Types of Hunting Dogs

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, find the prey for the hunter and point at it, hence their name.  This breed will cover a much larger region than spaniels, but rely on the hunter to draw out the prey.

Setters

Setters, similar to pointers, will both find and point at game, but will also track prey using excellent smelling abilities when ordered to do so.  Setters, such as English setters, are very skillful at tracking upland birds such as quail and pheasants.  They are very popular hunting dogs in places like Ireland and England.

Water Dogs

When we hear the word “poodle,” we often think of a lap dog with a convoluted hair-do.  However, the poodle is a sort of retriever that enjoys the water and is, in theory, a hunting dog.  Big traditional poodles are superior dogs to use for hunting when hunting close to the water.   Different from other hunting dogs, poodles have actual hair in place of fur and must be clipped every so often.  An odd aside: they are excellent hunting dogs for those with dog allergies.

The kind of hunting you plan on doing will govern the category of hunting dog that is appropriate for you.  Try to plan for this beforehand, so that when you seek out your quarry you have the right expectations for the dog. Knowing what your dog is able to do will lend a hand when you teach him to be the best 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.