Hunting wild boars is a strenuous undertaking. A thick bush, hard ground, sudden movements, and a strong animal can make a hunt dangerous in a flash.
For generations, hunters have relied on dogs with the stamina and scenting ability to follow game through challenging terrain.
Hunting dogs aren’t alike. There are breeds that are particularly good at following an animal’s scent and trail in the thick undergrowth to locate a boar. Others are used as catch-dogs in proximity to the animals under their owners’ control.
If you’re researching dog breeds that go hand-in-hand with a wild boar hunt, then here are 10 dog breeds you should take a look at.
Top Dog Breeds to Lead the Change in Wild Boar Hunting
1. Dogo Argentino
There are few breeds as closely related to big-game hunting as the Dogo Argentino. These muscular, athletic dogs were created in Argentina in the 1920’s to hunt large and possibly dangerous animals, such as the Wild Boar. They were prized for their stamina, scenting ability, and determination.
They have a powerful frame and strong jaws. To be efficient hunters, they require athletic conditioning, good temperament, and handler association. The breed’s short white coat makes it easy to identify as well.
Dogos are smart and loving dogs, but may be too intense for novices. Early socialization, training, and good control over them are crucial due to their high prey drive, according to the American Kennel Club. Owners should also be aware that these dogs can run into health problems due to the nature of their work.
2. American Bulldog
The American Bulldog is a strong, athletic, and determined dog with a long working farm history. It was used traditionally for capturing hogs and cattle, and as such is a natural choice for a breed utilized for hog hunting.
American Bulldogs are physically capable, confident, and able to work closely with their handlers. Their strength and agility are beneficial for working in harsh environments.
American Bulldogs are known to be loyal and lively. They require exercise, socialization, and structure. They are strong dogs, so obedience is particularly important.
Reliable obedience is essential because a powerful dog that ignores its handler’s commands can create safety risks for itself and others, according to Purina.
3. Catahoula Leopard Dog
The Catahoula Leopard Dog has unique abilities in the field. The dog was developed in Louisiana; it has a very unique coat pattern, an alert expression, and is very versatile. Catahoula has traditionally been used for farm labour and as a hunting dog in parts of the US.
Their charisma is based on their athleticism, independence, and work drive. These dogs might be required to move across rough terrain, navigate through heavy bushes, and adapt to various hostile environments. They are smart, but will require a bit of guidance from their handlers.
They have short coats that generally need little grooming. They are also best suited for experienced handlers who have owned and trained big hunting dogs. Their energy and instincts can become challenging if they’re not properly guided.
4. Plott Hound
For hunters looking for a determined scent hound, the Plott Hound is worth considering. From the 18th century, these dogs were bred from German hunting breeds. Their ancestors hunted wild boars, bears, and other large game.
Their best asset in hunting is their nose. They are determined to get to their target if they scent it, as noted by WebMD. They are durable and have the ability to continue working even when they get exhausted, which is especially beneficial for hunters who prefer to use a dog with the ability to find and chase the game.
Plotts have also got unique calls. They bay as they go, and this can be useful for the handler to follow. These energetic dogs should be kept settled with regular exercise and mental stimulation. They have a short coat that is relatively easy to take care of and requires occasional brushing and routine care.
5. Black Mouth Cur
The Black Mouth Cur is a versatile American working dog used for hunting, livestock work, and other farm tasks. Its specific strengths can vary depending on its working line and training.
This versatility makes the breed a pleasure to hunt with because they are a hardworking, active breed. Curs are generally energetic and clever and have the endurance to perform in the field for long periods.
They may be able to learn routines with the help of their intelligence, but they must also be consistently trained and communicated with.
Temperament and working style may differ from one line to another, and it is worthwhile getting to know the past of the dog. Early socialization also helps avoid undesirable chasing or rough handling of unfamiliar animals.
6. Mountain Cur
The Mountain Cur was bred in America as a hard-working farm dog and hunter in the rural areas. It’s tough, aggressive, and has traditionally been used to help hunters hunt on wooded hills and harsh terrain.
Tracking game is typical of Mountain Curs, although it varies according to the qualities of each dog. Their use of scenting, athleticism, and persistence is beneficial in a hog hunting situation.
These dogs are more likely to be happy with an active owner who can offer them structured work and exercise. They tend to be self-reliant in the field, which can be a good thing. Typically, they need some light grooming. They have, on the contrary, a need for constant physical and mental activity.
7. Cane Corso
The Cane Corso is an Italian working breed that has been used to protect property, work on farms and to hunt. Historically, the Cane Corso served as a versatile farm dog, and some accounts associate the breed with wild boar hunting.
For experienced handlers, the Cane Corso’s strength and confidence may be appealing. However, this is a big dog that needs careful handling and training. They are huge, and thus, if not controlled, can cause harm to their families and themselves as well.
Early socialization is very important for these dogs. Their short coat requires regular brushing and is easy to care for.
They also need a job to keep them content and mentally stimulated; otherwise, they can resort to undesirable behaviours.
8. Alano Español
The Alano Español is a historic Spanish working breed associated with big-game hunting, cattle work, and property guarding. They are a muscular and working dog perfectly capable of being alert watchdogs.
Their muscular build and working background made them suitable for demanding hunting and livestock tasks. Their muscle and determination enabled them to work hard, and their athletic body helped them move over difficult terrain.
These hog hunting dogs must be properly trained and should have a defined working partnership with their handler. Due to their size and strength, calming these dogs is particularly vital around individuals and animals.
Their short coat requires only basic grooming and brushing in general. Owners should not neglect to ensure proper exercise; otherwise, these dogs can become destructive.
9. American Pit Bull Terrier
The American Pit Bull Terrier originated in the British Isles from the Bulldog breed. It is known as one of the most versatile and athletic breeds. It is more than capable of hunting hogs and wild pigs.
The American Pit Bull Terrier is a muscular, athletic, medium-sized dog whose working abilities depend on its temperament, conditioning, and training. However, its physical hold is just one of its characteristics.
It is very important for a hog hunter to know how to train and manage this bay dog. It is advised to always wear a protective vest while providing such a dog with obedience training and stocking first aid supplies during a hunt as well.
These powerful dogs are generally safe around children and other breeds with consistent training and early socialization. They make good family pets and amazing hunting partners if you are someone who loves to track down wild boars.
10. Boerboel
The Boerboel is a strong South African breed that was historically bred to protect and guard the farm. It can be a formidable working dog that can follow a scent trail and do the job safely.
A seasoned hunter will enjoy the company of this dog. A Boerboel’s guardian background is a valid guarantee that it is appropriate for use as a hunting dog. However, it will only stay in control as long as it is given proper training.
This dog can become very stubborn and territorial, which is why training should start at a very early age. GPS collars can help in tracking the location of this breed if it runs away in thick brush or dense cover while tracking down a large animal like feral hogs.
This is usually the right breed to keep as a pet as well because it is protective and friendly. It has a short coat which is pretty easy to maintain, but routine veterinary checkups are necessary nonetheless.
Conclusion
It takes a strong nose, a courageous heart, and remarkable stamina to hunt hogs. It requires instinct, endurance, and a willingness to work under a handler’s direction.
Breeds vary in their natural inclination towards running a trail, and some are known for their close association with working with large game. Knowing about these differences can assist you in choosing a breed that fits the hunting method and skill level you have.
A good hunting dog is not the one that runs around like a crazy animal. It is the one that can mould itself to different hunting situations and stand by its owner’s side no matter how dangerous the animal in front of it is.
