Hunter and his dog: special Outdoor Riga 2026 parade

Unlocking hunting through the instincts of the four-legged companion in person – what an adventure. No words to describe. You have to experience it. Skills honed through centuries, impeccable sense of smell and ability to interact with human beings. These are traits that make a hunting dog an irreplaceable partner that is often far superior than even most progressive gadgets.

Outdoor Riga 2026 in Ķīpsala is your chance to experience the power of these unique traits yourself as you watch the hunting dog parade.

Unique characteristics of various breeds

Each breed of hunting dogs fits different types of hunting and purpose. Although there are “universal” breeds, most dogs have been specifically bred for a very clear purpose. According to Katarīna Šterna, co-founder of the Lady HUNT, a female hunter’s club, setters, for example, have historically been specifically trained to find birds, take position and give hunter a hint as to the bird location, so that hunter would only have to shoot once. Whereas labradors are tasked with bringing the pre in. The main task of Laika is to help hunt furry animals, and the long, protruded body of Dachshunds is perfect for squeezing into narrow caves. Jagdterriers are small, extremely versatile dogs that are good at chasing prey, as well as hunting birds, cave animals and tracing blood trails. “Any dog is a predator at heart. If a dog starts chasing a cat or a bird in the backyard, that does not mean they are out of control. It only shows that they are hunters by nature – a skill that can and needs to be honed,” Katarīna explains.

From puppy to full-grown hunter

Owners need to start training their dogs from an early age to turn them into proper hunting companions. Hunting dogs develop a very strong bond with their owners, yet some dogs are even capable of working for the team with other hunters – for them hunting become their job. Obedience, discipline and fine-tuned instincts are the main assets of such dogs. Puppies do not always catch on right away of what is expected of them, Katrīna claims. But, if you develop their natural instincts, they will reach their maximum potential. It is important for humans to show the dogs through training: “This is your life now!” That is when the relationship between the owner and the dog shifts. There is greater level of trust, respect and training goes a lot faster. However, not all dogs are destined to become great hunters. Natural instincts, training routines and experience are also huge factors. Training is a gradual process. It requires enormous patience, consistency and deep understanding of particular dog’s character. Some dogs catch on faster, while others will need more time and “personal touch”. Experienced hunting dog owners believe that successful training is not only about  teamwork and techniques. Mutual trust and ability to read dogs reactions is as crucial. It is the rapport that helps the dog unleash its true nature-given potential to become a reliable and efficient hunting partner.

Hunting dog as a pet

Although dogs can be trained into professional hunters, they can still be a perfect family pet. “Dogs are smart. Like humans, they know when they work and when they are at home,” lady hunter says. If dog accompanies only one family member when hunting, dog will clearly know how to treat other family members. Outside hunting, in their regular life, dogs can be highly sociable, friendly and calm. They are good at settling into home life and keeping good company for their grown-up and little human friends. That, however, does not mean that their natural drive and instincts that fully kick in when outdoors are diminished in any way. Dog looks at humans for leadership. With clear subordination, dogs will happily obey their humans and build a reliable and healthy bond. Clear communication, respectful treatment, regular physical activities are highly important for balanced dog-human relationship.