What makes the Mountain Cur Unique?
The Mountain Cur is intelligent, easily trained, and neither vicious nor shy. This is not a submissive, easygoing dog. With the toughness and courage to confront a very angry, very large cat, these curs have learned to be decisive and dauntless. They are known to always try to please their masters. They are not however dogs to be trifled with, historically many a cur died fighting to protect their family from attackers or dangerous predators. Usually silent on the trail, they make consistent guard dogs but certainly are not ideal for suburbia, where there is no call to work. Trailing ability varies with strains, but they have enough nose to follow game and many carry treeing ability. These curs were bred to work, and if deprived of the opportunity to hunt, guard, or work around a farm they will grow anxious and bored. When they have a job to do, these dogs are generally happy and obedient, and are able to get along well with children and other pets.
Breed Groups
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| Size: | Males – 46 to 66 cm (18 to 26 inches) Females – 46 to 66 cm (18 to 26 inches) |
| Weight: | Males – 16 to 29 kg (30 to 60 pounds) Females – 16 to 29 kg (30 to 60 pounds) |
| Origin: | America, Europe |
| Life Span: | 12 – 16 Years |
| Colour: | Black (with or without tan or brindle points); blue; brindle; brown; red; yellow; blonde or buttermilk buckskin |
| Litter Size: | 3 to 8 puppies |
Is the Mountain Cur Right For You?
Mountain Curs are very tough and decisive dogs. This breed was expressly developed to be hunters that will not be intimidated by large ferocious game.Very protective of the property and family and without an owner who is more dominant than themselves they can become over protective. The Mountain Cur is noted for his courage. This hunting dog will catch a mad bull head-on in the nose and will hold his ground even against a bear when threatened. The objective in training this dog is to achieve pack leader status. It is a natural instinct for a dog to have an order in its pack. When we humans live there dog, we become their pack. The entire pack cooperates under a single leader. Lines are clearly defined and rules are set. This breed does well with children as long as they are properly exercised. This breed enjoys hunting and wide open spaces. Be sure to have plenty of room to keep this dog happy.
In 5 Words
- Courageous
- Energetic
- Protective
- Outdoorsy
- Intelligent
Characteristics
Learn About the Mountain Cur
Description
General Description
The Mountain Cur is bred for its working ability. It is a stocky, rugged, working dog with a genuine, though somewhat generic, Cur appearance. The heavy coat tends to be longer than that of the hounds, but still basically short. It is smooth or rough with a soft, fine undercoat. Colors include, yellow, brindle, black, brindle and black, often with white points. Breeders proudly report that 50% or more of puppies are born with bobtails. Many are born with dewclaws on their hind feet and some with two on each foot. Very stocky, wide and muscular with a strong, wide head and a short, higher set ear. The neck is strong and muscular. The eyes are usually dark with a prominent, expressive expression. The head is dome flat and wide between the eyes. The muzzle is heavy. The ears are short to medium, set high with control. The catlike feet are strong and well-muscled, set for speed. The straight legs are muscular. The chest is deep and the back is straight.
Mountain curs are short-coated dogs which come in blue, yellow, brown, or brindle coloration. Some individuals will also show white markings on the face or chest.
Short History of the Mountain Cur
Mountain Curs originated in the mountains of Kentucky, Virginia and Tennessee, but you can find different “Cur” types throughout the country. Dependable and hardy, they were used by pioneers to herd cattle, hunt wild boar and guard property. Though no one knows their exact lineage, Mountain Curs are believed to descend from European Cur-type dogs brought to the U.S. by immigrants.
Temperament
Curs are highly possessive and protective of their family‑‑a trait unusual in hounds, but seen often in terriers and shepherds. They can make excellent protection dogs, therefore, except that they are not suited to life as a pet. The Mountain Cur is not a submissive, easygoing pet, but rather a fierce and courageous hunting dog.
Caring for Your Mountain Cur
General Health
No hereditary diseases are known. Well cared for, the Mountain Cur can live from 12 to 16 years.
Care
The Mountain Cur is a low maintenance breed. This is a working breed. Rather than for the appearance, these dogs are valued for their working abilities. Moreover, Mountain Curs are short haired dogs. Brushing the coat occasionally would ensure that the good condition of the hair and the skin is maintained. Brushing will also remove dead hair. Frequent bathing is not recommended as it will remove the natural oils that moisturize the skin. Dry skin can result to skin problems. However, nail clipping and ear cleaning must be done regularly.It is necessary to brush the Mountain Cur’s short coat only once a week or so to remove dead hair. Always keep the ear canal free of excess hair, and keep the toenails clipped. Water can dry out the skin, so bathe only when necessary.
Grooming & Bathing
Very little grooming is required for the Mountain Cur. Its coat is short and doesn’t shed heavily during shedding season. The coat just needs a brushing and/or washing a couple of times each week. The skin tends to be easily irritated, so washing should be with a gentle shampoo.he short hair of the Original Mountain Cur is easy to groom. Occasionally comb and brush to remove dead and loose hair. Bathe only when necessary as bathing can dry out the skin, causing skin problems. Keep the ear canal free of excess hair and the toenails clipped.
Exercise & Training
Outdoor physical activity is the best form of exercise for this breed. It has a high energy level and has the endurance to handle just about any type of exercise regimen. If it’s not been worked in this way, it needs a couple of hours of exercise per day and benefits from a big yard. This breed enjoys outdoor activities and sports.
Mountain Cur Picture Gallery
