When to Call a Blood Tracking Dog

The single biggest mistake hunters make is tracking an animal too soon.

If you are unsure about the hit, stop and call before taking up the trail. Waiting the proper amount of time greatly improves recovery odds, while pushing a wounded deer decreases them.

Two hunters and a hunting dog kneel beside a large dead deer with antlers in a grassy field, with trees displaying fall foliage in the background.

When to Call

  • Unsure about the hit

  • Blood is absent, minimal or inconsistent

  • Hit behind the diaphragm (liver / stomach / intestine)

  • Deer hunches at the shot and/or slowly walks away

  • Anytime you want the best tracker down the line first

  • If you need advice on a shot and not sure what to do next

Do not continue tracking if unsure. Call first.

Black and white illustration of a dog's face with long ears and floppy jowls, in a geometric background.
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