The Treeing Walker: A Versatile Hunting Dog for Uprooting Game

Treeing walkers are a type of coonhound originally developed to hunt raccoons. They have a distinctive baying voice and a strong prey drive, making them well-suited for treeing game. Treeing walkers are also versatile hunters and can be used to hunt a variety of other animals, including deer, bear, and bobcats.

History of the Treeing Walker

Treeing walkers were developed in the early 1800s by crossing American Foxhounds with Bluetick Coonhounds. The resulting dogs were prized for their ability to track and tree raccoons. Treeing walkers quickly gained popularity among hunters, and they are now one of the most popular breeds of coonhounds.

Physical Characteristics of the Treeing Walker

Treeing walkers are large dogs, typically weighing between 65 and 85 pounds. They have a short, smooth coat that is typically black, tan, and white. Treeing walkers have a long, narrow head with a prominent stop. Their ears are long and pendulous, and their eyes are dark and expressive.

Temperament of the Treeing Walker

Treeing walkers are friendly and affectionate dogs that make excellent companions. They are loyal and protective of their family, and they are always eager to please. Treeing walkers are also very intelligent dogs, and they are easy to train.

Hunting Abilities of the Treeing Walker

Treeing walkers are versatile hunters that can be used to hunt a variety of game. They have a strong prey drive and are relentless in their pursuit of game. Treeing walkers are also very good at tracking, and they can follow a scent for miles.

When hunting raccoons, treeing walkers will typically tree the animal. This means that they will bark and circle the tree until the hunter arrives. Treeing walkers can also be used to hunt deer, bear, and bobcats.

Care of the Treeing Walker

Treeing walkers are relatively easy to care for. They need regular exercise, a healthy diet, and plenty of affection. Treeing walkers are also prone to a few health problems, such as hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia.

Conclusion

Treeing walkers are versatile hunting dogs that make excellent companions. They are loyal, friendly, and intelligent dogs that are always eager to please. If you are looking for a hunting dog that can handle a variety of game, then the treeing walker is a great option.

Stories About Treeing Walkers

Story 1:

A hunter was using his treeing walker to hunt raccoons. The dog tracked a raccoon to a tree and treed it. The hunter climbed the tree to retrieve the raccoon, but the raccoon was too high up. The hunter called for his dog to help him get the raccoon down. The dog climbed the tree and grabbed the raccoon by the tail. The hunter was able to pull the raccoon down from the tree and secure it.

What We Can Learn: Treeing walkers are excellent climbers and can be used to retrieve game from trees.

Story 2:

A group of hunters was using their treeing walkers to hunt deer. The dogs tracked a deer to a thicket. The hunters followed the dogs into the thicket and flushed the deer out. The hunters were able to shoot the deer and retrieve it.

What We Can Learn: Treeing walkers are able to track and flush game out of hiding.

Story 3:

A hunter was using his treeing walker to hunt bobcats. The dog tracked a bobcat to a den. The hunter followed the dog to the den and shot the bobcat.

What We Can Learn: Treeing walkers can be used to track and locate game even in difficult terrain.

Effective Strategies for Hunting with Treeing Walkers

• Use a leash to keep your dog under control when hunting in areas with other people or animals.
• Train your dog to obey commands, such as "come," "stay," and "heel."
• Socialize your dog with other dogs and people to prevent them from becoming aggressive.
• Exercise your dog regularly to keep them in good shape for hunting.
• Feed your dog a healthy diet to provide them with the energy they need for hunting.

How to Train a Treeing Walker

1. Start training your dog as early as possible. Puppies are more receptive to training than older dogs.
2. Be patient and consistent with your training. Don't get discouraged if your dog doesn't learn a command right away. Keep practicing and eventually they will get it.
3. Use positive reinforcement. Reward your dog with treats, praise, or play when they do something you like.
4. Make training fun. Keep training sessions short and interesting. Don't make your dog do the same thing over and over again.
5. Get help from a professional trainer if needed. If you are having trouble training your dog, don't hesitate to get help from a professional trainer.

Call to Action

If you are looking for a versatile hunting dog that can handle a variety of game, then the treeing walker is a great option. These dogs are loyal, friendly, and intelligent, and they are always eager to please. With proper training and care, your treeing walker will be a valuable member of your hunting team for years to come.

Tables

Table 1: Average Weight and Height of Treeing Walkers

Table 2: Health Problems Common to Treeing Walkers

Table 3: Effective Strategies for Hunting with Treeing Walkers