Hunting serves as both a crucial activity in numerous regions and a favored hobby among many who love the great outdoors. Additionally, dogs have become synonymous with the hunting way of life, with countless breeds being selectively bred over the years to excel in hunting particular types of prey.
While the majority of hunters opt for the classic hunting breeds, there are others, more recreational hunters, curious about whether their non-conventional breed can excel in hunting.
The German Shepherd Hunting Dog, among the world’s most beloved dog breeds, emerges as a potential non-conventional breed that might adapt well to hunting. But is it feasible for German Shepherds to take on the role of hunting dogs?
German Shepherds exhibit many qualities akin to those of hunting dogs, such as their remarkable intelligence and ease of training. However, they are not the ideal hunting companions, as the skills required best hunting dogs for tracking and hunting prey are not instinctual to them, making the effort to train a German Shepherd for hunting often impractical.
This discussion will delve into the attributes that define an effective good hunting dog and examine the particular traits that might enable a German Shepherd to perform well in this role. It will also explore the characteristics of German Shepherds that could hinder their hunting performance, alongside potential training strategies canine sports and other activities that might be more appropriate for this breed.
Can German Shepherds Be Trained As Hunting Dogs?
Training a German Shepherd for hunting activities involves leveraging their remarkable sense of smell, which is significantly more powerful than that of humans—their olfactory capacity is nearly double that of humans, enabling them to detect scents up to 100,000 times more effectively.
Nevertheless, transforming them into proficient hunters requires effort, as their instincts do not naturally incline them towards hunting. Working-line German Shepherds, known for their eagerness to engage in tasks and mental stimulation, are particularly suited for such training.
Initiating training during their early years yields the most favorable outcomes. Start with foundational and basic obedience training and gradually introduce more complex commands and hunting techniques.
It’s essential with gun dogs to train them to signal to you upon discovering or tracking an animal, whether in open fields or forested areas. This can be achieved by mastering an enhanced version of the “speak” command, tailored to hunting scenarios.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Excellent at tracking | Tend to be mouthy |
| Highly trainable | Get hot and tire quickly |
| Very obedient | Bred to herd |
| Super Alert | Prone to hip dysplasia |
| Confident | Not the best retrievers |
3 Different Types Of German Shepherd Hunting Dog
Determining if a German Shepherd is suitable for hunting roles involves understanding the specific type of gun dog you need, as there are three primary categories, each with its unique specialization:
- Retrievers are skilled at fetching game from land or water after it has been shot. They are known for their soft mouth grip, ensuring the game is returned undamaged.
- Pointers excel in locating and indicating the position of game by pointing towards it. They freeze in a stance that directs the hunter to the game’s location, facilitating a successful hunt.
- Flushers (or spaniels) specialize in driving game out of hiding and into the open, making it easier for the hunter to take a shot. They work closely with the hunter, moving game towards them rather than retrieving or pointing.
Each of these gun dog types has distinct traits and training requirements that align with their hunting tasks. Understanding these distinctions is crucial in assessing whether a German Shepherd, with its specific skill set and characteristics, can adapt to and fulfill the requirements of the hunting role you envision.
What Skills Does a German Shepherd Need to Be a Hunting Dog?
In this thread on the forum by Trapshooters clarifies the physical, as well as character traits or temperaments self assured dogs must be able to provide them with the edge as a hunter.
Mouth
The forum thread you will see hunters mention the German Shepherd good has the characteristic of having a “soft mouth.” This signifies that the dog will be more likely to be gentle in bringing the prey (prey) towards you, rather than trying to bite the thing or consume it.
This can be beneficial especially when you hunt small, prey animals such as foxes or birds. It’s not necessary for prey that is predominantly big mammals, such as boar and deer.
Nose
A different characteristic among bird dogs from that among hunters is the ability of dogs to use their noses to locate and track predators.
According to hunters, generally speaking, they find that it is the German Shepherd doesn’t seem to intuitively make use of their sense of scent or tracking ability to detect the prey.
