Our beloved canine companions are often so adorable that we forget they’re descendants of formidable hunters. If you’re curious about the unexpected origins of some of the gentlest dog breeds, you’re in for a surprise. Keep reading to discover 18 breeds that, despite their gentle nature today, have a history rooted in fierce hunting.
Labrador Retriever
The American Kennel Club notes that the Labrador Retriever was America’s favorite dog breed for a staggering 31 years in a row, and it’s no wonder why. These gorgeous dogs are famously friendly, playful, and social, making them wonderful human companions. But originally, Labradors were actually bred for retrieving game during hunts, which is where they get the second half of their name.
Vizsla
Vizslas are highly affectionate dogs that were originally developed for hunting and retrieving. Despite their sweet nature, the PDSA states that they’re not typically suitable for first-time dog owners, as they need a lot of consistency and motivation to keep them focused and well-trained.
Golden Retriever
Like Labradors, Golden Retrievers were first developed as hunting dogs and commonly used to retrieve waterfowl. Today, they’re known as one of the most gentle, friendly, and affectionate dogs you can get. They also make great family pets and are patient and loving around kids.
English Springer Spaniel
The English Springer Spaniel is an iconic breed that’s always eager to please and ready to make new friends. They’re also famously energetic, easy to train, and sociable. But what you may not have known is that they were originally used to flush and retrieve game during hunts.
Beagle
Beagles are friendly, gentle pups that make wonderful family pets. However, historically, they haven’t been so friendly to certain small mammals. They were first bred to hunt small game, like rabbits, which is why they have such a keen sense of smell and impressive tracking abilities.
Weimaraner
The Weimaraner is a distinctive, elegant hound-like dog that can be incredibly affectionate and gentle with humans. But you may be surprised to hear that a few decades ago, these gentle giants could commonly be found hunting large game such as deer and boar.
American Foxhound
The American Foxhound is a sweet, social breed that’s known for getting along great with families and other dogs. However, as the name suggests, these hounds were originally used to hunt foxes in the U.S. This is part of the reason why they have such a high amount of energy and endurance.
Irish Setter
As you’ve probably guessed, Irish Setters were developed in Ireland, where they were mostly used for locating and hunting birds. These beautiful dogs are famous for their rich mahogany coats, boundless energy, and outgoing personalities. They also need plenty of exercise to keep them healthy and happy.
Brittany Spaniel
The Brittany is a sweet, gentle dog that’s known for getting along great with kids. However, thanks to their incredible sense of smell and athleticism, in other settings, they can be highly proficient hunters. This is why these charming little dogs were first used for bird tracking and hunting.
Dachshund
The Dachshund, also affectionately known as the sausage dog, is a distinctive, charming little breed with a friendly, curious nature. While they may make great family pets, they also have a strong prey drive because of the fact that they were historically used to hunt badgers.
English Setter
As you can tell from their name, English Setters were first bred in England for bird hunting, setting, and retrieving. But despite being proficient hunters, they are also known for being gentle, mellow, and friendly to people and dogs alike. People also love them for their distinctive speckled markings.
Deutsch Drahthaar
While their name may make them sound like a raid boss, Deutsch Drahthaars are actually loyal, affectionate dogs that can be incredibly loving towards their families. Originally, these dogs were used in various forms of hunting, including both land and water retrieval.
Pointer
Pointers are known for their friendly personalities and for getting along well with kids and other pets. As noted by the American Kennel Club, their name comes from the fact that they were historically used to find and “point” in the direction of game so that hunters could give chase.
Coonhound
As you can tell by their name, Coonhounds were first bred to hunt game animals, especially raccoons. But despite their historic reputation as powerful hunters, Coonhounds are also very friendly and sociable around people and other dogs, making them great family pets.
Bloodhound
While you may think that Bloodhounds were named after their ability to sniff out the scent of blood, it actually refers to their purebred ancestry, which is part of what made them popular among noblemen and royals. However, these gentle hounds do have an impressive sense of smell that can be used to track both game and humans.
Bluetick Coonhound
The Bluetick Coonhound is a lesser-known breed that was often used for raccoon hunting throughout America. However, today, these hounds are known for their friendly, playful nature, which makes them great family pets. They’re also highly energetic and need plenty of exercise to keep them satisfied.
Saluki
Salukis are famously graceful and dignified dogs that can be very gentle around children and other dogs. They’re also one of the oldest dog breeds in the world, with experts estimating that their ancestry could go back as far as 7,000 BC. Historically, they have often been used for hunting prey over long distances.
Airedale Terrier
The Airedale Terrier is a social, friendly, and outgoing breed that enjoys a wide range of family activities. But when they were first developed, these dogs were commonly used for hunting small game, especially otters. Many people also love these feisty little dogs for their bravery and spirited personalities.
