hunting dog crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for answers to the "hunting dog crossword clue," you've come to the right place. We've compiled a comprehensive list of solutions, complete with explanations, to help you complete your puzzle. Whether you need a short, snappy answer or a longer, descriptive one, we've got you covered.
Solutions for "hunting dog crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
LAB: A common abbreviation for Labrador Retriever, widely used for retrieving game.
5 Letters
HOUND: A general term for any dog bred for hunting, particularly by scent (e.g., Beagle) or sight (e.g., Greyhound).
6 Letters
BEAGLE: A small to medium-sized breed of scent hound, famous for its tracking ability, especially of hare and rabbits.
SETTER: A type of gundog, like the Irish Setter or English Setter, known for 'setting' or crouching to indicate game.
7 Letters
POINTER: A gundog, such as the German Shorthaired Pointer, bred to 'point' or indicate the location of game.
SPANIEL: A type of gundog, including Cocker and Springer Spaniels, used for flushing out game and retrieving it.
TERRIER: While many terriers are companion dogs, some breeds were originally used for hunting vermin, fitting the 'hunting dog' category.
9 Letters
RETRIEVER: A broad category of gundogs, including Labradors and Golden Retrievers, specifically bred to retrieve shot game.
More About "hunting dog crossword clue"
The phrase "hunting dog" in a crossword clue can refer to a wide array of canine breeds, each with specialized skills. From the agile pointer that freezes to indicate game, to the tenacious hound tracking by scent, these dogs play crucial roles in traditional hunting. Crossword setters often choose breeds that are widely recognized or have distinctive names, making them good candidates for puzzle answers.
Understanding the different types of hunting dogs—such as gundogs (pointers, setters, retrievers, spaniels), hounds (scent hounds and sighthounds), and terriers (for vermin control)—can greatly assist in solving related clues. For instance, a clue mentioning "game bird dog" might point more towards a Pointer or Setter, whereas "scent tracker" would likely lead to a Beagle or other Hound.
The beauty of crossword clues like "hunting dog" lies in their versatility. A single clue can have multiple correct answers depending on the available letters in the grid. This is why knowing various breeds and general terms (like HOUND or RETRIEVER) is key to confidently filling in those challenging blanks.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Letter Count First: Always match your potential answers to the exact number of letters provided in the grid. This is often the quickest way to narrow down options for "hunting dog" clues.
- Think Beyond Specific Breeds: Sometimes the clue requires a general term like HOUND or RETRIEVER, rather than a specific breed like BEAGLE or LAB. Keep both general and specific terms in mind.
- Look for Contextual Clues: Does the clue mention the dog's action (e.g., "points game," "retrieves fowl," "tracks scent")? This can guide you to a more precise answer, such as POINTER or LAB.
- Check Surrounding Letters: If you have a few letters already filled in from intersecting words, use them to confirm or eliminate potential "hunting dog" answers.
- Broaden Your Canine Knowledge: Familiarize yourself with common dog breeds, especially those historically used for hunting. Many frequently appear in crosswords.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common types of hunting dogs found in crosswords?
Crossword puzzles frequently feature well-known hunting dog breeds or types such as LAB (for Labrador), HOUND, BEAGLE, SETTER, POINTER, and RETRIEVER. These are popular due to their distinct characteristics and common usage.
How can I determine the correct hunting dog answer when multiple fit the clue?
Always prioritize the number of letters required. If multiple answers fit, look for additional context in the clue, such as specific actions (e.g., 'pointing dog' for POINTER) or a more general term (e.g., 'tracking dog' for HOUND).
Are all hunting dogs considered 'hounds'?
No, 'hound' is a specific category of hunting dog, typically known for tracking by scent or sight. Other hunting dog categories include gundogs (like retrievers, pointers, and setters), terriers, and curs, each with different hunting roles and characteristics.