-
The BladeForums.com 2024 Traditional Knife is ready to order! See this thread for details: https://www.bladeforums.com/threads/bladeforums-2024-traditional-knife.2003187/
Price is$300$250 ea (shipped within CONUS). If you live outside the US, I will contact you after your order for extra shipping charges.
Order here: https://www.bladeforums.com/help/2024-traditional/ - Order as many as you like, we have plenty.
best dog breed for the woods
- Thread starter Hoodcanal5
- Start date
- Joined
- Jan 12, 2007
- Messages
- 4,186
We have a Border collie who could run for days on end and is very protective but not real strong. Our Doberman does very well on long trips also but she doesn't handle the cold real well.
I've often thought a German shepherd would be nice for colder weather but not as good in the house as a Doberman due to the shedding and the long tail.
I've often thought a German shepherd would be nice for colder weather but not as good in the house as a Doberman due to the shedding and the long tail.
- Joined
- Jan 12, 2007
- Messages
- 4,186
I think the biggest advantages are their sense of smell and alertness, plus they would act as a distraction during an actual tussle.
- Joined
- Feb 28, 2006
- Messages
- 4,012
I'll disagree. Rhodesians were bred to hunt lion in South Africa. In packs. In the open. With armed people. While they are nifty dogs, they may not be the best choice for winter camping in Montana. And they weren't bred to fight bears on their own. ....... If I had to lay odds on a Cougar vs. Rhodesian encounter, I'd put my money on the Cougar.
If the OP does any hiking of any long distances, a large heavy dog like a Rottie or Wolfhound will be at a disadvantage. They get hot and tire easily. A good "woods dog" will have a frame like a coyote or a wolf: lithe legs, in-line gait, narrow chest, long muzzle. Something along the lines of an Australian shepherd, Blue Heeler, Husky, Border Collie, etc....but I can also recommend Miniature Schnauzers wholeheartedly.
I agree completely with that hence my thing for lurchers. Mine has a good amount of Deerhound in him. He's got enough weight in him to to hit into a small deer or a fox and just bowl it over. But he's got enough Greyhound * sheep dog in him to have stamina and brains a plenty. My dog before that was a straight split Greyhound / Alsation, not as quick or big but otherwise similar[ish] characteristics. Thick dogs, or ones that don't have endurance would be a liability to me. Neither of these lost anything in the intellect or endurance department to their predecessors - I grew up with a lot of Alsations so I have high expectations. I think if I had the inclination to hunt wolves, and they still existed here, a lurcher very similar to what I have now would be my route but with Wolfhound rather than Deerhound in him. A pure Wolfhound is usually at its happiest making like a rug in front of the fire. I'd walk its legs off.
I think there's a lot of crap talked about dogs and their capabilities especially the Ridgeback hunting lions thing as if it were a duel. [The last time I got talking Ridgebacks here someone went all red spot and I had to post a video to shut him up, so I'm not going to dwell on those specifically]. Bloodhounds have been used to hunt cats and tree 'em, or drive them into a hole. I can imagine that being twisted in years to come too as if were you to chuck a Bloodhound and a Cougar in a skip the dog would leave victorious. Same with Russells and badgers; an over hard Russell usually dies on the hunt, and a good terrier man knows that.
- Joined
- Feb 28, 2006
- Messages
- 4,012
The hairs are part of a lifestyle that a team with Dysons would find hard to keep up with. Still, they don't taste too bad.
- Joined
- Jan 28, 2006
- Messages
- 7,035
Like others have said, forget about the dog fighting off bears, cougars and the like. If any of them come upon you, your dog barks and they go away, it's because they decided to go, not because your dog scared them off.
So that may open up some options you weren't thinking of before.
The two best woods dogs I ever had were my first and the one I have now.
My first, Heidi, was a Newfoundland/German Shepherd mix. She was coal black, had the two coats of fur like a Newfoundland, but the shorter hair of the Shepherd. She shed, but didn't get all kinds of tangled hair. Anyway, she was a very nice dog to people (Of course at over 150 pounds, most people didn't take the chance). But she was scary good in the woods. She was absolutely silent when she wanted to be. If she sensed something she didn't like, she'd let out a low growl, and then walk off in the woods. Abandoned by my dog? Not hardly. When whatever it was -- person or animal -- came upon me, she popped out of the woods behind it and let out a louder growl (I don't remember her ever barking). I get a big gulp out of people, and most animals got killed (by her).
