Do all dogs have a hunting instinct?

It is a widespread misconception to deny the hunting instinct in dogs altogether. In fact, this instinct is often more or less strongly pronounced and present individually in every breed. Take the poodle, for example, which is generally regarded as very playful. What hardly anyone knows, however, is that poodles originally mastered water hunting for ducks. In doing so they can draw on astonishing abilities, for they are extremely quick to learn, clever and fast.

Do herding dogs also have a hunting instinct

While beagles, dachshunds and Münsterländers are known as classic hunting breeds and are also happy to prove it, many owners wonder how things stand with the collie. The collie is primarily known as a herding dog, and yet it too often cannot resist when the opportunity is favourable. When such a dog sees a deer, it frequently sets off in pursuit, unless it has been consistently trained. The rapid flight of the game then brings the innate hunting instinct to the surface.

• Innate instincts in almost all dog breeds
• Different degrees depending on the breeding background
• Hunting eagerness independent of the animal's body size
• The need for consistent training and sufficient occupation

Hunting eagerness does not depend on the dog's size

The small Yorkshire terriers, for example, are outstanding hunters of mice and rats. This stems from the fact that they were once used as ratters in the English county of Yorkshire. The husky, too, is perceived by many merely as a working and sledge dog. However, it is easily forgotten that this dog has a very strong hunting instinct. In an unfavourable situation this instinct makes itself known when the neighbour's cat crosses its path and attracts the dog's attention.

Even the Newfoundland is happy to go hunting

The Newfoundland is a true giant, and at first glance it looks extremely cosy. But what many do not know is that, curiously, it has webbing between its toes. In the water it is impressive as a lifesaver, but it is also used to paddle out to a duck and hunt it, or to retrieve the felled game. Whether the animal is small or large, deep in its heart this hunting instinct slumbers in almost every dog. It has been anchored this way since primeval times, since the dog ultimately descends from the wolf.

This article serves as general information and to better understand your dog's natural instincts.