Annual Southern Gentleman® Issue
Depending on the type of hunt, some dog breed’s unique skill sets are better suited than others to help you get your game. Here, we explore some of the most popular hunting dog breeds and their special skill sets.
By Kristen Dee
Pointers are truly born and bred for the hunt, with puppy’s hunting instincts beginning to develop as young as two months old. German wirehaired pointers and German shorthaired pointers (often called GSPs) are two excellent pointer breeds. Wirehaired pointers have dense coats that allow them to withstand harsh weather and rough conditions, and shorthaired pointers are known for their power, speed, and agility. Setters, such as English setters and Irish red and white setters, also fall under the pointer category and make both excellent hunting dogs and affectionate pets.
Spaniels make excellent hunting partners, especially for game birds like pheasant, quail, and woodcock. Breeds such as the English springer spaniel, Irish water spaniel, and Boykin spaniel have proven to be talented hunting dogs, able to locate and flush birds even in dense areas, thanks to their small size and intense drive. Spaniels also are easily trainable and eager to please, making them a great introductory hunting dog.
Retriever breeds are a perfect choice for a waterfowl dog thanks to their strength, intelligence, and gentle mouths, which ensure game isn’t damaged while being retrieved. These energetic, eager companions have a waterproof coat, helping protect them from the elements. The water-loving Labrador retriever is a classic choice for a hunting dog, while the Nova Scotia duck tolling retriever is a unique, red-colored breed that will stand out on your hunt.
When hunting for small game, such as raccoons and rabbits, or large game like deer, bears, mountain lions, and moose, hounds excel in finding game. These versatile dogs have been hunting for centuries, praised for their incredible tracking abilities and impressive stamina. Whether you’ve chosen a beagle, bloodhound, Irish wolfhound, or Tennessee’s state dog, the bluetick coonhound, you can be sure the job will always get done.
