35 Best Hunting Dog Breeds in the World
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Dogs have long been considered a human’s best friend. And they didn’t earn that title from only providing companionship and cuddles (though those things are particularly delightful from your pet). They are happy to take on a number of tasks that help make our lives better, including hunting.
People in all sorts of places have trained and had dogs by their side to help them hunt a variety of different animals. From rabbits to ducks and even the more dangerous cougars and lions, we couldn’t do it as successfully without our four-legged friends helping out.
Here are 35 of the best hunting dog breeds for that next venture into the Great Outdoors.
35. Welsh Corgi
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Temperament: Playful, bold, protective
Height: 10-12 inches
Weight: 22-31 pounds (male), 22-29 pounds (female)
Life expectancy: 11-13 years years
Bottom Line: Welsh Corgi
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The Pembroke Welsh corgi might be small and stocky, but don't let their rounded features deceive you. Corgis were originally bred to be herding dogs for Welsh cattle, and they quickly proved to be useful farm dogs all around.
Corgis are adept at killing rodents and other vermin, as well as for guarding and herding barnyard fowl.
34. Portuguese Water Dog
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Portuguese Water DogTemperament: Intelligent, obedient, affectionate
Height: 17-22 inches
Weight: 42-60 pounds (male), 35-50 pounds (female)
Life expectancy: 12-15 years
Bottom Line: Portuguese Water Dog
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The Portuguese water dog originated in Portugal, where they were highly desirable for their gundog skills. They also have become more popular in the United States in recent years.
They were bred to work hard, and are content to spend hours on end swimming and retrieving game.
Portuguese Water Dog in Action
33. Karelian Bear Dog
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Temperament: Territorial, independent, loyal
Height: 19-24 inches
Weight: 44-51 pounds
Life expectancy: 11-13 years
Bottom Line: Karelian Bear Dog
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Karelian bear dog side view, copy spaceThe Karelian bear dog, also occasionally called the Carelian bear dog, hails from Finland. While most dogs on this list were bred to hunt average-sized game, the Karelian bear dog was bred to hunt large, fierce game, like wild boars, wolves, moose and, you guessed it, bears.
Of all the dogs mentioned, this breed is the least well-suited to being kept as pets. They're naturally territorial, and their instinct to fight other animals is too strong to keep them with other pets.
These hardcore hunters also have been used by multiple national parks to help control big game.
Karelian Bear Dog in Action
32. Gordon Setter
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Temperament: Fearless, loyal, confident
Height: 23-27 inches
Weight: 55-80 pounds (male), 45-70 pounds (female)
Life expectancy: 10-12 years
Bottom Line: Gordon Setter
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The Gordon setter was bred to be a hunting dog from the start. Although less common than the Irish setter, they're capable hunting dogs if provided with ample, firm training.
They have a stubborn nature and can be a challenge to train, so dog handling experience is a must.
They're also extremely energetic, so don't get a Gordon unless you lead a highly active lifestyle.
31. Fox Terrier
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Temperament: Lively, alert, playful
Height: 14-15 inches
Weight: 15-21 pounds
Life expectancy: 12-15 years
Bottom Line: Fox Terrier
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The appropriately named Fox Terrier was bred to chase foxes from their dens and hiding spots. They later became pets more than hunters, primarily due to their lovable personalities and lush, tricolor coat.
Smooth fox terriers are the less common facet of the breed that's much more involved in hunting and show circles today.
All fox terriers are capable of being trained as hunters, but the smooth version was the first breed in the fox terrier group to be recognized by England's Kennel Club in the late 1800s.
30. Finnish Spitz
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Temperament: Playful, vocal, bright
Height: 15-20 inches
Weight: 26-29 pounds (male), 15-22 pounds (female)
Life expectancy: 12-14 years
Bottom Line: Finnish Spitz
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The coolest part about the Finnish spitz is that it's one of just a few dog breeds that shares DNA with a rare species of wolf, the Taimyr wolf. The Taimyr has been extinct for thousands of years, so scientists believe the Finnish spitz was domesticated earlier than most other dog breeds.
This breed hunts by running ahead of the hunter and barking to notify them of the prey bird's location. They're so vocal that Finland hosts a Finish spitz barking competition each year.
29. English Cocker Spaniel
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Temperament: Quiet, friendly, easy to train
Height: 14-17 inches
Weight: 29-35 pounds (male), 26-33 (female)
Life expectancy: 12-15 years
Bottom Line: English Cocker Spaniel
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The American cocker spaniel is familiar to most, but it's their English cousin that's fit for hunting.
