Hunting Dog Names

Introduction

For as long as man has hunted for his meal, he has used the dog as a companion and assistant in the hunt. Dogs are likely the first domesticated animals. Dogs are pictured as hunting companions in some of the earliest artwork of humanity. As humans and dogs evolved together, eventually three types of dogs became the primary hunting companions - the terrier, the hound, and the gun dog. Hunters and their canine companions have chased fox, deer, elk, birds, and rabbits. Even today, when hunting is no longer necessary, many enthusiasts still enjoy chasing game with a hunting dog.

Hunting Dog Names in Pop Culture

Featured Famous Dog with a Hunting Name

Blue

The name Blue is as traditional as hunting itself. Some owners name a dog Blue because of its coat color. It may actually be more of a silver or gray color, and the dog may be one of the breeds in which a blue merle pattern is common. Some films and television shows even use the stereotype of naming a dog "Blue" and label a lazy hound dog (regardless of color) as Blue. Some people name a Blue Heeler (while not a traditional hunting dog) or a Bluetick Coonhound "Blue." Regardless, the name Blue is easy to remember, and the dog will not be confused with a long, multi-syllable moniker.

One of the most recognizable dogs with the name of Blue is not a hunting dog. In fact, he isn't a real dog at all. He is a cartoon character. Steve's lovable companion, Blue, works to teach children on the popular cartoon Blue's Clues. Yes, Blue is a blue-colored dog. The premise of the show was that Blue turned the viewer into a (treasure) hunter. Blue would create clues, and the host and audience found themselves searching for the answer. Blue's Clues was a fun show for preschoolers, but the goal of each "hunt" was rooted in educating children. The producers of the show also sought to build self-esteem in their young viewers. The show is one of the longest running children's shows. Blue was not only a fun show for children, but it was also critically acclaimed as well. Blue's Clues won nine Emmy awards over the years. The show ran new episodes for ten seasons. While it is now in syndication, episodes can also be seen online.

Many celebrities and athletes own dogs with the simple name "Blue." Don Cherry, broadcaster for Canadian Broadcasting Channel, owns his own personal "Blue." The world's (official) oldest dog was an Australian Cattle Dog named "Bluey." He lived to the ripe old age of twenty-nine years and five months. The Butler Blue mascot (often referred to as "Blue") is an English Bulldog representing Butler University. Each Blue is related genetically, and this honor is handed down from one litter to the next.

Hunting Dog Name Considerations

Over time, three major groups of dogs evolved into the primary hunting dogs - terriers, hounds, and gun dogs. Terriers such as the Jack Russell Terrier, the Airedale, Rat Terriers, and Scottish Terriers are not overly large dogs, and they are quick, energetic, and highly adept at running down small prey. Although most terriers are generally companions and are no longer used for hunting, the terrier has not forgotten his instinct for chasing small prey. The terrier is lively and alert, and he is always entertaining.

The hound is a traditional hunting dog. He is known for his keen sense of smell, and hounds generally have great stamina. Often the hound is pictured as lazily lounging on the front porch, but the hound is a loyal companion who loves adventure. Hounds are generally used to hunt larger prey such as deer.

The gun dog includes Labrador Retrievers and English pointers. The gun dog seeks out hidden prey such as birds and foxes; he will often retrieve fallen game as well.

The hunting dog is a faithful companion, both on and off the hunting grounds. He is loyal, athletic, and energetic. He is tenacious but obedient. His owners often name him according to his looks, but others will name him according to his personality.

Male Hunting Dog Names

Votes	Name	Vote
7	Bullet One of the obvious tools of the trade
6	Tank A large dog who is not afraid to go through brush to get to a target
6	Chester A nod to gun manufacturer Winchester
6	Ryder Many young children learn how to shoot with a Ryder B.B. gun
5	Bear A type of game; this name might also refer to a large dog
4	Arrow A great name for a "pointer", such as the German Shorthaired Pointer
4	Duke A noble name for a loyal hunting dog
3	Hunter An obvious name, but, after all, the dog does hunt down the prey
3	Chase Some hunters argue this is the most fun part of the hunt
3	Mack A great name for a large hound; as in the Mack truck
2	Remington A brand name of gun and corresponding ammunition
2	Sarge An outdoorsman with a military background might give his dog this name
2	Tracker This name is befitting of a dog with a great nose
2	Roscoe Can refer to the lazy hound dog on "The Dukes of Hazzard"
2	Rambo This Sylvester Stallone character hunted down corrupt military leaders
2	Ruckus A hunting dog will often bark and "cause a ruckus" when he trees his prey
1	Monty As in Montana, a state with a large area for hunting
0	Colt A pistol used by many frontiersmen
0	Dakota This name means "ally"; it can also refer to the states of North and South Dakota
0	Forrest Much hunting takes place here
0	Doc Real life hero of the OK Corral, Doc Holliday
0	Hawkeye A hunting dog with great eyesight
0	Wyatt As in famous sheriff Wyatt Earp
-1	Trigger Another good name for a pointer dog
-1	Boomer Refers to a loud, deep, booming howl of the hound dog
-1	Colonel Another great name for an outdoorsman with a military background
-2	River An outdoorsman who loves to fish and hunt may choose this name
-3	Blue Often refers to the coat color/pattern of a dog
-3	Ranger This describes a dog who loves to track prey
-3	Zeus A large, strong dog

Female Hunting Dog Names

Votes	Name	Vote
6	Sage A type of spice; this name is also associated with wisdom
5	Scout Harper Lee's character was on a journey, just as your hunting dog
5	Lady A traditional dog name; can refer to the Disney film Lady and the Tramp
5	Cleo A name meaning "glorious"
5	Dusty Can refer to coat color
5	Gypsy A dog that loves to wander would fit this name
4	Artemis The Greek goddess of the hunt
4	Dixie Perfect for a Southern hunting dog; works well for a Beagle or Treeing Coonhound
4	Camo Hunters must wear camo in order to hide themselves from prey
4	Jess A short name that is memorable and does not sound like a command
3	Foxy Great name for an attractive female Fox Terrier
3	Brook Perfect for the outdoorsy dog
3	Benelli A type of firearm or firearm manufacturer
3	Finley Meaning "white, fair warrior", this name would fit a light-colored hound
3	Molly A variation of Mary; an easy, memorable name for a hunting dog
3	Honey Can refer to coat color or the sweet personality of a dog
2	Diana Roman name for the goddess of the hunt
2	Birdie This name is perfect for a Retriever used for hunting waterfowl
2	Kit As in Kit Carson, a popular frontiersman from Nevada
2	Nahla Meaning "a drink of water", a beautiful and unique name
2	Daisy As in Daisy Duke or the flower
1	Migi Inspired by the MIG military aircraft
1	Blaze Refers to a marking on the face of a dog; could also refer to the speed of a dog
0	Xena The warrior princess, a famous television character
0	Shiloh A location in many Southern states, particularly Tennessee (a deadly Civil War battle was fought there)
0	Savannah As in Savannah, GA
-3	Hemi A type of engine found in a Dodge vehicle
-4	Dasher One of the eight reindeer, denotes a fast dog
-4	Maggie An all-around popular name for hunting dogs
-4	Ginger Can refer to coat color