I have seen alot of stories in the paper about people that have lost little ( one flusher dogs ) to coyotes so I guese it makes sence that a small dog that is pretty smart could come in real handy for hunting. a dog that listens good would be the key I bet. The article I reed was in " fish fur & game".It said that in the winter you want a small dog and in the denning season you want a big dog to intimidate a breeding pair with pups. the smaller dog seam to be more effective, becouse the dinner factor how you really get their attention.