1) Cocker Spaniel

These dogs were bred to be hunting dogs for wealthy people. They were used specifically to hunt small birds called woodcocks (hence their name “Cocker” Spaniel.) They were trained to run into the brush to scare the birds into the air so the hunters could easily shoot them.

2) Basset Hound

How in the world are those massive ears practical? Well…they kind of aren’t for the dog. These little fellas were bred to be slow enough for the hunters to keep up with them during hunting season. They were used to hunt ground prey such as rabbits and badgers.

3) Dachshund

Would you believe me if I told you these guys were bred to be dressed as hotdogs for Halloween? Just kidding. This breed was created for badger hunting. Their long body helps them stay close to the ground where the game would reside. They are also gifted at crawling into little tunnels to retrieve game during the hunt.

4) Greyhound

This breed has been around furever. It’s thought to have come from Ancient Egypt! They were used as hunting dogs and were known for their incredible vision and quick footwork.

5) St. Bernard

These fluffy beasts were bred for the Swiss Alps. They are incredibly strong and their plentiful fur helps them withstand the snowy conditions of the mountains. They were used for search and rescue.

6) Yorkshire Terrier

Yorkies were used for vermin control in the manufacturing centers of Yorkshire. They mainly focussed on ridding these centers of rats, but there were other rodents they had to control as well.

7) Poodles

Poodles were bred in Germany to hunt waterfowl. They specifically trained to jump into the water and retrieve the fallen ducks and geese. They have webbed toes to help them swim.

8) Dalmation

Dalmations are known as firehouse dogs. They were originally used for hunting, guard dogs, and sometimes as companions. During the 19th century, they were used to clear paths for the horse-drawn firetrucks and nip the ankles of the horses to keep them moving as fast as possible.

9) Anatolian Sheperd Dog

These dogs were bred in Turkey to be a shepherd’s companion. They would guard livestock and herd the sheep. They were originally bred for their colors which are similar to sheep. The predators wouldn’t be able to tell the difference between the sheep and the dogs. Today they make good guard dogs.

10) Golden Retrievers

This family-friendly breed was originally used by the Scottish Elite to hunt waterfowl. Much like poodles, they were trained to jump into the water and retrieve the fallen ducks.

11) Mastiff

Mastiffs were used in mountainous areas as guard dogs. Sometimes they did some herding work, but they mainly protected their flock from predators. They were better at protecting than they were at directing.

12) Collie

Collies were bred as herding dogs. They are especially good at corralling animals like sheep and goats. They are trained to obey commands and move animals in a certain direction. Collies are astoundingly intelligent and can respond to complex whistled commands in the field.

13) Bull Terrier

You probably recognize this breed from Target advertisements. And this dog was literally used as a target. They were used to bait bears, badgers, and other animals. They were also trained to fight all these animals, so they sometimes dog aggressive.

14) Beagles

Beagles are hunting dogs but are rather slow for that category. Even though they are slow, they can easily catch rabbits. They also make great companion dogs for active people.

15) Pointer

Pointers were used to find prey animals. Instead of hunting, these guys would locate the prey and POINT it out to the hunters.

Please SHARE this with your friends and family.

Source: American Kennel Club