Analysis of the efficiency and cooperation of hunting dogs in driven hunts of game animals: a study of their ability with a focus on the efficiency of hunting dogs in drives, their cooperation and the incidence of aggression of wild boar towards hunting dogs.
In recent times, the surge in the deployment of hunting dogs for driven hunts has become a conspicuous phenomenon, reflective of evolving hunting practices. The effectiveness of this method is undeniable, yet it accentuates the imperative need for hunting dogs that not only possess well-honed skills but are also trained to a high standard. The intricacies of this hunting approach extend beyond individual canine capabilities; they involve a nuanced assessment of the collective performance of hunting packs and their ability to navigate and cover the drive during dynamic hunts. As the discourse on the performance of hunting dogs in drive hunts gains momentum, it unveils a research landscape characterized by a scarcity of comprehensive studies, with existing investigations predominantly fixating on the dynamics of the hunted game.
This dissertation embarks on a multifaceted journey, employing cutting-edge GPS technology to meticulously analyze and evaluate the utilization and performance of hunting dogs during driven hunts. The lens of inquiry zooms in on specific attributes intrinsic to hunting dogs, such as their orientation and overall performance, aiming to unravel the intricate ways in which these skills influence the ultimate success, efficiency, and overall effectiveness of driven hunts. The research canvas broadens further to encompass a granular examination of the interaction and collaboration dynamics not only among hunting dogs but also between these dogs and their human counterparts. This comprehensive approach seeks to decode the subtleties of coordination and synchronization between these distinct groups, shedding light on the complex dance between canine instinct and human strategy during hunts.
Another pivotal facet of this PhD study casts a discerning eye on the evolving patterns of wild boar aggression towards hounds. This intricate exploration delves into the behavioral shifts and adaptive strategies employed by wild boars in response to the increasing presence of hunting dogs, providing valuable insights into the evolving predator-prey dynamics in the context of driven hunts.
These three fundamental areas of focus promise to contribute significant insights to the existing body of knowledge in the realm of hunting with dogs. The dissemination of these research findings is envisaged through a minimum of three scientifically rigorous articles to be published in journals with noteworthy Impact Factors, in strict adherence to the established guidelines governing PhD studies. The synthesis of this extensive research endeavor will not conclude with the publication of scholarly articles but will extend to the formulation of a robust set of recommendations. These recommendations will be tailored to optimize the utilization of hunting dogs in driven hunts, offering specific and actionable guidance for both hunting dog owners and organizers of such hunts. The overarching goal is to delineate strategies that not only maximize the efficiency of hunting dogs but also uphold the fundamental principles of animal welfare, striking a harmonious balance between the pursuit of the hunt and ethical considerations for both the canine participants and the game being pursued.
