How to Use a Pit Bull Terrier as a Hunting Dog

Pit bulls are highly protective of their masters and will fight any enemy to the death.

The pit bull terrier is a large dog breed with a block-like head, thick neck muscles and a thick, deep chest. Size can vary, but pit bulls are very strong no matter their size. Pit bull terriers have a "strong desire to please" according to Dog Breed Info Center, and have more human-like emotions than any other dog breed. While they are aggressive toward other pit bull terriers and animals they are not naturally aggressive toward humans. Their strong build and desire to please their master makes them effective hunting dogs.

Things You'll Need

• Retriever dummy

Instructions

1. Teach your pit bull terrier to retrieve. According to the Trained Paws website, hunting dogs must be able to communicate with their owners when out in the field; dogs generally need to point in the direction the animal being hunted has run. Teaching your pit bull terrier to play fetch with a favorite toy is a key first step in training the dog to hunt.

2. Condition your dog with positive reinforcement. Conditioning begins in puppyhood, and positive experiences will "foster learning," according to Trained Paws. For example, if you are teaching the dog to retrieve, but do not want it to run off until you command it and the dog successfully carries out this command, reward the dog with a treat.

3. Train your pit bull terrier to endure the elements--a pivotal aspect of training it to hunt. Hunting can take all day in harsh conditions like sleet, snow, rain and general cold weather. A dog that cannot outrun the prey will be of little use in hunting.

4. Teach your pit bull terrier how to track prey. Retriever dummies and dummy scents are an excellent method for this as they will not injure the dog. Retriever dummies can be found at any hunting supply store. Hold the scent up to the pit bull terrier's nose so the dog becomes familiar with it.

5. Ensure that the dog becomes used to gunfire, which can startle dogs. The pit bull terrier is not a nervous dog by nature and can easily adapt to loud noises. If possible, familiarize the dog with areas used for hunting by visiting them beforehand.

Tips & Warnings

• Electronic collars and dog whistles are additional tools used in training hunting dogs. Dog whistles are effective in windy or heavy brush conditions or if the dog is a substantial distance away. Electronic collars shock the dog and are used to correct unwanted behavior.

• Pit bull terriers should be taught to retrieve prey only. Teaching the dog to kill prey can lead to overly aggressive and violent behavior toward other pets and small barnyard animals.

References

• Dog Breed Info: American Pit Bull Terrier
• Trained Paws: Training Hunting Dogs