The one I have now -- in my sig line -- Chopper, is a German Shepherd/Mastiff mix. Yes, I like German shepherd and mixed breeds. He's a lot like Heidi -- silent when he wants to be. Excpet, he's more of an attacker than an ambusher. If he comes on something he doesn't like, he'll do one of two things. With people, he stands byh my side, silent, with his ears back. If they break 10 feet (I warn them back), he'll just lunge with no warning.
With animals, he'll get close, and start barking and growling until they give flight, then he'll listen top their movement, and keep silent and run around to head them off and get them. I've had hunters tell me he's too smart for his own good, they want dogs that will flush, then break off so they can get the kill. Personally, I like a dog with more advanced hunting skills -- essentially using his instinct, rather than train him for human-style hunting.
That being said, I've seen very few beagles that are bad in the woods. I prefer larger dogs, and you won't catch me with a little rat dog or yapper. Beagles are as small as I'll go, and that only because they act like big dogs.
A lot of people get along well with the various labs. Then you could also get a pit, like, er, Pidogs's.
Important thing is to find a dog that YOU like, that YOU can handle (most of the dogs I like need a lot of attention and exercise, or they'll "entertain" themselves -- which usually involves losing furniture. Then, when they are puppies, drag them into the woods with you as often as you can. Take them hiking, camping, etc. Keep in mind this will be natural to them, a dog is hardwired with instincts for wilderness survival.
So that may open up some options you weren't thinking of before.
The two best woods dogs I ever had were my first and the one I have now.
My first, Heidi, was a Newfoundland/German Shepherd mix. She was coal black, had the two coats of fur like a Newfoundland, but the shorter hair of the Shepherd. She shed, but didn't get all kinds of tangled hair. Anyway, she was a very nice dog to people (Of course at over 150 pounds, most people didn't take the chance). But she was scary good in the woods. She was absolutely silent when she wanted to be. If she sensed something she didn't like, she'd let out a low growl, and then walk off in the woods. Abandoned by my dog? Not hardly. When whatever it was -- person or animal -- came upon me, she popped out of the woods behind it and let out a louder growl (I don't remember her ever barking). I get a big gulp out of people, and most animals got killed (by her).
The one I have now -- in my sig line -- Chopper, is a German Shepherd/Mastiff mix. Yes, I like German shepherd and mixed breeds. He's a lot like Heidi -- silent when he wants to be. Excpet, he's more of an attacker than an ambusher. If he comes on something he doesn't like, he'll do one of two things. With people, he stands byh my side, silent, with his ears back. If they break 10 feet (I warn them back), he'll just lunge with no warning.
With animals, he'll get close, and start barking and growling until they give flight, then he'll listen top their movement, and keep silent and run around to head them off and get them. I've had hunters tell me he's too smart for his own good, they want dogs that will flush, then break off so they can get the kill. Personally, I like a dog with more advanced hunting skills -- essentially using his instinct, rather than train him for human-style hunting.
That being said, I've seen very few beagles that are bad in the woods. I prefer larger dogs, and you won't catch me with a little rat dog or yapper. Beagles are as small as I'll go, and that only because they act like big dogs.
A lot of people get along well with the various labs. Then you could also get a pit, like, er, Pidogs's.
Important thing is to find a dog that YOU like, that YOU can handle (most of the dogs I like need a lot of attention and exercise, or they'll "entertain" themselves -- which usually involves losing furniture. Then, when they are puppies, drag them into the woods with you as often as you can. Take them hiking, camping, etc. Keep in mind this will be natural to them, a dog is hardwired with instincts for wilderness survival.
mymindisamob
Platinum Member
- Joined
- Feb 1, 2005
- Messages
- 15,175
I have been eyeballin' the Karelian Bear Dog for some time now. For most of the reasons given here and they are used for woods safety. Fairly expensive, but I have heard great stuff about the breed.
If you're actually looking at spending the money for most of these pure breed dogs I suggest looking at a pet grade Roman Cane Corso. They are known to form a very strong bond and are very protective of children! I'll post a pic but it will be from a kennel as I don't have one at this time. You can do a search and find a lot of information. Typical weight is between 100 and 110 pounds.
- Joined
- Sep 6, 2010
- Messages
- 287
you guys are probably right about the rooweiler. I thought that because of their thick coat they would be good for the winter but i guess not. I have a mini schnauzer and he very athletic and fearless. Mine grabbed onto the face of a shepherd in my neighborhood htat was acting agressivly and sent it running and yelping. And about the rott what i said about the tail was not to cut it off but leave it natural.
