Dog breeds that hunt wild turkeys are more than just pets. They are hunters with a deep instinct for the chase. For passionate bird hunters, especially those upland birds like wild turkey, the right hunting dog is everything.
These dogs were originally bred to find, flush, and retrieve birds like wild turkey. They work well in thick cover, deep woods, and wide open fields. With keen noses, strong prey drive, and love for the outdoors, they shine in every hunting season.
In this article, we will share 10 loyal and skilled bird dog breeds. They are smart, strong, and full of energy. If you are a hunter looking for a natural hunting companion, these are the best breeds for you.
Dog Breeds That Hunt Wild Turkeys Naturally
1. German shorthaired pointer
The German shorthaired pointer is one of the top dog breeds that hunt wild turkeys. This type of versatile dog was bred for many types of hunting, especially birds. With a strong nose and quick movements, it works well in dense forest, thick brush, and even rugged terrain.
Born to Hunt and Point
This bird has a tireless work ethic and a deep prey drive. This makes it a favorite during upland bird hunting. It fits well into both pointing and retrieving roles. Its sharp senses and eagerness to please help dog owners succeed in any hunting season.
If you want a hunting companion who gives their all, the German Shorthaired is hard to beat. They are not just skilled, they are loyal, loving, and a joy to train.
German Shorthaired Pointers are highly sensitive and thrive on constant companionship. They dislike being left alone and crave affection throughout the day. In return, they give back every bit of love they receive, showing warmth and friendliness toward family members, children, and even other dogs.
2. Labrador Retriever
The Labrador Retriever is one of the most popular dog breeds in the dog world, and for a good reason. It’s not only friendly and smart, but it’s also one of the best dog breeds that hunt wild turkeys. This breed was originally bred to retrieve downed birds and still shines during any hunting season.
Strong retrieving instinct
Known for their strong retrieving instinct and soft mouth, Labradors are excellent at bringing back game birds like wild turkey. They are perfect for upland hunting and work well in thick cover, wetland, and even harsh conditions. Their weather-resistant coat helps them in cold and rough terrain.
Labradors’ high intelligence and eagerness to please make them quick learners, particularly in structured hunting settings. However, their love of food is no laughing matter; they’ll swipe snacks from counters and beg persistently if given the chance.
3. Vizsla
The Vizsla is one of the lesser-known dog breeds that hunt wild turkeys. It is a true gem for bird hunting. This sleek, high-energy dog was originally bred in Hungary to hunt birds and small game. It is fast, focused, and loves to work with its dog owner.
Natural Ability and Prey Drive
The Vizsla has a strong prey drive, a sharp nose, and a deep desire to please. It is a skilled pointing dog that shines in open fields and dense forests. These dogs handle both pointing and retrieving roles with ease. Especially when chasing wild birds like turkeys during hunting season.
With their high energy and intelligence, Vizslas can quickly become bored if their physical and mental needs aren’t met, often leading to destructive behaviors like excessive chewing and barking. This makes them unsuitable for owners seeking a low-maintenance breed.
4. English Setter
The English Setter is a classic bird dog breed that excels in upland hunting. This dog breed has a calm nature but becomes sharp and focused in the field. It was originally bred to point birds like turkey and quail.
Clam Yet Driven
With its keen sense, strong prey drive, and graceful movement, it is perfect for dense forest or thick cover. It is also great for first-time owners. Loyal and steady, the English setter is a gentle but serious hunting dog.
English Setters can cover vast areas and navigate challenging terrain, making them well-suited for pursuing wild turkeys that often roam long distances. Like any hunting breed, they require proper training and conditioning to sharpen and maintain their turkey-hunting skills.
5. Wirehaired Pointing Griffon
The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is one of the best dogs in bird hunting. It was originally bred to hunt in thick brush, rugged terrain, and even wetlands. This bird dog has a rough coat that handles harsh conditions well.
