Hunting Dogs

Hunting Dogs by Oliver Hartley is a definitive and practical guide to the training, care, breeding, and working life of hunting dogs. This richly detailed manual is divided into three comprehensive parts—Training, Breeding & Care, and Dog Lore—making it both an instructional and encyclopedic reference for sportsmen, hunters, dog trainers, and canine enthusiasts. The book begins with detailed chapters on the training of dogs for various types of game, including coon, opossum, mink, skunk, deer, rabbits, and even wolves and coyotes. Hartley describes practical techniques and instincts, exploring nuances such as night hunting, trailing, and breed-specific behaviors, while also including random insights from experienced hunters. In the second section, Hartley turns to the care and breeding of dogs. Chapters on selecting pups, healthcare, crossbreeding strategies for coon dogs, and managing dog ailments make this a valuable manual for those involved in canine genetics or farm dog breeding. Part III, "Dog Lore," is filled with rich observations about various breeds, including Foxhounds, Beagles, Pointers, Setters, Terriers, and Collies, as well as their use in diverse environments—from the trap line to the sled trails of the North. The book closes with a technical glossary of canine terms and reflections from an experienced farmer-hunter, adding real-world depth. With a mix of practical training, folklore, technical guidance, and breed wisdom, Hunting Dogs stands out as a masterwork in field dog literature. Its value lies in its combination of hands-on techniques with heartfelt appreciation for the unique traits and roles of each hunting breed.