20 of the Best Hunting Dogs

Not every hunting dog is the same—each breed has a different skill set.

Like their name suggests, bird dogs are bred to hunt birds. Depending on the breed, their job may involve pointing to indicate where birds are hiding, flushing birds into the air, or retrieving downed game from land or water.

These dogs tend to be athletic, focused, and highly responsive to training cues.

Hound dogs rely primarily on their powerful sense of smell—or, in some cases, sight—to track game over long distances. On a hunt, they follow scent trails and alert their handlers once they’ve located their target.

Hounds are often used to hunt larger game or animals who cover a lot of ground, such as deer, raccoons, or bears, and they’re known for their endurance and determination.

Curs are versatile working dogs traditionally used in North America. Their role on a hunt often includes tracking, trailing, and treeing game (aka chasing it up a tree) so the hunter can locate it.

These dogs are commonly used for hunting wild hogs, raccoons, and even bears. Curs are valued for their grit, adaptability, and strong working drive.

Terriers were bred to pursue and flush small game from dens or thick cover. During a hunt, they may chase prey underground or into the open so hunters can follow.

These dogs are typically used for hunting small animals such as rats and are known for their bold, energetic nature.

Here are some of the best hunting dogs you’ll find out in the field today.

• Size: Large
• Life expectancy: 11–13 years
• Temperament: Independent, even-tempered, sociable
• Type of hunting dog: Hound

Originally bred to hunt foxes, the American Foxhound is built for long days in the field. Their strong sense of smell, endurance, and ability to work independently make them well-suited for scent-driven pursuits that cover wide areas. They do best with experienced pet parents who enjoy active, outdoor lifestyles.

• Size: Medium
• Life expectancy: 10–15 years
• Temperament: Curious, friendly, merry
• Type of hunting dog: Hound

The Beagle is a classic small-game hunter, especially for rabbits and hares. Their powerful nose keeps them locked on a scent trail, while their compact size allows them to move easily through brush.

Beagles thrive with consistent training and plenty of opportunities to follow scents safely. Take them on scent walks, but make sure they’re always on a leash so they don’t follow their nose into trouble.

• Size: Large
• Life expectancy: 10–12 years
• Temperament: Gentle, determined, even-tempered
• Type of hunting dog: Hound

Famous for having one of the strongest noses of any dog breed, the Bloodhound excels at following long, complex scent trails. While not commonly used for modern sport hunting, they’re unmatched at tracking and trailing work, and need patient training that taps into their natural scenting instincts.

• Size: Large
• Life expectancy: 11–12 years
• Temperament: Loyal, alert, intelligent
• Type of hunting dog: Hound

The Bluetick Coonhound is a tracker developed to hunt raccoons and other treeing game. Their steady pace, loud bay, and determination help hunters locate game even hours after a scent is laid.

Regular exercise and mental stimulation are essential for this driven hound. When they’re not out hunting, they’ll love to join you on a hike and do some nose work training.

• Size: Medium
• Life expectancy: 10–15 years
• Temperament: Eager, friendly, intelligent
• Type of hunting dog: Bird dog

Originally bred in South Carolina, the Boykin Spaniel is a versatile bird dog who excels at flushing and retrieving waterfowl. Their medium size makes them perfect for boats and tight spaces, while their eagerness to work keeps them focused during long hunts.

• Size: Medium
• Life expectancy: 12–14 years
• Temperament: Energetic, attentive, friendly
• Type of hunting dog: Bird dog

The Brittany is a high-energy pointing breed known for covering ground quickly while staying connected to their handler. They shine with hunters who enjoy active hunts, and are willing to provide consistent training and daily exercise.

• Size: Large
• Life expectancy: 10–13 years
• Temperament: Confident, intelligent, devoted
• Type of hunting dog: Bird dog

Bred to retrieve waterfowl in cold, rough waters, the Chesapeake Bay Retriever is tough, focused, and resilient. Their water-resistant coat and strong swimming ability make them ideal for challenging conditions, especially for hunters who frequent icy lakes or coastal waters.

• Size: Medium
• Life expectancy: 10–14 years
• Temperament: Gentle, affectionate, playful
• Type of hunting dog: Bird dog

The Cocker Spaniel was originally bred to flush woodcock and other upland birds from dense cover, though today the dogs are more commonly found as family dogs. They work close to their handler and rely on enthusiasm rather than speed, making them a good match for hunters who prefer a slower-paced, hands-on hunting style.

• Size: Medium
• Life expectancy: 12–14 years
• Temperament: Cheerful, energetic, loyal
• Type of hunting dog: Bird dog

Known for their enthusiasm and endurance, the English Cocker Spaniel excels at flushing birds from thick brush. They’re energetic field workers who thrive when given regular hunting opportunities, structured training, and plenty of daily activity.

• Size: Large
• Life expectancy: 12–15 years
• Temperament: Gentle, friendly, energetic
• Type of hunting dog: Bird dog

The English Setter is a classic bird dog prized for their graceful movement and steady pointing style. They’re best suited for hunters who enjoy covering open fields and appreciate a methodical dog who works at a consistent pace.

