If you're a dog, and rural, you're likely working hard and tirelessly all day long: herding, carting, hunting in it's various forms (flushing and setting, retrieving) and personal guard dog. You will likely be fed scraps from around the farm. You are pretty much a descendant of colonial breeds from Europe such as a retriever, mastiff or terrier type.

Expect to be self cleaning and self healing as cuts and scrapes are part of life and your owner can only perform basic animal husbandry.

If you happen to be a merchant's pet and living in the city you will likely be a vermin killer or cart dog. Although, if you are lucky enough to be of a wealthy family, then you are a spoiled, pampered pet that is very much an accessory. Don't count on this, tho, as it's the minority. Be prepared to earn your your lunch.

The history of dog breeds, specifically from the working, herding and terrier groups gives an accurate portrayal of the habits of people and what they required back in the day.