Most of us simply overlook the many great things about Hunting with a dog. Well-trained breeds instinctively want to hunt. Some dogs are happy to live out their lives on a couch or back porch; however, turn a hunting breed out into the woods, and the real fun begins.

Hunting with a trained dog is an exhilarating experience. European breeds have long histories of hunting, while Pointers and Setters were the first established American hunting breed.

Before rushing out to hunt with your canine companion, dogs must be trained appropriately for the quarry you intend to go after. It is advisable to employ the services of a reputable trainer, beginning as early as eight weeks. It is challenging for part-time hunters to properly educate a dog in tracking, pursuit, and retrieval. After training, a natural bonding experience starts to evolve, unlike any other relationship hunters will encounter.

Gear and supplies vary to the type of hunt, game, and terrain. Take along the gear suited to the specific adventure and have a stocked cabinet, just in case. Once your Essential Gear is in place, the fun begins.

There is essential equipment for your companion, which must be taken on every trip, regardless of whether you are hunting with a firearm, bow, type of terrain, or game. If you and your group are prepared with the essential gear for your hunt, there is nothing like spending time in the wilderness with a loyal and obedient dog.

Other than a firearm or bow, the list is short when hunters look at their essential gear. However, dig a little deeper, and what makes the adventure special is the gear you put together for your Hunting Dog.

Essential Gear Must-Haves

• One of the most important pieces of equipment for your hunting dog; is a properly fitted and durable yellow or orange hunting vest. Visibility is a key must-have for any hunting vest for your dog. During hunting season, other hunters are always sitting in a tree stand or hiding in a blind that will shoot at the first sign of movement. Bright orange or yellow vests ensure your dog is seen at any distance. Ensure dog vests are correctly fitted and water resistant for retrievers and upland dogs who instinctively jump into the water to retrieve their prey. Reflective vest material is also crucial for nighttime hunting trips.
• Waterproof tracking collars are essential hunting dog supplies because of a dog’s acute scenting and tracking abilities. Dogs are prone to follow their noses and may forget about the commands of their owners. Tracking collars with a GPS-enabled antenna keeps your dog focused on the game. The best collars offer rechargeable batteries, a smartphone app interface, and are water resistant. Elite collars keep track of your hunter from ranges exceeding nine miles.
• First aid kits for your hunting dog are always a forgotten piece of essential gear. First-Aid kits for humans are not going to cut it. The finest kits include veterinarian-approved supplies such as Vet Wrap, stretch tape, cold packs, and irrigation syringes. Make sure the kit is stored in a waterproof bag.
• Without proper hydration for your companion, canine bodies cannot function properly. Water carries nutrients, aids digestion, regulates body temperature, lubricates joints,  and improves cognitive function. Travel water bottles are a much-needed piece of essential gear for your hunting companion. Do not assume the spare can on the floorboard is going to work.

Archer’s Essential Dog-Gear

Hunting with a bow and a well-trained hunting dog is a tough-to-beat combination for electrifying action. Be sure to check state regulations to ensure they allow hunting with a dog; some states only permit dogs for tracking and recovery. Consider a Black Mouth Cur, German Wirehaired Pointer, or other short-haired pointers for bow hunting. These breeds will tree anything.

Small game is perfect for year-round bowhunters. More adventurous hunters should try whitetail (check state regs.), bear, elk, and mule deer. Big game hunting opportunities can be found in every state in the union, and hunting dogs are ideal for the adventure.

Ensure you have the highest-quality archery equipment for hunting big game. This includes the right broadheads and more.

Nothing is more frustrating than getting out of the family car covered in dog hair. There is also the problem of those muddy and rough terrain hunting trips and coming back with your dog covered in muck. Good seat covers are essential hunting gear that is durable and waterproof while covering the entire seat. Make sure the seat covers offer good cushioning for the dog and are quick to install and remove.

There are always small, overlooked items even the most seasoned pros forget. Making sure your hunting companion is happy contributes to the overall satisfaction you and your dog will experience on the hunt.

Hydration, comfort on those long hunting trips, and ensuring your dog is always safe should become second nature for every hunter. Well-bred hunting dogs return that special attention to their owners by generating unparalleled excitement and vigor in the field.

Owning a gun dog means devoting yourself to its care and ongoing training. Technology and the ever-growing amount of gun dog resources, have made hunting with a dog an exciting adventure everyone should experience.

No more excitement is available than a hunting dog, tracking and pointing big game for its master. Knowing what makes a well-bred dog tick is a never-ending job. Having the perfect gear for your hunting companion will always be a challenge; however, the rewards are immeasurable.