English cocker spaniels are strong, compact dogs that are excellent at solving puzzles. On every excursion, their tails wag virtually nonstop.
They excel at hunting in woods and brush where larger sporting breeds would struggle, but they work well in open fields as well.
English Cocker Spaniel in Action
28. Dachshund
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Temperament: Independent, lively, playful
Height: 5-9 inches
Weight: 16-32 pounds (standard-sized), 11 pounds or less (miniature)
Life expectancy: 12-14 years
Bottom Line: Dachshund
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Dachshunds are happy, friendly small dogs that most people today consider to be lovable, vertically challenged pets. That said, dachshunds were originally bred to be hunting dogs.
There are two sizes of dachshunds, and both are adept at burrowing underground to reach prey that larger dogs would be unable to access.
They're a superb choice for hunters that live in cities because they don't need as much exercise as many large sporting breeds.
27. Basset Hound
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Temperament: Affectionate, devoted, tenacious
Height: 11-15 inches
Weight: 51-64 pounds (male), 44-60 pounds (female)
Life expectancy: 10-12 years
Bottom Line: Basset Hound
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Despite their floppy ears and happy-go-lucky demeanor, the basset hound was bred to hunt. With a nose unmatched by any dog breed other than the bloodhound, basset hounds are excellent at hunting small game, particularly rabbits and rodents.
Their long ears weren't bred to be cute, but to be useful. They drag on the ground stirring up scents, while their wrinkly skin captures the scent to make it even easier to track their prey.
Their smooth coats also are easy to rinse off and dry easily.
26. Airedale Terrier
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Temperament: Intelligent, confident, outgoing
Height: 22-24 inches
Weight: 51-64 pounds (male), 40-44 pounds (female)
Life expectancy: 10-12 years
Bottom Line: Airedale Terrier
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Fluffy and fun-loving, the Airedale terrier's speed and warm coat make the breed perfectly suited to bird hunting. Even in winter months, Airedales are content to hunt (and play) in the water and on chilly, windy shores.
Airedales have served as hunting dogs since the 1800s. While they were first bred to scare bears from their dens, they're more commonly used to hunt small game, like rodents and geese.
The American Kennel Association claims Airedales aren't fit for hunting, but many Airedale owners vehemently disagree.
Airedale Terrier in Action
25. Rhodesian Ridgeback
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Temperament: Sensitive, strong-willed, loyal
Height: 24-27 inches
Weight: 80-90 pounds (male), 65-75 pounds (female)
Life expectancy: 10-13 years
Bottom Line: Rhodesian Ridgeback
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These gorgeous, gentle giants pack a serious hunting punch. Originally bred in South Africa and called the African Lion Hound, these dogs were meant to help hunters kill lions. And even though it was a team effort to do so, any animal that’s willing to face a lion is an incredibly brave one in our book.
These sweet and regal-looking beasts have plenty of endurance for chasing down prey, a keen hound-level sense of smell, and a deep loyalty to their people that makes them happy and willing helpers.
Rhodesian Ridgeback in Action
24. Standard Poodle
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Temperament: Intelligent, active, trainable
Height: 18-24 inches
Weight: 55-60 pounds (male), 45-50 pounds (female)
Life expectancy: 12-14 years
Bottom Line: Standard Poodle
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Thanks to their often goofy-looking-poofy haircuts, it may surprise a lot of people that poodles make good hunting dogs — but they very much do. They have a long history of helping hunters retrieve their game in European cultures. Originally bred to be water retrievers, they are distinctively intelligent dogs, which makes them easy to train. And they’re athletic with plenty of energy, so they’ll be able to join in on any hunt.
Make sure, though, you use a standard size poodle. The smaller ones, especially the toy breeds or those mixed with more docile breeds, should be left at home to keep the couch warm.
Standard Poodle in Action
23. Irish Setter
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Temperament: Loving, energetic, playful
Height: 25-27 inches
Weight: 60-70 pounds (male or female)
Life expectancy: 12-15 years
Bottom Line: Irish Setter
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When it comes to all the things a hunter may need help with while out in the wild, this breed has it all. They have excellent tracking abilities, point, retrieve and are incredibly adaptable. Their boundless energy means they have the endurance to last long hunts. And their playful spirit means they’ll have the best time being their person’s special little helper.
