If you love the outdoors, you will certainly fall head over heels for the mountain cur. This dog is a working dog through and through and was bred to hunt small game and track large prey.
While their prey drive is still influential today, mountain curs are also excellent companions and family dogs. They are intelligent, alert, and loyal to their family and pack. If you are looking for an adventurous and hunting dog to join you on all your outdoor escapades, then the mountain cur is the perfect dog for you!
Origin and History:
The mountain cur is a very old breed that has been around for centuries. They are believed to have originated in the Appalachian Mountains region of the United States, where settlers originally bred them to help with hunting and tracking.
Mountain curs are thought to be descended from various other hunting and working Cur dog breeds, including the Black Mouth Cur, Catahoula Leopard Dog, and Australian Cattle Dog.
Due to their versatile skillset and hardworking nature, mountain curs were used for various farm and field tasks. They were (and still are) excellent hunting dogs, able to track and take down prey of all sizes. They were also used as herd dogs and watchdogs, as well as for ratting and pest control.
The mountain cur continued to be a popular breed throughout the years and was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1998. This breed was also assigned to American Kennel Club Foundation Stock Service group in 2017. They are still used for hunting and working but also make great companion dogs for active families.
Breed Characteristics & Traits:
Mountain curs are solid and athletic dogs bred for hunting and working. They are some of the most versatile and hardworking dogs around! They are highly intelligent and easily trainable, making them excel in various roles.
Mountain Cur. Appearance:
Mountain curs are medium to large-sized dogs with a muscular and athletic build. Their head is broad, and their ears are set high on their head. They have a long, thick tail that is often carried low when relaxed.
The weight of a mountain cur varies depending on their sex, with males typically weighing between 50 and 70 pounds and females between 30 and 60 pounds. The height of a mountain cur also varies depending on their sex, with males typically measuring between 18 and 26 inches tall and females between 16 and 24 inches tall.
Their fur is short to medium in length and can be a variety of colors, including black, brown, red, brindle, fawn, and yellow. Their coat is generally thick and coarse, which helps protect them from the elements when they are working or hunting.
Mountain Cur. Temperament and Behavior:
The Mountain Cur is an even-tempered dog loyal and protective of its family. It is a working dog that is happiest when it has a job to do. The Mountain Cur is an excellent hunter and will track game for miles. It is also a good watchdog and will bark to alert its owners of strangers or intruders.
The Mountain Cur can be a good choice for families with small children as it is tolerant and patient with kids. They tend to be reserved around strangers and may be suspicious of unfamiliar dogs. Some Mountain Curs may also be prone to chasing small animals.
As with all dogs, early socialization is important for the Mountain Cur. This will help them become accustomed to new people and situations and make them more well-rounded dogs.
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Mountain Cur Training:
The Mountain Cur is an easily trainable, highly intelligent, and active breed. They respond well to positive reinforcement training methods and are quick learners. However, their high prey drive may need extra training to avoid chasing small animals. When training your Mountain Cur, be patient and consistent for the best results.
Mountain curs make great hunting dogs and can be trained to track and take down prey of all sizes. They can also be trained to herd livestock and act as watchdogs. Mountain curs are versatile dogs that can excel in a variety of roles. With the proper training, they make great companion dogs for active families.
Mountain Cur. Exercise:
The Mountain Cur is a high-energy dog that needs plenty of exercise. They enjoy being active and working and make great hiking and camping companions. A daily walk or dog sports will help to keep your Mountain Cur happy and healthy. Because of their high prey drive, Mountain Curs may chase small animals. Keeping them on a leash or in a fenced area outdoors is important.
The Mountain Cur is not suited for city or apartment living. It does best in a rural setting with plenty of space to run and play. The Mountain Cur needs vigorous daily exercise and should not be left alone for long periods. They make great companion dogs for active families.
