Mountain Cur

Breed Origin

Supporters of the Mountain Cur take great pride in calling it the ultimate All-American pioneer dog. This breed was essential for families on the frontier, serving both as a guardian and a hunting partner. As families began to settle in the Southern Mountains, the Mountain Cur became an indispensable ally, especially until the 1940s, when it was widely used to track and corner wild game, ensuring a reliable food source. Some researchers propose that the Mountain Cur emerged from a mix of terrier-type Curs brought by European settlers and local native Curs. These early Mountain Curs quickly adapted to the rigors of pioneer life, and even Native Americans kept this breed alongside their own version, the Indian Cur. The Ohio River Valley is thought to have housed the largest concentration of Curs. The breed gained significant attention with the release of the book “Old Yeller,” in which the author portrayed the main character as a typical Mountain Cur, skilled in hunting and fearless in the face of larger predators. Although the breed's name was not specifically mentioned, the description accurately captures its role among pioneers and its physical traits. Unfortunately, the lineage of the Mountain Cur remains poorly documented, as many pioneers did not prioritize keeping written records. In the 1950s, a passionate group of individuals united to preserve the Mountain Cur breed, which was experiencing a swift decline and was on the brink of extinction. This effort led to the formation of the Original Mountain Cur Breeders’ Association and the Kemmer Stock Breeders’ Association Registry, both aimed at ensuring the breed's survival. Recently, the Mountain Cur has begun to be categorized into distinct types, such as the Treeing Tennessee Brindle, the Stephens Stock, and the Mountain View Cur. Enthusiasts of these variations are actively pursuing recognition for each as a separate breed, complete with their own registration organizations. In 2017, the American Kennel Club (AKC) included the Mountain Cur in its Foundation Stock Service, marking a pivotal advancement in the breed's conservation.

Care Routine

Grooming the Mountain Cur is typically uncomplicated, aside from the seasonal shedding that happens once or twice annually. To manage any loose or dead hair, you can use a natural bristle brush, a soft slicker brush, or a hound mitt. Regular weekly brushing will help keep his coat and skin healthy and shiny. It's advisable to limit baths to just a few times a year, as excessive washing can cause dry skin or dandruff; when you do bathe him, opt for a gentle shampoo and rinse thoroughly with clean, warm water. This breed is not hypoallergenic and tends to drool less than other hound breeds, thanks to its tighter lips. Given the structure of his ears, it's essential to inspect and clean them weekly to prevent any unpleasant odors or infections. If he is active and navigating rough terrain, his toenails will naturally wear down, but it's still a good idea to check them every few weeks to ensure they are properly trimmed, including the dewclaws.

Play & Exercise