Rugged and Reliable
With excellent noses and bold hunting style, they shine at finding wild birds like turkeys. They are loyal to dog owners and quick learners.
This hunting companion is perfect for long days in the field during hunting season. The AKC notes their intelligence and strong work ethic in hunting roles. Griffons are highly social dogs that need plenty of attention, consistent training, time, and patience.
They are not suited to life as full-time kennel dogs. Especially active during puppyhood, they grow into intelligent, social, and physically strong adults.
6. English Springer Spaniel
English Springer Spaniel is a happy, energetic dog breed that hunts wild turkey. It was originally bred to flush upland birds from dense forest and thick cover, and loves to work. This cheerful bird dog is quick, focused, and loves to work.
Energetic And Reliable
This hunting dog has a sharp nose and a fast pace, making it ideal for chasing game birds like turkeys. Its soft mouth and obedience make it a favorite of dog owners. According to PetMD, they are known for their eagerness and joyful spirit in the field.
Springer Spaniels have a strong prey drive and are easily distracted by scents or movement, which can make recall and leash training more challenging. They may be tempted to chase birds, small animals, or even cars if not properly managed.
7. Boykin Spaniel
The Boykin Spaniel is a compact yet powerful bird dog breed that was originally bred for hunting in dense forests and thick cover. It is one of the best dog breeds that hunt wild turkeys, especially in the southern regions of the US.
Small Dog, Big Drive
Don’t let its size fool you. This hunting dog has strong natural ability, a keen sense, and lots of prey drive. It is loyal and easy to train, which makes it a great fit for dog owners. As noted by VCA Animal Hospital, Boykins are energetic, friendly, and love to retrieve.
The Boykin Spaniel needs plenty of exercise and loves activities like boating, hiking, jogging, and playing fetch, anything that helps burn off their abundant energy! Highly intelligent and energetic, they benefit from early training and socialization to prevent becoming high-strung as adults.
8. Irish Setter
Irish setter is one of the most beautiful dog breeds that hunt wild turkey. They are known for their long red coat and graceful run. This dog was originally bred to locate and point game birds.
Elegant and Effective
These high-energy, intelligent hunting dogs cover ground fast and handle thick cover with ease. Their loving nature makes them a great fit for families, too. They are friendly, eager, and born to hunt, making them perfect hunting companions.
Alert and intuitive, they get along well with most people and pets, and above all, they thrive on being an active part of the family.
9. German Wirehaired Pointer
The German Wirehaired Pointer is a rugged and reliable dog breed that hunts wild turkeys. It was originally bred to handle all types of terrain, from thick brush to open fields. It has a strong focus on upland bird hunting.
Tough and Tenacious
With its weather-resistant coat, keen nose, and strong prey drive, this pointing breed is a top pick for serious upland hunters. They are hardworking, loyal, and always ready to hunt.
They are highly active and even-tempered, known for their loyalty to their families. They do well with children, especially if raised alongside them, and are best suited for older kids who treat them with respect.
10. Bracco Italiano
The Bracco Italiano is a rare but skilled dog breed that hunts wild turkey. With deep roots in Italy, it was originally bred to track and retrieve birds across wide fields and rugged terrain. They are the coolest bird-hunting dogs you will find.
Graceful Yet Powerful
This loyal pointing dog moves with ease and has a sharp hunting style. It is known for being calm at home and serious in the field. Braccos are affectionate, smart, and born for natural hunting birds.
Conclusion
Choosing the right hunting dog can make your time in the field unforgettable. The dog breed that hunts wild turkeys brings more than skill. They bring heart, loyalty, and a deep bond with their dog owner.
Whether you prefer a fast pointing dog, a strong retriever, or a calm all-arounder, these popular breeds are made for the job. Each breed offers unique strengths for upland hunting.
With the right training, love, and time outdoors, your dog becomes more than a hunting companion. They become your partner through every season, brush, and bird.
