There’s something quietly awe-inspiring about dogs that can pick up the scent of big predators and follow their trails through wild terrain. A study found that dogs possess an olfactory system between 100,000 to 1 million times more sensitive than a human’s, with some breeds reaching up to 100 million times stronger. That gives them an uncanny ability to trace even faint lion trails across rugged landscapes.
Imagine a pack of scent-gifted dogs weaving through dense brush, heads low, nostrils flaring—tracking a mountain lion’s route with precision. That’s not fiction, but a testament to how finely tuned their senses are. It’s not just happenstance—research shows that when wild dogs detect signs of lions, their movement patterns shift dramatically.
Scat from lions alone caused wild dogs to avoid areas, cutting their incursions by over half and reducing duration by nearly three-quarters. These dogs aren’t just following—they’re interpreting layers of scent cues, changing behavior based on territorial signals.
Dog Breeds That Follow Lion Trails in Wild Areas
Here are the 10 best dog breeds:
1. Rhodesian Ridgeback
Known for their courage and endurance, Rhodesian Ridgebacks have a long history of working alongside hunters in territories where lions roamed.
Their keen awareness and steady focus make them capable of following a mountain lion trail across rugged, open terrain—skills rooted in their original purpose as trackers in southern Africa.
With strong breed characteristics that blend athleticism and instinct, they’re built for long days on a hiking trail without losing drive.
Key Traits
Muscular, athletic frame built for speed and stamina.
Short, dense coat that protects against heat and rough terrain.
Naturally wary of strangers, but loyal to their family.
Strong prey drive and ability to read environmental cues.
Thrive in active households that provide both mental and physical challenges.
Unique Traits
The Rhodesian Ridgeback’s signature “ridge” of hair along its back grows in the opposite direction of the rest of the coat—a distinct feature found in no other major breed. They’re remarkably independent thinkers, a trait that can be both an advantage in the field and a training challenge.
Despite their hunting heritage, well-trained Ridgebacks can be calm and steady at home, making them a versatile companion for the right owners.
2. Redbone Coonhound
The Redbone Coonhound is a tenacious tracker with a natural ability to pick up faint scent trails over long distances. In wild areas, their persistence and sharp nose can make them the best bet for trailing elusive animals across mixed terrain.
Bred for endurance hunts in challenging landscapes, they’re well-suited to follow a trail that winds through dense forest or open fields, adapting their pace until the target is found.
Key Traits
Sleek, muscular body optimized for agility and speed.
Rich red coat that offers some protection from brush and debris.
Deep, melodic barking style that carries over long distances.
Persistent scent follower, capable of staying on a track for hours.
Adaptable to different climates, from warm summers to cold winters.
Unique Traits
Redbone Coonhounds have a remarkable balance between work drive and an affectionate nature. While their focus in the field is unmatched, at home, they often become playful, fun companions who enjoy downtime with their family.
Their striking coat color and distinctive voice set them apart from most breeds, and when properly trained, they’re equally dependable in structured hunts or casual outdoor adventures.
3. American English Coonhound
With unmatched determination, the American English Coonhound is built for long, challenging pursuits. In wild landscapes, their stamina and precision allow them to follow the faint scent of mountain lions over rugged ground for miles.
According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), their keen nose, balanced agility, and work ethic make them a strong contender for the best dog breed when it comes to game tracking.
Unlike most dogs, they were developed with a singular purpose: to stay locked on an animal trail until the mission is complete.
Key Traits
A sleek, athletic build is ideal for covering long distances quickly.
Short, weather-resistant coat that stands up to changing conditions.
Exceptional scenting ability paired with high chase drive.
Strong, clear voice used to signal location and status during a hunt.
Intelligent problem-solver that adapts quickly to shifting terrain.
Requires regular physical and mental challenges to remain fulfilled.
Unique Traits
American English Coonhounds are renowned for their balance of endurance and agility, able to keep pace in both open stretches and dense cover. They’re known for their distinct vocalization, which hunters can identify from far away, and their ability to work effectively both solo and within a pack.
