Some dogs are born with it.
And by “it,” we mean that wild mix of confidence, instinct, and sharp senses.
Because in the dog world, some hunting dogs know what they are doing. Even when nobody has taught them yet. It is in their blood. In their heartbeat. In their paws.
It is incredible how many amazing dog breeds with natural instincts for hunting are also great family dogs, loyal companions, and downright fun to live with.
Today, we are walking through amazing hunting dog breeds with natural instincts for hunting. These bring everything. From scent-tracking to pointing upland birds, retrieving downed birds, flushing game birds, following scent trails through rough terrain, and even taking on big game.
Upland hunting, waterfowl hunting, hunting small game, or dominating the field, these dogs are the real deal.
Amazing Dog Breeds With Natural Instincts for Hunting
1. German Wirehaired Pointer
The German Wirehaired Pointer is one of those hunting breeds people get to know instantly. Not just by their wiry beard but by how confidently they move.
This pointing dog was originally bred in Germany (obviously!) for upland hunting, retrieving downed birds, and handling rough terrain without slowing down for even a second.
What makes them amazing at their natural hunting instincts is… well, everything.
Their nose. Their energy. Their drive. Their ability to track running birds and that intense “I got this” attitude. This is actually a versatile hunting dog breed, as they are able to switch from pointing upland game to tracking furred game to retrieving waterfowl like champs.
Outdoorsy U.S. owners love this bearded dog because they fit hunting scenarios ranging from dense cover to wide-open prairie grouse country.
As per Chewy, they are high-energy dogs (like, REALLY high!), eager to please and thrive with proper training and plenty of mental stimulation. And after all that adventure, they are actually pretty affectionate dogs at home.
2. English Springer Spaniel
The English Springer Spaniels can be described in one word: enthusiastic.
These dogs are practically unstoppable when they are in the field. Originally bred to flush birds, mostly upland game and hunting pheasants, the English Springer Spaniel is one of the best-known Spaniel breeds for both retrieving downed birds and working within safe gun range.
This Spaniel dog breed has a natural ability for hunting, and that is so strong that even pet Springers sometimes “flush” squirrels or other dogs during a walk. Just because their wiring told them so.
As one of America’s favorite hunting companions, these dogs are well-suited for families. As per the American Kennel Club (AKC), they are friendly dogs with warm personalities, loyal to their people, and adaptable even if you are not hunting every weekend.
Their sense of smell is excellent. Their retrieving skills are solid. And they thrive in hunting lines where they get lots of activity.
These are not couch potato dogs. Unless they are completely exhausted. Then, yes… they will absolutely take over your couch.
3. Boykin Spaniel
South Carolina’s pride.
The Boykin Spaniel is one of those hunting breeds that’s seriously underrated outside the South. But, beloved by anyone who has ever hunted upland game or waterfowl with them.
Bred to retrieve birds from swamps and lakes, they are compact and energetic dogs. Plus, they have impressive swimming abilities and a naturally fearless attitude.
Boykins are versatile dogs that work beautifully in the field. Their natural instincts are impressive, and they are really great dogs at tracking wounded game with calm determination.
And these water-loving dogs were actually called the “small boat dog” because they can hop in and out so easily while retrieving birds or even a few ducks.
Boykins are friendly, medium-sized dogs with a gentle personality that makes them excellent hunting partners and excellent companions. They are eager to please, good with families, and handle tracking like pros. As long as you give them a job.
4. Labrador Retriever
Look… the Labrador Retriever needs no introduction in the dog world.
America’s most popular dog breed for decades (31 years, to be exact), Labs are famous as good family dogs. But they are legendary hunting dogs as well, with natural hunting instincts that show up the moment they learn what “retrieve” means.
They were bred as one of the retriever breeds to retrieve fishing nets and later waterfowl. Labs are masters at retrieving birds (ducks, geese, whatever you have got). They also work incredibly well for upland hunting, flushing birds, and finding game birds with their amazing sense of smell.
And hey, if you have seen a Lab leap into a lake like they are auditioning for the Olympic diving team, that’s the strong swimming abilities and strong retrieving instincts kicking in.
