Hunting with dogs is permitted in New York state, providing an enjoyable hunting experience when done responsibly. This page outlines key regulations and best practices for dog hunting in New York.
Important Regulation Resources
Hunting with Dogs Regulations in New York:
Certain rules apply in New York while using dogs to hunt small game:
Hunting Small Game in General:
With the exception of wild turkey in the spring, dogs are allowed to hunt small game.
Limitations in the Northern Zone:
When hunting coyotes in the Northern Zone with a dog, hunters are not allowed to own a weapon bigger than a rim-fire rifle chambered in.22 caliber or a shotgun filled with buckshot, slug, or ball ammunition. Except for coyotes, crossbows are not allowed while hunting small game with a dog.
Training Times:
Raccoon, fox, coyote, and bobcat training is allowed from July 1 to April 15. The only time you may train on other tiny games is from August 15 to April 15. Training is allowed anytime on privately owned, leased, or authorized territory, provided that no wild game is involved. With the exception of open seasons, blank ammo is the only kind permitted for use in dog training.
Control and Safety Procedures:
The hunter or trainer should always be in charge of hunting dogs, particularly in deer-populated regions. Shooting dogs is not permitted at all. Reporting any stray dogs should be done to the local animal control officer or environmental conservation officer.
Permissions and Access
- Hunters must acquire permission from all landowners in areas they plan to hunt before releasing dogs.
- It is illegal to release dogs onto posted private land without permission.
- Dogs cannot trespass while deer hunting.
- For small game, dogs actively hunting under control are not considered “at large”.
Responsible Hunting
While enabling dynamic hunts, using dogs also comes with ethical responsibilities:
- Dogs often range further than hunters can see. Avoid unintended trespass.
- Use tracking devices to monitor dog location.
- Traveling dogs like coyote and fox can cross many properties. Get permission anywhere they may go.
As ambassadors for the hunting community during every hunt, hunters should:
- Uphold highest respect for natural resources and other public land users.
- Treat private lands and property owners with utmost courtesy.
- Promote sustainability by participating in surveys and harvest reporting.
Additional Regulations
- Hunters must carry appropriate small game licenses for species being hunted.
- Limits and seasons apply as normal for hunted species.
- Wanton waste regulations must be followed for harvested animals.
- Other general hunting rules and hunter orange requirements apply.
Adhering to dog hunting laws and ethical hunting practices ensures rewarding, sustainable hunts that respect lands, resources, and fellow citizens. Responsible hunters serve as stewards of game species and ambassadors for the hunting tradition.
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