Ever wonder why some dogs go from snoozing on the couch to full-on beast mode the second a squirrel zips by? You’re not alone. While many pups are content to bark at the treetops, a special group was bred with one goal in mind: track, chase, and yes, take down that bushy-tailed blur. These aren’t your average backyard barkers. They’re squirrel-seeking missiles packed with grit, speed, and instincts that date back generations.
From farms and forests to suburban backyards, the thrill of the chase still runs hot in their blood. For hunters, hikers, and anyone tired of squirrels raiding bird feeders, these canine companions are more than pets; they’re partners in pest control. But it’s not all seriousness and squirrel tails. These dogs also bring personality, athleticism, and in many cases, surprising affection to the table.
Some, like the smallest dog breeds, might fool you with their size but pack a punch when it comes to prey drive. This article dives into the most effective breeds for killing squirrels, spotlighting what makes each one a four-legged force of nature.
Disclaimer: WAF does not endorse hunting or the harming of wildlife. We believe in compassion and equal respect for all animals. This article is for informational purposes only.
Dog Breeds that Kill Squirrels
1. Mountain Feist
Don’t let the small size fool you; the Mountain Feist is a fearless squirrel-chasing machine built for business in the brush. Compact, quick, and brimming with confidence, this breed is a favorite among hunters who work smaller plots and prefer a dog that stays within shouting distance. Their tight range doesn’t mean limited drive; when a squirrel bolts, the Feist’s instincts take over in an instant.
Mountain Feists shine when it comes to treeing prey. They’re bred specifically for small-game hunting and excel at spotting, chasing, and pinning squirrels high up in the timber.
Unlike wide-ranging hounds, these dogs are masters of efficiency, making tight circles through woods and zeroing in on movement with impressive focus. Their signature high-pitched bark echoes through the trees when they’ve got something treed.
What’s especially remarkable is how early these dogs show their promise. Some hit the woods at just a few months old, treeing squirrels like seasoned pros. Others need a year or two to blossom, but once they do, their performance is nothing short of electric. Consistency, exposure to the woods, and just a little patience can turn a curious pup into a top-tier squirrel dog.
Feists also thrive when paired with experienced hunting dogs, learning the ropes by imitation. But they’re just as capable of leading the chase solo, especially when their confidence kicks in. Their compact size makes them agile through thick terrain, and with the right equipment, like GPS collars and vests, they become unstoppable woodland trackers.
2. Treeing Cur
The Treeing Cur isn’t your average backyard companion; it’s a squirrel-chasing phenom with a serious work ethic. Developed through generations of selective breeding, this cur was designed with one mission in mind: locate, pursue, and tree small game with unmatched efficiency.
Built with a mix of hound and cur bloodlines, Treeing Curs combine the sharp instincts of scent hounds with the brains and agility of the best working dogs.
These dogs are the total package when it comes to squirrel hunting. They don’t just follow scent; they use their eyes, ears, and intuition to locate game, even “winding” squirrels from impressive distances. Once locked in, they’ll hold their position and bark with purpose until the hunter arrives. This intense focus and loyalty to the task make them a favorite among serious small-game hunters.
But their superpower doesn’t stop at their nose. Treeing Curs are known for their grit and versatility. Whether you’re tracking in dense brush or navigating open hardwoods, these dogs adapt fast. They’re quick to learn, thrive with consistent exposure to the woods, and will outpace many breeds with their stamina and drive.
Training one isn’t rocket science, but it does take commitment. As the saying goes, “Buy a good pair of boots and wear them out.” These dogs learn by doing, and they flourish when their natural hunting instincts are given the room to shine. With the right pup and a few worn trails, you’ve got yourself a future squirrel-stopper.
3. Leopard Cur
The Leopard Cur isn’t just another squirrel-chasing dog; it’s a backwoods athlete with instincts sharper than a steel trap. Originally bred for all-purpose hunting and farm work, this agile breed brings serious drive to the table. Known for their speed, tenacity, and versatility, Leopard Curs are fearless when it comes to tackling prey. Squirrel in sight? Game on.
AKC describes the personality of the American Leopard Cur as smart, sociable, and energetic. What makes this dog a standout in squirrel hunting is its sharp nose and relentless focus. Once it catches a scent, the Leopard Cur commits with single-minded determination, navigating dense brush or rugged terrain like a pro.
They’re quick to tree squirrels and just as quick to let you know, loudly and proudly, that it’s time to take the shot.
But it’s not just about physical power. Leopard Curs bring brains into the mix, too. They’re intelligent, highly trainable, and known for their loyalty to handlers. This makes them not only effective in the field but also easier to direct and manage, especially in dynamic, fast-paced hunting scenarios.
