Calm dogs without a hunting instinct

Those who want to get a dog will certainly encounter the topic of hunting instinct in advance. Especially inexperienced dog owners ideally want a dog without a hunting instinct.

But do they exist? And are they really easier to train?

In a nutshell: Is there even a single dog without a hunting instinct?

As a general rule, the hunting instinct in dogs is innate. Every dog therefore carries this instinct within them. However, its intensity varies depending on the breed and breeding. In some breeds, the hunting instinct is very low. It almost never comes to the fore.

If you want to learn more about the hunting instinct, read on here…

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The Author:

Annegret Ulrich

As a certified expert in handling and training dogs, Annegret Ulrich has many years of experience with various four-legged friends. In addition, the author and dog lover provides tips on her own dog welfare portal.

Reading time: 5 minutes

Dog Breeds Without Prey Drive: What You Should Know

Especially for inexperienced dog owners, dog breeds without a hunting instinct are more suitable. This allows you to let the animals run off-leash without hesitation. This generally makes dog training easier – but you still have to educate and train your dog. Even dog breeds with a pronounced hunting instinct are trainable and therefore no worse than other dogs. Training away the hunting instinct is not that complicated at all. If you want to know more about it, feel free to check out our guide on anti-hunting training.

Does your dog run to other dogs? Then this does not necessarily have something to do with the hunting instinct. Even to the question "Why do dogs chase their tails?", the answer does not have to be the hunting instinct. The reason for this can simply be the general urge to move.

Overview: These dog breeds have a low prey drive

There are some small, quiet dog breeds that are reluctant to hunt and do so rarely. The French Bulldog is one such example. It is one of the most popular dog breeds. Furthermore, it is a breed with low prey drive. One reason for this is its short nose, which makes breathing significantly more difficult for the dog. As a result, French Bulldogs don't enjoy running and hunting. Malteses are also considered dogs with low prey drive. Nevertheless, they are very playful and need a lot of affection. They are small, athletic dogs. However, they are also easy to train. You do need to take good care of a Maltese's coat. The Bichon Frisé breed also belongs to the small breeds without prey drive. Their curly, white coat also requires a lot of grooming.

Among the medium-sized dog breeds without prey drive is the Bearded Collie. This breed is lively and very attentive. Despite their strong self-confidence, they are not aggressive. They are essentially herding dogs and do not enjoy hunting. However, you must provide them with plenty of exercise. Only then will Bearded Collies truly be content. The prey drive of the Elo breed is also not very pronounced. This dog breed is calm and good-natured. Elos are not dog breeds that need little exercise. However, they can walk off-leash without any problems.

There are also large dog breeds with low prey drive. The popular family dog, the Golden Retriever, is one such example. This breed is very loving and loyal. However, you need to pay attention to their diet, as they enjoy eating a lot. The Great Pyrenees also doesn't like to hunt. It was originally bred for guarding sheep. However, this breed is more suitable for experienced dog owners.

Who are dogs with/without a hunting drive suitable for?

In general, dog breeds without a hunting instinct are well-suited for beginners. They tend to be calm and can walk off-leash. They require less training. This is because you don't have to train away their hunting instinct. Dog breeds with a hunting instinct are excellent for hunters. They need a lot of exercise to satisfy their instincts. That's why they are also suitable for active people. Dog breeds with a hunting instinct are not better or worse than those without. No dog is completely perfect. Therefore, the hunting instinct should not be the decisive selection criterion. However, you can certainly train a dog's hunting instinct away.

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Keeping dogs with low prey drive

The fact is that every dog needs training and education. However, less hunting-driven dog breeds are somewhat easier to train. Breeds with a hunting instinct require more strictness and consistency. But of course, it also depends on the dog itself. Even a dog without a hunting instinct can be stubborn and unwilling to learn. The size of the apartment also plays an important role.

Dog breeds with a hunting instinct need more exercise and therefore more space. However, some breeds without a hunting instinct still enjoy being active. You should also offer them a large home or a garden. Before you get a dog, you should therefore thoroughly research the breed and the necessary exercise.

Which dogs shouldn't be left alone?

Dogs are not only our best friends, but also highly emotional and social beings. These loyal companions give us unconditional love and affection. However, some dog breeds form such an intense bond with their owners that they find it particularly difficult to be left alone.

On Dog Breeds

Loss of control or separation anxiety in dogs

If your dog shows behavioral problems, such as excessive barking, urinating in the house, or appears very sad and distraught when you leave the room, these could be serious underlying causes that you should definitely address.

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