Coyotes are some of the most dreaded and despised predators from the wild. They are highly intelligent and incredibly crafty, which makes them difficult to track down. They are vicious animals, and although they rarely attack humans, they wreak havoc among livestock, cattle and even small domestic pets.
Coyote hunting is legal in most states in the US and is a popular and even necessary activity. Coyotes are one of the only wild animals whose numbers increase in time along with human civilization. Coyote hunting dogs are useful to have with you while hunting down these wily creatures. Here is a list of the five best coyote hunting dogs with a proven track record:
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Top 5 Coyote Hunting Dogs
1. American Staghound
This animal has been developed by cross-breeding Scottish deerhound, greyhound, and some other breeds. The American Staghound is well-known for its sharp eyesight and seemingly endless stamina.
These dogs are especially suitable for coyote hunting because they have been exclusively developed for the purpose of hunting predators, specifically coyote and wolves. So in this breed, you have kind of ‘made to order' hunting dog.
These dogs are runners – one look at their powerful body and long legs will tell you that. These features comprise of the greyhound part in them and are what make them so suitable for tracking down fast runners like coyotes.
The American Staghound is also a good house dog, but because of its predator hunting instinct, you should not trust it with non-canine pets. Otherwise, this dog is easy to maintain at home and is good with children. Extremely loyal and quick learners, you will be able to get the best out of this animal with the right kind of training. However, these dogs are not very suitable as guard dogs.
2. Plott Hound
The PlottHound is lean and muscular with large floppy ears rather like those of a Labrador or Dalmatian. Courage and loyalty go hand in hand with this breed.
This kind is particularly well-known for its hunting skill in big animals like boar and coyotes. In fact, the dog is named after Johannes Plott along with his brother who introduced them to the US in 1750 for the purpose of boar hunting.
Today the Plott Hound is predominantly found in the state of North Carolina and is the official State Dog of that state.
3. Greyhound
Originally, the Greyhound comes from Egypt but has been popularized the world over as a racing and running dog. Lean, hardy and built for speed with eagle-eye eyesight; these dogs are ideal for coyote hunting. Greyhounds are the fastest dogs in the world with a maximum recorded speed of 43 mph, guaranteeing that they could easily outrun the fastest coyote.
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Here’s a greyhound racing video that gives you an idea of the sheer power, speed, and stamina of these magnificent animals. The Greyhound is a temperamental breed but docile and extremely gentle as a house dog.
Due to its timid nature, this dog can best be used as a chaser to catch the prey in combination with another more aggressive breed to make the actual killing.
These dogs also need access to a fenced area where they can get a good run on a regular basis, fenced because they are independent and have the tendency to wander off and not come back.
Greyhounds are ideal for hunting coyotes as they have the innate hunting instinct to chase and seize fleeing creatures.
4. Mountain View Cur
This breed was developed in 1987 in New York. The dominant gene of the Mountain View Cur is of the Mountain Cur, although they differ widely from the original mountain breed.
Due to their crossbreeding, they are hardy, without any inherent genetic problems that are common to most pedigrees. This fact also explains their rather long average lifespan of 14 years.
Mountain View Curs are also brilliant with a high level of self-control, making them ideal for training for hunting purposes and although they are well-suited to hunt coyote, they can also kill other animals like raccoons, pheasant, wild boar, and bobcat.
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Although this dog is in its element while out in the open on a hunt, it is equally comfortable at home with the occupants toward whom it is protective, making it a good house pet as well. Mountain View Curs are safe to have among children.
5. Black Mouth Cur
This breed is also an original all-American one. Although they are used extensively for raccoon hunting, the Black Mouth Cur is also deal for ‘treeing’ coyotes.
The dog gets its name from its characteristically black muzzle. It is muscular and sturdy and here again, crossbreeding has resulted in a healthy animal with minimal health issues.
These dogs have high stamina levels, so they need to be outdoors most of the time, rather than being cooped up in a house. The Black Mouth Cur is an intelligent breed, so is easy to train.
People who hunt with these dogs will swear by them and will not want to settle for any other. These dogs are popular due to their calm temperament, coupled with intelligence and extreme loyalty to the trainer or owner. The life expectancy of these dogs is 12 to 18 years.
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How to train your coyote hunting dog
The coyote is a wily and elusive prey, which makes them a challenging, but rewarding, target for hunters. If you're looking to add a little excitement to your hunting trips, training your dog to hunt coyotes is a great way to do it. Here are some tips on how to train your coyote hunting dog.
1. Start with basic obedience training: This is important for all hunting dogs, but it's especially important for dogs that will be hunting in groups. You need to be able to trust that your dog will obey your commands even when they're excited or distracted.
2. Socialize your dog with other dogs and people: A well-socialized dog is less likely to get into fights with other dogs or become scared and defensive when meeting new people.
3. Get your dog used to gunshots: Dogs that are going to be hunting should be able to handle the sound of gunshots without being scared or running off. The best way to do this is to start with small caliber guns and work your way up.
