is a loyal companion and guard dog.
6. Bernese Mountain Dog
Bernese Mountain Dogs were historically used as draft dogs in Switzerland to haul goods. They have a gentle nature. They were often used on farms for driving cattle, pulling sleds and carts, and acting as livestock guardians. Although they still enjoy these roles, they are also great family dogs.
Since they are used in extreme weather, they won’t slow down until the work assigned to them is done. They need lots of exercise and physical stimulation to stay happy.
They make excellent hiking dogs, staying close to their human companions, especially kids. If you live on a ranch or farm, the Bernese Mountain Dog will help guard horses, too!
Other Interesting Facts
This big dog breed is friendly, gentle, and patient. Also, these cattle dogs are very intelligent and eager to please. However, they can also be a bit stubborn, so make sure they receive firm and consistent training. Using positive reinforcement always works best!
7. American Pit Bull Terrier
Also known casually as Pit Bulls, this dog breed was originally bred in England for bull baiting, and then came to the US for dog fighting. Since they were used in hog hunting and other big game, they have a strong prey drive and high stamina. They are good at running long distances to catch their prey.
It is an athletic dog that requires regular exercise and mental stimulation. This is because they were used for tasks that required strength and agility, and these qualities are still preferred today.
Other Interesting Facts
Despite their controversial reputation, PetMD states that Pit Bulls are very affectionate and loving.
Conclusion
In this world, dogs provide many benefits to humans. They guard livestock, lift heavy loads, transport goods, aid in hunting and retrieving, and are all-around good companions for humans.
In this article, we have dived deep into seven breeds that are not only active but extremely hardworking. Other dogs that haven’t been mentioned here but also never say no to more work include the Siberian Husky, Belgian Malinois, and Doberman Pinscher.
Regular exercise is very important to keep these strong, high-energy dogs happy and out of trouble. With proper training and socialization, these dogs are not just good on the farm or in the fields; they are loving and faithful companions at home, too!
