Hunting is a great outdoor activity. It enables you to get some fresh air, break the routine and get out into nature.
It is among the best outdoor activities that provide exercise and relieves stress.
Hunting critics argue that it leads to the destruction of wildlife and their habitats. However, research indicates that regulated hunting has a minor, if any, influence on wildlife.
Why Do You Need a Dog As A Hunting Companion?
The man’s best friend is also the best hunting companion. Dog breeds that hunt have innate skills to do so. They excel in hunting everything from birds to land animals.
Dogs are the perfect hunting companions not only due to their hunting qualities but also because they provide company. Here are some traits to look for when getting a hunting dog:
● Tracking Ability
Dogs are famous for their sense of smell. Most dogs have expert smelling skills; however, hunting dogs must possess a heightened sense of smell. They must be able to pick up the scent of their prey at long distances.
Dogs that hunt should be able to track prey and follow it. This means following the prey through a rugged landscape if need be.
● Intelligence
Hunting dogs should be highly intelligent. They must be able to follow directions. They should also be able to make decisions regarding following the prey and catching them quickly.
● Resilience And Stamina
Hunting is not easy; it requires a lot of physical effort. Hunting dogs must be able to run long distances and remain active for long periods.
● Ability To Understand Commands
One of the key characteristics of a hunting dog is the ability to understand and follow commands. While hunting comes naturally to them, dogs should know you are the leader. They should be obedient and loyal to you above all.
Your dog should be docile enough that it does not require any punitive measures to behave. Still, you may want to buy a shock collar to help you keep your dog’s behavior in check. You can find the best shock collar for hunting dogs online as well.
Five Dog Breeds That Are Perfect for Hunting Dogs
You can check out WeLoveDoodles.com Here are the top five breeds that are perfect as your hunting companion:
● Labrador Retriever
There is a reason why Labrador Retrievers are the most popular breed among pet owners. They are family-friendly and loyal. Many people do not know that Labrador Retrievers are also great at hunting.
They are sturdy and athletically built. They are active and exceptionally agile. On top of all this, Labrador Retrievers are very smart.
It is easy to train them as they learn quickly. Labrador Retrievers are hard workers and specialize in retrieving prey as their name suggests.
Labradors are medium to large, ranging between 21.5 inches to 24.5 inches in height and weighing between 50 to 80 pounds. They are in their element when they are out of doors. They possess strong hunting instincts.
Labrador Retrievers are not just hunting dogs. They are loving pets and make for great family dogs as well.
● Beagle
Beagles prove that size does not matter. While Labrador Retrievers are quite big, the Beagles do not have the same advantage. A Beagle can weigh between 20 to 30 pounds and reach heights of 13 to 15 inches at most.
Despite their size, Beagles are excellent hunters. They have a heightened sense of smell. Beagles can sniff out prey over long distances. They are also very active and can chase their prey long distances.
Beagles are suitable for hunting with a gun. They are excellent trackers and are fast due to their small frame. As a family dog, Beagles are friendly and playful. All the qualities you want in a dog companion.
● German Shorthaired Pointer
The German Shorthaired Pointer is another breed fit for hunting. They are fit and agile and full of energy. German Shorthaired Pointers love the outdoors and are extremely active.
The German Shorthaired Pointer is a good companion if you are hunting with guns. They are excellent at pointing at game birds and retrieving prey for hunters.
Much like the Labrador Retriever, the German Shorthaired Pointer is a larger breed. The range in height is between 21 and 25 inches and weighs anywhere between 55 to 70 pounds.
They are highly trainable and have high levels of energy. They can get a little overexcited and do not know when to stop. German Shorthaired Pointers are healthy, happy, and very friendly.
● Bloodhound
If you want a hunting dog that can track without fail, then the Bloodhound is the best option. These dogs are famous for their ability to find. They are very friendly and docile. They are stubborn with tracking down scents which is why these make perfect rescue dogs.
Police train Bloodhounds to find people and track down evidence. Bloodhounds are larger dogs with a height of 23 to 27 inches and weigh around 80 to 110 pounds.
Despite their large size, Bloodhounds are energetic and lively. Aside from being good at hunting, Bloodhounds make excellent family pets because they are friendly.
● Irish Setter
Finally, comes the Irish Setter. The Irish Setter is a true hard worker, popular for their luscious red coat. Hunters prefer this breed because Irish Setters are good at hunting in rugged areas.
They are brave, athletic, and love the outdoors. They have strong builds with long legs that allow them to run fast and track their prey.
The Irish Setter is a medium to large dog. They can grow up to 25 to 27 inches and weigh anywhere between 60 to 70 pounds.
Choosing A Hunting Companion
A great companion when hunting makes all the difference. Plenty of dog breeds have an athletic build. However, other characteristics are also important when selecting a hunting dog.
Hunting dogs must be easy to train, intelligent, and friendly. Hunting down prey requires many skills. Aside from this, your hunting companion must be loyal and playful so you can enjoy the hunt.
Another important determinant of the type of hunting dog is the kind of animal you want to hunt. A larger game like moose or deer requires larger breeds, like the Labrador Retriever or the Bloodhound.
The Beagle is more suitable for smaller animals, like rabbits or birds. Ultimately, your choice of breed should be good at hunting and is a great family dog.