Hunting in Washington: Regulations for Hunting With Dogs

While hunting enthusiasts in some states benefit from the use of hunting dogs to chase or retrieve game, hunters in Washington face strict regulations when hunting with dogs. Permitted uses for dog hunting are primarily when upland bird hunting, with a few species exceptions.

Other than that, hunters should keep their animals at home when taking game in order to avoid violating state hunting regulations.

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Here are Washington's regulations regarding the use of hunting dogs:

While coyote hunting is legal year-round, the use of dogs is not. Hunting or pursuing coyotes, at any time of year, with dogs is considered illegal. Other species that cannot be hunted with dogs include bear, bobcat, and turkey.

Using dogs to hunt cougar is also illegal, except in the case of taking cougar under the authorization and guidance of the state Fish and Wildlife Commission.

Dogs can be used to raccoon hunt, but not during the months of October or November, which is traditional firearm season for elk and deer. Dogs in the field are not permitted to chase injured deer or elk. Hunters taking rabbit or hare are permitted to use dogs without limitation.

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Failure to follow the state guidelines on dog hunting, particularly in regards to bear, lynx, cougar, or bobcat, will result in the forfeiture of hunting license. Subsequent violations can result in charges and the possible lifetime loss of a Washington hunting license.

Dogs are not permitted to roam unattended and must be supervised at all times. From April to July all dogs must be leashed on state forestlands as this is nesting time for many species.

Upland bird hunters can use and train their dogs at limited times throughout the year. Bird dog training season traditionally takes place from the beginning of August until the end of March.

Some regions in the state permit year-round training during limited hours, but hunters are advised to check with the Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission annually as areas and times are subject to change. During training, hunters must possess a Washington small game hunting license.

This article is for information only. Please check current regulations before hunting.

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