Off the leash: These are the four best hunting dogs
From Beagles to Bloodhounds, these are the best breeds to take with you into the field…
Words: Jonathan Wells
Photography: Linda Clark
There are many types of hunting dog. From Sighthounds — small lithe dogs such as whippets that are used to locate quarry, through Pointers — dogs trained to point at small game, to Setters — which flush upland game birds, each has a different skill set. And each is man’s best friend in its own unique way.
As the hunting season rolls on, your gun dog will be as integral a part of your arsenal as your hip flask and your side-by-side. But, unlike your gilet or markers, he will prove an integral, intuitive member of the team — and give you the opportunity to forge a partnership that is undoubtedly the best in the field.
So, to give you the best chance to make an impression this season — and find a new four-legged friend at the same time — here is our pick of the four best hunting dogs, and what makes them so adept…
For hunting small game, The Beagle
The Beagle is ideally suited to hunting small game such as rabbits, with the hunter following on foot.
The modern breed was developed in Great Britain almost 200 years ago, from dogs including the Talbot Hound and Harrier, and they have one of the best developed sense of smell of any dog.
For hunting larger game, The Bloodhound
Bred for hunting deer, wild boar and even tracing people in the Middle Ages, bloodhounds are famed for their strong noses and unparalleled tracking abilities.
Combined with a tenacious and strong tracking instinct, this is a dog who will be invaluable to you in the field — and has a gentle and affectionate nature for when you head home.
For an all-purpose gun dog, The Weimaraner
Instantly recognisable by their distinctive silver grey fur, early Weimaraners were originally bred by Grand Dukes of Weimar for hunting large game, but are now all-purpose gun dogs.
With immense amounts of energy, they’ll throw themselves into hunting, tracking and retrieving on both land and in water. And, for the novice hunter, they have a strong desire to work and live with their owners.
For a highly intelligent dog, The Labrador Retriever
Trained to be the eyes and ears of their owners, trained labrador retrievers can be sent 100 to 150 metres to find shot game, and their cold-weather coats were made for long days outdoors.
What’s more, there’s a reason this is one of the world’s most popular dogs. They are incredibly gentle, intelligent and outgoing — perfect characteristics for both a dog, and a friend in the field.
Want to up your style on the field? Here’s the kit you should be setting your sights on in 2018…
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