Hunting in Texas: Regulations for Hunting With Dogs

Hunting with dogs remains an active and popular time-honored tradition throughout much of the U.S. Just as the pursued game varies by geographic region, so do the regulations and restrictions vary by state.

In Texas, the state's Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) regulates sport hunting methods across diverse ecoregions and game species interests.

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The assistance of dogs is prohibited in the hunting of deer throughout the state of Texas. There are limited counties in which a limit of two dogs are permitted to assist in tracking a “wounded deer,” defined as an animal leaving a blood trail.

Dogs are allowed to aid sport hunters in hunting any game bird throughout the state, whether waterfowl or migratory game. Hunters cannot be in the field with dogs on another person’s land while armed with shotguns and buckshot or slugs during open deer season in certain counties.

While the state agency makes every effort to regulate seasons toward avoiding conflicts of interest or confusion of intent in this regard, landowner permissions and hunting leases can potentially exacerbate the situation. Hunters should verify current state and county regulations prior to taking to the field with their dogs.

The aid of dogs is also permitted in the hunting of nongame furbearers such as rabbit and mountain lion, and in pursuit and take of feral hogs.

While hunting dogs used for cougar or hog benefit from being well trained and disciplined to avoid incurring injury, maiming, or death, they offer an invaluable asset to the sport hunter as these species are best hunted in parties or groups.

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Sport hunters interested in hunting with the aid of dogs have a wealth of resources available to assist them throughout the state. While bird hunting and retrievers are by far the most prevalent form of engagement, the Texas Dog Hunters Association offers coordinated training and hunting events for club members in a variety of sport hunting disciplines, including hog hunts and training events.

There also exist a number of blood-tracking clubs that hold various seminars and field trials.

This article is for information only. Please check current regulations before hunting.

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