Top 20+ Hard-Working Hunting Dogs to Take Along in the Field

6) Brittany

6) Brittany, 9) Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, 10) English Springer Spaniel, 11) Black and Tan Coonhound, 12) German Wirehaired Pointer, 13) Pudelpointer, 14) Plott Hound, 15) Cocker Spaniel, 16) German Shorthaired Pointer, 17) Chesapeake Bay Retriever, 18) Boykin Spaniel, 19) Redbone Coonhound, 20) Bluetick Coonhound

Known as the Brittany Spaniel in the French province where it originated at least four centuries ago, this breed is a versatile upland bird dog, often used for pointing and retrieving, according to Nicole. "Known for their agility and stamina, they have a strong work ethic and natural hunting drive," she says. "They are friendly, energetic, and make excellent family companions while maintaining a sharp nose and quick reflexes in the field. And they make great dogs for people involved in dog sports, as well!"

  • Group: Sporting
  • Height: 17.5-20.5 inches
  • Weight: 30-40 pounds
  • Energy Level: High
  • Life Expectancy: 12-14 years

9) Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever

6) Brittany, 9) Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, 10) English Springer Spaniel, 11) Black and Tan Coonhound, 12) German Wirehaired Pointer, 13) Pudelpointer, 14) Plott Hound, 15) Cocker Spaniel, 16) German Shorthaired Pointer, 17) Chesapeake Bay Retriever, 18) Boykin Spaniel, 19) Redbone Coonhound, 20) Bluetick Coonhound

The little retriever with the big name is "small but packed with energy," says Dr. Denton, further describing the breed as "very smart, very fast, and always ready for action." Since its inception in the 19th century, this Canadian gundog has hunted by a very unique method. Acting like the fox it resembles, it lures ducks—always fascinated by the playful animals—close enough to shore to be shot, after which it retrieves the waterfowl. Athletic, alert, and always affectionate, the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever requires significant amounts of playtime.

  • Group: Sporting
  • Height: 18-21 inches
  • Weight: 35-50 pounds
  • Energy Level: High
  • Life Expectancy: 12-14 years

10) English Springer Spaniel

6) Brittany, 9) Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, 10) English Springer Spaniel, 11) Black and Tan Coonhound, 12) German Wirehaired Pointer, 13) Pudelpointer, 14) Plott Hound, 15) Cocker Spaniel, 16) German Shorthaired Pointer, 17) Chesapeake Bay Retriever, 18) Boykin Spaniel, 19) Redbone Coonhound, 20) Bluetick Coonhound

It took careful breeding over centuries in Britain to distinguish this dog from his close cousins the English Cocker Spaniel and Field Spaniel, but today the English Springer Spaniel is an esteemed pooch in his own right. "English Springer Spaniels are outstanding flushing dogs, bred to hunt upland game birds by flushing them out of cover," Nicole notes. "With a keen nose, high energy, and an eagerness to please, they are both hardworking and affectionate. Their friendly temperament makes them excellent family pets, though they need regular exercise to burn off energy."

  • Group: Sporting
  • Height: 20 inches
  • Weight: 50 pounds
  • Energy Level: High
  • Life Expectancy: 10-14 years

11) Black and Tan Coonhound

6) Brittany, 9) Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, 10) English Springer Spaniel, 11) Black and Tan Coonhound, 12) German Wirehaired Pointer, 13) Pudelpointer, 14) Plott Hound, 15) Cocker Spaniel, 16) German Shorthaired Pointer, 17) Chesapeake Bay Retriever, 18) Boykin Spaniel, 19) Redbone Coonhound, 20) Bluetick Coonhound

The first Coonhound registered by the American Kennel Club in 1945, this American breed is descended from Bloodhounds and Foxhounds. Built big and strong, they're courageous when they need to be, but friendly and affectionate with their people, and even a bit needy—they won't be happy if left alone for long periods. Says Dr. Denton of the breed, "They have a nose that won’t quit and a distinctive howl. Bred for tracking raccoons and big game, they’re laid-back at home but very attentive on the trail."

  • Group: Hound
  • Height: 25-27 inches
  • Weight: 65-110 pounds
  • Energy Level: Moderate
  • Life Expectancy: 10-12 years

12) German Wirehaired Pointer

6) Brittany, 9) Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, 10) English Springer Spaniel, 11) Black and Tan Coonhound, 12) German Wirehaired Pointer, 13) Pudelpointer, 14) Plott Hound, 15) Cocker Spaniel, 16) German Shorthaired Pointer, 17) Chesapeake Bay Retriever, 18) Boykin Spaniel, 19) Redbone Coonhound, 20) Bluetick Coonhound

Developed in 19th-century Germany to do it all (and do it all well), this dog features everything from the Griffon to the Pudelpointer and German Shorthair in its bloodline."This breed excels at both upland game bird hunting and waterfowl retrieval, with a strong prey drive and a distinctive wiry coat that helps them navigate tough terrain," notes Nicole. "German Wirehaired Pointers are versatile, intelligent, and independent, often working well alongside hunters in diverse environments. They are known and loved for being loyal and protective."

