How To Care For Hunting Dog Breeds

Hunting dogs can be found in several subcategories of dog breeds, including Sporting Dogs, Hounds, and Terriers. Each breed has skills that pertain to specific types of hunting. So, if you are planning on bringing one of these dogs into your home, keep some of these tips in mind so you and your new pet are happy.

Sporting Dog Breeds

Sporting dogs are kept to help their hunters track or fetch their game. These dogs are going to love being outside, feeling just as comfortable in the woods or water as they do on your couch or cozy bed. These dogs are perfect for you if you have a large yard or like hiking or boating.

Sporting dogs come in all shapes and sizes, from smaller breeds like Cocker Spaniels to larger breeds like Irish Setters, so if you have a smaller space or yard, there is likely a sporting breed to meet your needs.

What’s more, water dogs like Retrievers have coats that were made to repel water and keep them insulated. This means lots of shedding and fur, so keep in mind the grooming needs of each breed to keep them comfortable.

Hounds

If you have ever lived with Hounds, you are familiar with their siren call. Baying sounds like a continuously loud mix between barking and howling, an instinctual cry that alerts hunters that prey is nearby, so they might not be the best dog for an apartment or a condo.

Some Hounds like Beagles, Bloodhounds, and Basset Hounds have a very sensitive sense of smell. Because of this, there is a chance they will come home smelling of something interesting, or even give you gifts of small critters their nose discovered.

Other Hounds were bred specifically for endurance to chase down prey. Breeds like Foxhounds and Irish Wolfhounds will chase down game or set them up for their hunting companions, which is not to say they are aggressive. For example, the Irish Wolfhound, though large and powerful, is known for their calm temperament. Hunting is in their nature, so it is necessary to train and keep a watchful eye on them.

Terriers

Terriers are bred to help their families reduce pests on their property. Like Hounds, you may find that they leave you some “gifts” of small animals when left unattended too long. So if you have a backyard, be prepared to fill in holes because they love to dig.

As a group, Terriers are often feisty, temperamental characters. Breeds range from small to medium, and they are spirited, intelligent, and sometimes mischievous. They are also escape artists who run and roam. For this reason, most terriers require secure fencing and do best when kept on leash when they are outside of their yard.

If you keep in mind the needs of your dog and they fit your lifestyle, a hunting dog will be a companion for life. Keep them active, because a bored dog equals a destructive dog, and be ready to train them because they love to learn. All-in-all, hunting dogs can be great companions both outside and in.