The Mountain Cur is a solid addition to many homes since it is bright, industrious, and loyal. They adore the great outdoors and are the ideal dog for people who like being active and exploring nature. They aren't for everyone, though, because of their demand for physical activity and their inclination to be reticent among strangers. Learn more about this adorable and little-known dog breed.
Breed Overview
GROUP: (United Kennel Club); Foundation Stock Service (American Kennel Club)
HEIGHT: 16 - 26 inches
WEIGHT: 30-60 pounds
COAT: Short
COAT COLOR: Black, Blue, Brindle, Brown, Red, Yellow; Either a solid color or with white markings, tan markings, or brindle points
LIFE EXPECTANCY: 10–13 years
TEMPERAMENT: Intelligent, courageous, active, companionable, lively, loyal
HYPOALLERGENIC: No
ORIGIN: Europe
Characteristics of the Mountain Cur
Mountain Curs have an active and adventurous personality, making them an excellent dog for people who are always on the go. They were originally developed for hunting, and they thrive when given a "work" or mission to do. They're loving, low-key, and surprisingly uncommon, despite their lovely nature.
| Affection Level | Medium |
| Friendliness | Medium |
| Kid-Friendly | Medium |
| Pet-Friendly | Low |
| Exercise Needs | High |
| Playfulness | Medium |
| Energy Level | High |
| Trainability | Medium |
| Intelligence | High |
| Tendency to Bark | High |
| Amount of Shedding | Medium |
History of the Mountain Cur
Mountain Curs were an important component of a frontier family in the early days of European settlement of North America, especially for those residing in the more mountainous portions of the countryside. They were originally used to hunt small game like rabbits and squirrels, but have now shown to be useful in hunting larger species like wild boar (as well as being an all-purpose farm dog).
The genuine heritage of the Mountain Cur was less essential to these early settlers than the breed's ability to hunt. As a result, nothing is known about the original origins of the breed. The Mountain Cur was originally recognized as a breed in 1957 when the Original Mountain Cur Breeders of America was created. The Mountain Cur was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1998, and while it is a member of the American Kennel Club's Foundation Stock Group, it is not eligible for AKC registration.
Mountain Cur Care
Mountain Curs desire to please their owners and are protective of them. The Mountain Cur might be reticent with strangers because to its protective personality and great loyalty. They are, however, just as sociable with strangers as they are with their family after they have warmed up to them. Mountain Curs have a strong prey drive since they are ardent hunters, therefore they may not be suited for households with other small pets or children.
Exercise
Mountain Curs require regular strenuous activity to preserve their physical and mental health. Aim for at least an hour (or more) of vigorous play every day for your pet, such as jogging, hiking, swimming, or fetch. Outdoor activities like hunting may also give a good balance of stimulus if your dog is properly taught in such situations.
Grooming
Mountain Curses have a short fur coat. They shed a small quantity all year, but the most in the spring and fall. They should be washed and brushed on a regular basis, especially if they spend a lot of time outside.
A Mountain Cur's nails should be clipped at least once a month. A shattered nail can cause your dog discomfort as well as a bloody mess in your home. Mountain Cur's nails should be kept short to prevent them from breaking on anything in your home or outside.
Furthermore, regular oral hygiene might aid in the prevention of dental disease. Even if you can't brush your Mountain Cur's teeth every day, cleaning them every other day or a few times a week can help maintain his teeth clean and healthy. Giving your Mountain Cur something for will help keep them from destroying your furniture, but be mindful that hard rubber or plastic chew toys, antlers, or hooves can cause your dog to break a tooth. Give them to your dog only if you can keep an eye on them.
Training
Mountain Curs require constant mental stimulation since they are very clever. This can be accomplished through a profession or duty, such as assisting hunters on their quest for small game, household or agricultural duties, or even puzzle toys and feeders. Because they are intelligent but also obstinate, their trainability varies from dog to dog. They can, however, be properly trained and socialized.
Common Health Problems
The Mountain Cur is generally a healthy dog breed. That being said, there are some issues that seem to occur more frequently with them.
- Mountain Curs can be prone to skin infections and irritations as well as . Keeping their skin and coat clean and using any commercially available ear cleaner can help keep skin issues at bay. Fish oil supplements can also prevent skin irritation from dry skin and can be especially important if you spend a lot of time with your dog outdoors in a cold environment.
- As a Mountain Cur ages, they may start to exhibit signs of or arthritis. Starting your Mountain Cur on a glucosamine chondroitin supplement can help keep their joints happy and healthy.
Diet and Nutrition
Mountain Curs have a greater calorie need than other dog breeds due to their high activity level. If you're feeding a commercial dog food, be sure it's appropriate for your dog's age. Only 'Growth, Adult Maintenance, Gestation/Lactation, and All Life Stages' are recognized by AAFCO, the regulating organization that governs all commercial pet food.
An adult Mountain Cur will require around 2 cups of food each day. This should be divided into at least two meals each day for improved digestion. If you're worried about overfeeding your dog, your veterinarian can help you figure out how many calories he or she need each day.
Where to Adopt of Buy a Mountain Cur
Look for Mountain Curs in need of a nice, active home through your local animal shelter, rescue groups, and veterinarian. You may also look for respectable breeders near you on the website of the Original Mountain Cur Breeders Association. If you want to buy a Mountain Cur, you should anticipate to pay between $500 and $1000.
Mountain Cur Overview
Loyal and dependable
A hardworking watchdog
A loving family companion
Requires daily exercise and activity
Reserved with strangers
May not be good around small pets or children
More Dog Breeds and Further Research
It's critical to complete your homework before bringing a Mountain Cur into your household. Consult other Mountain Cur owners, as well as respected breeders, to see if your lifestyle and/or living conditions are suited for one.
If you're interested in similar breeds, check out:
- American Leopard Hound Breed Profile
There are a variety of out there. With the right research, you can select the one that is perfect for your family.
