We all want to believe that our beloved dogs would save our lives if disaster were to strike. I mean, they bark at the UPS guy and mutilate houseflies on our behalf, so is it so much of a stretch to think they’d drag our limp bodies from a burning building? Certain breeds just seem to have heroism coursing through their bloodstreams. They’re the Supermen to our Lois Lane. Other breeds tend to identify more with Homer Simpson. And hey, there’s nothing wrong with that! It takes all kinds, pups!
So by all means love your pooches for who they are, but if they don’t make the list, maybe consider befriending a dog who does! (Just in case.)
Newfoundland
The large, muscular body of a Newfie looks as if it was specifically designed to perform dramatic water rescues. They have webbed feet for paddling, a double hair coat for warmth and repelling moisture, plus a rudder-like muscular tail to propel them through rough waters. The breed was officially established by English fishermen in the 1700s, and it was rare to see a fishing vessel leave port without one if these canine rescuers on board (akc.org). The English, French and Italian Coast Guards still call upon them for rescue missions. The video below features Newfies trained to leap from helicopters in order to perform water rescues!
2. Saint Bernard
These regal beasts are often depicted in snowy rescue scenes with wooden jugs of warming brandy around their necks. Monks living in the Swiss Alps in the 1600s recognized the breed’s ability to not only sense impending avalanches, but also to track and locate survivors. Once the freezing victims were located, the Saint Bernards would dig them from their snowy prisons and cover them with their huge, warm bodies until help arrived. Even if you don’t live in an area prone to avalanches, this breed can still come in handy. Their uncanny smelling abilities have led them to extraordinary acts of heroism in rescuing hoomans from house fires.
3. German Shepherd
There’s a reason these guys are so frequently chosen for service in the military and public safety. Stories of German Shepherd heroism date right back to the breed’s official recognition in the late 1800’s. They are high energy, intelligent, courageous and highly trainable. Loyal to the people who earn their trust and aloof and wary towards strangers, it’s difficult to sneak ill intentions past a German Shepherd. Watch this Shepherd’s display of panic when she thinks her dad is drowning in the pool. You can almost feel her desperation!
4. Collie
We all remember when Lassie saved Timmy from that well. Hollywood actually had it right for a change, because Collies have been awarded Dog Hero Of The Year more times than any other breed. A Collie named Tang won the very first award in its 1954 inaugural year. Tang saved several children from being hit in the road by herding them out of the way. Three years later, an elderly Collie named Blaze rescued a toddler from a vicious sow attack earning him the award for that year. Collies have even served their time in the armed forces, acting as sentries to patrolling soldiers. Read the story of Allie, a rescued South Korean Collie who saved her 88 year old dad after a brutal fall.
5. Golden Retriever
As their name suggests, Goldens were originally bred to retrieve the bodies of ducks from swamps and lakes. They are energetic, intelligent and eager to please. Coupled with their speed and swimming skills, they made the ideal companions for hunters. Goldies are loyal, playful and devoted to a fault. The internet is absolutely packed with tales of their bravery. They’ve served as search and rescue dogs in the aftermath of 9/11 and risked their own lives countless times to save those of humans. Figo, the Golden Retriever who saved his blind owner from being hit by a school bus is just one heartwarming example of this faithful breed’s many good deeds.
In all seriousness, we BarkPosters know that just about any breed combo is capable of remarkable heroism. It’s all about heart, and any dog lover can tell you, they ALL have plenty of that! The breeds featured have had years of training and strategic breeding to bring out their heroic qualities. Maybe the smaller breeds can’t drag you to safety, but they can certainly save lives in other ways. A twenty pound mutt in Poland saved a toddler by keeping her warm in frigid temperatures until rescuers arrived.
If that’s not proof enough, check out Harley, the 2015 Hero Dog of the Year! This one eyed, bow legged puppy mill survivor teaches us that amazing things can definitely come in tiny, derpy packages!
Related Gallery
15 Dog Breeds Who Make The Best Travel Companions
1. Chihuahua
Duh alert! This pint-sized pup is ALL dog… at least, he thinks so. The Chi’s tiny size and
loco
superior personalities mean they fit easily in travel carriers, under plane seats, and are tolerant of handling and cooing strangers.
Source: @nataliesc
2. Pomeranian
Also conveniently travel-sized, Poms cut back on airplane travel fees and fit nicely with you in the cabin. Those little legs carry them far, as they–just like many toy breeds–are active, confident, and prepared for anything.
