Dogs are great companions for sharing love and affection. But they also have a long history of serving more practical purposes.
One of the most ancient purposes was to serve as hunting partners. From tracking to retrieving, dogs can help perform several hunting tasks due to their exceptional physical and intellectual abilities.
This article identifies the 7 best hunting dog breeds to consider when going hunting.
Keep reading if you want to know more about them.
1. Labrador Retriever
The Labrador retriever is a master at waterfowl hunting. Their love for water and agile muscular bodies make a deadly combination for hunting ducks and geese.
This lovable versatile dog can undertake various hunting tasks, including upland game, retrieving waterfowl, or even big game. Between their downright enthusiasm, ability to withstand the cold, and perennial loyalty, no hunter can say no to this breed.
The dog is easy to train and super intelligent, making it a popular option in search and rescue missions and multiple other professional services. The work hard, play hard attitude makes labs grasp information and skills faster.
2. English Springer Spaniel
Do you want a hunting dog for a first-time owner? The English springer spaniel is a suitable dog for you.
The springer spaniel is excellent in all types of upland hunting. They are famed for their prowess in wild pheasant hunting but can also hunt grouse, wild quail, and partridge.
The dogs retrieving skills are on par with those of the golden retriever and the Labrador. The relatively small body size of the English springer spaniel makes it fantastic for navigating tighter spaces while on a hunt.
With a phenomenal nose, the springer spaniel works tirelessly in the field and always remains within gun range. When not out hunting, the spaniel is a brilliant family dog.
3. Bloodhound
The bloodhound is bred to hunt large game primarily due to their fantastic ability to scent and track prey. They are not particularly aggressive, and it is usually up to the hunter whether to kill the game.
Police units also use bloodhounds to hunt down escapees and missing persons. Exercise is essential for bloodhounds, mainly so that they can use their nose.
However, bloodhounds are independent and stubborn dogs making it challenging to train them. Also, keep your sight on this dog breed, as it can escape.
4. German Short-Haired Pointer
The GSP is a worthy choice if you want a do-it-all hunting partner. It has the stamina, drive, and mental capacity to perform different jobs perfectly.
The German pointers are intelligent and willing to hunt anything from deer to birds. They also track, point, and retrieve from water and land.
Pointers are loyal and reasonably good at guarding their owner against danger. They can endure extreme heat and humidity thanks to their thin coat.
They, however, require more training than other hunting dogs. They need at least two physical and mental exercises a day. Early socialization is also necessary for this breed.
5. Coonhound
This dog breed is a fierce tracker in the field and has cold noses, meaning they can smell animals previously in the area.
Coonhounds are bred to hunt raccoons, feral pigs, foxes, and bobcats, among other animals. They are eager to learn and an intelligent breed that brings joy to train if you understand how to handle them. If not, coonhounds can be stubborn too.
6. Beagle
Do you want an effective small-game hunting dog? The beagle meets the criteria to win your trust. They have a good sense of smell and a loud voice.
A little stouter than the foxhound breed, they have a lot of similar qualities, including their, loyalty, colors, demeanor, obedience, and tenacity.
They are low to the ground and stalky hunting dogs, always loyal to and committed to any hunting task. They have a knack for tracking and directing the hunter toward the prey effortlessly. Beagles are loving dogs and eager to please their master. They are easy to train and love to exercise.
7. Golden retriever
True to its name, the Golden retriever retrieves ducks and birds that its owner shoots down regardless of where they land, thick brush, swamp, or pond.
The golden retriever can be mistaken for a shy fluffy pet when found in a home setting. Wait till you see its tenacity and willing temperament to complete hunting tasks on the field.
The golden retriever has many similarities with the Labrador retriever, including outstanding skills in hunting, with search and rescue teams, as service dogs, and in dog sports.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a canine partner to go hunting, any dog breeds in this article will do the job for you.
Ensure you know what you want in a dog before getting one. Some are better in the water, others are great at roaming the mountains, and there are still so many other variations. Cheers!