While driven in the field, they can settle into home life with proper structure, thriving in active households that can meet their need for space, exercise, and mental stimulation.
4. Norwegian Elkhound
The Norwegian Elkhound has a long history as a versatile hunting companion, valued for its sharp instincts and endurance in rugged conditions. Known to be exceptionally smart, this breed can track and corner large game, holding position with a confident bark until the hunter arrives.
Their adaptability and resilience make them the best choice for those seeking a capable working dog that can carry its weight in challenging outdoor pursuits. One standout point in their history is their role in guarding homesteads in the harsh Nordic climate.
Key Traits
Compact, muscular body designed for agility and stamina.
Dense double coat that insulates against extreme cold.
Keen tracking ability paired with steady persistence.
Naturally alert and vocal when something unusual is detected.
Strong endurance, able to work for long periods without tiring.
Unique Traits
Norwegian Elkhounds are celebrated for their independence and problem-solving skills, making them effective hunters and watchful protectors. According to PetMD, they can navigate steep, icy terrain with ease, thanks to their sturdy build and surefootedness.
While they enjoy being active and engaged, they also appreciate calm downtime with their owners, making them well-rounded companions for those who can match their need for activity and interaction.
5. American Foxhound
Bred for long-distance tracking, the American Foxhound combines keen scenting ability with a tireless drive. Their narrow yet strong head houses an acute sense of smell that can detect trails others might miss.
Agile and quick-footed, they move with a light step that conserves stamina over hours of pursuit. Known for their remarkable energy, they excel in open, wild environments where they can roam freely, and their loyal nature means they’ll work hard to protect the interests of their handlers in the field.
Key Traits
Tall, lean build designed for speed and endurance.
Long, straight legs are ideal for covering large distances efficiently.
Clear, ringing voice that carries far during hunts.
Highly sociable and friendly with people and other dogs.
Benefits from an active lifestyle with plenty of outdoor activity.
Unique Traits
American Foxhounds are one of the few breeds that can maintain high speed over extended distances without tiring quickly. Their friendly temperament makes them suitable for multi-dog households, while their disciplined work ethic shines in structured hunts.
They have a strong instinct to follow a scent to its source, a quality that remains deeply embedded even outside formal tracking work.
6. Black and tan Coonhound
In wild areas where big predators roam, the Black and Tan Coonhound’s powerful scenting skills and endurance make them capable of tracking even the most elusive paths.
Their steady pace and determination help them follow long, winding trails left by large game, adapting to thick brush, steep inclines, and shifting scents. For handlers seeking a reliable and adaptable tracker, this hound proves time and again to be a good dog in the most challenging environments.
Key Traits
Long, powerful legs designed for covering ground efficiently
Distinct black-and-tan coat that offers some camouflage in wooded areas
Deep, resonant voice that can be heard over great distances
Patient and methodical approach to tracking
Friendly and approachable with people and other dogs
Tolerant of varied weather conditions during long hunts
Unique Traits
Black and Tan Coonhounds have an exceptional sense of smell, rivaling that of the Bloodhound, and are celebrated for their endurance on multi-day hunts. They can remain calm and relaxed at home, but spring into action the moment a scent catches their attention.
Their combination of laid-back companionship and relentless drive in the field makes them an ideal match for active, outdoor-oriented households.
7. Treeing Walker Coonhound
With unmatched speed and precision, the Treeing Walker Coonhound is a natural choice for trailing large predators in wild, rugged terrain. Their instinct to hunt is deeply ingrained, allowing them to pick up faint scent trails and follow them tirelessly until the quarry is located.
In areas where big cats roam, their sharp nose and swift agility make them a formidable tracking partner capable of adapting to different landscapes.
