When choosing a hunting dog, there are some traits to consider for the advantage of hunting. Hunting dogs show great endurance and courage when in the field.
With the proper training of the best breed, you will enjoy every hunting moment, plus your dog will develop the best skills.
There are various traits to check in a hunting dog to ensure he is ready for the job. Keep reading as we learn more about them.
1. Athleticism and Endurance
One of the significant traits of a hunting dog is athleticism and endurance. Athletic dogs love to stay active and engaged in physical activity. They should be able to withstand long days out in the field, searching and chasing after prey for hours, and not tire quickly.
A high-speed and good reflex combination on such dogs will help them keep up with the game and catch it before it gets away. Some breeds known as athletic dogs are retrievers, shepherds, and hounds.
2. Strong Sense of Smell and Sound
Hunting dogs should have a strong sense of smell and sound to track down their prey, whether you want your dog to flush out your prey or indicate where they are.
They should be able to pick up on the scent of their prey and follow the trail until they reach their target. Training helps your dog stick to a specific prey smell to perfect the hunting art.
3. Intelligence
The dogs should be able to think on their own and remember commands. They should be easily teachable and capable of understanding and responding to the hunter’s commands quickly and accurately.
Sometimes it may be necessary to employ a particular tactic to successfully hunt prey, which requires a hunting dog to possess a certain level of intelligence in its own right.
4. Retrieving Ability
When hunting, there are scenarios whereby you may not access your prey; you’ll need your dog to retrieve it for you.
Hunting dogs should retrieve their prey and return it to the hunter. The dog should have a gentle grip and light touch so that the hunted animal is unharmed and in one piece when brought back to the hunter.
5. Temperament
The dogs should have friendly, stable temperaments so they can be easily trained and are suitable for hunting. They should be obedient and willing to learn new commands and skills. Such a dog should be ready to work hard and stick by their owners through thick and thin.
6. Versatility
Hunting dogs should be able to adapt to various hunting scenarios and terrains.
They should be able to adjust to different environments and still be able to perform their duties. Some abilities like swimming, high jumping, and crawling are needed in a hunting dog, depending on the terrain and task.
7. Courage
A prey might sometimes be intimidating and even pose a danger to you and your hunting dog. Your dog should show courage when near the target, plus remain calm when in danger.
Which Dogs Make Good Hunters?
1. Labrador Retriever
Being one of the most popular dog breeds, Labrador Retrievers make a perfect hunting dog. They are great swimmers with the ability to withstand low temperatures. The dogs are super friendly, making good companions when they aren’t hunting. They are the best when hunting ducks.
2. American Foxhound
The dog is another amazing friend to consider for hunting. She exhibits determination when reaching for the enemy and thrives on the chase. People used the dog for hunting foxes and were later involved in deer hunting.
They are loyal and loving companions that don’t need too much exercise to satisfy their energy levels.
3. Pointer
Pointers are loving and loyal hunting companions for warmer climates since they are relatively heat tolerant. They have a high hunting determination for birds attacking pheasants and quail with vigor, plus they will offer excellent company when home.
4. Golden Retriever
The dogs are used for hunting small animals and birds, and their enthusiasm and loyalty make them trainable. They will offer children great companionship and require minimal body and mind exercise.
How Do You Train a Hunting Dog?
Start training the dog when he is young. You can start by showing him how to retrieve and wait, which will help sharpen his sense of smell for games and more activities. Additionally, make the dog used to the gun sound and if you are busy, consider taking your dog to a training facility.
Which is the Best Food for Hunting Dogs?
Include high protein and fat food in your hunting dog’s diet with carbs in reasonable measures, which will help keep her alert, active and energetic for the hunting duties.
In Conclusion
A good hunting dog should be energetic and ready for the task. A good one should be intelligent, which will help the dog respond to the owner’s commands, not to mention that the dog should show excellent retrieving ability.
The dog should be friendly and stable to enhance the relationship with the owner. Ensure you provide the proper diet and training for an easy time with your canine friend.
