Hog Baying Events in Texas

Hog baying is primarily a sport, though sometimes the technique is used for hunting. Two dogs are released into an arena which contains a wild hog. The dogs must then assist the handlers to hold the hog in one place for a specified period of time (usually 10 to 15 seconds). The dogs will "bay" the hog---bark in its face until it stops running---then the handlers step forward with shields, keeping the hog halted until the clock runs out. A point system determines which team ultimately wins the competition.

  1. Hunt for the Hungry

    • The Hunt for the Hungry donates all the meat to the poor.

      This is an annual event held in Hallettsville, Texas the first weekend in March. The hog baying rules for this contest are different from typical hog baying events in that this competition takes place out in the field, away from judges and spectators. Contestants will hunt wild hogs on open range, shooting the hog while it is being bayed (kept in one place) by one or more dogs. Winners will be determined by the combined weight of the two largest hogs brought in over a 42-hour period. There are cash prizes for the hunters, and the meat is given to local food pantries and missions.

    The Real McCoy

    • Held annually on the third Saturday of June in McCoy, Texas, this hog baying competition offers trophies to the winner in each of six categories. These are puppy bay, young and old bay, one dog bay, two dog bay, highest point dog, and pig scramble. The hogs in this competition are not killed as a part of the contest. Dogs must only bay the hogs, and any biting will cause the dog to lose points or to be disqualified. Entry fee is $15 per dog per entry.

    Texas Shootout

    • Hogs like this one get "bayed" by dogs in the competition.

      A monthly hog baying event, the Texas Shootout is held the last weekend of every month. (If there is a holiday the bay will be held the weekend before.) Events are puppy bay, with an entry fee of $15, old and young bay, entry fee $30, kids' pig chase, free, two dog amateur, $30, two dog pro, entry fee of $50, one dog amateur, $25, and one dog pro, $30. Trophies will be given for first through third place in each division. One and two dog pro categories will receive a trophy plus prize money. As with other baying events, dogs are not allowed to bite the hogs, and the hogs are only to be bayed, not killed, during the competition.