20 Best Bear Hunting Dog Breeds That Are Sure to Impress (2023)

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Bear hunting is a dangerous and thrilling sport that requires a brave and skilled dog. While any dog has the potential to become a great bear hunting dog, there are certain breeds that are better suited for the task.

If you’re looking for a dog breed to hunt bears that is sure to impress, look no further than the 10 breeds listed below. From the ferocious and powerful to the loyal and obedient, these breeds are sure to make your bear hunting expedition a success.

So, without further ado, here are the 20 best bear hunting dog breeds.

How to Choose the Right Dog for Hunting Bears

Dogs have been hunting alongside humans for centuries and their natural instincts make them ideal candidates for bear hunting. While there are no specific breeds of dogs that are trained to hunt bears, any type of dog can be successful in this endeavor.

The most important trait for a bear hunting dog is a strong sense of smell. Bears are large animals and often travel in groups, so dogs need to be able to track them down. Additionally, dogs need to be brave and relentless in their pursuit of bears.

Size is also an important factor to consider when choosing a bear hunting dog. Smaller dogs may be able to find bears more easily, but they may not be able to take them down. Larger dogs may be more likely to succeed in a hunt, but they may have more difficulty tracking bears.

The best way to determine if a dog is suitable for bear hunting is to consult with a qualified trainer. Bear hunting is a dangerous activity and dogs need to be properly trained in order to be safe.

20 Best Bear Hunting Dog Breeds

There are a lot of different bear hunting dog breeds out there, each with their own unique set of skills and abilities. Choosing the right breed for your needs can be a daunting task, but we’re here to help.

Here are 20 of the best bear hunting dog breeds, listed in no particular order:

1. American Staffordshire Terrier

When it comes to bear hunting, there are a few different dog breeds that can do the job. One of these breeds is the American Staffordshire Terrier.

The American Staffordshire Terrier is a strong and muscular dog that is known for being brave and determined. This breed is also known for being very loyal to their owners.

American Staffordshire Terrier can be a great asset. This breed has the strength and determination to track down and take down a bear.

The American Staffordshire Terrier is also a very intelligent breed of dog. This means that they can be easily trained to hunt bears.

If you are looking for a dog breed that can help you with bear hunting, then the American Staffordshire Terrier may be the right choice for you.

2. Australian Cattle Dog

The Australian Cattle Dog is a breed of herding dog that was developed in Australia for the purpose of driving cattle. The breed is also known as the Blue Heeler, Red Heeler, or Queensland Heeler.

The Australian Cattle Dog is a medium-sized breed that typically weighs between 35 and 50 pounds. The breed is known for its short, dense coat, which can be either blue or red in color. The breed is also known for its high level of energy and its strong herding instinct.

The Australian Cattle Dog is an intelligent breed that is easy to train. The breed is also known for its loyalty and protective nature.

The Australian Cattle Dog is an active breed that needs plenty of exercises. The breed is not well suited for life in an apartment or other small living space.

The Australian Cattle Dog is a relatively healthy breed with a lifespan of 12 to 15 years. The most common health problems seen in the breed are hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia.

The Australian Cattle Dog is an excellent breed for bear hunting. The breed’s high level of energy and intelligence make it an ideal hunting companion. The breed’s strong herding instinct can also be beneficial when hunting bears.

3. Beagle

Beagle dogs make excellent bear hunting companions for a number of reasons.

First, their small size means they can maneuver easily through tight spaces and underbrush, making them ideal for tracking down a bear in its natural habitat.

Second, their keen sense of smell ensures that they can pick up the scent of a bear long before the bear hunters themselves are aware of its presence.

Finally, their cheerful disposition and friendly nature mean that they are typically not afraid of approaching a bear, even if it is twice their size. This makes them invaluable partners in bear hunts, as they can help to drive the bear towards the hunter’s waiting rifle.

4. Black and Tan Coonhound

The black and tan coonhound is a versatile hunting dog, used for both small and large games. They are most commonly used for bear hunting, as their size and strength make them well-suited for the task. They are also used for raccoon, deer, and hog hunting.

The black and tan coonhound is a large breed of dog, weighing in at 50-80 pounds. They are muscular and powerful, with large heads and long, thick tails. Their coat is black with tan markings on the face, chest, and legs.

