Small hunting dogs: Equipment for small hunting dog competitions

Why small hunting dogs? Characteristics and advantages

Small hunting dogs have become increasingly popular in recent years - and not without reason! These charming little hunters have a variety of characteristics that make them perfect companions for hunting. Small dog, big effect, you could say!

But what really makes a small hunting dog? Is it its quick reflexes, its hard work or simply its manageable size? The answer lies in a mixture of all these factors and more. To shed some light on the subject, let's take a closer look at the most important characteristics and advantages of small hunting dogs.

Characteristics of small hunting dogs

Small hunting dogs are characterised by a number of specific properties that predestine them for various hunting tasks:

• Agility: Thanks to their compact size and low mass, small hunting dogs can act particularly quickly and manoeuvrable.
• Endurance: Small hunting dogs often have surprising stamina, which makes them suitable for longer hunting trips.
• Sharpness and speed: Their attentively trained senses make them excellent partners for stalking.
• Proximity to people: Due to their size and friendly nature, they usually form a close bond with their owner.
• Versatility: From working in dense thickets to watercourses, small hunting dogs are often more versatile than you might think.

Suitable breeds for hunting

There are a large number of smaller Hunting dog breeds, which are suitable for a wide variety of hunting styles. Here are some of the most popular:

1. Dachshund (dachshund): These small dogs are known for their bravery and sniffer nose. Ideal for hunting and tracking.
2. Jack Russell Terrier: A bundle of energy and brave enough to face almost any challenge. Often used for fox and rabbit hunting.
3. Beagle: Their keen sense of smell and stamina make them excellent sniffer dogs.
4. Border Terrier: Robust and tough, ideal for hunting small game.
5. Brittany Spaniel: An accomplished bird dog that cuts a fine figure both on land and in the water.

Equipment for small hunting dogs

The right equipment is crucial to best support the abilities of small hunting dogs and protect them at the same time. Here are some basic pieces of equipment:

• Collars and harnesses: Carefully selected collars and harnesses ensure comfort and safety. Adjustable and robust materials are particularly important here.
• Linen: A well-made, hard-wearing lead is essential to keep the dog under control while giving it sufficient freedom of movement.
• Protective clothing: It makes sense to equip your dog with protective clothing to avoid injury, especially in dense bushes and thorns.
• GPS tracker: Especially when hunting, it can happen that the dog gets lost. A GPS tracker helps to quickly find your faithful companion again.
• Basic medical equipment: You should always have an emergency kit with bandages, tick tweezers and disinfectant with you.

Training and preparation for competitions

Competitions for hunting dogs are a great opportunity to test your dog's skills and training. But before the time comes, of course, you need to train properly. Here are some tips on how to prepare:

• Practise basic commands: Commands such as sit, stay and come are indispensable basics.
• Search for clues: Tracking scent trails can be practised by hiding treats or toys.
• Retrieve: Bringing small pieces of prey is a skill that can be trained through regular retrieving.
• Socialisation: Contact with other dogs and people encourages the desired behaviour in competitions and real hunting situations.
• Simulator training: Special hunting simulators can be used to recreate and practise certain hunting scenarios.

Popular competitions and events

There are a variety of events and competitions where small hunting dogs can demonstrate their skills. These competitions are not only exciting, but also promote dialogue between dog owners and the further development of the dogs. Here are a few examples:

1. BHP (companion dog test): This exam tests the dog's basic commands and behaviour in various everyday situations.
2. Welding test: A demanding test in which the tracking of a scent is simulated.
3. VGP (Verbandsgebrauchsprüfung): Here the dog's versatility and all-round abilities are tested, from water work to field work.
4. Dummy training: A training programme in which various hunting scenarios are simulated with dummies. Ideal for practising retrieving.
5. Rummage tests: This tests the dog's ability to track down game and bring it to the gun.

Final thoughts: Small dogs, big performance!

Small hunting dogs are true all-rounders and have more than earned their place in the hunting community thanks to their versatility, stamina and close bond with their owners. Whether on a real hunt, during training or in competitions, these little companions always show what they are made of with great enthusiasm.

So, if you're thinking about getting a small hunting dog or simply want to find out more about their strengths and capabilities, you'll soon realise: There is a lot to discover and admire in the world of small hunting dogs!

Prepare yourself and your four-legged friend well, choose the right equipment and enter the exciting world of small hunting dog competitions with joy and confidence. Because one thing is certain: with the right small hunting dog at your side, you'll never be alone!

FAQs

What does a hunting dog need?

Furthermore, the dog should have the following characteristics and abilities in order to be admitted to the test:

• Ability of social categorisation
• Natural tranquillity
• Joy at work
• Toughness in use, dosed game sharpness
• Proper conduct
• Strength and endurance

How much does a fully trained hunting dog cost?

3,086.41 are the one-off costs during the life of a four-runner. They arise from the purchase (€ 704.46), preparation for examinations (€ 692.67), examination fees (€ 252.55), travelling expenses (€ 597.7), towing game (€ 112.81) and training equipment and dog accessories (€ 640.78).

Which hunting dogs are docked?

Only the following dog breeds are authorised for docking in individual cases: Deutsch Drahthaar, Deutsch Kurzhaar, Deutsch Stichelhaar, Weimaraner (shorthair), Pudelpointer, Griffon, Cesky Fousek, Epagneul Breton, Magyar Viszla, Braque d'Auvergne, Braque Français, Braque de l'Ariège, Deutscher Jagdterrier and Glatthaar.

Which lead for hunting dogs?

Leashes made of nylon with small and light rings and carabiners are particularly recommended here. For puppies in particular, the lighter the lead, the better. It is also important that you attach them to a harness for small dogs and not directly to a collar.