Earth (Den) Hunting (Grythund)
Earth (Den) Hunting with Terriers (for Fox and Badger)
General information
Earth hunting, also called den hunting, is a traditional and demanding hunting method where small, brave, and independent dogs are used to locate and hold foxes or badgers in their dens.
The goal is to find and hold the animal underground until the hunter can safely and humanely bring the hunt to an end.
This form of hunting requires experience, caution, and close cooperation between the hunter and the dog.
The dog must work independently in dark, narrow underground tunnels, showing courage, persistence, and control, yet always remain obedient and responsive to its handler.
Earth hunting is most often practiced in autumn and winter, when foxes and badgers occupy their dens. Modern hunters use tracking collars (peils) to follow the dog’s movements underground.
How the hunt is conducted
The hunt begins as the hunter and dog search for active dens in suitable terrain such as stone piles, root systems, sandy slopes, or burrows in forested hills.
When the dog detects scent or movement indicating a fox or badger inside, it is released to enter the den.
The dog works using scent, hearing, and barking, moving through the tunnels to locate and confront the animal.
Once contact is made, the dog should bark continuously (known as “stand barking” or “baying”) to mark the animal’s location and keep it stationary without physical contact.
The main goal of this hunting method is to encourage the fox or badger to leave the den voluntarily, allowing the hunter to take a safe and accurate shot above ground.
If the animal refuses to leave and cannot be dispatched safely on the surface, it may, in rare cases, be necessary to dig out the den to access and humanely kill the animal.
Digging is always a last resort, and must be done carefully, efficiently, and with full concern for both the dog’s and the animal’s welfare.
- The first attempt should always be to wait or encourage the animal to leave the den.
- Digging should only occur when it is the only ethical way to end the hunt.
- It must be done by experienced hunters, ensuring safety for the dog and a quick, humane kill.
Suitable dog breeds
Only small, strong, and mentally stable terriers are suitable for den work.
The most common breeds include:
- German Jagdterrier – fearless, determined, and tireless.
- Jack Russell Terrier – quick, bold, and agile, but requires good obedience.
- Border Terrier – calm and cooperative, with a strong hunting instinct.
- Fox Terrier (Smooth or Wire-haired) – classic working terrier with long experience in den hunting.
- Patterdale Terrier and Norwegian Grå Terrier are also occasionally used.
All these breeds share the same traits: courage, determination, independence, and strong prey drive.
The dog’s work
A good earth dog should:
- Be fearless but not aggressive.
- Bark continuously (“stand barking”) to mark the animal’s position.
- Maintain contact with the hunter through barking or tracking device.
- Be obedient and willing to recall on command.
- Have good stamina and endurance.
Training is often carried out in artificial dens (training tunnels) where the dog learns to work correctly and safely, without unnecessary sharpness or aggression.
Terrain and hunting grounds
Foxes and badgers usually dig their dens in dry, sandy, or slightly hilly terrain, often near forested slopes, stone piles, or meadows.
The hunting ground should be quiet and provide good visibility for the shooter above ground.
Firearms and ammunition
- Firearm class: Rifle, Class 3–4, or shotgun, depending on the situation.
- Shooting distance: Very short, always at a safe angle and only when the dog is out of harm’s way.
- The shot must never be taken if the dog is close to the animal or still inside the den.
Ethics and safety
Earth hunting places high ethical and safety demands on the hunter.
The dog’s safety is the top priority at all times.
If digging becomes necessary, it must be done carefully and as quickly as possible, ensuring:
- The dog is kept safe and monitored constantly.
- The animal is dispatched swiftly and humanely once exposed.
- If there is any risk of injury to the dog or hunter, the digging must be stopped immediately.
All den hunting must be carried out with respect for both the dog and the quarry.
The hunt must never cause unnecessary suffering.