If you’re a dog owner who loves the thrill of the hunt, having a loyal companion by your side makes the experience even more rewarding. But when it comes to chasing wild boars—a task that demands courage and skill—not every dog is cut out for the challenge.
Over the years, certain dog breeds have been developed with the physique, temperament, and drive to excel at boar hunting. These dogs possess the perfect combination of stamina, intelligence, and obedience.
Their sharp instincts, excellent recall, and ability to work both independently and alongside hunters make them reliable partners in high-stakes hunts.
Hog hunting has been practiced for centuries, and even today, skilled hunting dogs remain at the heart of the sport. Whether for management or tradition, these catch dogs are trained to track, pursue, and contain wild pigs, proving their unmatched value in the field.
These catch dogs are true masters of the wild with courage, stamina, and a powerful sense of duty. Let’s continue reading to find out the courageous details of these brave dog breeds.
Dog Breeds That Chase Wild Boars Successfully
1. Catahoula Leopard Dog
History and Origins
The Catahoula’s roots trace back to the 1500s when Spanish explorers’ dogs were bred with the best wolf dog breeds domesticated by Native Americans. Later, French settlers around Catahoula Lake in Louisiana refined the breed by mixing these wolf dogs with their hounds.
This unique history led the Catahoula Leopard Dog to become Louisiana’s official state dog in 1979.
Hunting Traits
Known as the “Catahoula Hog Dog,” this breed has been valued for centuries in boar hunting due to its incredible stamina, intelligence, and fearless spirit, as per the AKC.
They excel as bay dogs, using their strong prey drive and tracking instincts to locate and hold wild hogs until the hunter arrives. Their agility and determination make them stand out in tough terrains and demanding hunts.
Training Challenges
Catahoulas are highly intelligent but come with an independent streak that can make training a test of patience. They need consistent and firm guidance, with early socialization being essential to manage their territorial and protective instincts.
Without clear leadership, they may become stubborn or even aggressive toward different dogs of the same sex.
Special Tip: Equip your Catahoula with protective gear like a vest or collar when hunting wild boars, as their fearless drive can put them at risk during intense encounters.
2. Redbone Coonhound
Hunting Abilities
The Redbone Coonhound is celebrated for its endurance and adaptability, making it a strong contender for wild boar hunting. Previously bred to chase raccoons, this breed can navigate swamps, forests, and rugged hills with ease, following scent trails for hours without tiring.
Their determination and keen nose make them excellent trackers for long distances in challenging terrains.
Daily Behavior
At home, Redbone Coonhounds are one of the affectionate dog breeds, energetic, and playful companions who thrive on outdoor activities with their families.
Without sufficient exercise, they may resort to barking, digging, or following scents beyond boundaries. A fenced yard and leashed walks are crucial to keep them safe and prevent wandering.
Breed Background
According to PetMD, this breed originated in the late 18th century in the United States. This breed was developed by hunters seeking a versatile catch dog capable of traversing swamps and mountains alike.
Their fiery red coat and loyal dispositions quickly earned them popularity among outdoorsmen. Today, they remain one of the most resilient hunting breeds rooted in American tradition.
Special Tip: Always microchip your Redbone Coonhound and keep ID tags updated—this scent-driven adventurer is notorious for roaming when an intriguing trail catches its attention.
3. Plott Hound
Family Behavior
Despite their fierce hunting temperament, Plott Hounds are affectionate and loyal at home.
They bond deeply with their families and generally get along with other animals and older children. However, supervision is necessary, as their protective instincts and high energy can sometimes overwhelm smaller kids or pets.
Historical Roots
This breed traces its heritage to the rugged mountains of western North Carolina, where German immigrant Johannes Plott bred them in the mid-18th century, as mentioned by WebMD.
Unlike other coonhounds, they are not descended from foxhounds, giving them a unique bloodline and hunting style. Today, the Plott Hound proudly holds the title of North Carolina’s official state dog.
Hunting Strengths
The Plott Hound is a fearless and determined hunting dog breed, specifically developed for wild pig hunts.
Known for their speed, stamina, and sharp scenting ability, they can track game across mountains and dense forests with remarkable precision. Their relentless spirit in the field makes them prized companions for serious hunters.
Special Tip: Provide your Plott Hound with daily runs or fenced off-leash play to satisfy their hunting instincts—without enough physical and mental activity, they can quickly become restless or destructive.
4. Rhodesian Ridgeback
Hunting Legacy
Bred in South Africa, the Rhodesian Ridgeback was once used to track and hold lions at bay, showcasing immense courage and stamina.
These same traits make them exceptional wild pig hunters, as they rely on endurance, intelligence, and sheer determination in the field. Their forward-growing ridge of hair is a distinctive hallmark tied to their hunting dog heritage.
Training Demands
Ridgebacks are intelligent but can also be stubborn, often choosing when to obey depending on the situation. Consistent, reward-based training with early and thorough socialization is essential to bring out their best qualities.
Without proper guidance, they may develop selective listening, especially when distractions are present during hunts.
Historical Background
This breed originated from the crossing of half-wild native catch dogs with European hounds, giving them a rugged and versatile nature. Known as lion hunters, they earned respect across southern Africa for their bravery and stamina.
Today, their reputation as both guardians and hunting dogs has made them a popular dog breed, yet a demanding companion worldwide.
Special Tip: Always combine physical exercise with mental stimulation for your Rhodesian Ridgeback—regular runs, scent games, and structured training help curb their stubborn streak.
5. Bluetick Coonhound
Hunting Excellence
The Bluetick Coonhound is a determined and ambitious hunter, best known for its ability to track scents for hours—or even days—without giving up.
