Introduction

For centuries, hunters have employed the use of dogs to find, trail, chase, point, and retrieve game. The bond between man and dog has grown and has been strengthened in their role as hunting companions. This bond has led to the development of specific breeds of dogs bred to exhibit the skills and characteristics necessary to be used for different types of hunting.

Common categories of hunting dogs include:

• Pointers: Used primarily for hunting upland game birds.
• Retrievers: Used to retrieve waterfowl; they also can be trained to hunt other game birds.
• Spaniels: Used mainly as flushers for upland game birds.
• Hounds: Used for hunting both small and large game, primarily to find and trail game.

When hunting with the aid of dogs, hunters need to demonstrate responsibility and good ethics before, during, and after the hunt. Caring for the well-being of the dogs, interaction with landowners and other hunters, and complying with hunting laws are crucial for the continuing the tradition of hunting with dogs and preserving North Carolina’s rich heritage of hunting with dogs.