15 Dog Breeds Perfect for Hunting Bears

Having the appropriate four-legged friend may make all the difference when you’re out in the woods. Not just any dog will do in the pursuit of a powerful bear. These are the top 15 dog breeds well-known for their ability to hunt bears.
American Black and Tan Coonhound

With their keen sense of smell and unmatched endurance, these dogs excel in tracking bears through dense forests. Their distinctive howl can send shivers down the spine of even the most formidable bruin.
Norwegian Elkhound

Originating from the rugged terrain of Norway, these fearless hunters are well-known for their courage in facing down bears. In challenging environments, their thick, weather-resistant coats protect them from the weather, making them ideal companions for bear hunts.
Plott Hound

A Plott Hound’s tenacious nature and unwavering loyalty make them valuable assets in any bear hunting expedition. Bred specifically for hunting big game, including bears, they combine strength, agility, and determination.
Alaskan Malamute

Prized for their strength and stamina, these dogs can travel across difficult terrain for long periods. While their gentle disposition endears them to their human companions, imposing size and powerful build serve as a deterrent to bears.
Siberian Husky

These sled dogs possess the stamina and determination required for bear hunting expeditions in harsh climates. Their striking blue or multi-colored eyes and wolf-like appearance make them perfect for this formidable hunt dog breed.
Caucasian Shepherd

As predators, their size and strength allow them to overwhelm and potentially kill their prey. Caucasian Shepherds are massive, muscular dogs with a strong physique weighing 110 to 220 pounds, making them well-suited for tracking and confronting bears.
Bloodhound

Bloodhounds are a great help in locating bears over vast distances with unparalleled scent-tracking abilities. The floppy ears and wrinkled faces lend them a charming appearance that shadows their formidable skills as hunters.
Rhodesian Ridgeback

Well recognized as daring hunters, Rhodesian Ridgebacks are easily recognized by the characteristic ridge of hair running down their backs. They have the bravery and strength required to face bears because they were originally bred to hunt lions in Africa.
Redtick Coonhound

n addition to having a keen sense of smell, these dogs have high speed on the track. Being able to follow scent trails effectively is possible because of their strong nose. They are bred to tree game, which means effectively cornering and immobilizing bears by barking and keeping them in a tree.
Catahoula Leopard Dog

Known for their striking coat patterns and piercing eyes, Catahoula Leopard Dogs are also skilled hunters with a knack for treeing bears. Catahoulas are bred for their exceptional work ethic, agility, and intelligence, which are all very important in navigating challenging terrain during a hunt.
Karelian Bear Dog

In pairs or packs, Karelian Bear Dogs are trained to hunt bears, with the dogs’ role being to distract and corner the bear while the human hunter moves in for the kill. These dogs are regarded for their fearlessness and tenacity and are also powerful and unyielding in the face of challenging tasks.
Walker Coonhound

Many hunters praise these dogs for their abilities in competitions and the field. Walker Coonhounds are versatile hunters who can work alone or in a pack and are adept at hunting raccoons and larger prey like bears. They are bred for speed and have excellent endurance, allowing them to keep up with bears over long distances.
Chongqing Dog

This breed has a long history of hunting and has been used to hunt various species, including bears, deer, and wild boar. Chongqing Dogs have a strong prey drive and are naturally inclined to chase and hunt bears.
Mountain Cur

Originating from the Appalachian region of the United States, Mountain Curs are versatile hunters with a natural inclination for treeing bears. Their fearless demeanor and keen sense of smell make them invaluable allies in tracking and cornering bears in dense forests.
Treeing Tennessee Brindle

Living between 10 to 12 years, the breed is typically healthy. This means they can be used for bear hunting for a long period without worrying about health issues. They are muscular and agile, with a short, dense coat that protects them from the cold and brush.