Entertainment for your Mountain Cur:
Your mountain cur puppy may be the party’s life, but did you know there are some great ways to keep them entertained? Here are some ideas:
Get them a climbing tree: A climbing tree is a great way to give your mountain cur dog some exercise and stimulation. It’s also a great way to keep them from getting bored.
Get them a puzzle toy: Puzzle toys are a great way to keep your mountain cur’s mind active. They’ll have to use their problem-solving skills to figure out how to get the toy to work.
Get them a scented toy: Scent toys are a great way to keep your mountain cur’s nose working. They’ll love trying to figure out what the different scents are.
Get them a food toy: Food toys are a great way to keep your mountain cur’s tummy happy. They’ll love getting treats every time they solve the puzzle.
Mountain Cur. Common Health Problems:
The Mountain Cur is a generally healthy breed with few major health concerns. However, like all dogs, they may be prone to health problems. Some of the health problems that have been seen in the Mountain Cur include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and eye problems.
Allergies are also common in dogs, and the Mountain Cur is no exception. They may be allergic to environmental allergens, such as pollen or mold. They may also be allergic to certain foods. If your mountain cur is showing signs of allergies, it is important to talk to your veterinarian so that a proper diagnosis can be made and treatment can be started.
The Mountain Cur can enjoy a long and healthy life with proper care and regular veterinary check-ups.
Mountain Cur Maintenance and Grooming:
The Mountain Cur is a low-maintenance dog breed and grooming Mountain Curs is not challenging. Their coat does not require much grooming and only needs to be brushed occasionally for dead and loose hair. The Mountain Cur is an average shedder and may shed more heavily during the spring and fall.
Mountain Cur puppies are relatively clean dogs and do not have an excessive amount of body odor. They should be bathed only when necessary. Overbathing can strip the natural oils from their coat and skin, which can irritate them.
The Mountain Cur’s nails should be trimmed regularly to prevent them from getting too long. Their ears should also be checked regularly for dirt, debris, or infection. For the best health and hygiene, the Mountain Cur should be groomed on a regular basis.
The Best Dog Food for Mountain Cur:
The best dog food for Mountain Curs is a high-quality, grain-free diet. Mountain Curs are very active dogs and need a diet high in protein to help them maintain their energy levels. Grain-free diets are also easier on the digestive system and can help to prevent allergies.
Mountain Curs do best on a diet of dry kibble or wet food. Wet food can be helpful for dogs that are picky eaters or have trouble chewing dry kibble. For the best health, Mountain Curs should have a diet rich in nutrients and low in fillers.
When choosing dog food for your Mountain Cur, read the label carefully. Avoid foods that are high in fillers and low in nutrients. Choose a food rich in protein and healthy fats and free from artificial preservatives, flavors, and colors.
Dogs similar to Mountain Curling:
- If you’re looking for a other dogs similar to the Mountain Cur, here are a few breeds to consider:
- American Leopard Hound
- Treeing Cur
- Blue Lacy
- Cajun Cur
- Canadian Cur
- Catahoula Cur
These breeds are all similar in size and appearance to the Mountain Cur. They are also all active breeds that need plenty of exercise.
Recommended health tests from the National Breed Club:
Original Mountain Cur Breeders Association is the national breed club for Mountain Curs in the United States. The Original Mountain Cur Breeders Association is dedicated to preserving and protecting the Mountain Cur breed. They offer resources and support for Mountain Cur owners and breeders and promote responsible dog ownership.
The test recommendations for Mountain Curs set out below are minimums. It is strongly recommended that all breeding stock be tested for hip evaluation, elbow evaluation, ophthalmologist evaluation, PRA Optigen DNA Test, EIC DNA test, and degenerative myelopathy DNA test.
Conclusion:
We hope you have enjoyed learning about the Mountain Cur breed. This active and intelligent breed makes a great companion for the right owner. The Mountain Cur can enjoy a long and healthy life with proper care and regular veterinary check-ups.
Please share your thoughts and experiences with us in the comments section below.