The black and tan coonhound is an intelligent breed of dog and is easy to train. They are loyal and affectionate and make excellent family pets. However, they can be stubborn and independent, and may not be suitable for first-time dog owners.

The black and tan coonhound is a hunting dog, and as such, requires a lot of exercises. They need plenty of space to run and play, and should not be left alone for long periods of time. They are also vocal dogs and may bark excessively if not properly trained.

5. Blue Lacy

Bear hunting with dogs is a centuries-old practice that has been used to great effect in many parts of the world. The most common breed of dog used for bear hunting is the Blue Lacy. This breed is known for its loyalty, strength, and tenacity, which are all qualities that are essential for a successful bear hunt.

The Blue Lacy is a versatile breed that can be used for a variety of hunting scenarios. They are often used as trackers, as their sense of smell is second to none. They can also be used as catch dogs, as their strong jaws and powerful build make them more than capable of taking down a bear.

Whether you are looking to add a new hunting companion to your team or you are simply curious about this unique breed, there is no denying that the Blue Lacy is an excellent choice for bear hunting.

6. Blue Heeler

If you’re looking for a dog that can help you hunt bears, then the Blue Heeler is a great choice. This breed is known for its intelligence, athleticism, and tenacity, all of which are qualities that will come in handy when tracking and chasing down a bear.

Blue Heelers are also loyal and protective, so you can rest assured that your furry friend will have your back in the event of an encounter with a bear.

7. Boerboel

The Boerboel is a large, powerful dog breed originally developed in South Africa. Boerboels were bred to be working dogs, and they excel at many tasks including guarding herding, and hunting. Boerboels are intelligent and trainable, but they can also be willful and stubborn. This breed is not for everyone, but if you are looking for a big, loyal, and protective dog, the Boerboel may be a good fit for you.

The Boerboel is a large breed, and males can weigh up to 150 pounds. Boerboels are muscular and athletic, with short, thick coats. The most common coat color is brindle, but Boerboels can also be black, brown, or tan.

Boerboels were originally bred to be working dogs, and they still excel at many tasks today. Boerboels are intelligent and trainable, but they can also be willful and stubborn. This breed is not for everyone, but if you are looking for a big, loyal, and protective dog, the Boerboel may be a good fit for you.

8. Briard

The briard is a large, shaggy-coated herding dog, originally from France. The briard is an ancient breed, with references to it dating back to the 8th century. The briard was used for centuries as a working dog on French farms, herding sheep and cattle. The briard is also an excellent guard dog and was used by the French military during both World Wars.

The briard’s shaggy coat is thick and oily, which helps protect the dog from the elements and from predators. The coat is also waterproof, making the briard an excellent swimmer. The briard’s coat is typically black, but can also be gray, brindle, or chestnut.

The briard is a large dog, weighing anywhere from 60 to 100 pounds. The briard is athletic and strong, with a long head and muzzle. The briard’s ears are long and floppy, and the breed has a long, thick tail.

The briard is an intelligent breed and is easy to train. The briard is also known for being independent and stubborn and can be headstrong if not properly trained. The briard is an excellent watchdog and will bark to alert its owners of strangers or danger.

The briard is not a common breed in the United States but is gaining in popularity. The briard is an excellent family pet and is good with children. The briard is also a good choice for active families, as the breed needs plenty of exercises.

9. Bullmastiff

The bullmastiff is a large and powerful dog breed with a long history. The breed was originally developed in England in the 19th century to help gamekeepers protect game birds from poachers.

The bullmastiff is a cross between the English Mastiff and the now-extinct English Bulldog. The resulting breed was large and strong, with a short muzzle and a powerful build.

Today, the bullmastiff is still a popular breed for those looking for a loyal and protective companion. The breed is also known for its affectionate nature and its ability to bond closely with its family.

10. Cane Corso

The Cane Corso is a large, muscular dog breed that originates from Italy. The breed is known for its powerful build, working ability, and loyalty. The Cane Corso is an excellent choice for bear hunting, as they are incredibly brave and have the strength to take down even the largest of bears.

When hunting bears with a Cane Corso, it is important to be very careful and use caution. This is not a breed that will back down from a fight, so it is important to make sure that you are prepared before engaging in any bear hunting activities.

