The Alberta government’s decision to allow hunters to use dogs for black bear hunting as part of caribou conservation efforts has sparked controversy. Although the government claims it will aid in predator management for caribou recovery, wildlife biologists remain skeptical.
Last year, the province, led by Forestry and Parks Minister Todd Loewen, introduced the regulation change, which received both backlash from wildlife advocates and support from hunters. The decision to reinstate the practice this year has led to public calls for the hunt to be revoked and a campaign to show solidarity with the hunt.
According to the Alberta Guide to Hunting Regulations for this year, the use of dogs in hunting aims to support predator management in areas of concern for caribou recovery. However, former provincial caribou manager Dave Hervieux, who served for over four decades before retiring in 2024, disputes the notion that hunting black bears with dogs will benefit caribou conservation efforts. Hervieux points out that many wildlife management units where this practice is allowed lack caribou range and historical caribou presence.
While the provincial government has successfully controlled wolf populations to protect caribou, Hervieux emphasizes that targeting black bears with dogs is not scientifically supported for aiding caribou conservation. University of Alberta ecology professor Mark Boyce also echoes these concerns, highlighting the minimal impact of black bear predation on caribou and the potential risks associated with using dogs to hunt bears, especially in grizzly bear habitats.
The government defends its decision, stating that hunting regulations are based on wildlife data and scientific information. Despite referring to caribou conservation as a primary reason for allowing dog-assisted bear hunting, the province labels it a secondary benefit. The government argues that reducing black bear populations can alleviate predation pressure on caribou calves, contributing to improved calf survival and supporting caribou recovery efforts.
Last year, hunters harvested 2,431 black bears in Alberta. The government emphasizes that managing predation on caribou is a priority, and providing additional hunting opportunities for black bears in specific areas will aid in caribou recovery and complement existing predator management strategies.
The use of dogs for black bear hunting is allowed in certain U.S. states, British Columbia, and Ontario, along with Alberta. The practice is limited to September and October in Alberta to avoid overlapping with caribou calving periods in the spring. It is permitted only in areas where bait use for black bear hunting is prohibited. Additionally, dogs can also be used for hunting cougars and game birds in Alberta.
