Herding sheep, cattle, and guarding property, many dogs earn their keep.

Dogs have been bred and trained for various jobs and functions since their domestication, and among their many roles, herding sheep and cattle as well as guarding property are some of the most traditional functions that dogs have performed alongside humans.

Herding involves the dog working in partnership with a human handler to control and direct the movements of animals like sheep or cattle. Typically, herding dogs use a combination of techniques such as staring, barking, and nipping at the heels of animals to motivate and move them in specific directions. Breeds known for herding include the Border Collie, Australian Shepherd, and Shetland Sheepdog, among others.

Guarding property is another common job for dogs. This involves the dog acting as a deterrent to potential intruders or unwanted animals. Guard dogs are trained to be vigilant and protective of their territory and the people in it. Breeds known for their guarding abilities include the German Shepherd, Rottweiler, and Doberman Pinscher. These dogs possess a natural protective instinct and are often very loyal to their families or handlers.

Extra: The roles of herding and guarding tap into particular instincts and traits within different dog breeds. Herding breeds are selected for their intelligence, agility, and responsiveness to commands since they must be able to work at a distance from their handlers and make independent decisions when necessary. They must be capable of understanding complex commands and working as a team with the herdsman.

Guarding breeds, on the other hand, are often larger, more imposing dogs. They have been bred for traits such as loyalty, courage, and a natural suspicion of strangers. Training for guard dogs emphasizes obedience, controlled aggression, and sometimes protection work, in which they learn to respond to potential threats upon command.

In the modern world, many of these breeds remain popular both for their traditional work and as family pets, where these instincts can still be beneficial. Herding dogs may participate in dog sports like agility and competitive obedience due to their intelligence and trainability, while guard dogs can provide a sense of security for their owners. However, both types require proper socialization and training to ensure they are well-adjusted and safe to be around.