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The best hunting dogs have been helping humans with the hunt for centuries. From retrievers to spaniels, these breeds are natural-born hunters.
But if you’re looking for a hunting breed as a family pet, there’s no need to worry. With proper training and socialization, most hunting dogs can make loyal and loving companions to share your home with.
From small dogs to long legged retrievers, checking out our list of the 13 best hunting dogs for families can make sure you take home the perfect pup for hunting. Whether you’re hunting ducks or hunting pheasants, these pups will do the job.
New to hunting? Check out our how to hunt guide for many tips to getting started.
Hunting Dogs: Family Pets
Hunting dogs are the perfect companions for families who enjoy spending time outdoors. They bring a special set of talents and provide valuable assistance with hunting, fishing, tracking and a variety of activities.
When choosing a breed and providing training, it is important to keep in mind that even though these canines have been bred for certain skills, they still need to be looked after and loved like all family pets.
Unconditional Love and Security
Although a hunting dog may initially be adopted for its tracking and field skills, it can also provide a great deal of love and security to your family members.
By providing unconditional love, support, and companionship, a hunting dog can bring balance to the house by forming strong bonds with all of its family members.
On top of that, they’ll provide security while guarding the home both inside and outside.
13 Best Hunting Dogs For Your Family
1. Labrador Retriever
The Labrador Retriever is a classic hunting companion, renowned for being a playful and friendly addition to any human family.
Bred originally for retrieving ducks, other waterfowl, and upland game during hunts, the large-sized Lab is an indispensable part of essential duck hunting gear part of many outdoorsman’s excursions.
Profile:
- Originated in Newfoundland, Canada
- Medium to large-sized breed of dog
- Classified as a sporting breed
- Lifespan of 10-12 years
- Typically weigh between 55-80 pounds
- Height ranges from 21.5-24.5 inches for males and 20-23.5 inches for females
- Coat colors include yellow, black, and chocolate
- Known for their friendly and outgoing personality
- Excellent family pets due to their gentle nature and high trainability
- Often used as therapy dogs and search and rescue dogs
- Require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent destructive behavior
- Have a strong natural instinct to retrieve and enjoy water activities
- Can suffer from health issues such as hip and elbow dysplasia, as well as obesity if not given proper diet and exercise
- Require regular grooming to maintain their thick, double coat.
2. Golden Retriever
The Golden Retriever is a popular choice for a family hunting dog due to its inherent friendliness, sociability and loyalty which make it easy to train.
It has been used in gun dog work to locate, flush out and retrieve game on the hunt with great efficiency, making it one of the best dogs for the job!
Profile:
- Originated in Scotland
- Classified as a sporting breed
- Medium to large-sized breed of dog
- Lifespan of 10-12 years
- Typically weigh between 55-75 pounds
- Height ranges from 22-24 inches for males and 20-22 inches for females
- Coat colors include various shades of gold
- Known for their friendly and loyal personality
- Excellent family pets due to their gentle nature and high trainability
- Often used as therapy dogs and search and rescue dogs
- Require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent destructive behavior
- Have a strong natural instinct to retrieve and enjoy water activities
- Can suffer from health issues such as hip and elbow dysplasia, as well as obesity if not given proper diet and exercise
- Require regular grooming to maintain their thick, double coat.
3. Chesapeake Bay Retriever
The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is a friendly, smart and loyal family dog that also makes an excellent hunting companion.
This breed has been developed to excel in retrieving game from water, making it the perfect choice for avid hunters looking for a reliable four-legged friend.
Sporting a strong and muscular body, the Chesapeake is prepared to tackle any task thrown its way!
Profile:
- Originated in the United States, specifically in the Chesapeake Bay area of Maryland
- Classified as a sporting breed
- Medium to large-sized breed of dog
- Lifespan of 10-13 years
- Typically weigh between 55-80 pounds
- Height ranges from 23-26 inches for males and 21-24 inches for females
- Coat colors include shades of brown, sedge, and deadgrass
- Known for their intelligence, loyalty, and strong work ethic
- Excellent hunting dogs for retrieving waterfowl and other game
- Require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent destructive behavior
- Can be stubborn and independent, requiring firm and consistent training
- Tend to be reserved with strangers but affectionate with their family
- Can suffer from health issues such as hip and elbow dysplasia, as well as eye and skin problems
- Have a thick, water resistant coat that requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling.
4. German Shorthaired Pointer
If you’re looking for the perfect hunting dog to be a part of your family, then look no further – the German Shorthaired Pointer is an excellent choice.
This breed of dog is incredibly versatile, making it great for hunting both upland game birds and waterfowl, as well as small fur game.
