10 Dog Breeds That Need a Job: Best Working Companions & Travel Tips

Some dogs are happiest when they have tasks to do, such as working, helping, or learning new skills. These breeds often need both mental and physical activities to stay calm and healthy.

If you want a dog that enjoys having a job, it is important to know which breeds are best suited for this lifestyle and how you can support them, especially while traveling. This can help you choose a dog that fits well with your active or on-the-go routine.

1. Border Collie – excels at herding and needs constant mental and physical stimulation.

• If you have ever seen a Border Collie at work, you know these dogs are focused and agile. They were originally bred for herding sheep and can handle tough tasks with ease.
• Your Border Collie needs lots of daily exercise and mental challenges to stay happy. This breed is known for its high intelligence and energy. Without enough activity, Border Collies can become bored and develop unwanted behaviors.
• When you travel with your Border Collie, plan for frequent breaks to let them run or play. Interactive toys and puzzles help keep their minds busy, especially during long trips. A tired and stimulated Border Collie travels much better than one left without anything to do.
• Border Collies often enjoy having specific jobs, even when you are not on a farm. Simple tasks like helping carry items or practicing new tricks can make your trips more fun for them. This breed loves to learn and work beside you.

2. Australian Shepherd – thrives on farm work and agility tasks, adaptable to travel.

• If you want a dog that loves to stay busy, the Australian Shepherd is a great choice. This breed is known for its strong herding instincts and high energy. Australian Shepherds do best in homes where they can work, such as on a farm or ranch.
• You will notice how quickly an Australian Shepherd learns new commands. They are very intelligent and respond well to training. This breed enjoys having tasks like herding animals or taking part in agility sports. Their focused attitude helps them excel in activities that challenge their mind and body.
• Australian Shepherds are not just working dogs—they are also popular family pets. If you travel often, you may find that this breed adapts well to life on the go. They are loyal and like to be with their people, making them good travel companions.
• It is important to give your Australian Shepherd enough exercise, especially when traveling. Daily walks, games, and time to explore new places will keep them happy. If you give them jobs or activities, they are more likely to stay calm and well-behaved.

3. Belgian Malinois – high-energy protection and police work dog, needs a job to stay balanced.

• If you have a Belgian Malinois, you know they are always ready to work. This breed is smart, loyal, and full of energy. They need daily exercise and mental tasks to stay happy.
• Belgian Malinois are used by police and military forces around the world for their focus and drive. They are known for their strength, agility, and work ethic. These dogs enjoy having routines and tasks, whether it’s protection work or something more basic like fetch.
• If you plan to travel with a Belgian Malinois, make sure to keep them active. Let them burn off energy with regular walks, play sessions, and problem-solving toys. These activities help them stay relaxed and balanced.
• A Belgian Malinois does best when you give them a job, even if it’s a simple one. Basic training, obedience exercises, or hide-and-seek games can help your dog feel useful and calm. If you want a dog that likes to work, the Belgian Malinois is a strong choice.

4. German Shepherd – versatile working dog used in police and search-and-rescue roles, travel-friendly.

• If you want a smart and loyal dog that loves to work, consider the German Shepherd. This breed is known for its intelligence and eagerness to learn. Many German Shepherds are used as police dogs, helping officers keep people and places safe.
• German Shepherds also do well in search and rescue missions. Their strong noses and quick learning abilities help them find missing people and objects. These dogs have the focus and energy needed for demanding jobs.
• When traveling, German Shepherds can adapt to new places, as long as you meet their needs. They like staying busy, so regular walks and tasks are important, even on the road. Bring along their favorite toys or training tools to keep them engaged.
• You will need to give them enough exercise and mental challenges. Long car trips or flights can be fine, but make sure your dog has time to move and a calm spot to rest.

5. Labrador Retriever – loves retrieving tasks, easygoing traveler with proper exercise.

• Labrador Retrievers are known for their friendly nature and eagerness to please. They have been one of America’s favorite dog breeds for many years. Their love for retrieving makes them great at tasks like fetch, carrying items, or even helping around the house.
• Labs are happiest when they have a job to do. Games that involve retrieving, such as fetch or hide-and-seek with toys, keep them both physically and mentally active. They also excel in service work and therapy roles.
• When it comes to travel, Labradors are very adaptable. With regular exercise and proper planning, they make relaxed companions for road trips or outdoor adventures. Their easygoing attitude helps them adjust to new places and situations.
• Labradors need daily walks and playtime to burn off energy, especially before long periods of travel. Bringing familiar toys or a favorite blanket can help your Lab feel secure when you’re away from home.