Instead, rather, the GSD is more likely to utilize the sense of sight (movement) and hearing.
While GSD is a dog that GSD is commonly used in detectors for explosives, detection of drugs as well as for forensic (cadaver) work, as well as various other kinds of nosework, when the field, it tends to employ other senses often.
Obedience
The German Shepherd has a very high score on the canine intelligence, which favors speedy learning as well as an extremely high level of obedience. This is according to an intelligence study of canines that was published in Science Daily.
But, the German Shepherd is also a breed of dog that comes from cattle guarding and herding dogs’ breeds and they tend to possess an “mind of their own,” like the Trapshooters hunters say.
The only way to know for sure whether your specific German Shepherd has what it is required to collaborate to hunt with you is to undergo the process of training and observe the results of your dog’s training.
Breed line
Like we said in this earlier article Hunters also recommend selecting your puppy’s breed with care.
A breed of working dog that descends from the first German Shepherds created by captain Max von Stephanitz (or German Shepherds bred to the breed standards) have a higher chance to have the qualities that the perfect good hunting dog should possess.
What Makes A German Shepherd A Good Hunting Dog?
German Shepherds do have the potential to be good hunting dogs, for some of the following reasons:
#1: They Are Intelligent
Intelligence is a key attribute for good hunting dogs, enabling them to solve problems and navigate through various terrains while pursuing their target. These dogs must be able to make rapid decisions in response to their prey’s movements.
While certain good hunting dog breeds may prioritize olfactory capabilities over cognitive skills—leading to situations where, for example, coonhounds might follow a scent with such single-mindedness that they disregard their safety—good hunting dogs, as a group, are generally recognized for their intelligence.
German Shepherds stand out for their exceptional intelligence among dog breeds, potentially surpassing other hunting breeds in terms of strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities, as well as in tracking the game. This intellectual capacity positions the German Shepherd as a potentially effective hunting companion. However, intelligence alone does not guarantee success in hunting.
The dog’s ability to apply their intelligence effectively in hunting scenarios, coupled with specific training tailored to enhance their natural skills and their instincts well, plays a crucial role in determining their effectiveness as a hunting dog.
#2: They Are Easy To Train
German Shepherds are renowned for their trainability, a characteristic that facilitates their adaptation to various roles, including that of a hunting dog. Although training them for hunting might require more time due to their non-instinctual predisposition towards such activities, their capacity to understand and adapt to training processes is a significant advantage.
In contrast, while many traditional hunting breeds possess the intelligence necessary for complex tasks, they may exhibit a degree of stubbornness that complicates training efforts. This can be particularly challenging when dealing with breeds that have a strong prey drive or high energy levels, traits common among hunting dogs.
Opting for a German Shepherd as a hunting companion could therefore be beneficial for those seeking a dog that combines high intelligence with ease of training. Despite the potentially extended training period needed to hone their hunting skills, their ability to learn and adapt makes them viable candidates for this role, especially for hunters willing to invest the time in training a non-traditional breed.
#3: They Are Confident
The success of a hunting dog in tracking game, especially in challenging environments like rugged mountainous areas or bodies of water, hinges significantly on its bravery and confidence. These traits are essential for navigating difficult terrains swiftly and safely. A moment’s hesitation could mean the difference between success in tracking deer, and failure in maintaining the trail of their target.
German Shepherds are widely recognized for their confidence and boldness, qualities that contribute to their effectiveness in roles such as police work. Their inherent courage suggests that they would likely pursue prey with determination and without hesitation.
Their intelligence complements their confident nature, enabling German Shepherds to quickly assess and address obstacles or challenges encountered during the hunt. This combination of quick thinking and confidence is invaluable in hunting scenarios, where adaptability and decisiveness can greatly influence the outcome.
Moreover, the imposing presence of a German Shepherd—characterized by their sizable stature and formidable bark—can serve as a deterrent to potential predators in the wild, providing an added layer of security during hunting expeditions. Their capability to defend themselves and their handlers, if necessary, further underscores their suitability for the demands of hunting, making them a compelling choice for hunters seeking a dog that is both intelligent and assertively confident.
