Reaching back to the dawn of man, dogs and humans have always been partners on the field when it comes to hunting. Thousands of years ago, ancient man and wolves worked together and shared the kill. Wolves were eventually mated with other breeds to create more able and loyal kinds of hunting dog. More so than their independent wolf fore bearers, today's hunting dogs tend to be satisfied with being their human partner's right hand man, hunting for the sport of the chase and to earn reverence in the eyes of their master.
Experts will point out that human beings have more in common with prey animals, such as deer, than they do with more sensually adept carnivorous animals like wolves and large cats. Our species, though, is blessed with an unusually high intelligence and the ability to adapt to just about any conditions and needs that arise to challenge us. The importance of our partnership with hunting dogs is something of a testament to how well man can put his environment to work for him, developing symbiotic, friendly relations with species more physically capable of hunting than ourselves. Considering our limited sight, hearing and scent abilities, the hunting dog is a vital component to the hunting of certain prey.
One could easily present the argument that the Belgian Tervuren is one of the most capable and versatile of candidates to be considered for a new post as a hunting dog. Thanks to the breed's intelligence and physical capability, they can adapt equally well to scenthound and sighthound work (tracking and killing prey alone or in packs) and gunhound, or retrieval, duties. However, while certainly the breed tends towards obedience, versatility and intelligence, one should consider that Tervurens are an energetic breed that like to run, chase and play at any given opportunity.
Tervurens may tend to get bored and restless if they have to sit in one place for too long. The breed is perfect when the game engages their sense of fun, allowing them to run around in the field, constantly searching and catching, but they can only be expected to get impatient or anxious when the hunt involves sustained periods of inactivity. Of course, as long as the dog is kept consistently engaged in the action, their energy and stamina are astounding. As long as the owner keeps the dog on a healthy diet and gives them the exercise and attention they need, they're almost invariably a happy, strong and dedicated breed.
A significant characteristic of the breed when it comes to hunting; their temperament. They have a lot of personality and tend to form incredibly strong bonds with their owners. Spending hours or days on end in the woods, it would seem preferable to have not just an efficient hunting partner, but a friend to keep company with. As long as they're kept consistently occupied throughout the hunt, the Tervuren is as fine a choice as any when it comes to tracking and catching prey.
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