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Ever wondered why some dogs bolt after squirrels the moment they spot one, while others don’t react at all? It all comes down to breed instincts. Some dogs are born hunters, bred over generations to track, chase, and even tree small game like squirrels.
If you’re a hunter looking for a skilled companion or a dog owner curious about these energetic breeds, you’re in the right place. From lightning-fast Cur to scent-tracking Coonhounds, these breeds have the perfect mix of agility, intelligence, and prey drive to make them exceptional squirrel hunters.
Whether you’re searching for a hunting partner or just fascinated by dog instincts, here are seven squirrel dog breeds that stand out from the pack!
Squirrel Dog Breeds
1. Cajun Cur
Quick Facts:
- Known for: Exceptional hunting instincts, versatility
- Ideal for: Active hunters, outdoor enthusiasts
- Temperament: Loyal, energetic, highly trainable
Bred for performance, the Cajun Cur is a rare but highly efficient hunting dog with deep roots in the southern United States. These dogs were developed by early settlers who needed a good squirrel dog capable of handling rough terrain. Their keen sense of smell and sharp instincts make them a top choice for squirrel hunting enthusiasts.
Compact yet muscular, the Cajun Cur has a sturdy build built for endurance. Their short, dense coat comes in various shades, helping them blend into wooded environments. With their sharp eyes and agile bodies, they excel at tracking small prey during squirrel season.
What sets them apart from other hunting dogs is their ability to track and tree squirrels with precision. They rely on both scent and sight, making them versatile in different hunting conditions. Their speed and determination ensure that no squirrel gets away easily.
Beyond their hunting skills, these dogs are loyal companions. They bond strongly with their owners and thrive on human interaction. Their high intelligence makes them easy to train, but they do require consistent guidance to channel their energy properly.
The Cajun Cur is best suited for homes with ample outdoor space. They need room to roam, explore, and burn off their energy. While they can adapt to various environments, their instincts make them a better fit for hunting families rather than city dwellers.
2. Camus Cur
Quick Facts:
- Known for: Sharp instincts, relentless tracking
- Ideal for: Active hunters, outdoor lifestyles
- Temperament: Intelligent, determined, highly adaptable
The Camus Cur has a long-standing reputation among hunters, originally bred for small game hunting in rugged terrains. These dogs were developed to be resilient, with a keen ability to hunt squirrels and other small prey efficiently. Their history is deeply rooted in the traditions of early American settlers who needed a versatile working dog.
Built for endurance, the Camus Cur has a medium-sized frame with a muscular build. Their short, dense coat provides protection from harsh weather, while their sharp eyes and alert posture give them an edge in tracking. Unlike other cur breeds, their agility allows them to navigate rough landscapes effortlessly.
As a hunting companion, this breed showcases an unmatched ability to track and tree prey. Their keen sense of smell, combined with a strong prey drive, makes them one of the top choices for mountain cur hunters. Whether in dense forests or open fields, they never back down from a challenge.
Beyond their hunting skills, these dogs have a balanced personality. They are fiercely loyal to their families but require proper outlets for their energy. While independent by nature, they still crave human companionship and thrive when given a purpose.
Raising a Camus Cur requires consistent training and early socialization. They are good dogs for experienced owners who understand their working instincts. Firm guidance ensures they remain well-behaved, and with the right training, they become exceptional lifelong companions—just what a dedicated hunter needs.
3. Black and Tan Coonhound
Quick Facts:
- Known for: Exceptional scent-tracking, endurance
- Ideal for: Hunters, active outdoor families
- Temperament: Independent, affectionate, determined
The Black and Tan Coonhound traces its roots back to the American South, where it was originally bred to track raccoons. Over time, hunters discovered its remarkable ability to navigate the woods and locate small game, making it an excellent choice for squirrel hunting. This breed’s history is deeply tied to its tracking instincts, which have been honed for generations.
What makes them a good dog for tree-oriented hunting is their sharp nose and relentless determination, as mentioned in PetMD. Unlike smaller dogs, they have the endurance to cover vast distances, making them perfect for hunters who prefer an active and reliable companion. Their ability to locate and corner squirrels high in the trees sets them apart.
Their scenting abilities are nearly unmatched. They use their keen sense of smell to detect trails, follow scent patterns, and signal hunters when prey is nearby. Once they’ve locked onto a trail, they don’t give up easily, proving their worth as one of the best breeds for tree hunting.
Despite their strong hunting drive, Black and Tan Coonhounds have a social and affectionate side. They bond well with their owners and get along with other dogs, though their stubborn streak requires patience. Their independence means they don’t always seek constant attention but remain loyal and devoted.
Training a Black and Tan Coonhound comes with its challenges. While intelligent, they can be strong-willed, requiring firm and consistent guidance. Early training ensures they stay focused in the field and well-mannered at home. Whether for squirrel hunting or companionship, choosing this breed often comes down to personal preference, but for hunters who love a determined and reliable pup, they’re hard to beat.
4. Black Mouth Cur
Quick Facts:
- Known for: Strong hunting instincts, versatility
- Ideal for: Active owners, hunters, ranchers
- Temperament: Brave, intelligent, energetic
The Black Mouth Cur has a long history as a working and hunting breed in the American South. Originally bred to help farmers and hunters track deer and small game, this breed quickly earned a reputation for its endurance and determination. Its roots are tied to rugged outdoor environments, where its skills in tracking and treeing made it an essential companion.
With a sturdy, muscular build and a distinctive black muzzle, this dog is as tough as it looks, as stated in UKC. Its ears are medium-sized and often fold slightly forward, adding to its alert expression. While they may resemble Mullins Feist or Kemmer Curs, they tend to be larger and more powerful, making them well-suited for demanding hunting tasks.
