Catch Dogs - Page 1

I didn't want to hijack another thread so I've started a new one to clear some confusion on the role of the Catch Dog when hunting.  

In this part of the country wild hogs are causing tremendous damage to crop and timber lands. So, they are hunted and killed. The process usually involves hounds, Red Bone, Blue Tick, or Plotts preferred. The hounds run in packs because they do not attack each other during the chase. Once the hog is bayed (cornered) then a pair of Pits, AmStaff, AmBulldog, Catahoula, etc. is released for the catch and kill. But before the "catch dog" is released the hounds are leashed. Mainly because the "catch dogs" had just as soon attack the hounds as the hog.

Curs and other bay dogs are used to track the  boar.  Catch dogs sometimes track with or are released only to catch.  Depends on the individual hunter and his personal style.
The curs are not leashed when the catch dogs are there as there is NO fighting allowed within the pack!!!  You don't have time to worry about separating dogs in the middle of a hunt.  All dogs in the pack MUST hunt together.  Any dog that even attempts a scuffle with another dog is severely dealt with.

Catch dogs only catch and hold the prey till you arrive as the hunter.  They don't maul or kill - only hold.  Yes you pull the dogs off but not until the prey is either caught or dead.  Otherwise you can easily have dead or injured dogs as well as yourself. 
storm

When you say "any dog that even attempts a scuffle with another dog is Severely dealt with"  
are you saying they put the dog down or just beat the living crap out of it?

 Whether the dog is beat or killed will depend on the hunter.  If it continues, they are culled from the pack.  There is zero tolerance for fights.

The dogs used must get along with all dogs whether they are part of their own pack or Johnnie up the street comes down for the day with bringing his dogs to add to your pack for the hunt .  Doesn't matter if the dogs know each other or not.  This is not negotiable for the dogs.  

Having been on hog hunts with dog and having not read the original post this was started from, this is true

"Whether the dog is beat or killed will depend on the hunter. If it continues, they are culled from the pack. There is zero tolerance for fights."

Huntng with dogs is dangerous in itself. Dogfights while hunting makes it even moreso. A dog aggressive dog should never be used in hunting with a pack.  
Stacy

Sounds like a terrific sport. 

(pure sarcasm)

Sounds like a terrific sport.

Its Not Sport, necessarily.
For many eco systems, its an important game management necessity.

This is especially true in many parts of Europe, Southern USA, Australia and South America, 
In Gemany hunters manage game, are licensed and can have their lease cancelled or licenses revoked if the management is poor. 

Boars are a huge nuisance there and ae often found in Urban areas, parks, or on roads.
Few natural predators.

Ive hunted them a few times, dog fights are rare, Ive never seen a fight.  Sometimes Issues may begin After the hunt, so common sense and manners are important.
Dogs are more worried and focused on the boar, that is the primary prey during the hunt.

Wish someone would come out here and get rid of some of the javalina!!! 

 Where are you located?  There are several hunters that would love the opportunity to help you out!!  There are also services available to eradicate that are no charge to you as landowner - they just want the opportunity to hunt.
storm

Wild  pigs are successful and prolific if allowed to go unchecked.  I once saw a great video put out a by a breeder that showed a hog hunt.  It was quite exciting but not for the faint of heart.  He had slow motion and rock-n-roll in the background as one of the catch dog launched and latched on. It was a classic home movie.  Wish I had a copy.  

I can say from experience that given a chance to do what they were REALLY bred for (tackle big stock) pit bulls and other catch type dogs ignore other dogs in favor of "let's get the big dude!"  It's a ticklish business, and dog on dog aggression would be dangerous.