Extraordinary canine potential − alternative service domains for working dogs: a review

Abstract

Working dogs are professionally trained canines that assist humans in various tasks, with a long-standing history. Their traditional roles primarily include military dogs, police dogs, herding dogs, and guide dogs. With societal progress and the diversification of human needs, working dogs have emerged in roles and applications far beyond the traditional fields they have historically been associated with. This review describes and analyzes these developing roles and explores the scientific basis, outcomes, and trends behind them. Common non-traditional areas of working dog applications include animal-assisted therapy (AAT), biological disease detection, and animal-assisted education (AAE). Additionally, working dogs may be used in interventions such as prison and drug rehabilitation centers, wildlife protection, and special odor search and location. These roles not only broaden the scope of working dog use and increases their economic value, but also show potential for significant societal benefits.