As a natural-born hunter, the Black Mouth Cur is relentless in pursuit of prey. Whether chasing feist game like squirrels or tracking larger animals, their instincts kick in effortlessly. They rely on their sharp senses and stamina, making them an excellent choice for those who need a dependable hunting partner.
Beyond their hunting abilities, these dogs are highly intelligent and fiercely loyal. They form deep bonds with their families, often becoming protective when needed. Their courage is unmatched, and while they may not be as vocal as some breeds, they will let out a sharp bark when they sense something unusual.
Training and socialization are key to managing their strong-willed nature. These dogs thrive with firm yet positive reinforcement, as they respond best to structure and consistency. Whether working in the field or relaxing at home, a well-trained Black Mouth Cur is a remarkable blend of skill, intelligence, and devotion.
5. Canadian Cur
Quick Facts:
- Known for: Exceptional hunting drive, endurance
- Ideal for: Active hunters, outdoor enthusiasts
- Temperament: Tenacious, intelligent, hardworking
The Canadian Cur is a rare and highly skilled hunting breed, developed through a cross of working dogs to enhance agility and tracking abilities. These dogs have been used for generations to track game like squirrels and rabbits, making them a favorite among hunters who need a reliable and determined companion.
Built for stamina, this breed has a lean yet muscular frame, allowing it to cover rugged ground with ease. Unlike smaller hunting breeds like terriers, the Canadian Cur is larger and more powerful, giving it an advantage when pursuing elusive prey. Their short coat is low-maintenance, but their sharp eyes and strong nose make them a force in the field.
When it comes to hunting, this breed has an unmatched focus. Whether tracking in dense woods or open terrain, they rely on instinct and training to secure a kill. Their ability to adapt to different environments makes them one of the most versatile hunting dogs available. If trained from a puppy, their skills develop quickly, making them even more effective in the field.
Despite their strong hunting instincts, these dogs are known to be incredibly loyal and intelligent. They form close bonds with their owners and thrive in homes that understand their high energy levels. While they require firm guidance, they are eager to please and learn quickly with proper training.
If you’re looking for a dedicated hunting partner, the Canadian Cur is a solid choice. With a bit of luck and proper training, they can master the art of tracking and treeing game like few other breeds. Their combination of skill, endurance, and loyalty makes them a top contender for any serious hunter.
6. Cajun Squirrel Dog
Quick Facts:
- Known for: Sharp hunting instincts, agility
- Ideal for: Dedicated hunters, active families
- Temperament: Energetic, intelligent, loyal
The Cajun Squirrel Dog has deep roots in the South, where it was bred specifically for squirrel-hunting. Passed down through generations, these dogs were carefully selected by breeders to enhance their tracking ability and speed. Their heritage is rich with working-dog traits, making them an excellent companion for those who love the thrill of the hunt.
Physically, they are compact yet muscular, built for endurance rather than size. Their keen eyes and sharp ears help them detect the faintest sound of movement in the trees. Their coat is short and low-maintenance, allowing them to move effortlessly through dense brush without getting tangled or overheate
What sets this breed apart is its natural talent for spotting and treeing squirrels. The best way to see them in action is during peak squirrel-hunting season, where their agility and intelligence truly shine. They rely on their instincts to track and chase prey, making them one of the most effective small-game hunters.
Despite their hunting prowess, they are affectionate and eager to bond with their owners. Their playful nature makes them great companions, but they require plenty of exercise to stay happy. If left without a task, they may become restless, always looking for the next challenge.
Training them from an early age is crucial. Personally, I think the best way to shape their behavior is through positive reinforcement and regular outdoor activities. These dogs respond well to consistency, and with the right approach, they develop into well-mannered, highly skilled hunting partners. If you’re looking for a loyal and hardworking dog, the Cajun Squirrel Dog is an excellent choice.
7. English Coonhound
Quick Facts:
- Known for: Endurance, exceptional tracking skills
- Ideal for: Hunters, active families
- Temperament: Determined, social, intelligent
The English Coonhound has a long history as a skilled hunting dog, originally bred to chase raccoons and other small game. Over time, they’ve proven to be good dogs for squirrel-hunting, thanks to their sharp noses and high energy levels. Their tracking ability is unmatched, making them a valuable partner in the woods during squirrel season.
With their lean, muscular build, they are designed for endurance rather than speed. Their short hair keeps them comfortable in various climates, and their long, droopy ears help funnel scents toward their nose. These physical traits make them efficient trackers, capable of covering large distances with ease.
When it comes to hunting, this breed relies heavily on its powerful sense of smell. Once they’ve caught a scent, there’s no stopping them until the prey is treed. Their loud, distinctive bark helps hunters locate them from afar, making them one of the most reliable squirrel-hunting breeds out there.
Despite their intense hunting drive, they are affectionate and friendly at home. They enjoy watching their surroundings, always alert to movement in the distance. Their social nature makes them great companions, but they need plenty of exercise to stay content. A daily walk or an active outdoor lifestyle is essential to keep them happy.
Training an English Coonhound requires patience, as they can be independent thinkers. The key is to start early and be consistent. Once they’ve heard a command enough times, they’ll eventually follow through, but their strong hunting instincts mean they might get distracted. With the right guidance, they become loyal and hardworking partners, excelling in both the field and as family pets.
Conclusion
Finding the right squirrel dog depends on your hunting style and preferences. While breeds like the English Coonhound, Cajun Squirrel Dog, and Black Mouth Cur excel at tracking, smaller breeds like Rat Terriers and Mountain Feists are quick and agile.
Even the spirited Jack Russell has proven its skill in the field. No matter which dog breed you choose, training and bonding are key. With patience, any of these loyal companions will make squirrel hunting a thrilling and rewarding experience.