The Cane Corso is an excellent choice for bear hunting due to their loyalty, strength, and bravery. With the proper training and precautions, the Cane Corso can be a valuable asset on any bear hunting expedition.

11. Catahoula Leopard Dog

The Catahoula Leopard Dog is an American dog breed named after Catahoula Parish, Louisiana. The breed is sometimes referred to as the Catahoula Cur, Catahoula Hog Dog, or Catahoula Hog Dog. It is also sometimes misspelled as Catahoula Leopard.

The Catahoula Leopard Dog is a medium to a large-sized, short-coated dog with a distinct leopard-like spotted coat. They are muscular and have webbed feet, which make them excellent swimmers. They are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and hunting ability.

The Catahoula Leopard Dog is an excellent choice for bear hunting. They are brave dogs with a strong prey drive. They are also intelligent and trainable. Bear hunting with dogs is a controversial practice, but it is legal in some states.

Some people believe that bear hunting with dogs is inhumane because the dogs may be injured or killed by the bear. Others believe that it is a more humane way to hunt because the dogs can track the bear and Trees it for the hunter.

If you are considering bear hunting with dogs, be sure to do your research and make sure that it is legal in your state. You will also need to purchase a bear hunting license.

12. Chesapeake Bay Retriever

The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is an excellent breed of dog for bear hunting. They are intelligent, loyal, and have a strong desire to please their owners.

They are also good swimmers and have a thick coat of fur that protects them from the cold water.

13. Coonhound

The coonhound is a versatile hunting dog that can be used for bear hunting. While they are not as large as some bear hunting dogs, their size can be an advantage when hunting in tight spaces.

They are also known for their tenacity and determination, which can be helpful when tracking a bear.

14. Doberman Pinscher

The Doberman pinscher is a powerful and muscular dog breed that is known for its loyalty and obedience. These qualities make them an excellent choice for bear hunting, as they will follow commands and stay by their owner’s side during the hunt.

Additionally, Doberman pinschers are known for their courage, which is essential when hunting a large and dangerous animal like a bear.

15. English Mastiff

The English Mastiff is a large and powerful dog breed that is known for its courage and tenacity. This breed is often used for bear hunting, as they are able to track and take down large prey with ease.

The English Mastiff is a loyal and protective companion, making them an excellent choice for families or individuals looking for a guard dog.

16. German Shepherd

The German Shepherd is a versatile hunting dog, capable of tracking and bringing down large game such as bears. With its keen sense of smell and powerful build, the German Shepherd is an ideal hunting companion for those looking to take on a bear.

While bear hunting can be dangerous, the German Shepherd’s loyalty and courage make it an asset in any hunter’s pack.

17. Great Dane

The Great Dane is an impressive dog breed that is known for its large size and powerful build. This breed is a popular choice for bear hunting, as they are able to take down even the largest of prey with ease.

Great Danes are intelligent and determined dogs that will not give up easily when on the hunt. While they may seem like gentle giants, they are fierce and brave when it comes to protecting their pack.

If you are looking for a dog that can handle the challenge of bear hunting, then the Great Dane is a perfect choice.

18. Greyhound

In the early days of North America, before the arrival of Europeans, greyhounds were used by Native Americans to hunt bears. The dogs would chase the bear until it was exhausted, then the bear hunters would kill it with spears or arrows.

Today, greyhounds are still used for bear hunting in some parts of the world. In Alaska, for example, bear hunters use greyhounds to chase bears away from their bait stations. The dogs are not used to kill the bears, but to scare them off and protect the bait.

19. Irish Wolfhound

The Irish Wolfhound is a large breed of hound, once used for hunting wolves and other large game. They are tall, with a long head and neck, and a muscular body.

They have a shaggy coat which can be either gray, brindle, black, red, or white. They are gentle and loyal dogs, but they are also brave and determined. Wolfhounds are intelligent and trainable, but they can also be stubborn and independent. They need plenty of exercises, and they do best in a home with a large yard or acreage.

20. Rhodesian Ridgeback

Rhodesian ridgebacks are one of the best breeds of dogs for bear hunting. They are large and powerful dogs with strong hunting instincts.

They are also intelligent and trainable, which makes them ideal for working with hunters. Rhodesian ridgebacks have a short, dense coat that is perfect for protecting them from the elements and from the claws and teeth of bears.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)