Corso Breed Information
The Cane Corso is a large working dog who decends from the ancient Roman Molossus. Native to Italy they now represent a modern day continuation of war dogs that were sometimes pitted against lions and other wild beasts in ancient Roman arenas. These Molossian Mastiffs were in great demand as war dogs and household guardians for generations to come. Throughout the breeds existence, the cane corso were used as big game hunters. Their power, courage, agility and tracking ability made them especially valuable with wild boar, stag and bear. With the decline in big game hunting the cane corso found a home with Italian farmers. They were often used as a driver, moving animals to the market and to the slaughter houses. On the farms they protected the livestock from both human thieves and animal predators, also doubling as a guard dog for homes and estates. With the transformation of the agricultural structure in many regions of Italy, this majestic dog was in danger of extinction. However, with the help of some skillful and caring dog lovers in the mid 1970's success was made in procuring as many good subjects as possible. Selective breeding began and the cane corso was given a new birth.
Since coming to America in the late 1980's the cane corso is mainly recognized as family companions and guard dogs. The cane corso bonds quickly to his family and becomes quite attached, especially to the children. To the children they are playful, protective, yet gentle, always aware of a child's helplessness and innocence. They enjoy being included in the family activities. Their athletic ability lends itself to include such activities as hiking, jogging, long walks, swimming, bike riding or just playing fetch. In the house hold they are not overly energetic or spasmatic. They are generally a quiet dog, only barking to alert in strange situations. They are very animal friendly and will get along with any of your other pets.
The cane corso is instinctively a guard dog. Having a strong sense of territory and desiring to be with his family, the corso generally stays on his grounds. With strangers, they are quite aloof, and will be suspicious until the person is welcomed by the family. These dogs don't need any encouragement to be agressive, they know specifically when and when not to be protective. They should be socialized starting at young ages. The cane corso are able to judge character without exception, always to discern friend from foe.
The Cane Corso is a large working dog who decends from the ancient Roman Molossus. Native to Italy they now represent a modern day continuation of war dogs that were sometimes pitted against lions and other wild beasts in ancient Roman arenas. These Molossian Mastiffs were in great demand as war dogs and household guardians for generations to come. Throughout the breeds existence, the cane corso were used as big game hunters. Their power, courage, agility and tracking ability made them especially valuable with wild boar, stag and bear. With the decline in big game hunting the cane corso found a home with Italian farmers. They were often used as a driver, moving animals to the market and to the slaughter houses. On the farms they protected the livestock from both human thieves and animal predators, also doubling as a guard dog for homes and estates. With the transformation of the agricultural structure in many regions of Italy, this majestic dog was in danger of extinction. However, with the help of some skillful and caring dog lovers in the mid 1970's success was made in procuring as many good subjects as possible. Selective breeding began and the cane corso was given a new birth.
Since coming to America in the late 1980's the cane corso is mainly recognized as family companions and guard dogs. The cane corso bonds quickly to his family and becomes quite attached, especially to the children. To the children they are playful, protective, yet gentle, always aware of a child's helplessness and innocence. They enjoy being included in the family activities. Their athletic ability lends itself to include such activities as hiking, jogging, long walks, swimming, bike riding or just playing fetch. In the house hold they are not overly energetic or spasmatic. They are generally a quiet dog, only barking to alert in strange situations. They are very animal friendly and will get along with any of your other pets.
The cane corso is instinctively a guard dog. Having a strong sense of territory and desiring to be with his family, the corso generally stays on his grounds. With strangers, they are quite aloof, and will be suspicious until the person is welcomed by the family. These dogs don't need any encouragement to be agressive, they know specifically when and when not to be protective. They should be socialized starting at young ages. The cane corso are able to judge character without exception, always to discern friend from foe.