Their work ethic is unmatched. These dogs don’t fade with time; they dig in deeper. Whether it’s a long morning in the woods or a quick backyard squirrel run, the Leopard Cur is always switched on, ears alert, ready to charge forward with unshakeable purpose.
This breed combines energy, brains, and boldness in a lean, muscular package. It’s not here to play nice; it’s here to win the chase.
4. Jack Russell Terrier
When it comes to high-octane squirrel chasers, few can match the fearless firecracker that is the Jack Russell Terrier. This compact powerhouse was bred for hunting, and it shows. With lightning-fast reflexes and a nose that doesn’t miss a thing, the Jack Russell is a squirrel’s worst nightmare. Their intense prey drive kicks in the second they hear rustling leaves, launching them into action like a coiled spring.
Don’t let their size fool you; these terriers are all grit and gusto. They were originally developed to hunt foxes, which makes squirrels an easy target in their eyes. Once they’ve locked onto a scent or sight, it’s game on. Their relentless energy means they won’t back down until they’ve treed or cornered their quarry, and even then, they’re not done barking about it.
What makes Jack Russells especially effective is their speed and agility. They’re quick-footed and able to zip through the brush, leap over logs, and climb into the thick of the action without hesitation. Squirrels rarely get a second chance when this determined terrier is on the trail.
Add in their sharp intelligence and fearless personality, and you’ve got a dog that doesn’t just chase for sport; it chases to win. But this brainpower also means they need proper training and outlets for their drive, or that squirrel obsession might transfer to the neighbor’s cat or backyard decorations.
For those who want a fiery, focused companion with an unstoppable instinct for the hunt, the Jack Russell Terrier checks every box. They live for the chase, thrive on adrenaline, and never let a tail flick go unnoticed. With one of these tenacious little hunters in your pack, squirrel patrol just got a whole lot more serious.
5. Airedale Terrier
The Airedale Terrier is a predator in a polished coat. As the largest of the terrier breeds, this dog packs serious power behind its charming looks. Originally bred for hunting and dispatching vermin, the Airedale’s instincts translate seamlessly into squirrel-chasing excellence. Agile, smart, and loyal, they turn any backyard into a battleground, as per PetMD.
Airedales are natural-born hunters with a prey drive that’s always locked and loaded. They don’t just spot a squirrel; they strategize.
Thanks to their sharp minds and athletic build, these dogs excel at navigating obstacles, climbing terrain, and going the distance in pursuit of their target. Once they’ve got a squirrel in their sights, it’s game on.
That intelligence can be both a blessing and a challenge. Airedales need mental stimulation and thrive on tasks that engage both brain and brawn. When their energy is channeled through training or games, they become focused, efficient hunters. Ignore their need to stay busy, though, and you may end up with creative mischief instead.
But make no mistake; this isn’t a brute with no boundaries. Airedales are known for their loyalty and can be trained with consistent, positive reinforcement. Their bold spirit makes them fearless in the field, but they respond best to confident handlers who know how to lead without harshness.
6. Black Mouth Cur
If you’re looking for a dog that’s equal parts powerhouse and partner, the Black Mouth Cur delivers in spades. With roots stretching back to the rugged American South, this breed was bred for survival; tracking, hunting, herding, and protecting all rolled into one fearless frame. Their history of treeing squirrels and baying boars isn’t just folklore; it’s built into their DNA.
Physically, the Black Mouth Cur is all muscle and motion. With a strong chest, broad head, and their signature black muzzle, these dogs are hard to miss. Agile and powerful, they were made to cover ground quickly and decisively, chasing down small game like squirrels or tracking larger targets through dense backwoods terrain. Their size, ranging from 35 to 65 pounds, makes them sturdy yet swift on their feet.
These dogs are thinkers too. Their intelligence shines through in the field, especially when they’re given a job to do. Black Mouth Curs thrive on structure and challenge, responding best to experienced handlers who offer firm but fair guidance. They don’t take well to harshness, but when treated with respect, they’ll give it back tenfold.
At home, their loyalty runs deep. They’re known for bonding closely with their people and being incredibly in tune with their handler’s emotions. While they’re not typically ideal for apartment living, give them space to roam and a job to perform, and they’ll reward you with unshakeable devotion and fewer squirrels on the property.
Simply put, the Black Mouth Cur doesn’t back down. Whether it’s chasing a squirrel up a tree or standing guard over your homestead, this breed brings both grit and heart to the table. When the stakes are high, they’re the kind of dog you want in your corner.
7. Beagle
The Beagle may look like a sweet-faced companion, but underneath that charm is a squirrel-chasing machine powered by one of the best noses in the canine world. Originally bred for hunting small game, this breed thrives when there’s a scent to follow, and a squirrel trail is just the kind of puzzle it loves to solve. Their compact size means they can zip through brush and undergrowth with ease, turning any backyard into a bustling hunt zone.
