The CHA recognises that the future of hunting depends on public perception and therefore on the good conduct of the hunts themselves.

Monitors are appointed to undertake Kennel Visits on a regular cycle. Under consideration are matters to do with the welfare and safety of all the hunting dogs, horses and hunt staff, as well as best practice in kennels. If any report reveals sub-standard practice the CHA ensures appropriate remedial action and additional monitoring. All reports are promptly forwarded to the Independent Supervisory Authority for Hunting (ISAH). The aim is to ensure effective and transparent self-regulation. Under the auspices of ISAH conservation and wildlife monitoring is also carried out by individual hunts and is recorded and analysed by The Wildlife Conservation Research Unit at Oxford University.

The Council is organised through a Chairman Stephen Lambert) and a secretary-cum-treasurer (Brian Fanshawe). The CHA meets regularly and can assemble efficiently at short notice. Representatives from each of the 11 Hunting Associations and senior members of the Countryside Alliance attend.

The CHA's objectives are to ensure:

The CHA stands as a central point of contact for the Independent Supervisory Authority for Hunting (ISAH) and works in close conjunction with the Countryside Alliance.

The Council of Hunting Associations (CHA) was founded in 2001 in order to promote and protect the interests of those who hunt with dogs.

It maintains a watching brief over all issues involving hunting with dogs and represents the 11 Hunting Associations.