Feral hogs can be agressive and are very powerful.
Wild hogs were introduced to the United States by European settlers. Through the years, the feral hog population has increased substantially, and many states allow people to trap and hunt them. It is common practice for hog hunters to use hounds to help them locate and capture their prey.
Hound breeds
A hound must be strong, fast and have a loud bay in order to be a successful hog-hunting dog. As they were originally bred to hunt bear, plott hounds and black and tan hounds are the most recommended breeds for hunting boar, but bluetick hounds can also be used.
Considerations
If you are hunting on a piece of land with baiting or feeding stations, run the hounds along the paths leading to and from the stations. This will cause the hogs to change their access routes to the feeding stations, but will keep them from associating the stations with hunting.
Types of hogs
Although trophy hunters prefer large boars, those hunters looking to eat their kill may want to choose sows or smaller boars. Large boars have tough meat and can be very aggressive.
Identification
Look for slashes on tree trunks or trampled underbrush as signs that hogs have passed through the area. Boars use tree trunks to sharpen their tusks, leaving gouges in the bark and their scent for the hounds to follow.
Warning
The hounds should be outfitted with safety equipment to protect them from the hog's tusks. Heavy duty leather or canvas vests and wide collars can prevent serious injuries.
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