Dog Breed Intended Uses

What was the Dachshund's intended use?

• To herd cattle and other farm animals

• To retrieve badgers and other burrowing game

• To guard Tibetan temples

• To sniff out gunpowder and other explosives

Answer explanation

Dachshunds' short legs and narrow bodies allow them to stay low to the ground to track scents and be able to squeeze through badger holes and other small burrows

What were Portuguese water dogs bred to do?

• Livestock guarding

• Soley bred for companionship

• Lead their handlers to water sources

• Retrieve lost tackle/nets and herd fish

Answer explanation

These dogs were trained to herd fish into nets, retrieve supplies and overboard sailors, and swim messages from ships to shore!

What were Rhodesian Ridgebacks bred to do?

• Hunt lions

• Dog fighting

• Livestock herding

• Search and rescue

Answer explanation

Rhodesian Ridgebacks, originally from Rhodesia (modern day Zimbabwe) were trained to help humans hunt lions by chasing and tiring them out in packs!

What were Shih Tzus bred for originally?

• To provide long hair for wig making

• To catch mice and other pests

• Guarding Tibetan monk temples

• To hunt crustaceans and other small marine life

Answer explanation

These pups were bred to bark when people or animals approached the temples and quickly became a companion breed

What were Yorkshire Terriers bred for?

• Dog fighting

• Hunting mice and rats

• Retrieving ducks and other birds

• Soley bred for companionship

Answer explanation

Yorkies were used to catch mice and rats in the Yorkshire mills!

What were Xoloitzcuintlis (Mexican Hairless Dogs) originally bred to do?

• To provide blood and saliva for medicinal purposes

• Herd goats and sheep

• Carry messages and small cargo to and from villages

• Guide souls to the underworld

Answer explanation

Named after the god Xolotl, these dogs date back to the Aztec empire and were often gifted to other tribes diplomatically. They were believed to help guide souls to the afterlife

What were Lagotta Romagnolos used for?

• Truffle hunting

• Companionship only

• Dog meat trade

• Tracking antelope

Answer explanation

The Lagotto Romagnolo is one of the only dog breeds that specializes in truffle hunting!

Which of the following was NOT a purpose of the Chihuahua

• Sacrificial Uses

• Food Source

• Companionship

• Hunting

Answer explanation

Chihuahuas were used for sacrificial purposes, food, and as companions!

What were Boston Terriers mainly bred for?

• Dog fighting

• Sled pulling

• Snake and mole hunting

• Animal testing purposes

Answer explanation

One of the few dog breeds originating in the US, Boston Terriers were originally bred for dog fighting