Just make sure you train them to stay on task. These gorgeous redheads have a bit of a reputation for being easily distracted — but nothing a good treat and some focused patience can’t fix.
22. Catahoula Leopard Dog
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Temperament: Gentle, energetic, independent
Height: 20-24 inches
Weight: 35-110 pounds (male), 35-99 pounds (female)
Life expectancy: 10-14 years
Bottom Line: Catahoula Leopard Dog
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Not only are these spotted dogs absolutely gorgeous looking, but they’re also particularly helpful in hunting a variety of game. They can be trained to hunt boar, squirrels, raccoons or any number of other animals.
Plus, even when they’re home relaxing, their natural tendency to be protective of their family means they’re always on alert.
Catahoula Leopard Dog in Action
21. Treeing Walker Coonhound
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Temperament: Confident, clever, intelligent
Height: 20-27 inches
Weight: 50-70 pounds (male and female)
Life expectancy: 12-13 years
Bottom Line: Treeing Walker Coonhound
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These foxhound descendants have a keen nose, excellent speed and top-notch endurance. They’re good for hunting animals that hide out, either in small nooks or up in trees.
They’re happy to work one-on-one or in a group. And though they were originally bred to hunt smaller game, they can be trained to help track down bobcats, cougars and small bears.
Treeing Walker Coonhound in Action
20. Wirehaired Pointing Griffon
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Temperament: Loyal, proud, gentle
Height: 20-24 inches
Weight: 52-10 pounds (male and female)
Life expectancy: 10-12 years
Bottom Line: Wirehaired Pointing Griffon
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Like a handful of other breeds on this list, these dogs are particularly versatile. They’re as happy upland as pointers as they are retrieving in the water.
These dogs began being bred in the Netherlands in the 1500s as the perfect close-working dogs that naturally blend into their backgrounds and lie low to the ground. They’ll stick by you no matter what pace you want to hunt. The biggest problem you’ll have with this breed is finding them, as they’re pretty rare.
Wirehaired Pointing Griffon in Action
19. Vizsla
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Temperament: Affectionate, energetic, quiet
Height: 21-15 inches
Weight: 44-64 pounds (male), 40-55 pounds (female)
Life expectancy: 12-15 years
Bottom Line: Vizsla
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These high-energy dogs will run circles around you as you head out to hunt and somehow never get tired. They’re very loyal and willing to learn how to help with anything you want to do — assuming you have the patience to train and tame their fast-running minds and bodies.
They’re especially great at helping hunt ducks, pheasants and quail.
18. Golden Retriever
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Temperament: Friendly, confident, sweet
Height: 20-24 inches
Weight: 65-75 pounds (male), 55-71 pounds (female)
Life expectancy: 10-12 years
Bottom Line: Golden Retriever
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Despite their popularity as family dogs, thanks in large part to their happy nature, these dogs can make excellent hunters as well. Though "Air Bud" may have you believe the only thing this breed can retrieve is a rebound, they’re bred to be water-retrieving animals.
One of the best aspects of the Golden Retriever’s personality is the fact that they’re so eager to please. That means you can train them to help you in any number of hunting tasks.
Golden Retriever in Action
17. Weimaraner
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Temperament: Energetic, stubborn, fast
Height: 23-26 inches
Weight: 66-88 pounds (male), 55-77 pounds (female)
Life expectancy: 11-14 years
Bottom Line: Weimaraner
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These dogs were meant to be hunters. Like other breeds, they’ve over time transitioned into being popular house pets (a job they also take very seriously). But with the right training and motivation, this breed can be excellent helpers on a hunt.
They’re great trackers and incredibly fast. Plus, they’re strong and versatile. Start training them young so that their stubbornness works in your favor.
16. Chesapeake Bay Retriever
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Temperament: Intelligent, affectionate, protective
Height: 21-26 inches
Weight: 65-80 pounds (male), 55-71 pounds (female)
Life expectancy: 10-12 years
Bottom Line: Chesapeake Bay Retriever
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Like other retrievers, these dogs are particularly smart and very loyal to their humans. They have a bit more of an independent streak and, if not properly socialized, will generally dislike strangers.
But their work ethic is unrivaled. There’s no task too big or small for these gorgeous dogs. They’re especially adept at cold-water retrieving and can even break up ice in the water.