#4: They Are Athletic
A critical attribute of an effective hunting dog is its physical athleticism and stamina, qualities that enable it to sustain prolonged periods of activity across diverse and challenging terrains. The German Shepherd, known for its larger size, exemplifies these traits, showcasing remarkable athletic capabilities. This breed’s versatility and physical prowess are precisely why it is frequently employed by military units, police forces, search and rescue teams, and is a common participant in various dog sports.
The inherent strength, agility, and endurance of German Shepherds make them well-suited to the demands of hunting, particularly in environments that test their physical limits. With appropriate training and conditioning, these dogs are capable of navigating harsh landscapes, enduring adverse weather conditions, and maintaining high levels of activity without significant fatigue.
This capacity for endurance, combined with their intelligence, confidence, and trainability, positions the German Shepherd as a potentially formidable hunting companion. While they may not be traditional hunting dogs, their attributes suggest that, with the right preparation, they can perform admirably in this role, matching or even surpassing the endurance levels of breeds traditionally associated with hunting activities.
What Are German Shepherds Lacking When It Comes To Hunting?
Although the German Shepherd has some great traits that make them more likely to be successful as a hunting dog, they possess some characteristics that can cause problems during hunting and training.
#1: They Don’t Like Being Away From Their Owners
One of the less than stellar stereotypes about German Shepherds is the fact that they are prone to be to anxiety over separation. Shepherds, even though they are to be with the majority of humans when socialized well, tend to bond closer to one particular person.
As hunters, they need a dog that is loyal but one who can perform the job with little input or assistance from their owners. Since a German Shepherd is not traditionally developed to hunt, they’ll need an extensive amount of guidance by their handler to be able to see deer scent and complete the task properly.
They may have problems getting separated from blood trail of their owners when hunting when they are tracking further from where the owner is at the moment. Although some German Shepherds can contact their owners and immediately follow the trail of scent (such as is typically used in rescue and search actions) however for many, the continuous movement of the game can lead to more chance of missing the trail if the dog is required to come back and check in with their handler.
#2: Their Prey Drive Is Not As High As Most Hunting Breeds
Although German Shepherds may possess a strong prey drive, however, the drive isn’t nearly to the level of dogs specifically bred to hunt.
Hunting breeds (especially ones bred specifically for certain species of fowl and game) are prone to show attraction when confronted with the scent, or even the visual position of their quarry. It may cause issues with the public!
While German Shepherds may be trained to detect certain scents it’s not likely that they’ll show the same enthusiasm for those scents despite constant training and rewards when they find an object near the end of the trail.
#3: Their Coat Can Cause Issues In Certain Environments
German Shepherds are bred with three coat styles: a Stock (smooth) coat as well as a plush coat and a long coat. If those wearing stock coats are typically hunting breed for different kinds, Shepherds with plush coats or coats with long lengths can be unable to hunt on certain terrains or in particular weather conditions.
Their coats may not be ideal for environments that have a high level of moisture and humid environments or in hot environments they could get extremely hot and sweaty.The majority of hunting breeds are traditional and have short wirehair coats, and many breeds have special coats and physical characteristics designed to hunt particular species in certain conditions.
The German Shepherd is also well-known for their heavy sheds and need greater care than typical hunting breed of dog.
#4: They Can Bite Too Hard
A variety of hunting dog breed, including that of Labrador Retriever and Golden Retriever also have what’s known as “soft mouths”. Although some of it is acquired during their critical time of socialization as pups Many of them possess a softer, more rounded mouth in comparison to other breeds.
They can carry rabbits, waterfowl or any other game, without harming the track’s small animals. Their mouths can be so soft that they can carry chicken eggs about without breaking their shells!
However, German Shepherds aren’t well-known for their gentle mouth. A lot of German Shepherd puppies are notorious for their mouths that are very gushy (and not in a pleasant manner! ).