Profile:
- Originated in Germany
- Classified as a sporting breed
- Medium to large sized breed of dog
- Lifespan of 12-14 years
- Typically weigh between 45-70 pounds
- Height ranges from 23-25 inches for males and 21-23 inches for females
- Coat colors include liver (grayish reddish brown), liver and white, and black and white
- Known for their intelligence, energy, and versatility
- Excellent hunting dogs for pointing and retrieving game
- Require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent destructive behavior
- Highly trainable and eager to please, but can be strong willed
- Good with children and make excellent family pets with proper socialization and training
- Can suffer from health issues such as hip dysplasia and bloat
- Have a short, easy to care for coat that requires occasional grooming to maintain its shine.
5. English Springer Spaniel
The English Springer Spaniel is an excellent choice for a hunting family’s dog. This breed has been bred to flush and retrieve game birds, making it the ideal companion while out in the field.
In addition to its hunting prowess, this affectionate, active and loyal dog makes a great pet and companion.
Profile:
- Originated in England
- Classified as a sporting breed
- Medium-sized breed of dog
- Lifespan of 10-14 years
- Typically weigh between 40-50 pounds
- Height ranges from 19-20 inches for females and 20-21 inches for males
- Coat colors include liver (grayish reddish brown) and white, black and white, and tricolor
- Known for their friendly and playful personality
- Excellent hunting dogs for flushing and retrieving game
- Require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent destructive behavior
- Good with children and make excellent family pets with proper socialization and training
- Can suffer from health issues such as hip dysplasia and ear infections
- Have a medium length, wavy coat that requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling.
6. Beagle
For the family that loves to hunt, a Beagle could be the perfect canine companion. These small hunting dogs have been known to excel at tracking and hunting rabbits, thanks to their exceptionally strong sense of smell.
Aside from being excellent hunters, Beagles are also great for families with kids as they have a playful, friendly personality!
Profile:
- Originated in England
- Classified as a hound breed
- Small to medium-sized breed of dog
- Lifespan of 12-15 years
- Typically weigh between 20-30 pounds
- Height ranges from 13-15 inches for both males and females
- Coat colors include tricolor, red and white, and lemon and white
- Known for their friendly and curious personality
- Excellent hunting dogs for tracking and chasing small game
- Require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent destructive behavior
- Can be stubborn and independent, requiring firm and consistent training
- Good with children and make excellent family pets with proper socialization and training
- Can suffer from health issues such as hip dysplasia and ear infections
- Have a short, simple to care for coat that requires occasional grooming to maintain its shine.
7. Weimaraner
Are you looking for a hunting dog with athleticism, intelligence, and loyalty? Look no further than the Weimaraner! This German-bred canine is renowned for its loyalty and obedience, making it an excellent choice for families wanting a reliable hunting dog.
Whether you’re looking to hunt upland game, waterfowl or big game – the Weimaraner would be a balanced addition to your family.
Profile:
- Originated in Germany
- Classified as a sporting breed
- Medium to large-sized breed of dog
- Lifespan of 10-13 years
- Typically weigh between 55-90 pounds
- Height ranges from 23-27 inches for males and 22-25 inches for females
- Coat color is solid gray
- Known for their intelligence, energy, and loyalty
- Excellent hunting dogs for pointing, tracking, and retrieving game
- Require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent destructive behavior
- Highly trainable and eager to please, but can be strong willed
- Good with children and make excellent family pets with proper socialization and training
- Can suffer from health issues such as hip dysplasia and bloat
- Have a short, very simple to care for coat that requires occasional grooming to maintain its shine.
8. Irish Setter
With its loyal and playful temperament, the Irish Setter is an ideal fit for a family hunting dog. The breed is known for its high energy and skill at upland game and bird hunting.
It’s also known for its beautiful deep red coat and silky feathering which are sure to draw admiring attention in the field.
So if you’re looking for a devoted hunting companion that your family will love, an Irish Setter may be just the perfect pick!
Profile:
- Originated in Ireland
- Classified as a sporting breed
- Medium to large-sized breed of dog
- Lifespan of 11-15 years
- Typically weigh between 60-70 pounds
- Height ranges from 26-28 inches for males and 24-26 inches for females
- Coat color is a rich chestnut or mahogany with long, silky hair
- Known for their friendly and outgoing personality
- Excellent hunting dogs for pointing and retrieving game
- Require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent destructive behavior
- Highly trainable and eager to please, but can be sensitive
- Good with children and make excellent family pets with proper socialization and training
- Can suffer from health issues such as hip dysplasia and bloat
- Have a long, silky coat that requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling.
9. Vizsla
If you are looking for a four-legged family member that is loyal, athletic and affectionate, then the Vizsla might be just the breed for you.
This high-energy hunting breed shines in their ability to assist with upland game and bird hunting, but they are also great family pets!
The Vizsla is an intelligent and loving dog who will keep you entertained with their energetic spirit.
