I had a high dollar,honest cat strike dog stolen last year.This was one of the best dogs I have ever owned,or hunted.She was stolen off a track as it crossed the road.
I decided to freeze brand all my dogs.With the cost of a good iron,dope,and liquid nitrogen,It cost me about 200$.
The Iron cost 125$ and will last forever.So the 75$ it cost me to brand 8 dogs is pretty cheap Ins.
I know guys will say "just chip your dogs".The problem with that is a chip is hidden,and can only be read by a shelter ,or vet.Dog theives are no good no account cowards,and will not steal a dog that is branded.
I will brand ever dog I own from now on.