Along with daily exercise, their gorgeous feathered fur needs to be brushed regularly to prevent matting. Use a bristle brush and comb for the best results.

• Size: Medium
• Life expectancy: 12–14 years
• Temperament: Alert, friendly, eager
• Type of hunting dog: Bird dog

The English Springer Spaniel is a versatile flusher and retriever used for both upland birds and waterfowl. Their adaptability and eagerness to learn make them a strong choice for hunters who want one dog to handle multiple hunting scenarios.

• Size: Large
• Life expectancy: 10–12 years
• Temperament: Intelligent, energetic, eager to please
• Type of hunting dog: Bird dog

The German Shorthaired Pointer is an all-purpose hunting dog capable of pointing, retrieving, and tracking. Highly athletic and driven, they’re ideal for experienced hunters who want a versatile partner, and who can commit to daily exercise and ongoing training.

Because they are one of the best hunting breeds, they’re also one of the most popular dogs in the U.S.

• Size: Large
• Life expectancy: 12–14 years
• Temperament: Confident, intelligent, loyal
• Type of hunting dog: Bird dog

With a weather-resistant coat and strong work ethic, the German Wirehaired Pointer handles rough terrain and harsh weather with ease. They’re versatile hunters who perform well on land and in water, and benefit from structured training that challenges both body and mind.

• Size: Large
• Life expectancy: 10–12 years
• Temperament: Friendly, intelligent, devoted
• Type of hunting dog: Bird dog

Originally bred to retrieve game birds, the Golden Retriever remains a reliable hunting companion, especially for waterfowl. But their friendly temperament makes Goldens more than just a hunting partner—they are wonderful family dogs who can live well in many different environments.

• Size: Large
• Life expectancy: 12–15 years
• Temperament: Outgoing, energetic, affectionate
• Type of hunting dog: Bird dog

The Irish Setter is an energetic bird dog known for covering lots of ground during hunts. Their speed and enthusiasm make them well-suited for hunters who enjoy long days in the field.

Irish Setters are best for active families: They need about two hours of heart-pounding exercise every day. Take them with you on long walks, runs, bike rides, and hikes.

• Size: Large
• Life expectancy: 10–12 years
• Temperament: Friendly, outgoing, intelligent
• Type of hunting dog: Bird dog

One of the most popular hunting dog breeds, the Labrador Retriever excels at retrieving waterfowl on land and in water. Their trainability and adaptability make them a top choice for both new and experienced hunters, and they’re another great family dog, too.

• Size: Medium
• Life expectancy: 12–14 years
• Temperament: Intelligent, energetic, alert
• Type of hunting dog: Bird dog

The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever uses energetic movement along shorelines to draw out waterfowl. They’re alert, driven, and brainy retrievers who do best with hunters willing to provide advanced training and plenty of mental stimulation.

• Size: Large
• Life expectancy: 12–14 years
• Temperament: Confident, loyal, determined
• Type of hunting dog: Hound

The Plott Hound was bred for demanding big-game hunts, including wild boar and bears. Their endurance and determination make them well-suited for rugged terrain, but they need experienced handlers and structured outlets for their strong drive.

• Size: Large
• Life expectancy: 12–15 years
• Temperament: Even-tempered, energetic, focused
• Type of hunting dog: Bird dog

Often called the English Pointer, the Pointer is known for their instinctive ability to freeze and indicate game birds. They’re fast, athletic hunters who thrive in open terrain and require plenty of exercise off the field, too.

• Size: Large
• Life expectancy: 12–15 years
• Temperament: Affectionate, confident, alert
• Type of hunting dog: Hound

The Redbone Coonhound specializes in tracking and treeing raccoons. Their steady temperament and endurance make them dependable in the field, especially for hunters who value a clear voice and consistent trailing ability.

Taking a dog hunting requires preparation beyond choosing the right breed. Having the proper supplies, investing time in training, and prioritizing safety help set both you and your dog up for successful—and enjoyable—days in the field.

Before heading out, make sure your dog has gear designed for hunting environments:

• A well-fitted, bright vest or collar to keep your dog visible to other hunters

• A durable GPS tracking collar (especially for breeds who range far or work independently)

• A sturdy leash

• Collapsible water bowl and fresh water

• High-calorie treats or food to support long, active days

Hunting dog training builds on basic obedience and gradually introduces field-specific skills.

Your dog should reliably respond to cues such as recall, stay, and heel before hunting begins. From there, training may include scent work, retrieving, pointing, or trailing, depending on the type of hunting dog you have.

Positive reinforcement, patience, and consistency are key. Many pet parents also choose to work with a professional hunting dog trainer or join field training groups.

Safety should always come first when taking a dog hunting.

• Schedule a veterinary checkup before the season to ensure your dog is healthy, and up to date on vaccinations and parasite prevention.
• Protect your dog from environmental hazards by checking paws for cuts; avoiding extreme heat or cold; and providing frequent water breaks.
• Be mindful of wildlife, rough terrain, and hunting equipment, and always keep your dog clearly identifiable with up-to-date ID tags in case they become separated from you.