Large dog breeds that were bred to work all day will need daily activity to work off their energy. by ExploreDogs Editor / Friday, 28 December 2018 / Published in Dog Breeds. Let’s get it on… Rare Dog Breeds: they were bred to hold prey for hunters until they arrived ,and they were also used as bullbaiting,and guard dogs because or their braveness. Find the dog breed that is right for you. The majority of our modern day dog breeds have been selectively bred for particular characteristics and behaviors for around 200 years. They are tenacious dogs, and although there are stronger breeds, they are very powerful. The first Akitas were bred in Akita, Japan, where they were called matagi, which means “esteemed hunter.”. Living Space. As you are about to find out, we did not breed all dogs to be our companions. Researchers believed they were the first canines to be developed to do a specific job, around 7,000 years ago in southwest Asia. Dogs of same breed have similar characteristics of appearance and behavior, primarily because they come from a select set of ancestors who had the same characteristics. Dog breed profiles of more than 200 breeds. As you are about to find out, we did not breed all dogs to be our companions. Some were bred for work, sport, and even for food. They’ve been a top choice for many dog lovers in recent centuries, although these days, they don’t serve the same purpose they were bred for. This is why Bulldogs were bred — to take on and even kill the bull. Did you know that some breeds are more common than others and that there are certain breeds that are even considered rare. Many terriers are very versatile and will turn their hand to a range of roles. Historically, large dog breeds were bred for various purposes, mainly to guard properties, to survive under challenging conditions, to hunt large prey, and to inhibit intruders. However, they may take some warming up around strangers. And sometimes not. Herding dogs have been used by humans for centuries, however. They originate from royal China, where they were bred as companion dogs, a trait they retained when they were exported to Europe in the 16th century and later to North America. Includes personality, history, dog pictures, dog health info, and more. These traits still ring true, as this breed is among the more calm dog breeds. They weren't the biggest animals, and were therefore easier to handle than some other bigger breeds, and were bred not to bite their handlers - mainly at dog fights. Dogs may be man’s best friend, but that’s because we bred them to be so. Others were bred with ratting in mind.