Where To Start

New to dog hunting? Start here. These steps follow the order a hunt comes together.

Match the dog to the hunt: pointers and spaniels for upland birds, retrievers for waterfowl, beagles for rabbits and hounds for raccoons and bears
Match the dog to the hunt
  1. Learn the game. See Hunting Dog Types.
  2. Learn the season and rules. See Hunt Tests and Dog Rules.
  3. Pick a place. See Where to Hunt with Dogs.
  4. Pick a method. See Training a Hunting Dog.
  5. Build the kit. See the Hunting Dog Gear Guide.
  6. Match the dog to the game. Pointers and spaniels for upland birds, retrievers for waterfowl, hounds for rabbits and raccoons.

Keep learning

Regulations change every year. Hunt With Dogs.com is written by hunters, not lawyers, so always check the current rules with the state wildlife agency.