  • Group: Sporting
  • Height: 24-26 inches
  • Weight: 50-70 pounds
  • Energy Level: High
  • Life Expectancy: 14-16 years

13) Pudelpointer

6) Brittany, 9) Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, 10) English Springer Spaniel, 11) Black and Tan Coonhound, 12) German Wirehaired Pointer, 13) Pudelpointer, 14) Plott Hound, 15) Cocker Spaniel, 16) German Shorthaired Pointer, 17) Chesapeake Bay Retriever, 18) Boykin Spaniel, 19) Redbone Coonhound, 20) Bluetick Coonhound

A relatively recent addition to the dog world—and not yet recognized by the AKC—Pudelpointers were first introduced in Germany in the late 1800s. Calm and clever, this breed is "a mix of Poodle and Pointer," Dr. Denton says, praising them as "versatile hunters with a waterproof coat and an easygoing personality. They’re smart, eager, and love having a job to do." Thanks to the Poodle's love of water and retrieving abilities, and the Pointer's pointing instincts and fine nose, this dog is equally at home hunting in fields, forests, or water.

  • Group: Not recognized by AKC
  • Height: 22-26 inches
  • Weight: 43-70 pounds
  • Energy Level: High
  • Life Expectancy: 14 years

14) Plott Hound

6) Brittany, 9) Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, 10) English Springer Spaniel, 11) Black and Tan Coonhound, 12) German Wirehaired Pointer, 13) Pudelpointer, 14) Plott Hound, 15) Cocker Spaniel, 16) German Shorthaired Pointer, 17) Chesapeake Bay Retriever, 18) Boykin Spaniel, 19) Redbone Coonhound, 20) Bluetick Coonhound

Bred to hunt boar and other large game thanks to what Nicole calls their keen sense of smell and incredible stamina, Plott Hounds are descended from Hanover Hounds brought to North Carolina by a German immigrant in the 1750s. Named after the family that created the breed, they are The Tar Heel State's official dog and are considered coonhounds. "They are highly determined, with a strong work ethic and a deep, vocal nature," Nicole says. "While reserved with strangers, Plott Hounds are loyal, courageous, and protective family dogs."

  • Group: Hound
  • Height: 20-25 inches
  • Weight: 50-60 pounds
  • Energy Level: High
  • Life Expectancy: 12-14 years

15) Cocker Spaniel

6) Brittany, 9) Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, 10) English Springer Spaniel, 11) Black and Tan Coonhound, 12) German Wirehaired Pointer, 13) Pudelpointer, 14) Plott Hound, 15) Cocker Spaniel, 16) German Shorthaired Pointer, 17) Chesapeake Bay Retriever, 18) Boykin Spaniel, 19) Redbone Coonhound, 20) Bluetick Coonhound

Named for the country Spaniels are said to have originated in (Spain), and the type of bird the breed specialized in hunting (the woodcock), the Cocker Spaniel is a hugely popular American pooch. Beloved as a gentle and devoted playmate for kids, Cockers "were bred to flush birds from cover, but they’re just as happy snuggling on the couch," Dr. Denton says."They’re sweet, playful, and love being wherever their people are." One of filmdom's most iconic dogs, the lovely Lady, of Lady and the Tramp fame, is a Cocker Spaniel. They are considered the AKC's smallest sporting spaniel, but have a cousin, the English Cocker Spaniel, which is slightly taller.

  • Group: Sporting
  • Height: 14.5-15.5 inches
  • Weight: 25-30 pounds
  • Energy Level: Moderate
  • Life Expectancy: 10-14 years

16) German Shorthaired Pointer

6) Brittany, 9) Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, 10) English Springer Spaniel, 11) Black and Tan Coonhound, 12) German Wirehaired Pointer, 13) Pudelpointer, 14) Plott Hound, 15) Cocker Spaniel, 16) German Shorthaired Pointer, 17) Chesapeake Bay Retriever, 18) Boykin Spaniel, 19) Redbone Coonhound, 20) Bluetick Coonhound

Incredibly enthusiastic, energetic, and affectionate, German Shorthaired Pointers are a fine addition to the home or hunting party. Nicole calls them "highly versatile, excelling in both upland and waterfowl hunting. They have an intense prey drive, exceptional endurance, and a natural ability to point and retrieve." With webbed toes and a capable nose, they hunt everything from duck to deer and can often be found snagging first place at competitive hunting events.

