Types of Hunting Dogs

Before You Go, Check Out This HOT OFFER...


Former PayPal Insider Reveals All - Click Here!

There are many different breeds that make excellent hunting dogs, but not all are classified specifically as hunting dogs.  Hounds hunt small game such as jackrabbits, raccoons, and other smaller animals that live in thickets and underbrush.  Not all hounds hunt solely with scent, as some use their keen eyesight (sight hounds) too.

Gun dogs are another common category of hunting dog.  Remember, not all hunting dogs are gun dogs.  Gun dogs are primarily used by hunters who hunt with shotguns, mainly those hunting for various types of fowl.  They encompass retrievers, pointers, setters, and spaniels usually.   Terriers and feists are also types of gun dogs and have been known to squeeze into rabbit holes and other hideouts to chase out game.  Curs are larger hunting dogs and are able to hunt bigger game, such as cougars.
There are numerous diverse breeds of gun dogs.  They are outstanding dogs when you are in the hunt for those to retrieve or even chase game.  Each breed has unique abilities and personalities.  A brief breakdown of these abilities and personalities:

Retrievers

Not only are retrievers a good choice as hunting dogs, but they also make wonderful family pets.  They are excellent swimmers and like the water.  If you are intending on hunting ducks or other fowl close to the water, you should choose a retriever, as he will have no problem grabbing birds, whether they are on land or in the water.  Retrievers also learn the command “fetch” easier than most other dogs, as their natural instinct is to retrieve items.

Spaniels

A few spaniels like water, but their main gift lies in finding game that lives in thickets.  They are similar to retrievers in that they then retrieve prey.  Cocker spaniels are exceptionally good pets, but also extraordinary hunters.  English springer spaniels and cocker spaniels are two of the most widespread spaniel breeds classified as hunting dogs, though field spaniels are also growing in prominence.   Spaniels will chase game out of hiding and retrieve it on land and water in a similar way.

Pointers

Pointers, such as the German shorthaired pointer, are very good at discovering the prey for the hunter and point at it in a very distinct manner, giving them their names.  This breed will cover more ground than a spaniel, but are reliant on the hunter to flush out the animal first.

Setters

Setters, like pointers, will find and point at prey, but will also sniff out the prey themselves on command.  Setters, like the popular English setter, are brilliant at locating upland birds.  As hunting dogs, they are more widely used in England and Ireland than in the United States.

Water Dogs

When we hear the term “poodle,” we often picture a lap dog with a curly hair-do.  Nonetheless, the poodle is a kind of retriever that swims well and is, theoretically, a hunting dog.  The larger breeds of poodles are better-quality dogs to use for hunting when near the water.   Distinctive from other hunting dogs, poodles have actual hair instead of fur and have to be clipped once in a while.  An interesting note: they are wonderful hunting dogs for those with dog allergies.

The type of dog that is right for you depends mostly on what kind of prey you are hunting.  Plan for this ahead of time, so that when you go on your hunt you have the correct expectations of the dog. Recognizing what your dog is able to do will help out when you train him to be the most excellent hunting dog he knows how to be.

When purchasing Gun Dogs you must also consider what kind of Hunting Dog Supplies you might need. A few supplies to consider are dog training collars, bird launchers, and electronic dog fences.

Related Reading:


Leave a Reply