dogboye
Gold Member
- Joined
- Nov 23, 1999
- Messages
- 7,147
I second that (on the Rottweilers), to an extent. I've had two (still have one). The oldest, now gone, was easily a match for me hiking as far as I would ever want to go, in anything but the HOTTEST weather (greater than 80degF), WITH a pack on her back. HOWEVER, the younger, male, bigger, with heavier coat, has never been a long distance hiker. Well, actually, that isn't true. He can and will, but only when it is cooler (like less than about 50 degrees F). He just has too much fur and bulk for the short nose to be able to cool. So what I'm saying is it is pretty much luck-of-the-draw, and I could not have told you when they were puppies which one was going to be leaner with shorter fur, and which was going to be all muscle and thicker fur. They make great companions, but if you get the wrong one, it will limit your hiking opportunities. They will go any distance you can, they can and will carry HEAVY loads (both of mine have carried their own food and water on long hikes, plus a small amount of my gear), and if luck is with you on your draw, you will have a Rott that will even run with you (our older female has been on 5+ mile runs with us, in 50degF weather). Their athletic ability is not questionable at all; their ability to shed heat is their only limiting factor. After all, they were bred as working dogs, not guard dogs. They were bred to haul stuff and pull carts. And I would own Rottweilers 'til the day I die, except for the fact that my wife and I have decided that we want a dog that can run with us until WE get old enough that we don't run anymore. Then I fully intend to get another Rottweiler to accompany me in the woods on hikes and backpacks.
And do what you want with the tail. If you get a purebred from a reputable, good luck even finding one that still has its tail.
Last edited:
- Joined
- Sep 6, 2010
- Messages
- 287
what about a great pyrenees?
- Joined
- Dec 4, 2009
- Messages
- 4,555
i have to agree with the cane corso as i have one. they are pretty awesome dogs. he can hike/run all day long, is very protective. but when at home he will just lay down and let my little one play all over him. great dogs and were definitely breed as war dogs and used to hunt all types of large game. mine is no longer as big as the ones in the pics because they think he now has cancer. but he is a great dog. the only downside is most of them become so attached to the owners that they have a bit of separation anxiety. nothing serious but its often a pain in the butt to walk in the door after a day of work cause they get so excited your back lol. here is mine standing next to the door seeing what's going on outside
- Joined
- May 5, 2006
- Messages
- 1,265
me too but at 1k for a dog it's out of my price range - i'm considering a Norwegian Elkhound instead - if anyone knows of a good breeder in the New England area, let me know
i agree with the previous posters regarding a dog's protection value - they're alarm systems which will give you time to access your firearm
mymindisamob
Platinum Member
- Joined
- Feb 1, 2005
- Messages
- 15,175
I gew up with Norwegian Elkhounds. Our male was the best dog in the world. Unfortunately they are well known for impatience and agressive behavior with children. Our male was considered a rarity.
- Joined
- May 5, 2006
- Messages
- 1,265
Thanks for the info - I hadn't heard that, most of what I've read describes them as excellent family pets who do well with children if they're properly socialized. The guy who taught me how to hunt when I was a kid had a elkhound - but I never saw it around young children.
I'd be interested in knowing more about your Elkhound - did it bury its own feces? (The elkhound I knew as a kid did) Also, did it exhibit "perimeter guard" behavior - go and check out the perimeter of your property periodically and/or circle your perimeter when walking through the woods?
mymindisamob
Platinum Member
- Joined
- Feb 1, 2005
- Messages
- 15,175
Our male (Erik) was phenomenol. I have more stories to tell than we have space to write. He was always on point with me as a child and I was always tracking some form of wildlife or other. If I was still, so was he. But he would bark and herd deer or bear like a pro. He was also good around horses that we raised and rode regularly. He would lay on top of me in the back of our Ranchero and keep me warm. This in fact saved my life in a 12 car pile-up where 3 lives were lost outside Bellingham, WA.
I have been told they are good with children they are raised with as a pup. My experience with several others as a kid was of near intolerance since they were older. They are fantastic at perimeter check while @ home or in the outdoors. Eric didn't bury his feces. I remember since it was my chore to clean the yard.
- Joined
- Aug 2, 2009
- Messages
- 1,878
That's is what I was thinking. Pyr's or other dogs bred as livestock guardians make great family protectors and wilderness companians. Most have been bred for many years to protect family and livestock from wolves, coyotes, cats, bears and humans.
I have a 130 lb. Pyrenees (3/4) and Anatolian (1/4) cross that was bred on my friends goat ranch. He is a great family dog with a calm disposition that loves children, cats and other dogs yet is fearless when coyotes, feral hogs & varmints enter our property. I take him on hikes regularly and have trained him not to chase deer, but I have some work left to do when it comes to skunks. Last week we encountered a skunk and we both got sprayed when he ferociously defended me from that little stinker.
- Joined
- May 22, 2009
- Messages
- 277
Alot of people down here in the south use a CUR dog for hog hunting, this is usually a mix of several large breed dogs bred for strength ,size and pure grit . They can chase, bay and catch any hog.