Key Traits
Sleek, muscular build optimized for long-distance running
Short, smooth coat that’s easy to maintain and well-suited for warm climates
Highly vocal when on a trail, using a distinct bay to alert handlers
Exceptional scent-trailing skills with remarkable accuracy
Energetic and athletic, thriving on daily outdoor activity
Friendly and social nature, making them good with other dogs
Unique Traits
Treeing Walker Coonhounds are known for their ability to track a scent to its source and then “tree” their quarry—circling and baying until the handler arrives. According to Orvis, they excel in competitive coonhound events but also bring the same skill and focus to real-world tracking.
Their combination of endurance, precision, and unwavering drive ensures they remain one of the most capable scent hounds for active, experienced owners.
8. Airedale Terrier
Nicknamed the “King of Terriers,” the Airedale’s sharp instincts and bold nature make it well-suited for adventurous tracking in wild regions. Their determination and quick thinking allow them to stay on complex scent trails, even in unpredictable terrain.
As a terrier, they bring a mix of courage, energy, and problem-solving ability that can prove invaluable when navigating challenging environments where large predators may roam.
Key Traits
Strong, athletic build capable of both speed and endurance
Dense, wiry coat that offers protection from brush and rough terrain
Highly intelligent, often thinking ahead of their handlers
Alert and watchful, quick to respond to changing conditions
A confident demeanor that helps them work independently
Thrives with consistent training and clear leadership
Unique Traits
Airedale Terriers are versatile workers, originally bred to handle both land and water hunting tasks. They have a remarkable ability to adapt, whether pursuing quarry across fields or navigating streams and marshes.
Their playful nature at home contrasts with their focused drive in the field, making them a breed that can balance work and companionship seamlessly.
9. Dogo Argentino
Powerful and fearless, the Dogo Argentino was developed for big-game pursuits in rugged landscapes, making it capable of following scent trails left by large predators. Their unwavering focus and natural drive to protect both their handler and territory make them a formidable partner in the field.
Bred for endurance and precision, they thrive in challenging environments where skill, strength, and determination are essential.
Key Traits
Strong, muscular build designed for stamina and explosive bursts of speed
Short, smooth white coat that reflects heat in warm climates
Highly alert and responsive to changes in surroundings
Exceptional courage when facing large or aggressive game
Loyal and devoted to their human companions
Needs early and consistent training to channel their high drive
Unique Traits
The Dogo Argentino blends athleticism with a calm, stable temperament when properly trained. They are capable of working in various terrains, from dense brush to open fields, and can adapt quickly to changing scenarios in the hunt.
While they are affectionate and gentle at home with their family, their protective nature ensures they remain vigilant and ready for action when duty calls.
10. Bluetick Coonhound
The Bluetick Coonhound is a determined and skillful tracker, prized for its ability to stay on a scent trail for miles. In wild territory, they excel at following elusive prey through dense cover and uneven terrain, relying on sharp instincts and a steady pace to outlast their quarry.
With a bold spirit and natural endurance, they’re an asset to hunters and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a partner with both precision and grit.
Key Traits
Distinctive blue-mottled coat that stands out among other breeds
Deep, resonant voice used to signal progress on a track
Exceptional scenting ability capable of detecting even old trails
Confident in varied environments, from forests to open plains
A social nature that makes them comfortable in a pack setting
Requires ample daily exercise to stay mentally and physically satisfied
Unique Traits
Bluetick Coonhounds are known for their tenacity; once they’ve locked onto a trail, they rarely give up until it’s complete. Their striking coat pattern is more than just attractive—it’s a hallmark of their lineage and heritage.
Conclusion
Dogs capable of following lion trails in wild areas aren’t just born with that skill—they’re shaped by centuries of selective breeding and careful guidance. Whether working in vast savannas or rugged mountain passes, these breeds need proper care, safe shelter, and regular check-ups with a trusted veterinarian to stay healthy and ready for the field.
The right approach to training ensures they remain focused trackers while still knowing when to relax and play with their human companions. For owners who love the outdoors, taking them on a challenging hike is more than just exercise—it’s a way to honor their instincts while strengthening the bond between dog and handler.
