You need an Original Mountain Cur. Sharpest dogs around in my opinion. They will stay fairly close to you in the woods and will stay loyal. They look up a lot and use their eyes and ears and brains, not just their nose. They will get after varmints like nothing else, too. Great squirrel and coon dogs, and also good bay dogs and guardians. About 30-45 pounds usually. Males make good natured dogs that love their territory and families. My male has even pointed and flushed quail for me. Great dogs, especially great all-around dogs. They will do pretty much whatever you want to teach them to do. They will figure it out, but it seems most nowadays are bred heavy for squirrel/coon dogs or hog dogs.