  • Group: Sporting
  • Height: 23-25 inches
  • Weight: 55-70 pounds
  • Energy Level: High
  • Life Expectancy: 10-12 years

17) Chesapeake Bay Retriever

6) Brittany, 9) Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, 10) English Springer Spaniel, 11) Black and Tan Coonhound, 12) German Wirehaired Pointer, 13) Pudelpointer, 14) Plott Hound, 15) Cocker Spaniel, 16) German Shorthaired Pointer, 17) Chesapeake Bay Retriever, 18) Boykin Spaniel, 19) Redbone Coonhound, 20) Bluetick Coonhound

This powerful duck dog was developed during the 19th century by wealthy hunting enthusiasts living along the shores of the Chesapeake Bay. Their forefathers are believed to include Irish Water Spaniels and Newfoundlands, resulting in what Dr. Denton terms "tough, no-nonsense retrievers built for swimming in icy waters. They’re strong-willed, very loyal and their waterproof coat is not as soft as some other retrievers—great dogs if you like a little independence." Deeply sensitive, if somewhat stubborn, Chessies make excellent therapy, search-and-rescue, and drug- and bomb-detecting dogs.

  • Group: Sporting
  • Height: 23-26 inches
  • Weight: 65-80 pounds
  • Energy Level: High
  • Life Expectancy: 10-13 years

18) Boykin Spaniel

6) Brittany, 9) Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, 10) English Springer Spaniel, 11) Black and Tan Coonhound, 12) German Wirehaired Pointer, 13) Pudelpointer, 14) Plott Hound, 15) Cocker Spaniel, 16) German Shorthaired Pointer, 17) Chesapeake Bay Retriever, 18) Boykin Spaniel, 19) Redbone Coonhound, 20) Bluetick Coonhound

The official dog of The Palmetto State, the Boykin Spaniel is named after the small South Carolina community where it was developed in the early years of the 20th century. As adept at retrieving as it is at flushing, the breed boasts webbed toes, making it an excellent swimmer. "Often described as the 'little brown dog' of the South, these working dogs are highly energetic, have an excellent nose, and are known for their willingness to work in various conditions," Nicole says. "Friendly and affectionate, they are also great family dogs for an active pet owner." However, despite this pupper's many charms, they're one of the rarer breeds on this list.

  • Group: Sporting
  • Height: 15.5-18 inches
  • Weight: 30-40 pounds
  • Energy Level: Moderate to High
  • Life Expectancy: 10-15 years

19) Redbone Coonhound

6) Brittany, 9) Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, 10) English Springer Spaniel, 11) Black and Tan Coonhound, 12) German Wirehaired Pointer, 13) Pudelpointer, 14) Plott Hound, 15) Cocker Spaniel, 16) German Shorthaired Pointer, 17) Chesapeake Bay Retriever, 18) Boykin Spaniel, 19) Redbone Coonhound, 20) Bluetick Coonhound

Another one of the six hounds developed by American frontiersmen to track raccoons during the Westward expansion, this breed specializes in treeing game. Notable for their speed and agility, their ancestors include Red Irish Foxhounds, dogs that helped give Redbone Coonhounds their gorgeous coat color. "Redbones are sleek, determined hunters with lasting stamina," says Dr. Denton. "They’ll persistently chase a scent, but at home they’re easygoing, affectionate, and just happy to be part of the family."

  • Group: Hound
  • Height: 22-27 inches
  • Weight: 45-70 pounds
  • Energy Level: Moderate
  • Life Expectancy: 12-15 years

20) Bluetick Coonhound

6) Brittany, 9) Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, 10) English Springer Spaniel, 11) Black and Tan Coonhound, 12) German Wirehaired Pointer, 13) Pudelpointer, 14) Plott Hound, 15) Cocker Spaniel, 16) German Shorthaired Pointer, 17) Chesapeake Bay Retriever, 18) Boykin Spaniel, 19) Redbone Coonhound, 20) Bluetick Coonhound

Named for the distinctive mottling of his beautiful, black-and-blue coat, this compact but tough nocturnal hunter can take on not only raccoons but big game like bears and cougars. The Bluetick Coonhound's prey drive is legendary, as is his scenting prowess (it's said this breed can follow a trail that's days old). According to Dr. Denton, "These hounds are loud, persistent, and scent-obsessed. They’re full of personality, a little mischievous, and absolutely devoted. Just don’t expect them to ignore an interesting smell!"

  • Group: Hound
  • Height: 22-27 inches
  • Weight: 55-80 pounds
  • Energy Level: High
  • Life Expectancy: 11-12 years

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