A breakfast date with a pack of trail hunting hounds

Dogs with jobs pays an early morning visit to the Hursley Hambledon pack of English Foxhounds in their lodges.

Amid the early morning excitement of the pack, Kennel huntsman Keiran gives an insight into pack life. He explains that there's no a particular "top dog" among the boys. The social hierarchy is more complex and changeable among the girls. Surprisingly, the individual canine most "in charge" is not a foxhound at all - but a pint-sized terrier called Poppy.

With at least one, occasionally two litters a year, scenting talent and knowhow is passed down the generations within the pack over time, as older hounds retire and the youngsters join. Kieran's affection for the hounds is evident. When pressed, he admits to having a favourite, who will live with him as a pet once she retires. 

Connected episodes

• Bloodlines and breeding: the breeding of hounds for a trail hunting pack

• Meet Debit and Dervish, the hunting hound puppies

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