6. Cocker Spaniel – calm and adaptable, good for families who travel frequently.

• If you want a dog that fits into family life and can handle trips, a Cocker Spaniel is a strong choice. This breed is known for being calm and easygoing. Cocker Spaniels are also friendly, which helps new places and faces feel less stressful for them.
• They stay happy when they have a job to do, like playing fetch or joining you on walks. Cocker Spaniels need both mental and physical activities to keep them from getting bored or restless.
• When it comes to travel, Cocker Spaniels are adaptable and can enjoy car rides or outings. They’re happy both exploring outdoors and relaxing during a road trip. You’ll find them just as content joining in family adventures or lounging at your feet.
• These dogs are affectionate with families and want to be close to their people. Cocker Spaniels usually get along well with children and other pets, which can make traveling as a group easier.
• With a routine and plenty of chances to exercise, Cocker Spaniels handle changes in scenery or schedule well. They need regular walks and attention, but they fit well with families who travel often and want a dog that enjoys being part of the journey.

7. Maltese – low-maintenance, good companion for travelers needing minimal grooming.

• The Maltese is small and typically weighs only 4 to 7 pounds. Their size makes them easy to carry and welcome in many hotels and travel settings. Their friendly, affectionate nature helps them adapt to new places.
• You don’t have to worry about heavy grooming if you keep the Maltese’s coat short. While their hair can grow long, regular trims make care much simpler. You can find more about their easy grooming needs in this low-maintenance breed guide.
• Maltese dogs are bred to be companions, so they enjoy being with you whether you’re at home or traveling. They are good at handling changes in environment as long as they get attention and are not left alone for long stretches.
• If you want a travel companion that doesn’t require lots of special care, the Maltese fits the bill. This breed’s calm personality, light grooming needs, and love for people make it a smart pick for frequent travelers.

8. Bichon Frise – small, chill breed suitable for travel and companionship roles.

• If you want a small, easygoing dog to join you on your travels, the Bichon Frise could be a great pick. This breed is known for being friendly, affectionate, and cheerful. They usually get along well with people and other pets.
• The Bichon Frise doesn’t shed much and is considered a good option for those with allergies. Their size makes them easy to bring along in cars, RVs, or even on planes.
• These dogs enjoy routines and love company, so you won’t have to worry about them being alone for long stretches. They like to be part of the action and can handle a busy environment, as long as they are close to their favorite people.

9. Havanese – companion breed that adapts well to travel and light work activities.

• Havanese dogs are intelligent and quick to learn. They respond well to basic training, tricks, and even light activities like obedience or therapy work. Their calm personality makes them good candidates for different types of tasks.
• Because of their size and adaptable temperament, Havanese dogs fit well in many travel situations. They are comfortable in crates or carriers, which can make car rides and flights smoother for you and your dog. Their social nature also helps them adjust well to new places and people.
• If you are interested in a breed that can easily join you on vacations, the Havanese stands out as a portable and travel-savvy companion. Their affectionate temperament and willingness to please make them a good choice for light work as well as companionship.
• When bringing your Havanese on a trip, pack familiar items like a favorite toy or blanket. Bring enough food and water for the journey. Keeping a routine, even while traveling, can help your dog feel calm and secure.

10. Pomeranian – compact size fits carry-on travel, enjoys engaging interaction and training.

• If you want a small dog that is easy to take on trips, a Pomeranian can be a good choice. Their compact bodies usually fit in most airline carry-on bags. This makes travel much simpler for owners who like to fly or take public transportation.
• Pomeranians need more than just cuddles. They love interactive play like fetch or short games that use their energy. Training sessions with rewards work well, as they are intelligent and eager to please.
• These dogs stay alert and enjoy having a job to do. Giving them small tasks or teaching tricks helps them feel active and involved. Their playful and lively nature makes them a good fit for owners who want a travel buddy that doesn’t just sit still.