In human history, one animal has been entitled to Human’s best friend, but they are not just friends but also an ally on the combat field. Dogs’ loyalty has always been praised for centuries. Their intelligence, strength, speed, and agility make them great four-legged soldiers. Since World War II, dogs have been trained to search, attack, and in many other combat forms. Today, several Dog breeds serve in almost all the armed forces on the planet. In this article, we will find out the Top 10 Most Served Military Dog Breeds.
Top 10 Most Served Military Dog Breeds
1. German Shepherd
These good-looking boys are one of the most amazing dogs because they are strong, agile, and easy to train for scout dog duty. Still, they are not overly aggressive, and their loyal, predictable personality makes them a reliable wingman when you’re out in a battle.
During WW II, the German Army extensively used the German Shepherd as a war dog due to its intelligence, loyalty, and ability to follow orders. German Shepherds were used to performing reconnaissance missions, searching for war prisoners, detecting explosives and mines, and protecting their soldiers from enemies.
This breed of dog was helpful on all fronts of the war. It was trendy in North Africa, where it was considered a “dog of death” for its skill in hunting enemy soldiers.
2. Belgian Malinois
This German Shepherd look-alike possesses the same dependable, intelligent, and trainable personality as the real deal, but in a more compact form that makes it better for missions where it is being parachuted or repelled into a situation with its handler.
Due to their intelligence, the Belgian Malinois are excellent dogs for military training and are capable of quickly learning commands given to them. Being a very obedient dog, he can be easily trained to follow orders. For these reasons, the Belgian Malinois is a breed of dog that is widely used in the military and the police.
These dogs are not afraid to face dangerous situations. The Belgian Malinois is also a very faithful dog who will be willing to protect its owner to death.
This breed has served the Belgian Army for years. Their high intelligence, agility, and stamina make them ideal dogs for military service. However, in recent years, the Belgian Malinois has also been used in police service in various countries.
3. Labrador Retriever
Labrador Retrievers are ideal for military service due to their intelligence, loyalty, stamina, and ability to follow orders. They can perform any task, including tracking, rescue, security, and transportation.
These dogs are used to search and retrieve lost targets on the battlefield. They can operate in extreme conditions and travel long distances over rough terrain. Their ability to swim allows them to retrieve targets in the water, even in icy conditions. Their intelligence and loyalty make them excellent war dogs.
4. Doberman Pinscher
It’s no wonder this lean, athletic Pooch has been a favorite of the US Marines since World War II. Often called the Devil Dog of the Marines, their intelligence, trainability, and alertness make them the perfect choice for the role of a Scout or Patrol dog.
The Doberman pinscher breed was used in World War I and World War II. they are robust, intelligent, and brave dogs. They are also excellent at mine detection and make a good guard dog.
It is medium-sized and weighs around 30 to 40. The Doberman Pinscher is a purebred dog. It has a black coat and was created from three breeds of dogs: the German Bulldog, the German Pinscher, and the Rottweiler. It is a hardy dog and can live up to 12 years.
In World War II, the US Army used the Doberman Pinscher extensively in Europe. Known for its courage, loyalty, and aggressiveness, the breed was used by countries like Britain, Germany, Italy, and Japan during that era.
5. Rottweiler
The intelligent Quik learner Rottweiler is a large breed dog weighing up to 90 pounds. With tons of energy, this muscular and athletic breed has a black mane and a long curved tail with short, water-resistant fur. He is also intelligent and capable of learning quickly.
6. Boxer
Boxer breeds have the inherent wariness of strangers, alert disposition, natural strength, and agility. These qualities made this athletic dog, with its pleasant appearance and iconic underbite, an ideal candidate to work in the Army during World War I. They served in various roles, including Messenger dog, Scout, and Patrol dog.
7. Airedale Terrier
During World War I, the British Army used the Airedale Terrier as a fighting dog, as it was a large, strong dog that could perform reconnaissance, material transport, and attack duties.
8. Giant Schnauzer
Giant Schnauzers are dogs used in the German Army during World War II. They were selected for their size, strength, and endurance and could carry heavy loads and move quickly over rugged terrain. It is believed that the use of Giant Schnauzers in the German Army helped increase their effectiveness in combat.
9. Alaskan Malamutes and Huskies
War isn’t always in the fields or jungles, and during World War II, several planes headed for Europe ended up landing hard in Greenland. The US knew they needed a special dog to locate and help rescue airmen. Huskies and Alaskan Malamutes are the breeds that came in handy.
During World War II, Alaskan Malamutes were used as sled dogs in the US military. Their skills as sled dogs made them an essential tool for the Army. In addition, their resistance and strength made them ideal for the cold climate of Alaska.
10. Thai Ridgeback
The Thai Ridgeback Dog is a breed of dog native to Thailand that is used in military service. The breed was initially used for hunting and tracking but was also used as a guard and defense dog.
Conclusion
military dogs have been invaluable companions and allies in conflicts throughout history. From the loyal German Shepherds to the courageous Rottweilers, these canine warriors have demonstrated unwavering dedication, intelligence, and bravery on the battlefield.
Their roles in reconnaissance, search and rescue, and combat support have been crucial to the success of military operations. As we honor their service and sacrifices, we recognize the enduring bond between humans and their four-legged comrades, marking them as true heroes of war.