Chesapeake Bay Retriever in Action
15. English Setter
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Temperament: Affectionate, mischievous, eager
Height: 23-27 inches
Weight: 55-80 pounds (male), 45-70 pounds (female)
Life expectancy: 10-14 years
Bottom Line: English Setter
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Like other setters, the English Setter is excellent at crouching down (aka “setting”) while they hunt. Not only are they excellent pointers and especially helpful with bird hunting, but they’re also really delightful companions.
Their natural affection and generally cheery disposition will make the whole hunting excursion particularly pleasant.
14. American Water Spaniel
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Temperament: Obedient, energetic, trainable
Height: 15-18 inches
Weight: 30-45 pounds (male), 25-40 pounds (female)
Life expectancy: 13-15 years
Bottom Line: American Water Spaniel
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These dogs have a love for hunting bred into their DNA. They are happiest when out helping a hunt any way they can – from swimming to retrieve waterfowl to flushing out upland.
Their extra-thick coats mean they can handle cooler temperatures and even swim in colder water. It also means they have a bit more protection through shrubs and brush in wild areas.
American Water Spaniel in Action
13. Jack Russell Terrier
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Temperament: Energetic, fearless, stubborn
Height: 10-12 inches
Weight: 14-18 pounds (male and female)
Life expectancy: 13-16 years
Bottom Line: Jack Russell Terrier
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For those who only think of Jack Russells as home companions or, perhaps, literary savants a là "Wishbone," it may surprise you to learn they can be great hunting dogs. Despite their size, their prey drive is incredibly strong.
They’re excellent with smaller game like squirrels or moles. And if there’s a rat anywhere near the home, you’d better believe this breed will be all over it.
Jack Russell Terrier in Action
12. Norwegian Elkhound
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Temperament: Strong-willed, loyal, hardy
Height: 19-20 inches
Weight: 53-57 pounds (male), 45-50 pounds (female)
Life expectancy: 12-15 years
Bottom Line: Norwegian Elkhound
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What these dogs hunt best is right there in the name: elk. Of course, that also includes similar animals like deer and moose. But they’re actually great all-around hunters.
Their extra fluffy coats not only make them particularly cute, but they’re also excellent survivors in even harsh conditions. So, if you’re looking for a dog who can manage an overnight hunt in difficult weather and be trained to help out with all sorts of game, this is a great choice.
Norwegian Elkhound in Action
11. Boykin Spaniel
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Temperament: Intelligent, friendly, energetic
Height: 14-18 inches
Weight: 30-40 pounds (male), 25-35 pounds (female)
Life expectancy: 14-16 years
Bottom Line: Boykin Spaniel
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Sometimes also called the Appalachian Turkey Dog, this breed was bred in America and is especially adept for all sorts of game in the mountains. They’re good at flushing out and retrieving birds.
Plus, their relatively smaller size means you can fit them in small boats or canoes down rivers. And they have webbed toes, which makes them naturally awesome swimmers.
10. Dogo Argentino
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Temperament: Affectionate, loyal, protective
Height: 24-27 inches
Weight: 88-99 pounds (male), 77-88 pounds (female)
Life expectancy: 10-15 years
Bottom Line: Dogo Argentino
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One look at these large, muscular dogs, and you get the feeling you can take on anything with one by your side. They make an excellent companion for hunting larger prey. And their intelligence means they're easy to train, which is important given their size and general stubbornness.
As long as you assert your dominance early and tell the Dogo what you want, you’ll have an amazing hunting buddy.
9. Bloodhound
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Temperament: Gentle, stubborn, even-tempered
Height: 23-27 inches
Weight: 90-110 pounds (male), 80-100 pounds (female)
Life expectancy: 10-12 years
Bottom Line: Bloodhound
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With some of the strongest noses in the entire dog world, this breed is just about as good as it gets when it comes to tracking prey.
Because of their gentle, generally even-tempered nature, they likely won’t be interested or involved with any actual killing. But when trained to find specific smells or stalk certain animals, you’ll be hard-pressed to get a more adept smeller by your side.
8. German Shorthaired Pointer
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Temperament: Intelligent, affectionate, cooperative
Height: 21-25 inches
Weight: 55-70 pounds (male), 45-60 pounds (female)
Life expectancy: 12-14 years
Bottom Line: German Shorthaired Pointer
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Another dog that’s considered a bit of a Swiss Army knife in terms of skills, German Shorthaired Pointers are happy to track, point, attack and retrieve. Whatever you want them to do, just train this dog to do it.