Source: @aliciajmiin
3. Dachshund
The comedic celebrities of the dog world, Weenies are small and oh-so devoted to their humans. Ahem, that’s ONE human, usually. They are head-over-paws in love with their main human squeezes, which makes them great guard dogs for RVs, but may make a plane ride a bit noisy.
Source: @amo_mochik
4. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
They sound royal, and have the personalities to match. This breed is easygoing, loving, and dedicated to making you happy. Cavaliers are overjoyed to receive belly rubs on the couch, or to set out for a hike through the woods, and their hunting history makes them quite athletic, too.
Source: @hobbethetricolor
5. Poodles (all sizes)
The pride and joy of the show ring, not all Poodles are made to strut their stuff. Many enjoy the simple pleasures–snuggling, munching treats, playing tug, and doing anything and everything with their people. Big or small (though the standard sizes can’t fly in-cabin with you) their intelligence and illustrious attitude always draw attention.
Source: @angelkito
6. Yorkshire Terrier
You get a compact pup with style when you bring a Yorkie into the family. Their elegant good-looks, big personality, and overall sweetness are a triple threat for travel companions. Though they can be feisty little buggers, everything about them make road trips and air travel a breeze.
Source: @gigi_bean
7. Mini Schnauzer
Take a pass on the Giant Schnauzer and opt for their miniature, but equally cute, counterpart. Check off the resumé: they’re clever, confident, extroverted, and absolutely hilarious. Travel can be stressful, but these Minis never want to leave you alone, and they’re perfect for a good laugh.
Source: @ctown_wuju
8. Bichon Frise
That’s BEE-shawn FREE-zay to you, humans. These pups don’t take no sass. Bichons are small, mischievous, and strangely reminiscent of a stuffed animal. Everything is Big! Exciting! Fun! and there will be no shortage of devotion or enthusiasm on your trips.
9. Maltese
So. Stinkin’. Adorable. And tiny. Say hello to a breed that is both fearless and the ultimate sweethearts. They walk with a bit of swagger ’cause they know they’re regal, and they are truly jacks of all trades. Cuddling, riding in the car, and even agility–the Maltese does it all with a smile.
Source: @pretzelthepup
10. Boston Terrier and Co.
I’m including Bulldogs, Frenchies, and all other flat-nosed breeds in this one. Bostons are energetic and eager to please, and are the perfect size for the open road. That being said, brachycephalic breeds are often prohibited on flights, as their narrowed airways can cause difficulty breathing at high altitudes. Consider passing on air travel, and stick to the on-ground excursions with these guys.
Source: @lhagel30
11. Beagle
Take caution with this breed on hiking or camping trips. Though Beagles absolutely adore just about everyone and everything, they are slaves to those hound-dog noses. Ensure Snoopy is VERY well trained with fantastic recall skills, because once he catches the scent, nothing else matters.
Source: @loganrini
12. Shih Tzu
“Shih Tzu” translates to “little lion” if that gives you any indication of their mindset. They may think they’re fearless, fuzzy warriors, but really these guys are all roar and no bite. Their calm temperament and laid-back attitude mean no-stress trips, and they are just fine with sticking to your heels wherever you wander.
Source: @milo_thefluffyewok
13. Havanese
The teddy bears of the dog world. The Havanese’s fluffy coat and perfect hugging size mean they’re cute and portable, and they just love to be where you are. While this breed was originally bred to simply keep their humans company, people are getting them off their laps and on the job, performing in agility events and even serving as therapy and service dogs.
Source: @susan1979
14. Labrador Retriever
If you’re more of a big dawg kind of human, it’s no secret that Labs are fiercely loyal and love nothing more than being with people. They love ALL THE THINGS. And because they are so easily trained, it’s a snap to get the basic commands down and have them on the road for all kinds of adventures.
Source: @wanbran
15. Golden Retriever
What is it about Retrievers that makes them so gosh darn great?! Goldies are never picky about making friends, and when you’re happy, they’re happy. Honestly, they’re pretty much happy no matter the circumstances. So buckle ’em in and hit the road! ‘Cause they’re always up to stretch their legs if it means doing something with a human in tow.
Source: @lola_goldenrj
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Topics: breeds collie german-shepherd golden-retriever newfoundland st-bernard
The post The 5 Breeds Most Likely To Come To Your Rescue In An Emergency appeared first on BarkPost.