January Joy All-Star: Tom Smith

When it comes to squirrel dogs, Tom Smith is one name that comes up all over the map. With multiple championship wins under his belt, and even more with his dogs, Tom is truly what comes to mind when you think of the phrase All-Star! Let’s learn how our first Joy All-Star of 2025 got fueled by Joy!     

Growing up, Tom came from a family with hunting dogs in their veins. His dad was an avid coonhunter, and his family also had beagles and field trial dogs. Tom would go on to serve in the United States Marine Corps. When he got out of the Marines in 1992, he decided he would get back into hunting hounds. 

Tom began squirrel hunting and started competing locally. At the time, the NKC and WTDA were the biggest competition hunts near Tom. He would also eventually compete in USDC and NSD hunts once they became available in his area. While competing in the NKC, Tom won two World Championships. One of the dogs he bred won the USDC World Championship. The last two NSD National Champions were also his. He is also on track to have the first Platinum ranked dog. 
Tom’s favorite part of the sport is the friendships he’s made. “I really like the fellowship of it all,” Tom says. “It’s nice to know no matter where I am, there’s always going to be a squirrel hunter around to help me out.” Tom and his partner Rod Hardy also run a breeding kennel, where they continue to produce champion lines of squirrel and coon hounds.
So whether you're new to squirrel hunting or have been doing it your whole life, remember to feed them like a champion with Joy Dog Food. Check out our website to learn more about Tom’s formula of choice, our High Energy, or see what other formulas we have to suit your dog's needs!