Since they've been bred to help hunters for a very long time, they have natural instincts that make them natural hunters. Plus, they'll be as happy as can be hanging out with the family after a long day of work.
German Shorthaired Pointer in Action
7. Bluetick Coonhound
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Temperament: Intelligent, friendly, active
Height: 21-27 inches
Weight: 55-80 pounds (male), 45-64 pounds (female)
Life expectancy: 11-12 years
Bottom Line: Bluetick Coonhound
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These medium-sized dogs have a large skillset. They can hunt in packs or individually. They have a really distinctive bark that lets hunters they’re with know when they’ve spotted prey, even if it’s hiding up in a tree.
They were originally bred to hunt raccoons, so they’re naturally excellent at that. But they can be trained to hunt various animals, including coyotes, big cats, bears or deers.
Bluetick Coonhound in Action
6. Beagle
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Temperament: Even-tempered, gentle, excitable
Height: 13-16 inches
Weight: 22-24 pounds (male), 20-22 pounds (female)
Life expectancy: 12-15 years
Bottom Line: Beagle
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These happy pups are well-known for their howl and their generally playful nature. As a hound, they have some of the best noses in the entire canine kingdom and can track prey from a long distance.
Their high energy level means they’re a great choice even for longer hunts. They do need to get their energy out and can be delightfully stubborn if not well-trained. But they have a ton of natural instincts that will kick in given the right training and situation that can make them perfect helpers for all sorts of game hunting.
5. Springer Spaniel
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Temperament: Affectionate, intelligent, active
Height: 18-22 inches
Weight: 45-55 pounds (male), 40-50 pounds (female)
Life expectancy: 12-14 years
Bottom Line: Springer Spaniel
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Because these dogs are so eager-to-please, they make great starter hunting dogs for new hunters who don’t have a ton of time to train their pup. They’ll still need a bit of finesse, but they have natural instincts to point, flush and retrieve.
They’re especially well-suited for upland bird hunting.
Springer Spaniel in Action
4. Brittany
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Temperament: Agile, intelligent, quick
Height: 18-20 inches
Weight: 30-40 pounds (male and female)
Life expectancy: 12-15 years
Bottom Line: Brittany
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While this dog breed is technically a spaniel, it has the characteristics of both a pointer and a setter. It was originally bred to hunt birds, so if that’s your game of choice, it’s a naturally great companion. But because of this breed’s athleticism, intelligence and adaptability, it can be trained to excel at whatever type of hunting you have in mind.
There are two main types of Brittanys – the American and the French. The French tend to stick closer to the hunter while American Brittanys were bred to help out on a horseback hunt, so they’ll cast a wider radius.
3. Mountain Cur
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Temperament: Protective, intelligent, courageous
Height: 16-26 inches
Weight: 30-60 pounds (male and female)
Life expectancy: 14-16 years
Bottom Line: Mountain Cur
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These dogs were a favorite of early pioneers and settlers. They’re adaptable, protective, strong and hard-working, making them an asset to any farm. They’re also excellent hunters and helped many early settling families to have dinner on the table thanks to their skills.
Though they were originally bred to hunt smaller animals like squirrels and raccoons, they can easily be taught to hunt bigger game like bears or wild boar.
2. American Foxhound
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Temperament: Loyal, sweet, independent
Height: 21-25 inches
Weight: 64-75 pounds (male), 44-64 pounds (female)
Life expectancy: 10-12 years
Bottom Line: American Foxhound
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This dog is so innately tied to hunting, the prey it hunts is right there in its name. This breed is attributed to President George Washington, who wanted to create a hound that was superior to all other hounds, particularly for hunting foxes.
The American Foxhound's prey drive is still very strong, and their howling ability is remarkable. They work best when hunting in large packs together.
American Foxhound in Action
1. Labrador Retriever
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Temperament: Gentle, outgoing, even-tempered
Height: 22-24 inches
Weight: 64-79 pounds (male), 55-71 pounds (female)
Life expectancy: 10-12 years
Bottom Line: Labrador Retriever
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This breed is one of the most consistently popular breeds in America for a lot of reasons. Their loving, loyal personalities are unrivaled. They’re always excited to be with their person and to help out however they can. Their eagerness and easy-going nature make them a cinch to train to do anything — from therapy dogs to hunting companions.
They have a natural instinct to retrieve and are particularly good with waterfowl since they’re skillful swimmers. Plus, they have a ton of energy, so they’ll be down to continue hunting as long as you want.
Labrador Retriever in Action