Dogs Once Served As Carriage Bodyguards
Before modern security, wealthy travelers relied on specially trained dogs to run alongside their coaches. These loyal protectors acted as mobile alarms and bodyguards, tasked with attacking highwaymen who tried to ambush the carriage.
These dogs were essentially the original anti-theft system for high-end transportation. Because they were bred for endurance and speed, they could trot alongside horses for miles without tiring. If a bandit jumped from the shadows, the dog provided an immediate defense, buying the passengers precious time to draw their own weapons. It was a sophisticated way to manage safety on dangerous, lonely roads.
Source: Carriage dog