20 Hard-Working Hunting Dogs to Take Along in the Field
Whether you're an avid outdoors person, or just starting out in field sports, the best hunting dogs can make a day out so more enjoyable—and productive. Of course, everything is always better with a pup by your side, but hunting dogs in particular tend to be super smart breeds, that make wonderful companions even when they're not following, flushing, or fetching prey. That's why dogs like Golden Retrievers and German Shorthaired Pointers that made this list also tend to be among the most popular choices for family pets. You definitely don't have to be a hunter to enjoy having one of these capable, caring canines in your home, according to Nicole Ellis, Certified Professional Dog Trainer with Rover.
"Hunting dogs have been our loyal companions for thousands of years, working alongside humans to track, retrieve, and also chase game across various types of typography," Nicole says. "Their instincts, intelligence, and determination have made them more than just hunters—they've become beloved family members, celebrated for their versatility, loyalty, and boundless energy and often make great pets for active families or people participating in dog sports."
While characteristics like independence, stubbornness, and a strong sense of smell may make a few of the following hunting dogs a challenge to train (Beagles, we're looking at you), there are many professional hunting dog trainers located across the country. They can help acclimate your new best friend to the sound of a rifle firing, teach him the finer points of his hunting specialty, and even school him in the basics, like "sit" and "stay."
Speaking of specialties, the American Kennel Club splits its "Sporting" breeds (defined as dogs "developed to work closely with hunters to locate and/or retrieve quarry") into four types, which each offer a unique hunting style. Spaniels, Pointers, Retrievers, and Setters are all recognized primarily as bird dogs, though some may hunt game like rabbit and deer, too. Hounds, another AKC group, track prey thanks to a crackerjack nose, following scents on land, in the air, and even along water. Many hounds have notably long ears, believed to help sweep aromas up from the ground and into their noses.
Whether you're searching for a four-legged friend to lend a hand (er...paw) on a hunt, or simply a cheerful canine to cuddle up with, read on for our list of the 20 best hunting dogs. Chances are, you'll find the perfect choice for your family. As Dr. Gabre Denton, Veterinarian with TeachMe.To says of these breeds, "They have evolved to make them fantastic companions during their hunting exercises. However, even if you never set foot in the field, they’re some of the best companions out there. They can be smart, loyal, and always up for adventure—or a nap on the couch."
Labrador Retriever
The perennially sunny-natured Labrador Retriever is such a cherished companion animal folks forget they have a long history as gun dogs in their native Canada. "Labs are versatile retrievers, originally bred to fetch game like ducks and upland birds," notes Nicole. "Their waterproof coat, strong prey drive, and gentle temperament make them ideal for hunting and as family pets alike. Known for being eager to please and always happy, Labs are highly trainable and love being active."
Group: Sporting
Height: 22.5-24.5 inches
Weight: 65-80 pounds
Energy Level: High
Life Expectancy: 11-13 years
Related: Golden Retrievers vs. Labrador Retrievers: How Similar Are They?
Weimaraner
It may be difficult to believe given his glamorous good looks, but the Weimaraner was originally used in Germany to hunt big game like bears and wolves. Nowadays, the breed primarily finds employment as a pointer, tracking targets and then signaling their location by freezing in place and pointing at them with its nose. Famously featured in artist William Wegman's work, these sleek, silverly-gray dogs "are fast, smart, high energy, and totally attached to their people," says Dr. Denton. "They’ve got endless energy and dislike being left alone."
Group: Sporting
Height: 25-27 inches
Weight: 70-90 pounds
Energy Level: High
Life Expectancy: 11-14 years
Related: Most Intelligent Dog Breeds
Bloodhound
Believed to be the oldest scent hound, the Bloodhound in its modern version can be traced back 1,000 years. Boasting long, low-hanging ears and a face drooping with loose skin and wrinkles, this pooch is bred to track scents over long distances with his nose to the ground, according to Nicole. "Their determination and strong tracking ability make them exceptional for hunting and search-and-rescue work but sometimes a bit difficult to train to do anything else when they pick up a smell," she adds. "Despite their independent streak, they are affectionate and loyal with their families and can be great family dogs."
Group: Hound
Height: 25-27 inches
Weight: 90-110 pounds
Energy Level: High
Life Expectancy: 10-12 years
Related: Independent Dog Breeds that Don't Enjoy Cuddles
American Foxhound
The state dog of Virginia, the American Foxhound was developed, in part, by none other than Geoge Washington. With longer legs than the English Foxhound (and an arched back end), this fine fellow is great with kids and other dogs, although they can be notoriously difficult to train and require loads of exercise. "Fast, stubborn, and always on the move—Foxhounds were bred to run long distances after game," says Dr. Denton. "They’re friendly but follow their nose first and your commands second."
Group: Hound
Height: 22-25 inches
Weight: 65-70 pounds
Energy Level: High
Life Expectancy: 11-13 years
Related: Dog Breeds that Make the Best Companions
Golden Retriever
As their name suggests, Golden Retrievers specialize in retrieving waterfowl. Developed in Scotland in the 19th century, they count Irish Setters and Bloodhounds in their gene pool, and, like Labs, they remain one of America's most popular breeds. "Their love of water, excellent memory, and gentle nature make them fantastic retrievers in both land and water," Nicole says. "Highly trainable and sociable in most cases, they excel in both hunting environments and as service dogs and pet dogs."