What truly sets the Beagle apart is its unrelenting tracking instinct. Once it locks onto a squirrel’s scent, it’s laser-focused and persistent, often treeing its quarry with a single-minded determination that rivals larger, more imposing breeds. This dog is all about action when the chase begins. Britannica reports its personality as playful and outgoing.
Its vocal talents also come into play. Beagles are known for their distinctive baying, which isn’t just adorable; it helps hunters locate the dog during active pursuits. That auditory alert system is especially handy when squirrels decide to test their luck up in the trees.
Smart and stubborn in equal measure, Beagles are a joy to train for those who understand their drive. They respond best to positive reinforcement and engaging challenges that keep their minds sharp and bodies moving. Left to their own devices without enough stimulation? Let’s just say no squirrel is safe, and maybe not your garden either.
All in all, the Beagle is a dynamic squirrel hunter in a deceptively cuddly package. It’s equal parts tracker, barker, and joyful explorer, making it a top contender for anyone looking for a tenacious yet lovable dog that lives for the thrill of the chase.
8. Mountain Cur
The Mountain Cur doesn’t tiptoe through the trees; it charges in like it owns the woods. Bred in the rugged hills of the American South, this dog is a born squirrel tracker with the courage of a lion and the nose of a bloodhound. Whether it’s treeing bushytails at dawn or sniffing out raccoons by moonlight, the Mountain Cur is in its element when the hunt begins.
Fast, fearless, and fiercely loyal, this breed thrives on action. It’s not just the speed that gives the Cur an edge; it’s the relentless drive.
These dogs are wired for the chase and have the grit to keep going long after other breeds tire out. That makes them favorites among serious squirrel hunters who need a dog with stamina and staying power.
What truly sets the Mountain Cur apart is its versatile work ethic. Originally used to hunt big game and guard homesteads, they’re still prized for their all-purpose prowess. Today, they seamlessly transition from squirrel-slayer in the woods to loyal family dog at home, assuming they’ve had a good workout, of course.
Intelligence also plays a big role in their squirrel-slaying game. Mountain Curs are quick to learn and quicker to act. Give them a signal, and they’re off, dashing through underbrush or locking onto a tree with laser-sharp focus. Their strong instincts, paired with solid training, make them formidable squirrel dogs.
9. Coonhound
If there’s one breed that lives for the thrill of the hunt, it’s the Coonhound. These sleek, long-eared hunters were born to chase and tree game, and squirrels are no exception. Their legacy as elite trackers of raccoons makes them naturally gifted squirrel chasers, turning any wooded trail into their personal racetrack. With a howl that echoes through the trees and a nose that rarely misses a trail, Coonhounds don’t just pursue prey; they pursue it with purpose.
This breed’s athleticism is a sight to behold. Agile and enduring, Coonhounds can cover vast distances without tiring, making them ideal for squirrel hunting in wide-open or forested areas. They’re not the type to stick to the backyard; they prefer to roam, sniff out a trail, and follow it to its treetop finale. Their determination makes them relentless, and their keen scenting abilities are rivaled by few.
Coonhounds aren’t just about physical prowess; their hunting instincts are finely tuned. With the right training and woods time, they learn to identify and track squirrels with pinpoint accuracy. Even young pups, given the right start, begin treeing squirrels with natural flair.
Their vocalizations—those signature baying calls- are not just charming but highly functional, helping hunters pinpoint the dog’s location once game is treed.
While independent thinkers, Coonhounds also thrive under guidance and structured outings. They benefit from time spent learning alongside seasoned dogs but quickly grow into confident, capable solo hunters. Their loyalty and drive combine to create a balanced, high-energy hunting partner who’s as focused on the task as they are thrilled by it.
Conclusion
From the lightning-fast reflexes of terriers to the scent-trailing mastery of hounds, we’ve explored a lineup of squirrel-slaying superstars. These breeds aren’t just pets; they’re powerhouse hunters with instincts honed over generations. Whether you’re looking for a treeing expert, a backyard guardian, or a high-drive companion with a nose for trouble, there’s a best squirrel dog out there ready to rise to the challenge (and maybe up a tree or two), no matter your terrain or hunting styles.
As much as these dogs love the chase, they’re also loyal, smart, and full of character; equal parts work and wiggle. Some may be better suited to homes with young kids, while others shine as focused, large dog hunters in the field. If you’ve ever watched a squirrel sprint across your yard and thought, “Game on,” maybe it’s time to bring home a four-legged teammate who’s always up for the hunt. Just remember: with great prey drive comes great responsibility, and probably a whole lot of squirrels rethinking their life choices.
