Why Dogs Love Chasing Squirrels

Many dogs have a natural instinct to chase small animals like squirrels, and they may find it exciting and enjoyable to do so. Dogs are predators by nature, and their ancestors were hunters that had to chase and catch their prey to survive. This instinct can be particularly strong in dog breeds that were originally bred for hunting, such as terriers or hounds.

While dogs may enjoy chasing squirrels, it is important for their safety and the safety of the squirrels to prevent any actual harm or injury. Chasing squirrels can be a fun form of exercise and mental stimulation for dogs, but it can also pose risks such as injury, becoming lost, or causing harm to other animals.

If you allow your dog to chase squirrels, it is important to always keep them on a leash or in a secured area where they cannot harm other animals. It is also important to be aware of any laws or regulations in your area regarding off-leash dogs or hunting activities.

If your dog has a strong desire to chase squirrels and it becomes a problem, such as causing them to become excessively distracted or difficult to control, it may be helpful to work with a professional dog trainer or behaviorist to teach your dog how to ignore squirrels and focus on other activities or commands.

History of Dogs Hunting Squirrels

The history of dog breeds hunting squirrels can be traced back to ancient times, as dogs have been used for hunting small game for centuries. Many breeds were developed specifically for hunting squirrels and other small animals, and they were prized for their agility, speed, and ability to track and flush out prey.

One of the most popular breeds for squirrel hunting is the Feist, which is a small hunting dog that originated in the southern United States. Feists were originally used for hunting small game such as squirrels, rabbits, and raccoons, and they are known for their high energy and excellent hunting skills.

Other dog breeds that were commonly used for squirrel hunting include the Treeing Walker Coonhound, the Mountain Cur, and the Jack Russell Terrier. These breeds were valued for their speed, agility, and ability to climb trees and track prey.

Today, many dog breeds are still used for squirrel hunting as a recreational activity, and there are even competitions and events that are specifically designed for squirrel hunting with dogs. However, it is important to note that hunting regulations and laws vary by location, and it is important to follow all applicable laws and guidelines to ensure the safety of both the dogs and the squirrels.

What Do I Do If My Dog Catches a Squirrel?

If your dog catches a squirrel on a walk or hike, it is important to act quickly and calmly to prevent any further harm or injury to the squirrel or your dog. Here are the steps to take:

1. Approach your dog carefully: Approach your dog calmly and slowly, and do not try to take the squirrel away from them forcefully, as this can cause your dog to become defensive or aggressive.
2. Assess the situation: Check to see if the squirrel is alive or injured. If the squirrel is alive, it may be possible to gently and safely release it back into the wild. If the squirrel is injured, contact your local wildlife rehabilitation center for assistance.
3. Check your dog for injuries: Check your dog for any injuries or wounds caused by the squirrel. If your dog is injured, seek veterinary care immediately.
4. Discourage the behavior: If your dog has a habit of chasing or hunting squirrels, it may be necessary to discourage this behavior to prevent future harm to wildlife or your dog. Consult with a professional dog trainer or behaviorist for advice on how to modify your dog’s behavior.
5. Follow local regulations: In some areas, it may be illegal to harm or kill squirrels or other wildlife. Be sure to follow all local regulations and laws regarding the treatment of wildlife.

Remember that catching a squirrel can be a dangerous situation for both your dog and the squirrel, so it is important to take precautions to prevent this from happening in the future. Keep your dog on a leash or in a secured area to prevent them from chasing wildlife, and be sure to supervise your dog closely when outdoors.