With their striking appearance, unwavering loyalty, and sharp intelligence, Dobermans have carved out a unique place in the hearts of dog lovers. Traditionally valued for their roles in guarding and protection, these dogs have been utilized as police and military working dogs. But can Dobermans be hunting dogs as well?
What To Look For In A Hunting Dog?
Hunting dogs have certain characteristics that make them perfect hunting companions. Naturally, since there are different types of hunts, some breeds will be more suited for a specific type of hunting activity.
Generally speaking, however, these are the qualities that good hunting dogs possess:
- Able To Withstand Harsh Conditions
Hunts are usually physically and mentally taxing. They require you to leave your comfort zone and face the elements. You and your dog will be exposed to less than favorable conditions. This is why hunting dogs must be strong and willing to endure no matter the circumstances.
- Heightened Tracking
Dogs have a good sense of smell and can track scents well. Some breeds, like the Beagle, have perfected the art of sensing and tracking down anything. Hunting involves finding and following the prey. This means that good hunting dogs must be masters of tracking and navigating.
- Physical Strength And Agility
Hunting dogs are required to follow the prey. This is why they must be in good physical shape. It depends on speed, stamina, and ability to move through obstacles.
Dogs with a muscular and resilient build move around much more swiftly and possess the athleticism needed for such a hectic activity. Hunting, after all, is not an easy activity.
- Intelligence and Problem Solving
Brute force and physicality are not the only requirements. Hunting dogs need to be intelligent enough to outwit their prey.
- Loyal
Above everything, your dog must be loyal. Hunting is a dangerous activity, and you need a dog willing to put its life on the line for you. Mutual trust is indispensable for hunting. [1]
Can Dobermans Be Hunting Dogs?
Yes, Dobermans can be trained and utilized as hunting dogs, although they are not as commonly associated with hunting as some other breeds like Labradors, Pointers, or Retrievers.
Now that you know what characteristics hunting dogs possess, it is possible to see how Jenna Marbles Kermit makes for a good hunting dog. It is an Italian Greyhound, and they are known for being great at tracking and hunting down prey.
Here are the reasons why Dobermans make for good hunting dogs:
- Physical Prowess
Dobermans are medium to large, reaching heights of 24 to 28 inches. They have a muscular build, a strong body, and quick on their feet. They are agile and can put up with harsh conditions. Dobermans do not fare well in cold weather. They have a low tolerance for cold, but aside from temperature, they do not have any other weakness as far as physicality is concerned.
- Resourceful And Smart
Intelligence is an indispensable part of being a hunting dog. Dobermans are intelligent and quite resourceful. They can retain information, listen, and act accordingly. They can change their behavior based on the situation. You will be surprised by your Doberman’s ability to understand.
- Loyal To The Core
A Doberman is nothing if not loyal. This is why they make excellent guard dogs. They are loyal, loving, and affectionate. Except your Doberman to go to the ends of the world for you. Dobermans do not have a good reputation as hunting dogs. This is because there are too many breeds that are perfect for hunting. They do not have the weakness intrinsic to Dobermans.
Hunting is innate to dogs, but some breeds are more capable and driven to hunt. The Doberman may not be physically inferior to most breeds of hunting digs, but it lacks the motivation to hunt and retrieve prey. They are also lacking in terms of endurance since dealing with the cold is not their strong suit.
It is a breed developed specifically to act as a guard dog. This is why when most people think of a Doberman, they do not envision a hunting dog. However, your Doberman can become a good hunting dog with the proper training. The potential is there.
- Training For The Hunt
Not every breed is equally good at everything. Some dogs are great companions, others work well as farm help or herding livestock. Dobermans are not hunting dogs in the traditional sense, but they can be trained to assume the role of one.
They are intelligent and have a significant capacity to learn. In addition to this, they adapt quickly to change. To make your Doberman a good hunting dog start with training them. Early training is best; even the most accomplished hunting dog breed requires training.
There is also a need to change our mindsets. Preconceived notions have meant that certain breeds of dogs have become associated with specific duties. We have relegated dogs based on their breeds to set roles.
This is helpful, but doing so to a large extent, has resulted in misconceptions. Ask most people, and you will discover that Dobermans cannot be good at hunting. Doing so wholly relieves the owner of any responsibility to train their dog to adopt behaviors that are not naturally occurring in them.
Training your dog to hunt is not easy, but it is not impossible. Some dog breeds are not suited to become hunting dogs, but Dobermans are not among them. [2]
Related: Doberman With Uncropped Ears
Conclusion
While Dobermans may not be the most common choice for hunting dogs, they can indeed be trained and utilized for hunting tasks. Their intelligence, agility, speed, scenting abilities, endurance, and versatility make them potential candidates for various hunting roles.
