Hunting wild turkeys is more than simply a game; it’s a test of timing, patience, and instinct. And being accompanied by the appropriate dog? That can have an immense impact. A bright, motivated partner who shares your enthusiasm for the hunt is what you need.
Not all dogs are suited for this type of work, but which ones are perfect? Some dogs hunt turkeys by nature. With their eyes fixed on the target, tails wagging, and noses wriggling, they rush across the forest as if they have an inbuilt sensor.
Therefore, if you’re searching for a dog that can do more than just sit, stay, and shake – one that will track, flush, and make the hunt more exciting, you’ve come to the perfect place.
Here are seven dog breeds that are likely to become your new best friend in the wild and are skilled at capturing wild turkeys.
Best Dog Breeds That Catch Wild Turkeys Easily
Many generations of turkey hunters have trusted these breeds of hunting dogs because they are dedicated, skilled, and field-tested.
1. German Shorthaired Pointer
One of the most adaptable dog breeds in the hunting industry is the German Shorthaired Pointer. This clever breed, which is well recognized by the American Kennel Club, is excellent in both fieldwork and companionship.
GSPs are blessed with sharp noses that can follow a hot track across the challenging field. They have a natural ability to point upland birds, specifically wild turkeys, and this helps the hunters prepare for an ideal flush.
They are known as one of the fastest dogs, as their short hair allows them to move through bushes without any difficulty. They frequently have white markings or a solid liver, which blends in well with the surrounding environment.
These versatile dogs are always ready to please, loyal, and interested in active households. Whether you’re at a hunt or home, they stay closely connected and deeply bonded to their human.
2. Chesapeake Bay Retriever
The Chesapeake Bay Retriever, or lovingly called Chessie, is more than just a retriever breed. They are passionate dogs with tough bodies, and this feature makes them stand out above all water dogs. A Chessie is a loyal friend to its owner, no matter what.
The Chesapeake is physically created to handle the extremes. They are originally bred to survive the cold conditions as they have a thick double coat that keeps out icy water, making them the best choice for hunters living in cold areas.
Chessies are also first-class at chasing targets and tracking down injured birds. These hunting dogs can follow even the smallest scent trails thanks to their sharp noses. A trained Chessie will make every effort to bring a bird, a turkey, or a few ducks home.
Although they are smart hunting dogs, they still need early and constant obedience training because of their strong will. However, after you make a strong bond with them, they grow into one of your most trustworthy retrieving partners.
This isn’t just a dog, it’s a presence that stays with you. As highlighted by VCA, their strength, independence, and unbelievable devotion make them one of the most reliable breeds for game hunting.
3. English Springer Spaniel
The English Springer Spaniel is a lively and incredibly committed bird dog breed that has won the affection of hunters all over the world. It is well-known for its cheerful energy and expressive eyes.
The Springer was bred especially to clear upland birds in areas with thick bushes. They can easily locate small game and turkeys that are hidden in thick forest because of their keen sense of bird scent.
They are physically perfect for rugged terrain. They are medium-sized dogs with strong stamina who can work for hours on end. Their sensitive jaws are good for targeting meals like quail, pheasants, and yes, even injured wild turkeys.
Loyal, focused, and full of heart, the English Springer Spaniel never leaves your side, whether you’re moving from a bush on a cool afternoon or walking at the edges of a field at dawn.
They are among the most dependable bird dogs in the world. According to PetMD, if you want a dog that is completely focused on both you and the hunt, then this is the right one for you.
4. Golden Retriever
The Golden Retriever is often underestimated in the hunting world, largely because of its friendly face. With their shiny coats, happy grins, and warm personalities, it’s easy to forget that beneath all that charm lies the intelligent breed for hunting birds around.
Golden Retrievers truly shine just because of their eager-to-please attitude, plus their unexpected toughness. They have no concerns about pushing through thick bushes after an injured bird or flushing birds. When other dogs give up on small game, such as grouse or late-season roosters, a Golden will continue to pursue them.
Goldens can retrieve through freezing waterways with the same enthusiasm as on dry fields since they are strong swimmers and natural water dogs, or good duck dogs.
Perhaps a Golden’s greatest quality isn’t what they do, but rather how they do it. They hunt joyfully. They have a reason for working.
And they curl up next to you like they’ve never left you at the end of a long day. A Golden Retriever always gives you their all, whether you’re at home or in the field.
5. Bloodhound
The familiar scent-tracking partner, the Bloodhound, is well-known throughout the dog world for its exceptional sense of smell. This breed can follow a trail that is hours or even days old, as its “finds” are so trustworthy that they can be used as evidence in court.
Bloodhounds are the peak of aggressive hunters and have been used historically to hunt furred wildlife like deer and boar, as well as to locate missing individuals. Although their loose, wrinkled skin and drooping ears may make them appear softer, these characteristics aid in attracting scent to their nose.
They are large dogs that weigh 90-110 pounds (males) or 80-100 lbs (females), with males standing 25-27 inches and females 23-25 inches. They need daily exercise, can travel great distances, and do best in homes.
To get their attention, you need to be patient, give them praise, and spend a lot of time outside. As discussed by Orvis, they can also be called “a nose with a dog attached,” showing the intensity of their proficiency in scent-tracking.
6. American Foxhound
One of the most underrated yet fierce hunting dog breeds available is the American Foxhound, which is built for stamina, speed, and melody. This breed, which has deep roots in American history, was first created to chase foxes in the dense forest.
They are a good choice for hunters tracking furred wildlife, mostly wild turkeys, because of their excellent noses and a voice that rings through the hills. Not like other retriever breeds or pointing dogs, they don’t flush, but they pursue.
Males typically stand 22-25 inches tall and weigh 65-75 pounds, while females are slightly smaller at 21-24 inches and 60-70 pounds. Don’t be fooled by their graceful appearance; these are tough dogs, made to chase.
They need frequent exercise to maintain their balance because they are active dogs that do best in open areas. They also form great bonds with their owners. If you’re looking for an energetic dog that can hunt firmly and be a peaceful presence at home, then this is the one for you.
7. Plott Hound
With a heart as large as the mountains it originates from, the Plott Hound is a fearless, tough tracker. This is the official state dog of North Carolina, which has a reputation for being strong, devoted, and extremely robust.
They are skilled path trackers who can work tirelessly across difficult conditions because of their keen senses and unwavering willpower. There is no going back once a Plott has locked onto a scent.
They are physically designed to be strong and resilient. Females are smaller than males, who are 20-25 inches tall and weigh 50-60 pounds. They can move quickly through the bushes because of their muscular body and smooth, frequently brindle-colored coats.
They are a hunter’s right hand, especially for people who appreciate tenacity, scent ability, and a strong bond. They are not just an average pet, as the Plott will never disappoint you.
Final Words
Hunting isn’t just about skill – it’s about partnership. Every walk through the woods and every stop at the edge of a field becomes a shared experience when you have the proper dog by your side. These versatile hunter dogs aren’t only helping you hunt; they’re also helping you create memories.
Each of these breeds brings something new to the ground: that sharp nose of a Bloodhound, the energetic nature of an English Springer, the icy determination of a Chessie. What combines them is all their heart and their loyalty towards you.
So if you’re looking for more than just a hunting tool, if you want a partner, a friend, and a fellow, then these breeds are ready to serve you the best. Choose the one that fits your world, and you’ll have a loyal soul for life.
