How Do I Use Pitbull Terriers as Hunting Dogs?

American pit bull terriers are considered great hunting dogs because of their strong prey drive. According to The Real Pit Bull, "Small animals such as birds, squirrels and cats are often viewed as hunting targets (this is the terrier blood in them)." As a result of the pit bull hunting temperament, many people choose to use their pit bulls as hunting dogs.

Things You'll Need

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Instructions

    • 1

      Use your dog to track. According to Trained Paws, a good hunting dog will need to excel in tracking and ignore any scents that do not belong to the hunted animal. They also need to continue tracking when they can no longer smell the scent. In addition to scents of other animals and people, Trained Paws notes, additional setbacks for the dog may include streams, rivers and brooks. Dog Breed Info notes that pit bulls are highly intelligent and can easily be trained.

    • 2

      Use your pit bull to your advantage. According to Trained Paws, "The best hunting dogs are able to locate and track animals in very tight spaces." This is a benefit to the hunter because he may not be able to hunt the animal in a tight space. Trained Paws also notes that you can use your pit bull to point and retrieve. Your dog will need to be able to spot the area the prey ran to and bring the animal's body to you. A hunting dog needs to be able to move fast in order to catch its prey. However, this comes easily to a pit bull because, according to Dog Breed Info, they are active and energetic dogs.

    • 3

      Use your pit bull to hunt over long days, no matter what the weather holds. Build up their endurance. Trained Paws notes that a hunting dog needs to be accustomed to long days and a mixture of weather conditions such as heat, cold, rain, snow and sleet. A pit bull that is unfamiliar with this type of weather will not perform well as a hunting dog. According to Dog Breed Info, pit bulls are eager to please their master and can easily be taught to withstand bad weather and long days.

    • 4

      Use your pit bull to hunt more animals. Pit bulls may try to hunt large animals as well as small ones because of their strong prey drive. The Real Pit Bull notes, "Pit Bulls are bred down from dogs that were used to bait large animals such as bulls and bears--Pit Bulls can therefore show a strong desire to chase/hold down horses and other farmyard animals."

    • 5

      Use your pit bull to keep you company while hunting. While there are many advantages to catching animals by bringing along a hunting dog, it's also nice to have company during down time. The Hunting Dog recommends to go for a swim or play a game of fetch with your dog. According to Dog Breed Info, a pit bull is an extremely loyal and affectionate dog. As a result, they are great dogs to keep you company on long days.