I’ve told more than one dog owner that their pup’s behavior problems or general overexcitement often stem from a lack of a job. But what does that actually mean? And how does having a job meet a dog’s needs?
Understanding Your Dog’s Instincts
Dog breeds are divided into groups based on the roles they were originally bred for:
- Gun Dogs (Retrievers, Pointers, Spaniels) – Flushed out and retrieved game for hunters.
- Hounds (Sight and Scent Hounds) – Tracked prey using their eyes or noses.
- Guardians (Pyrenees, Danes) – Protected homes, livestock, and land.
- Herders (Shepherds, Heelers, Collies) – Moved and controlled livestock.
- Natural Dogs (Huskies, Akitas, Chow Chows) – Developed for independence and endurance.
- Bulldogs (Boxers, Bulldogs, Staffies) – Originally bred for tasks like bull-baiting, guarding, or companionship.
For thousands of years, humans bred dogs for specific tasks, and even though many modern dogs no longer need to perform these jobs, their instincts remain strong.
What Does It Mean to Give Your Dog a Job?
Meeting your dog’s needs doesn’t always mean replicating their original job—it means providing an appropriate outlet for their instincts. For some dogs, this can be simple, like:
- Learning to pick up and drop items into a bin.
- Playing structured games like fetch or tug.
- Practicing obedience training or trick work.
For other dogs, a more complex job might be necessary:
- Agility – Navigating obstacle courses at high speed.
- Scent Work & Tracking – Engaging their nose in fun and challenging ways.
- Protection Sports – Controlled exercises that tap into their natural guarding instincts.
Finding the Right Job for Your Dog
The best job depends on your dog’s breed, personality, and preferences.
- A German Shepherd might thrive in protection sports or scent work.
- An Aussie may have a strong instinct to herd, but agility can provide a better outlet for their energy.
Not all sports fit every lifestyle, so choose something that works for both you and your dog. The right job will open up a whole new world for them—and you’ll quickly know if they enjoy it. If they don’t, there’s always another activity to explore!