Group: Sporting
Height: 23-24 inches
Weight: 65-75 pounds
Energy Level: High
Life Expectancy: 10-12 years
Related: 20 Dog Breeds that Make the Bets Pets
Brittany
Known as the Brittany Spaniel in the French province where it originated at least four centuries ago, this breed is a versatile upland bird dog, often used for pointing and retrieving, according to Nicole. "Known for their agility and stamina, they have a strong work ethic and natural hunting drive," she says. "They are friendly, energetic, and make excellent family companions while maintaining a sharp nose and quick reflexes in the field. And they make great dogs for people involved in dog sports, as well!"
Group: Sporting
Height: 17.5-20.5 inches
Weight: 30-40 pounds
Energy Level: High
Life Expectancy: 12-14 years
Irish Setter
Hailing from the Emerald Isle, this handsome redhead locates game birds by scent, then "settles" onto his belly to alert his master that he's found his quarry. Lightning quick thanks to long legs and powerful hindquarters, they are graceful dogs but often exhibit a "goofy side," Dr. Denton says. "Flashy, fun, and always ready to run, Irish Setters love to hunt, love to play, and can be very affectionate," he adds. They are usually deeply devoted to their humans and quickly make friends with kids, other pets, and pretty much everyone who crosses their path.
Group: Sporting
Height: 27 inches
Weight: 70 pounds
Energy Level: High
Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
Related: 6 Friendliest Dog Breeds that Love People
Beagle
A clever and curious breed that counts cartoon creation Snoopy among its members, the Beagle hails from England, where it predates the Roman occupation. "Like many working dogs, Beagles may be a bit frustrating to train for a first-time pet owner, " Nicole notes, "and having a trainer may help you make progress." Available in two sizes, they are "primarily scent hounds, bred to track small game like rabbits and hares," she adds. "Their exceptional nose, stamina, and friendly nature make them both effective hunters and easygoing pets. Beagles have a strong prey drive and are known for their persistent, sometimes stubborn, hunting style."
Group: Hound
Height: 13 inches & under, or 13-15 inches
Weight: Under 20 pounds, or 20-30 pounds
Energy Level: High
Life Expectancy: 10-15 years
Related: Dogs with Short Legs but Big Personalities
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
The little retriever with the big name is "small but packed with energy," says Dr. Denton, further describing the breed as "very smart, very fast, and always ready for action." Since its inception in the 19th century, this Canadian gundog has hunted by a very unique method. Acting like the fox it resembles, it lures ducks—always fascinated by the playful animals—close enough to shore to be shot, after which it retrieves the waterfowl. Athletic, alert, and always affectionate, the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever requires significant amounts of playtime.
Group: Sporting
Height: 18-21 inches
Weight: 35-50 pounds
Energy Level: High
Life Expectancy: 12-14 years
English Springer Spaniel
It took careful breeding over centuries in Britain to distinguish this dog from his close cousins the English Cocker Spaniel and Field Spaniel, but today the English Springer Spaniel is an esteemed pooch in his own right. "English Springer Spaniels are outstanding flushing dogs, bred to hunt upland game birds by flushing them out of cover," Nicole notes. "With a keen nose, high energy, and an eagerness to please, they are both hardworking and affectionate. Their friendly temperament makes them excellent family pets, though they need regular exercise to burn off energy."
Group: Sporting
Height: 20 inches
Weight: 50 pounds
Energy Level: High
Life Expectancy: 10-14 years
Black and Tan Coonhound
The first Coonhound registered by the American Kennel Club in 1945, this American breed is descended from Bloodhounds and Foxhounds. Built big and strong, they're courageous when they need to be, but friendly and affectionate with their people, and even a bit needy—they won't be happy if left alone for long periods. Says Dr. Denton of the breed, "They have a nose that won’t quit and a distinctive howl. Bred for tracking raccoons and big game, they’re laid-back at home but very attentive on the trail."
Group: Hound
Height: 25-27 inches
Weight: 65-110 pounds
Energy Level: Moderate
Life Expectancy: 10-12 years
German Wirehaired Pointer
Developed in 19th-century Germany to do it all (and do it all well), this dog features everything from the Griffon to the Pudelpointer and German Shorthair in its bloodline."This breed excels at both upland game bird hunting and waterfowl retrieval, with a strong prey drive and a distinctive wiry coat that helps them navigate tough terrain," notes Nicole. "German Wirehaired Pointers are versatile, intelligent, and independent, often working well alongside hunters in diverse environments. They are known and loved for being loyal and protective."
