When the woodlands turn golden and the air chills just enough to wake that itch for the hunt, families head into the woods chasing squirrels. Turns out, it’s not just traditions—there’s real momentum behind it.
According to a study, as of spring 2025, 51 percent of U.S. households—around 68 million homes—have at least one dog companion ready for those tree-to-tree thrills. That means more than half the country is packed with potential squirrel-hunting partners.
Here’s the kicker: 66 percent of dog owners view their pets as full-on family members. The chase becomes more than a sport—it’s a shared beat that sparks joy, teamwork, and belonging in the great outdoors.
This really means that picking the right companion for squirrel hunting isn’t optional. It turns a walk into a purpose, and a pup into something that feels like a partner in crime.
Best Dog Breeds For Squirrel Hunting
Here are the 7 squirrel dog breeds:
1. American Leopard Hound
The American Leopard Hound is one of the oldest tree-hounds in the United States, valued by hunters for generations. Its sharp instincts and stamina make it a natural fit for those looking for the best dog for squirrel hunting.
Why it Stands Out
Adaptable Hunter: As one of the most versatile hounds, it adjusts easily to different hunting styles, whether in dense woods or open fields.
Strong Nose: Its sharp nose helps it track and tree squirrels with precision, giving hunters confidence in every chase.
Family Friendly: Intelligent yet gentle, this dog fits well with kids, offering both companionship at home and reliability in the field.
Unique Traits
Its striking spotted coat sets it apart from many other squirrel dog breeds.
Exceptional stamina allows it to keep going for long hunts without losing focus.
Adaptability means it thrives in both hot summers and cold winters.
2. Rat Terrier
Small but mighty, the Rat Terrier has long been celebrated as one of the most determined squirrel dog breeds. With boundless energy and a sharp mind, this little hunter thrives in the field and makes a lively addition to family life.
Why it Stands Out
Quick Reflexes: With naturally short legs, Rat Terriers excel at darting through brush and chasing squirrels before they can get away.
Versatile Hunter: Beyond squirrels, they can hunt small game like rabbits and rats, proving their adaptability in different pursuits.
Great Family Dogs: Their playful nature and loyalty make them great family dogs, offering just as much joy at home as in the woods.
Unique Traits
Compact size makes them perfect for hunters who need an agile pup that can navigate tight spaces.
According to WebMD, they are known for their intelligence and eagerness to please, and they take to training quickly.
Their strong prey drive pairs with an affectionate temperament, balancing work and companionship.
3. German Shorthaired Pointer
Athletic, intelligent, and always eager to work, the German Shorthaired Pointer is a breed built for action. While it’s often praised for bird hunting, its keen instincts and agility make it a dependable choice for hunting squirrels as well.
Why it Stands Out
Endurance in the Field: With unmatched stamina, this breed can cover vast stretches of ground without tiring, giving hunters better luck in spotting game.
Sharp Senses: Known for its strong eyesight and ability to track movement quickly, it’s skilled at flushing squirrels from cover.
Bond with Owners: Energetic but affectionate, the GSP thrives when it has a job to do while still enjoying time with the family.
Unique Traits
According to PetMD, they have a sleek, muscular build makes it one of the most athletic of all hunting dogs.
Highly trainable and responsive to commands, especially when paired with consistent practice.
Natural versatility allows it to excel across different types of hunts, not just small game.
4. Jack Russell Terrier
Compact, fearless, and brimming with determination, the Jack Russell Terrier has the perfect mix of drive and intelligence to thrive in squirrel hunting. Its bold nature and sharp instincts make it a lively and effective squirrel dog.
Why it Stands Out
Fearless Spirit: With high energy and confidence, this terrier isn’t intimidated when a squirrel treed makes the chase more challenging.
Keen Senses: Sharp eyesight and quick reactions help it spot movement both on the ground and in the trees.
Family Connection: Known for its loyalty, this breed bonds tightly with its parents, giving it a strong balance between hunting and companionship.
Unique Traits
Renowned for its high prey drive, making it a natural when it comes to tracking and flushing out small animals.
The agile frame allows it to dart through woods and underbrush effortlessly.
Highly intelligent and trainable, though it thrives best with structured activity to channel its energy.
5. Doberman Pinscher
The Doberman Pinscher isn’t the first breed most people imagine for squirrel hunting, but its alertness, loyalty, and athleticism make it surprisingly effective in the field. With proper training and exposure, this dog can be a sharp-eyed partner during squirrel season.
Why it Stands Out
Vigilant Protector: Always on watch, the Doberman is quick to notice movement, making it valuable when squirrels dart from tree to tree.
Strong Upbringing: When properly raised with guidance and training, it develops the discipline needed to transition from family guardian to hunting companion.
Quick Reactions: Known for its speed, this breed can chase down a squirrel before it’s fully caught in the branches.
Unique Traits
Sleek, muscular frame that combines both elegance and power.
Highly trainable and loyal, eager to bond closely with its handler.
Its protective nature makes it not just a hunting partner but also a confident family guardian.
6. Treeing Walker Coonhound
The Treeing Walker Coonhound is a classic hunting companion, known for its stamina, determination, and drive. Originally bred to hunt small game, it has become one of the most recognized squirrel dog breeds thanks to its ability to track, chase, and corner prey high into the trees.
Why it Stands Out
Exceptional Tracking: With an unmatched ability for trailing, this breed uses its nose to follow even the faintest scent across the woods.
Signature Bark: Famous for its loud, ringing bark, it alerts the hunter once a squirrel treed is pinned down.
Energetic Partner: Brimming with energy, it thrives on outdoor challenges, making it a natural fit for families who love the great outdoors.
Unique Traits
Athletic build and sleek coat designed for endurance and speed.
According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), they are social and people-oriented, enjoying life as both a working dog and companion.
Known for persistence — once it locks onto prey, it rarely loses focus until the job is done.
7. Mountain Cur
Tough, determined, and deeply rooted in American hunting traditions, the Mountain Cur has long been prized as a reliable partner in the pursuit of squirrels. Bred specifically to hunt small game, this breed is known for its grit, stamina, and loyalty in the field.
Why it Stands Out
Natural Worker: The Mountain Cur thrives when given a job, excelling at chasing squirrels until they’re cornered and squirrel treed.
Protective Instincts: Fiercely loyal, it will protect its family while still keeping its focus sharp during hunts.
Smart and Trainable: This breed is highly smart, picking up commands quickly and adapting to the needs of each hunter.
Unique Traits
Bred in the rugged Appalachian region, it’s built for stamina and toughness in challenging terrain.
Distinct history as one of the most trusted dogs for frontier families, serving as both a guardian and hunting companion.
Known for its courage, never hesitates when faced with larger game or stubborn prey.
Conclusion
Finding the best dog breeds for squirrel hunting isn’t just about speed or strength—it’s about choosing a partner whose instincts and personality line up with the chase. Some dogs bring an unmatched nose for tracking, others the stamina to work long hours in the woods, and many combine hunting ability with a loyal, family-friendly temperament.
The important thing is that the right breed doesn’t just make hunting more successful; it makes it more meaningful. A well-trained squirrel dog turns the pursuit into a shared experience, where every outing builds trust and connection.
Whether you’re looking for a proven hunting companion or a versatile dog that thrives both at home and in the field, the right breed will make every trip outdoors something worth remembering.