Although the ability to control bite and softness is a result of learning and socialization it’s not easy (if but not unattainable) the German Shepherd dogs to possess the same tenderness and softness that hunting breeds of the past could have. They’ll probably possess a more swollen bite and grip that can be detrimental to the hunting prey.
Can You Train A German Shepherd To Duck Hunt?
There is a way to teach the German Shepherd to duck hunt but it’s not easy and even the most experienced GSD breeders will advise that you should select the right dog breed to do the job.
But, if you’re planning in taking the plunge early age, to go against your instinct to herd ensure that you begin when you are still young, to help make them familiar with what you’ll focus on as they get older.
Tips For Training:
- Take them on cruises that start at an young stage of their lives Get the German Shepherd used to being on a boat and in the waters. Learn to teach him or her how to leap into the water and return to the boat upon command. Use an object or ball to get them comfortable with getting back into the waters.
- Introduce them to firearms as early as possible – This is an infrequent procedure. Begin by getting them exposed to high-pitched sounds as they grow older. Make sure they are comfortable having guns around and seeing them. As they grow comfortable with guns, the more comfortable you are to allow them to hear and see the guns. Then you’ll be able to have them around while firing the firearms.
- Make sure they are familiar with the water as early when they are puppies – You’d like your German Shepherd puppy to feel comfortable around aquatic ducks, and so you must begin to introduce them to water at the age of a child. Start with a track small animals pool for children at the backyard and progress to smaller ponds and lakes.
- Train them in the basics of obedience starting at a young stage – Ensure they understand the basics of commands, perhaps some more advanced commands that will prepare them for outdoor activities. You should have them in a position to sit, stand on their feet, remain, and heel, as well as communicate.
- Utilize scented start training ducks You can make use of an imitation decoy duck that has been sprayed with the scent that resembles the real one. Train them to accept the smell and appearance. Learn to help them retrieve fowl the lure and be sure to reward them for well-done work.
How To Train Your German Shepherd To Track Deer?
Many times, hunters shoot deer scent, but wound it only. In the end, the animal will usually disappear to the forest and could be difficult to locate.
A well-trained hunting dog can follow the blood or scent trail to track the wounded deer to their owner. The German Shepherd may provide a tremendous benefit when it comes to the deer hide this situation, aiding in the search for the wounded deer animal.
There are a variety of methods to teach your GSD to track deer hide. One of the most well-known techniques is teaching your dog to look for scent trails within the woods and deer trails.
Tips For Training:
- Design the scent trail you want the GSD to track Find an open space or a few woodlands near your home. Utilizing a bag full of lean dog food, you can create the scent trail you and dogs can follow. Then, you can crush them by using your shoes, and take a walk along the trail.
- Your dog should track the trail and then continue to follow it You can take your GSD closer to the trail and allow him or her to find the scent. Let them walk around along the trail and look for the scent. Reward them for following the scent.
- Add deer smell into the mix. Add an item to drag Then do the same process, however this time you add the scent of deer. Additionally, add a hide for deer towards the end on the path. Encourage your dog to follow the scent on the path. If your dog isn’t thrilled by the scent, keep using an assortment of both dog scents as well as treats.
- Rewards with rewards and praise for following Once your dog can use their nose to detect the scent and trace the scent up to which is where the hide of deer situated, you can reward them with the praise of a dog and reward.
- Teach your GSD to provide you with verbal signals when it discovers the drag object Learn that your pet to bark if it tracks the scent all distance to the object. This can be done by using their “speak” command when they reach the finish line and they find the deer’s hide. Gradually, start to remove your “speak” command until they will bark and signal independently. You can reward them with praise or an indulgence.
Conclusion
Although they aren’t typically hunting dogs They do make great hunting dogs have characteristics that make them an excellent hunter. Through hard work, they will develop into good retrieving and tracking canines. We hope you enjoy this article.Wolf size vs German Shepherd.German Shepherds in the hunt: advantages and drawbacks to understand.