Profile:
- Originated in Hungary
- Classified as a sporting breed
- Medium sized breed of dog
- Lifespan of 12-14 years
- Typically weigh between 45-65 pounds
- Height ranges from 21-24 inches for females and 22-25 inches for males
- Coat color is solid golden rust
- Known for their affectionate and energetic personality
- Excellent hunting dogs for pointing and retrieving game
- Require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent destructive behavior
- Highly trainable and eager to please, but can be sensitive
- Good with children and make excellent family pets with proper socialization and training
- Can suffer from health issues such as hip dysplasia and epilepsy
- Have a short, easy coat that requires occasional grooming to maintain its shine.
10. Brittany
With its small and athletic build, the Brittany is one of the most popular breeds for hunting families looking for an enthusiastic dog to bring along on their adventures.
These lively dogs make great bird and upland game runners, with their short hair making them ideal for warmer climates too.
Profile:
- Originated in France
- Classified as a sporting breed
- Medium sized breed of dog
- Lifespan of 12-14 years
- Typically weigh between 30-40 pounds
- Height ranges from 17-20 inches for females and 18-21 inches for males
- Coat color is typically white and orange, white and liver, or roan
- Known for their energetic and friendly personality
- Excellent hunting dogs for pointing and retrieving game
- Require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent destructive behavior
- Highly trainable and eager to please, but can be sensitive
- Good with children and make excellent family pets with proper socialization and training
- Can suffer from health issues such as hip dysplasia and ear infections
- Have a medium length coat that requires occasional grooming to maintain its shine.
11. Pointer
The Pointer is a devoted, loyal hunting dog breed that is most commonly used for upland game bird and small game hunting. They are renowned for their lightning-fast speed and incredible agility on the hunt.
Pointers make for hardworking, loving companions who would be proud to join your family as part of your hunting squad!
Profile:
- Originated in England
- Classified as a sporting breed
- Medium to large-sized breed of dog
- Lifespan of 12-15 years
- Typically weigh between 44-75 pounds
- Height ranges from 23-28 inches for males and 21-26 inches for females
- Coat color can be liver, lemon, black, or orange, with or without white markings
- Known for their high energy and athleticism
- Excellent hunting dogs for pointing and retrieving game
- Require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent destructive behavior
- Highly trainable and eager to please, but can be stubborn
- Good with children and make excellent family pets with proper socialization and training
- Can suffer from health issues such as hip dysplasia and ear infections
- Have a short, easy-to-care-for coat that requires occasional grooming to maintain its shine.
12. Gordon Setter
If you’re looking for an active hunting dog that can also be a loving addition to the family, look no further than the Gordon Setter. The Gordon is a large and powerful dog that has exceptional skills when it comes to upland game and bird hunting.
Not only is he superb in the field, but he’s also known to be affectionate and loyal which makes him an ideal companion for any family.
Profile:
- Originated in Scotland
- Classified as a sporting breed
- Large-sized breed of dog
- Lifespan of 10-12 years
- Typically weigh between 55-80 pounds
- Height ranges from 23-27 inches for males and 21-25 inches for females
- Coat color is black and tan with long, silky hair
- Known for their loyal and affectionate personality
- Excellent hunting dogs for pointing and retrieving game
- Require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent destructive behavior
- Highly trainable and eager to please, but can be stubborn
- Good with children and make excellent family pets with proper socialization and training
- Can suffer from health issues such as hip dysplasia and bloat
- Have a long, silky coat that requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling.
13. Cocker Spaniel
Wonderful hunting and family dog, Cocker Spaniels are small but hard working. They affectionate and loyal companions and their intelligence, loyalty and adaptability ensure they make great hunting dogs on the field while also being enjoyable to have around as pets within the home.
This breed of pup needs proper training and socialization in order to bring out its full potential as companion for hunting and families alike.
Profile:
- Originated in the United Kingdom
- Classified as a sporting breed
- Small to medium-sized breed of dog
- Lifespan of 12-15 years
- Typically weigh between 20-30 pounds
- Height ranges from 14-15 inches for females and 15-16 inches for males
- Coat color can be black, liver, red, or golden, and may have white markings
- Known for their happy and affectionate personality
- Excellent hunting dogs for flushing and retrieving game
- Require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent destructive behavior
- Highly trainable and eager to please, but can be sensitive
- Good with children and make excellent family pets with proper socialization and training
- Can suffer from health issues such as hip dysplasia and ear infections
- Have a long, wavy coat that requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling.
Best Hunting Dogs for Families
In conclusion, the best hunting dogs have long been an important part of family life. From retrievers to spaniels, these canines boast both the drive to hunt and an unmistakably loving temperament.
With proper training and socialization, they make fantastic companions for family activities such as bird hunting, as well as being wonderfully loyal friends to share life with.
So if you’re looking for a pet that will suit your needs, consider the range of hunting dog breeds that are suited to families – with the right breed, care and training, a hunting dog could be exactly what your family is missing.
As always, check your local laws before taking your dog out hunting. Each state is different and you don’t want to get in any trouble.
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