Dogs have been our faithful friends for a long time, growing alongside humans for many years. While some breeds were specifically trained for tasks like herding or being pets, others still have their old hunting skills.
These breeds, known for their sharp senses, quick movements, and strong determination, are related to wolves, and their hunting instincts are very strong. So, let’s take a look at nine dog breeds famous for their high prey drive.
1. Afghan Hound
The Afghan Hound, with its long, beautiful fur and graceful look, might not appear to be a hunter at first.
However, these dogs were actually bred to chase after gazelles and other animals in the mountains. Their sharp eyesight, speed, and agility make them impressive hunters even today.
While they may now be more often seen as fancy pets in dog shows or at home, they still have a strong urge to chase things.
2. Airedale Terrier
The Airedale Terrier is a flexible breed that can do many things, including hunting. They were originally trained to catch otters, badgers, and other small animals.
With their smartness, bravery, and strong hunting instincts, they make great hunters. They are also brave and really good at learning new things, so they can do a lot more than just hunt.
They can fit in well in many different places, whether they are helping out while hunting, competing in dog sports, or just being loving pets for their families.
3. Alaskan Malamute
The Alaskan Malamute is a strong sled dog breed that has a strong desire to hunt. They were bred to catch large animals like seals and caribou.
Their thick fur and powerful bodies help them thrive in cold winter weather. The Alaskan Malamute is built for hunting in tough Arctic conditions, thanks to their incredible strength and stamina.
4. Australian Terrier
Don’t let their small size fool you! Australian Terriers are brave little hunters with a strong instinct to chase. They were first bred to catch rats and mice, but they also love going after bigger animals like rabbits and birds.
However, their energetic and feisty nature makes them quite the handful! They are friendly and smart animals that love to be around people.
You can teach them to do all sorts of tricks and jobs. But, because they have a really strong personality, it’s important to train and socialize them regularly from a young age.
5. Bedlington Terrier
The Bedlington Terrier stands out with its unusual, sheep-like look. Even though they appear adorable, they still have a strong urge to hunt. Originally, they were bred to track down foxes, hares, and badgers.
However, it’s really important for Bedlington Terriers to get regular exercise so they stay happy and healthy since they love to run around and discover new things.
If they receive the right training and socialization, these dogs can be polite and flexible, which makes them a great fit for any home.
6. Bolognese
The Bolognese is a tiny, fluffy dog that was first bred to catch rats and mice on ships. Even though they look fragile, they have a strong instinct to chase and can be pretty spirited.
These dogs are playful and loving, but they also need regular exercise and mental challenges to keep them happy.
7. Border Terrier
The Border Terrier is a determined breed that was created to hunt foxes and other small animals, however, they love to chase anything that moves.
With their long legs and sturdy bodies, they are perfect for hunting in tough, rough areas. They’re also known for their amazing bravery.
These dogs have a natural courage that helps them face bigger animals and move through difficult terrains without fear. Their bold nature makes them great hunters and also super loyal guardians for their families.
8. Chihuahua
Chihuahuas might look like cute lap dogs, but they actually have a surprisingly strong instinct to hunt. Their tiny size actually allows them to be quick and nimble, making it easy for them to catch small animals like mice and lizards.
However, sometimes, their natural hunting instincts can cause problems, like chasing after small pets or being too protective of their space.
So, to keep their hunting instincts under control, it’s essential to give Chihuahuas lots of activities for their mental and physical stimulation.
9. Borzoi
The Borzoi, often called the Russian Wolfhound, is a tall and graceful dog known for its strong hunting instincts. This breed was originally developed to chase down large animals like wolves and deer.
However, they’re really good hunters because of a few important qualities. To start, they are super fast and can run at amazing speeds, which helps them catch up to their targets quickly.
They are also very agile, meaning they can move easily through tough landscapes, making quick turns and speeding up when they need to. Plus, their sharp eyesight lets them see potential prey from far away, giving them a big edge when they are hunting.