What role do the dogs play within the context of the farm?

The dogs in "Animal Farm" play a crucial role as enforcers of Napoleon's rule. They are not mere pets or laborers; instead, they are specifically trained by Napoleon to serve as his personal bodyguards and enforcers. This training begins when Napoleon seizes the puppies from their mothers and raises them in isolation, instilling loyalty and obedience to him alone.

As a result, the dogs support Napoleon's authoritarian regime by intimidating other animals and silencing dissent. For example, they are used to chase away Snowball from the farm, showcasing their function as a violent means of enforcing Napoleon's will and suppressing any opposition, which furthers the theme of corruption of power in the story. Their presence illustrates the intersection of violence and authority, emphasizing how dictatorship can manipulate fear to maintain control rather than relying on the collective cooperation and trust of all animals on the farm.