Group: Sporting
Height: 24-26 inches
Weight: 50-70 pounds
Energy Level: High
Life Expectancy: 14-16 years
Pudelpointer
A relatively recent addition to the dog world—and not yet recognized by the AKC—Pudelpointers were first introduced in Germany in the late 1800s. Calm and clever, this breed is "a mix of Poodle and Pointer," Dr. Denton says, praising them as "versatile hunters with a waterproof coat and an easygoing personality. They’re smart, eager, and love having a job to do." Thanks to the Poodle's love of water and retrieving abilities, and the Pointer's pointing instincts and fine nose, this dog is equally at home hunting in fields, forests, or water.
Group: Not recognized by AKC
Height: 22-26 inches
Weight: 43-70 pounds
Energy Level: High
Life Expectancy: 14 years
Plott Hound
Bred to hunt boar and other large game thanks to what Nicole calls their keen sense of smell and incredible stamina, Plott Hounds are descended from Hanover Hounds brought to North Carolina by a German immigrant in the 1750s. Named after the family that created the breed, they are The Tar Heel State's official dog and are considered coonhounds. "They are highly determined, with a strong work ethic and a deep, vocal nature," Nicole says. "While reserved with strangers, Plott Hounds are loyal, courageous, and protective family dogs."
Group: Hound
Height: 20-25 inches
Weight: 50-60 pounds
Energy Level: High
Life Expectancy: 12-14 years
Cocker Spaniel
Named for the country Spaniels are said to have originated in (Spain), and the type of bird the breed specialized in hunting (the woodcock), the Cocker Spaniel is a hugely popular American pooch. Beloved as a gentle and devoted playmate for kids, Cockers "were bred to flush birds from cover, but they’re just as happy snuggling on the couch," Dr. Denton says."They’re sweet, playful, and love being wherever their people are." One of filmdom's most iconic dogs, the lovely Lady, of Lady and the Tramp fame, is a Cocker Spaniel. They are considered the AKC's smallest sporting spaniel, but have a cousin, the English Cocker Spaniel, which is slightly taller.
Group: Sporting
Height: 14.5-15.5 inches
Weight: 25-30 pounds
Energy Level: Moderate
Life Expectancy: 10-14 years
German Shorthaired Pointer
Incredibly enthusiastic, energetic, and affectionate, German Shorthaired Pointers are a fine addition to the home or hunting party. Nicole calls them "highly versatile, excelling in both upland and waterfowl hunting. They have an intense prey drive, exceptional endurance, and a natural ability to point and retrieve." With webbed toes and a capable nose, they hunt everything from duck to deer and can often be found snagging first place at competitive hunting events.
Group: Sporting
Height: 23-25 inches
Weight: 55-70 pounds
Energy Level: High
Life Expectancy: 10-12 years
Chesapeake Bay Retriever
This powerful duck dog was developed during the 19th century by wealthy hunting enthusiasts living along the shores of the Chesapeake Bay. Their forefathers are believed to include Irish Water Spaniels and Newfoundlands, resulting in what Dr. Denton terms "tough, no-nonsense retrievers built for swimming in icy waters. They’re strong-willed, very loyal and their waterproof coat is not as soft as some other retrievers—great dogs if you like a little independence." Deeply sensitive, if somewhat stubborn, Chessies make excellent therapy, search-and-rescue, and drug- and bomb-detecting dogs.
Group: Sporting
Height: 23-26 inches
Weight: 65-80 pounds
Energy Level: High
Life Expectancy: 10-13 years
Boykin Spaniel
The official dog of The Palmetto State, the Boykin Spaniel is named after the small South Carolina community where it was developed in the early years of the 20th century. As adept at retrieving as it is at flushing, the breed boasts webbed toes, making it an excellent swimmer. "Often described as the 'little brown dog' of the South, these working dogs are highly energetic, have an excellent nose, and are known for their willingness to work in various conditions," Nicole says. "Friendly and affectionate, they are also great family dogs for an active pet owner." However, despite this pupper's many charms, they're one of the rarer breeds on this list.
Group: Sporting
Height: 15.5-18 inches
Weight: 30-40 pounds
Energy Level: Moderate to High
Life Expectancy: 10-15 years
Redbone Coonhound
Another one of the six hounds developed by American frontiersmen to track raccoons during the Westward expansion, this breed specializes in treeing game. Notable for their speed and agility, their ancestors include Red Irish Foxhounds, dogs that helped give Redbone Coonhounds their gorgeous coat color. "Redbones are sleek, determined hunters with lasting stamina," says Dr. Denton. "They’ll persistently chase a scent, but at home they’re easygoing, affectionate, and just happy to be part of the family."
Group: Hound
Height: 22-27 inches
Weight: 45-70 pounds
Energy Level: Moderate
Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
Bluetick Coonhound
Named for the distinctive mottling of his beautiful, black-and-blue coat, this compact but tough nocturnal hunter can take on not only raccoons but big game like bears and cougars. The Bluetick Coonhound's prey drive is legendary, as is his scenting prowess (it's said this breed can follow a trail that's days old). According to Dr. Denton, "These hounds are loud, persistent, and scent-obsessed. They’re full of personality, a little mischievous, and absolutely devoted. Just don’t expect them to ignore an interesting smell!"
Group: Hound
Height: 22-27 inches
Weight: 55-80 pounds
Energy Level: High
Life Expectancy: 11-12 years
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