Friendly, energetic, loyal, and deeply connected to their humans. They make excellent hunting companions and equally excellent family pets… which is a rare combo. Great dogs in every way.
5. Treeing Walker Coonhound
Fast. Focused. Fierce on scent trails.
The Treeing Walker Coonhound is one of the only hunting dog breeds that can LITERALLY chase a raccoon up a tree. Yes! The tree raccoons. That is their specialty hunting style.
From America, these dogs were made from made for tracking furred game across rough terrain using their insane sense of smell. As per WebMD, they were made for “extreme endurance”.
They follow scent trails with a laser-sharp intensity until the game is cornered or treed.
And while they are famous for raccoons, they are also great canine companions for hunting small game of all types: rabbits, squirrels, and even tricky running birds.
They are athletic, vocal, and definitely high-energy. They need outdoor time, mental stimulation, and proper training. But, they are also affectionate and loyal companion dogs when they are off-duty.
They usually do well with other retriever breeds, too. As long as they are not competing for the same scent trail.
6. Pharaoh Hound
Elegant. Ancient. Fast.
The Pharaoh Hound is one of the most visually striking hunting dogs in the world. Lean, aerodynamic, and bred for tracking and hunting small game across harsh terrain. Their natural ability to chase and spot movement is unreal.
They may look delicate, but these dogs were bred to hunt in places that would exhaust other breeds. They are agile, sharp, and incredibly aware of their surroundings.
Their hunting style relies on speed, sight, and quick reactions. They are different from typical scent-focused hunting dogs.
Plus, they are good family dogs that bond deeply with their people, playful at home, and surprisingly goofy. And yes, they blush, their noses and ears turn pink when they are excited.
7. Norwegian Elkhound
If you want a dog with courage, this one checks every box.
The Norwegian Elkhound is an ancient Nordic breed, bred for hunting big game: elk, moose, and even bear. That alone tells you everything you need to know about their hunting style and ability.
These dogs track wounded game with precision, alert hunters with a signature loud bark, and keep distance while staying close enough to keep the animal engaged. Their thick coat, muscular build, and endurance make them excellent in cold and rough terrain.
Despite a tough background, Norwegian Elkhounds are very affectionate dogs. Many families say they are loyal companion dogs who love people and get along well with other breeds, too.
They need activity, challenge, and mental stimulation. They are versatile dogs who enjoy outdoor adventures but also love curling up at home once their job is done.
8. Karelian Bear Dog
You want intensity?? This breed delivers it 24/7.
The Karelian Bear Dog is one of the world’s most fearless hunting dog breeds. They were bred to track and hold big game. They have worked against bears, moose, boar, and large predators. And yet, they remain controlled and focused.
Their natural hunting instincts are astonishing. They use sharp senses, bold confidence, and a fearless attitude to keep large animals at bay and signal the hunters at the same time. Their job is to engage without backing down.
But they are also incredibly loyal dogs when trained well. High-energy, strong-willed, and brilliant in the field. These dogs need experienced owners, structured training, and plenty of exercise. They are not for beginners, but for hunters… they are exceptional.
9. Bluetick CoonHound
Melodic voice. Unstoppable tracker. Incredible stamina.
The Bluetick Coonhound is famous for its beautiful ticking pattern. But in the hunting world, it is their nose everyone talks about. Their sense of smell is elite-level.
These dogs were bred for hunting scenarios such as tracking furred game through forests and uneven land. They follow scent trails with accuracy and relentless determination. It makes them excellent hunting dogs in long and challenging pursuits.
They are vocal hounds (oh, you will hear them sing!) and extremely loyal to their humans. Their voice is known as “Crooners”; they will “bark, howl, bawl, and bay”.
Blueticks are energetic dogs with a strong drive. They love the outdoors, enjoy having a job, and make excellent companions for active owners. And despite being intense hunters, they are really affectionate at home.
Conclusion
Some dogs are just built differently. And these nine amazing dog breeds with natural instincts for hunting prove it.
Flushing upland birds, retrieving waterfowl, tracking running birds, scenting wounded game, or taking on big game with fearless hearts… each dog brings power to the field.
Small game, big game, upland game. Whatever the adventure…
These dogs are ready.
Always.
