Types of Service Dogs

Dogs are humans’ best companions. Beyond providing emotional support, dogs also help people with practical tasks. PetMD, a pet-focused publication, stated in an article, “All service dogs strive to help people.” Working dogs, or “service dogs,” fall into five broad categories, including assistance dogs, rescue dogs, personal protection dogs, and sled dogs.

Assistance dogs are trained to help people with mental and physical disabilities. These dogs help their owners live more independently. PetMD noted that Golden Retrievers and Labrador Retrievers are breeds commonly used as assistance dogs. Samoyeds and Collies can also serve as assistance dogs. Dogs used for search and rescue work in difficult and varied environments. Rescue dogs must have stamina and be intelligent and highly trained. The most popular breeds used in rescue work include Saint Bernards, Portuguese Water Dogs, and Newfoundlands.

Dogs that can serve as bodyguards protect individuals and homes. These dogs are highly trained, strong, intelligent, and devoted to their owners. To keep one of these breeds as a pet, an owner must be confident and composed when handling it. Dobermans, Boxers, Standard Schnauzers, and Giant Schnauzers are commonly used. Some dogs can also guard private property. In addition to protecting their owners and homes, guard dogs can protect private property. Suitable guard-dog breeds include Mastiffs, Bullmastiffs, Rottweilers, Komondors, Anatolian Shepherds, and Great Pyrenees. There are also dogs that pull sleds. These dogs work in cold regions. PetMD reported, “Popular sled dogs include Samoyeds, Siberian Huskies, and Alaskan Malamutes.”