4. Teach your dog basic tracking commands: Hunting dogs need to be able to track a scent, so it's important to teach them basic tracking commands. This will come in handy when you're trying to find a lost coyote or following a trail.
5. Train your dog to use their nose: A good hunting dog needs to be able to follow a scent, so it's important to train them to use their nose. This can be done by hiding treats around the house or yard and having them find them.
6. Get your dog in shape: Hunting dogs need to be in good physical condition to be able to keep up with the hunt. This means getting them plenty of exercise and making sure they're eating a healthy diet.
7. Take your dog hunting: The best way to train a coyote hunting dog is to take them out on actual hunts. This will give them the opportunity to put all of their training into practice and learn from experience.
Following these tips will help you get started on training your coyote hunting dog. Remember, it takes time, patience, and dedication to properly train a hunting
Tips on using your coyote hunting dog to its full potential
1. Choose the right breed of dog: Not all dogs are created equal when it comes to hunting. Some breeds are better suited for the task than others. Breeds that have a strong prey drive and are good at following scents tend to make the best coyote hunting dogs.
2. Start training early: The sooner you start training your dog, the better. This will give them more time to learn and master the skills they need to be successful.
3. Be consistent with your commands: Dogs are creatures of habit, so it's important to be consistent with your commands. This means using the same words and hand signals every time you give a command.
4. Give rewards: Positive reinforcement is a key part of dog training. Be sure to give your dog plenty of praise and rewards when they do something right.
5. Don't forget the basics: even though you're training your dog to hunt coyotes, it's important to still work on the basics like obedience and tracking. These skills will come in handy in a variety of situations.
By following these tips, you can be sure that you're using your coyote hunting dog to its full potential. With a little time and patience, you can train your dog to be a successful hunter.
Benefits of using a coyote hunting dog
1. Increased success rate: A good coyote hunting dog can help increase your success rate when hunting. They can track down a scent, find lost coyotes, and flush them out of hiding.
2. More fun: Hunting with a dog can be more fun than hunting alone. It's a great way to bond with your dog and enjoy the outdoors together.
3. Added excitement: Dogs add an element of excitement to the hunt. There's nothing like watching your dog take off after a coyote.
4. Greater chance of success: If you're having trouble finding coyotes on your own, using a dog can give you the extra edge you need to be successful.
5. More fun for the whole family: If you have kids, they'll love getting to go hunting with the family dog. It's a great way to spend time together in the outdoors.
There are many benefits to using a coyote hunting dog. They can help increase your success rate, make the hunt more fun, and add excitement to the experience. If you're thinking about using a dog for hunting, be sure to consider all of the benefits before making your decision.
FAQ
What is the best dog for hunting coyotes?
There is no one "best" dog for hunting coyotes. Different breeds of dogs have different strengths and weaknesses when it comes to hunting. Some breeds are better at tracking, while others are better at flushing out game. It's important to choose a breed that best suits your needs and hunting style.
How do I train my dog to hunt coyotes?
The best way to train a coyote hunting dog is to take them out on actual hunts. This will give them the opportunity to put all of their training into practice and learn from experience. You can also hide treats around the house or yard to help them use their nose, or work on obedience and tracking exercises.
Will a coyote fight a dog?
It's possible that a coyote may attack a dog if it feels threatened. However, coyotes are typically afraid of dogs and will avoid them if possible. If you're concerned about your dog being attacked by a coyote, be sure to keep them on a leash and under close supervision.
How can I make my coyote hunting more successful?
There are a number of things you can do to increase your success rate when hunting coyotes. First, be sure to use a good quality dog that is suited for the task. Second, start training early and be consistent with your commands. Third, give rewards for good behavior. Finally, don't forget the basics like obedience and tracking. By following these tips, you can improve your chances of success when hunting coyotes.
What dogs can scare away coyotes?
Almost any type of dog can scare away coyotes. Coyotes are typically afraid of dogs and will avoid them if possible. However, some dogs may be more effective at deterring coyotes than others. Breeds that are known for being aggressive, such as pit bulls and Rottweilers, are usually the most successful at keeping coyotes away.
My dog won't stop barking at the coyote. What should I do?
If your dog is barking excessively at a coyote, it's important to remain calm and not get excited. Excitement will only encourage your dog to continue barking. Instead, try to distract them with a treat or toy. If this doesn't work, you may need to move to a different location.
Will a German shepherd keep coyotes away?
Yes, German shepherds are often used as guard dogs and are very effective at deterring coyotes. They are a large breed of dog with a strong bark, which can be intimidating to coyotes. German shepherds are also known for being loyal and protective, making them ideal for guarding against predators.
How do I keep my dog safe from coyotes?
The best way to keep your dog safe from coyotes is to take precautions when hunting. Be sure to use a good quality dog that is well-trained and supervised at all times. Keep your dog on a leash when hunting in areas where coyotes are known to live. Finally, be sure to carry a gun or other weapon in case you need to defend yourself or your dog.
What is the best time of day to hunt coyotes?