As per Purina, their strong prey drive and stamina make them highly effective as hunting dogs for wild boars, especially in rugged terrains. Once locked on a trail, they remain focused until the chase is over.
Training and Socialization
While intelligent and eager to work, Blueticks can be stubborn when a scent catches their attention. Training requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement to ensure they respond reliably to recall commands. Early socialization is also important, as they may be slow to warm up to strangers.
Home Behavior
At home, Blueticks are affectionate, loyal, and surprisingly gentle for such ambitious hunters. They bond closely with their families but do best with older children who can handle their energy and enthusiasm. Their affectionate side makes them loving companions, balancing their hunting dog intensity with warmth at home.
Special Tip: Because of their unstoppable prey drive, always provide your Bluetick with secure fencing and plenty of structured exercise—this prevents wandering and keeps their boundless energy in check.
6. Bloodhound
Legendary Nose
The Bloodhound is world-renowned for having the most powerful sense of smell in the canine kingdom, according to Britannica.
It is one of the oldest dog breeds, originally bred to track game for medieval nobles. They became indispensable for locating big game such as wild boar. Once on a trail, their determination and endurance make them relentless trackers.
Training Challenges
While intelligent, Bloodhounds can be stubborn, which makes training a test of patience. They respond best to gentle, positive reinforcement rather than harsh corrections. Early obedience work is essential to build reliability, especially in high-distraction environments.
Care and Exercise
These dogs need plenty of exercise to satisfy their physical stamina and mental drive to track. Because they are prone to wandering off after a scent, they should always be walked on a leash or kept in a secure fenced yard. Their droopy ears also need routine cleaning to prevent infections.
Special Tip: Equip your Bloodhound with a GPS collar during hunts—their powerful nose can lead them to long distances, and this tool ensures safety and peace of mind.
7. Black and Tan Coonhound
American Original
The Black and Tan Coonhound is a true American creation, bred to track raccoons with precision during nighttime hunts. They balance a serious work ethic on the trail with a relaxed, sofa-loving personality at home. This dual nature makes them both tireless hunters and affectionate companions.
Vocal Personality
These coonhounds are famous for their loud, mournful “music” that can echo across neighborhoods. While charming for some, their baying may be overwhelming in close communities or apartments. Their vocal nature is best suited to families who don’t mind a talkative dog.
Hunting Traits
The Black and Tan Coonhound is built for relentless tracking, as it is considered among the best tracking dogs. Once it locks onto a scent, it will follow with unwavering persistence, making it highly effective in wild boar hunting where tenacity is critical.
Its ability to work through rough terrain and at night gives hunters a dependable partner in even the toughest conditions.
Special Tip: Provide your Black and Tan Coonhound with puzzle toys and scent games when not hunting—this keeps their sharp mind busy and prevents boredom barking.
8. American Foxhound
Friendly but Independent
Known for their easygoing and amiable nature, American Foxhounds get along well with children, other canines, and even cats when properly socialized.
However, they can be stubborn, showing a streak of independence that requires patience during training. Their affectionate side makes them lovable companions, though they thrive best with experienced owners.
Training and Control
Training an American Foxhound requires consistency, positive reinforcement, and firm leadership. Because of their strong scent drive, underground electric fences won’t deter them if a trail catches their attention. Structured obedience classes and leash training are key to managing their powerful instincts.
Energy and Hunting Drive
Bred for stamina, these hounds have boundless energy and need at least one to two hours of exercise daily. Whether hunting, running, or playing in a secure yard, they need outlets for their drive to avoid restlessness. Their strong nose and tireless spirit make them reliable partners in tracking game like foxes or feral hogs.
Special Tip: Always provide your American Foxhound with plenty of structured outdoor activity—long runs, scent trails, and playtime with some dogs help channel their energy and prevent destructive boredom.
9. Weimaraner
Temperament and Personality
Known for their loyalty, Weimaraners form deep bonds with their families and thrive on constant companionship.
They are affectionate, playful, and highly intelligent, but their strong will can make them challenging for novice owners. When left alone too long, they may develop separation anxiety or destructive habits.
Training and Socialization
Weimaraners are quick learners but can be stubborn if boundaries aren’t clearly established. Consistency, positive reinforcement, and early obedience training are essential to harness their intelligence.
Proper socialization helps prevent them from becoming overly wary of strangers or excitable around other dogs.
Hunting Drive and Energy Needs
This breed has endless energy reserves and requires vigorous daily exercise, including running, hiking, or structured play. Their strong prey drive makes them unsuitable housemates for small pets like cats or rabbits.
A large, secure yard and active lifestyle are crucial for keeping a Weimaraner happy and well-balanced.
Special Tip: Give your Weimaraner both physical and mental challenges—long runs paired with puzzle toys or scent games that will keep their sharp mind and athletic body fully engaged.
Conclusion
Hunting wild boar requires courage, stamina, and a keen sense of smell, which is why other breeds have long stood out as reliable hunting dogs. These dogs were actually bred with the physical ability and instincts needed to hunt hogs and navigate the toughest environmental hazards in the woods.
Their endless energy, strong jaws, and high prey drive make them excellent catch dogs when hunters arrive to face dangerous feral hogs.
Many of these popular breeds were not only skilled in hunting wild pigs, but also versatile enough to pursue other game like deer, small game, and even retrieve waterfowl.
Meanwhile, smaller but determined dogs like the Jack Russell Terrier show that size doesn’t limit skill when it comes to the trail of a hog or pig.
For today’s hunters, choosing the right dog is about more than just strength—it’s about understanding the group’s purpose, whether that’s tracking by scent through long distances, chasing through the woods, or controlling prey on a leash.
While these athletic dogs thrive on high levels of physical activity, they also bond deeply with humans and can make loyal family companions if given proper training, structure, and care.
