IN THE NEWS
The debate over hunting with dogs is gaining attention across Virginia and beyond. These news reports, legal cases, and videos highlight the growing concerns of private-property owners, the challenges surrounding Virginia’s current laws, and the broader question of how hunting with dogs can coexist with the rights of landowners.
FEATURED STORIES
Data on Hunting Dogs Shows More Complaints Being Made, but Fewer Violations Alleged
Cardinal News | September 22, 2026
New state data shows complaints about hunting dogs continue to rise, while Virginia lawmakers consider new regulations for hound hunting.
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“The Claw Scraped Across My Chest”: Bear Attack Plays Into Hunting Dog Permit Debate
WDBJ7 | February 27, 2026
A Virginia landowner’s frightening encounter with a bear fleeing hunting dogs illustrates why some property owners are calling for meaningful regulation.
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Retired Army General Sues Sheriff Over a Law That Lets Hunters Onto His Property
Military.com | 2026
A retired Army general’s federal lawsuit challenges how Virginia’s right-to-retrieve law is being interpreted—and whether landowners can truly exclude unwanted hunters from their property.
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PROPERTY RIGHTS & THE LAW
Right to Exclude Trespassers
Pacific Legal Foundation | 2026
Pacific Legal Foundation is representing Virginia landowner Billy Don Farris in a federal lawsuit defending his right to exclude unwanted trespassers from his property.
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Pennsylvania Supreme Court Rules Against Warrantless Searches of Property
Institute for Justice | July 21, 2026
A landmark Pennsylvania decision reinforces a fundamental property-rights principle: private land is not public land, and landowners have a right to exclude unwanted intrusions.
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A HUNTER’S PERSPECTIVE
This One Phrase Will Kill Deer Hunting With Dogs
Carolina Sportsman | August 12, 2026
A longtime dog hunter makes a powerful argument: if hunters want the tradition to survive, they must take responsibility for keeping their dogs off property where they don't have permission.
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WATCH & LISTEN
Hear directly from landowners, hunters, journalists, and others involved in the debate over hunting dogs and private-property rights.
How to Control Hunting Dogs | Whistle Breaking, GPS & Training Collar Demonstration
Virginia's Dog Hunting Heritage, Trespass Traditions