If you're considering getting a squirrel dog, you'll want to choose a breed that's well-suited for the task. According to our research, the Jack Russell Terrier is a top contender due to its small size and high energy level.
Their compact size allows them to navigate dense forests and chase squirrels with ease. With a weight range of 13-17 pounds, they're agile and nimble, making them a great fit for squirrel hunting.
The Jack Russell's high energy level is also a key factor in their suitability for squirrel dog work. They require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.
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Choosing a Squirrel Dog
Curs are highly intelligent, loyal, and may even be more sensitive than other dogs. They can take a little time to bond, but once they do, they're devoted.
Curs are generally larger than fiests and will range out farther in search of game. They use their eyes, ears, and nose to track squirrels.
Fiests, on the other hand, are usually smaller and may be a little more "feisty" due to their terrier ancestry. They make great "buddy" dogs and love to be with their owners.
If you prefer a dog that won't range too far in the woods, the fiest is a better fit for you. They're perfect for those who want a smaller, more affectionate companion.
The original mountain cur, the Kemmer cur, Stephens cur, and treeing Tennessee brindle are all different strains of the cur dog. These breeds have been refined over time to excel in squirrel hunting.
Fiests, such as the Mullens fiest, Barger fiest, mountain fiest, and American treeing fiest, are also popular squirrel dog breeds. They're known for their energetic and playful personalities.
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Squirrel Dog Ownership
Squirrel dogs are a great breed for families with children, as they are patient and gentle.
Their high energy levels require regular exercise, ideally 30 minutes of playtime and training sessions twice a day.
Squirrel dogs are relatively small in size, weighing between 20-40 pounds, making them a great choice for city dwellers or those with limited space.
They are intelligent and trainable, but can be stubborn at times, requiring consistent and positive reinforcement training.
Their short coats require minimal grooming, making them a low-maintenance pet.
Squirrel dogs are generally healthy, but can be prone to certain health issues, such as patellar luxation and hip dysplasia, which can be managed with regular check-ups and preventative care.
Their average lifespan is 12-15 years, making them a long-term companion for many families.
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Buying a Puppy
So you've decided to buy a squirrel dog puppy. You'll want to find an experienced and established breeder with a track record of turning out healthy, well-socialized pups from an established line of proven tree dogs.
A quality tree dog puppy can still be had in the $300 to $500 range, so be wary of breeders that pursue quantity over quality. They're often in it for the money, not genuinely interested in improving the breed.
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If you visit the breeder and are presented with a litter of frolicking puppies to choose from, look for pups that show interest in a squirrel hide or tail, especially when you take it up the side of a tree, out of their reach. Pups that bark at the squirrel are a good sign.
Watch for pups that will put their nose to the ground and appear to be tracking. Future tree dogs may go around and "check trees" looking for some scent. Any of these traits are related to the age and development of the puppy.
Expecting too much from a puppy, either in choosing a pup or in its training, is a common mistake with new owners. Dogs, like people, are all different and will develop at their own pace.
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Puppy Care and Training
Socialization is key when your pup is young, so take it to meet other dogs and people, and expose it to loud noises to prevent gun shyness.
The ideal time to start training your pup is between 2 to 6 months old, focusing on obedience training necessary for hunting, such as come, lead, kennel, and being comfortable tied up.
Beyond 6 months, training methodology varies between trainers, but a good progression might include giving your pup the opportunity to tree on a caged squirrel, or turning it loose on squirrels in the yard or woods.
It's essential to do these techniques sparingly, as overdoing it can create problems.
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Squirrel Hunting
Squirrel hunting with a dog requires patience and perseverance. It won't happen overnight, so be prepared to spend time in the woods with your pup.
To start, take your young dog to an area with squirrels, as this can be important for their development. You can also use fresh road kills or stash tails and hides in the freezer to introduce them to the scent of squirrels.
Remember, all dogs are different, and some may not show interest in a hide or dead squirrel at first. Don't push them too hard, let them learn at their own pace.
If You Buy a Started Squirrel Hunting Dog
Buying a started squirrel hunting dog can be a great option for those who want to skip the puppy stage. You'll get a dog that's already been exposed to game and has shown some promise.
The term "started" can mean different things to different people, so it's essential to understand what the seller considers a started dog. Make sure you ask plenty of questions, like how the dog moves through the woods, how deep it hunts, and whether it barks on the track.
A good started dog should be able to tree wild game regularly and stay put until you arrive. It should also be well-adjusted to its new surroundings and not overly shy or aggressive to people or other dogs.
You should also ask about the dog's hunting history, including how many squirrels have been killed over the dog and how much the dog has been hunted. This will give you a better idea of what to expect from the dog.
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Here are some questions to ask the trainer:
- How does the dog move through the woods while hunting?
- How deep into the woods does the dog hunt?
- Does the dog bark on the track?
- Is the dog a hard tree dog (does it bark at the base of the tree)?
- Does the dog stay tight on the tree, or does it mill around when treed?
- Is the dog typically on the squirrel when it trees?
- How much has the dog been hunted?
- About how many squirrels have been killed over the dog?
- Has the dog been hunted with other dogs and if so, is it ill (tends to fight) in any way?
- Is the dog independent or does it go to other dogs when they tree?
- Has the dog been obedience trained to handle easily?
Keep in mind that a started dog can cost between $1,500 to $2,500, and top performers can bring in as much as $5,000 or more.
Curs, Feists, and Terriers Find Squirrels
Curs and feist breeds are high prey-drive dogs that need daily exercise, which can be a challenge for city dwellers.
They have to be exercised daily, which can be challenging if you live in a subdivision or apartment.
You can train them to find squirrels in your yard, a nearby running trail, or a golf course, but make sure to go in the evenings when golfers are gone.
Adam Loudin, a renowned breeder and trainer, has trained six generations of squirrel dogs from the same line of mountain curs, including three world champions.
His dogs have also earned spots in the Original Mountain Cur Hall of Fame, a testament to their exceptional hunting skills.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Mountain Cur good squirrel dogs?
Yes, Mountain Cur is a good squirrel dog due to its strong treeing instinct and intelligence. Its courageous and trainable nature makes it a popular choice for squirrel hunting.
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