The best time of day to hunt coyotes is early in the morning or late at night. Coyotes are most active during these times, making them easier to find and track. However, hunting during the day can also be successful if you know where to look and how to call them.
What is the best way to call a coyote?
There are a number of different ways to call a coyote. The most common method is using an electronic caller, which can imitate the sounds of prey animals. You can also use decoys, such as stuffed animals or life-like replicas, to attract coyotes. Another option is to use predator calls, which imitate the sounds of other predators.
What is the best way to kill a coyote?
The best way to kill a coyote is with a high-powered rifle. Coyotes are typically killed with .22 caliber or larger rifles. However, shotguns can also be effective if you're using the right ammunition. Slugs and buckshot are usually the best choices for shotgun hunting.
How do I clean a coyote?
Coyotes can be cleaned using a number of different methods. The most common method is to skin the animal and remove the meat from the carcass. This can be done with a knife or by boiling the carcass in water. Another option is to quarter the coyote and remove the meat that way. Finally, you can also simply bury the carcass to decompose.
What should I do if I see a coyote?
If you see a coyote, it's important to stay calm and not get excited. Excitement will only encourage the coyote to approach you. Instead, try to scare the animal away by making loud noises or throwing objects at it. If this doesn't work, you may need to call animal control for assistance
What size dogs are safe from coyotes?
There is no definitive answer to this question as coyotes will avoid any type of dog if they can. However, smaller dogs are more susceptible to being attacked by coyotes than larger breeds. It's important to take precautions when hunting with small dogs and be sure to supervise them at all times.
Do coyotes eat cats?
Yes, coyotes will eat cats if they are available. Cats are typically smaller than the average prey animal and therefore easier for a coyote to kill. Coyotes also typically prefer to hunt alone, making cats an easy target. If you have a cat, it's important to keep it indoors or supervised at all times to prevent it from becoming prey.
What should I do if I find a dead coyote?
If you find a dead coyote, it's important to contact the nearest game warden or wildlife biologist. They will be able to determine the cause of death and whether or not the animal poses a threat to humans or other animals. It's also important to dispose of the carcass properly to prevent the spread of disease.
Are coyotes playful with dogs?
No, coyotes are not typically playful with dogs. In fact, they usually view dogs as a threat and will avoid them if possible. If a coyote does approach a dog, it's usually to either kill or mate with it. Coyotes are not known to be particularly friendly animals.
What should I do if I find a coyote den?
If you find a coyote den, it's important to contact the nearest game warden or wildlife biologist. They will be able to determine if the den poses a threat to humans or other animals. It's also important to stay away from the den to avoid being attacked by the coyotes.
What is the calmest hunting dog?
There is no definitive answer to this question as all dogs have different personalities. However, some of the calmest hunting dog breeds include the Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, and Chesapeake Bay Retriever. These breeds are typically very trainable and make great hunting companions.
How many coyotes can a single pack take down?
Coyote packs typically consist of 3-5 animals, but they can sometimes be larger. A single pack can take down a variety of prey, including deer, elk, and even bison. In general, the larger the prey, the more coyotes will be needed to take it down.
Do baby coyotes stay with their parents?
Yes, baby coyotes typically stay with their parents for around 6-8 months. During this time, they learn how to hunt and survive in the wild. Once they are old enough to fend for themselves, they will leave their parents and start their own packs.
Do coyotes travel in packs?
Yes, coyotes typically travel in packs of 3-5 animals. However, pack sizes can vary depending on the size of the prey and the area where they live. In general, coyotes living in areas with large prey will form larger packs than those living in areas with smaller prey.
What is the best bait for coyote hunting?
The best bait for coyote hunting depends on what you're trying to catch them with. For traps, it's important to use bait that is high in protein, such as chicken or fish. For dogs, the best baits are typically live animals, such as rabbits or squirrels.
What time of day are coyotes most active?
Coyotes are most active at dawn and dusk. However, they can also be active during the day and night. It's important to be aware of your surroundings when hunting or hiking in areas where coyotes are known to live.
What dog has the strongest bite?
The Dogo Argentino has the strongest bite of any dog breed. This breed was originally bred for hunting large game, such as boar and puma. The Dogo Argentino has a very powerful jaw with long canine teeth that can easily crush bone.
How do you get rid of coyotes?
There is no guaranteed way to get rid of coyotes. However, there are a few methods that may be effective in deterring them from an area. These methods include using scarecrows, loud noises, and bright lights. You can also try to eliminate their food sources by removing trash and sealing up food containers.
The Best Coyote Hunting With These 5 Breeds
As we have seen in this list, there are many qualities that you need to look for in a coyote hunting dog. Your dog may engage in chasing, treeing or killing. Whichever way you look at it, these breeds are some of the hardiest and most persistent animals that you could ever come across.
Owning any of these five coyote hunting dogs will make your coyote hunt a much easier experience. Coyote hunting calls for exceptional hunting skills that each of these dogs possesses, as well as the killer instinct that could well save them from becoming the hunted themselves!
We hope that you have found this article useful. Please do let us know through your feedback, comments, and questions that we will be glad to respond to.
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