Mountain Cur

Developed in the Appalachian and Ozark regions from the 1700s onward, the Mountain Cur was the frontier’s all-purpose dog—treeing game for the pot, tracking, guarding stock, and protecting property. After numbers dipped mid-20th century, dedicated hunters formed the Original Mountain Cur Breeders Association (OMCBA) in 1957, preserving working type. Today the breed is recognized by U.S. registries (e.g., OMCBA, UKC, NKC) and valued across North America as a versatile hunting and companion dog.

‍

A medium, well-muscled athlete built for speed, agility, and endurance.

• Weight: 30–60 lb (14–27 kg)
• Height: 16–26 in (41–66 cm)
• Coat Type: Short, dense, weather-resistant single coat
• Coat Colors: Brindle, black, yellow, brown, red; often with white points; some lines have merle
• Distinctive Physical Traits: Broad head, strong muzzle, medium drop ears, deep chest, straight or natural bob tail, catlike feet, effortless ground-covering gait

‍

Low maintenance—keep it simple but consistent.

• Brushing: Weekly rubber curry or bristle brush
• Bathing: Every 6–8 weeks or after muddy hunts; rinse off burrs/seed heads
• Ears: Clean/dry weekly (drop ears + field work = moisture/debris risk)
• Nails/Teeth: Trim nails every 3–4 weeks; brush teeth 2–3×/week
• Shedding: Low to moderate; seasonal uptick in spring/fall

‍

A high-drive working dog that needs real outlets daily.

• Daily Exercise: 60–90+ minutes (hikes, trail runs, retrieves, scent work)
• Ideal Activities: Tracking, nose work, long-line “sniffaris,” fetch, canicross, agility/obedience cross-training
• Suitability: Best in homes with access to trails/fields; apartments only with robust exercise and enrichment plans

‍

Smart, biddable, and nose-driven—keep training purposeful and positive.

• Approach: Reward-based methods; short, varied sessions; build engagement around scents
• Focus Areas: Rock-solid recall around wildlife, loose-leash walking, impulse control (“leave it,” door manners), reliable quiet on cue
• Socialization: Early exposure to people/dogs/environments; cooperative care (ears, paws, mouth)
• Management: Use long lines/fencing until recall is proofed; provide chew/outlet options on rest days

‍

Fuel the athlete; keep lean for joint health and stamina.

• Food Type: High-quality performance kibble or balanced fresh diet for active medium breeds
• Daily Quantity: ~2–4 cups total, split into two meals (adjust to age/workload)
• Diet Advice: Prioritize animal protein; add omega-3s (EPA/DHA) for skin/joints; avoid heavy exercise 60–90 min before/after meals

‍

Look for transparent, work-tested lines—or consider rescue.

• Breeders: Seek OMCBA/UKC/NKC-registered preservation breeders who health-test breeding stock and provide lifetime take-back
• Adoption: Cur/coonhound rescues and hunting-dog rehoming networks
• Canadian Resources: While not CKC-recognized, Canadian owners often work with reputable U.S. breeders; connect via scent-work/field clubs in ON/BC/QC/AB for training days and referral

‍

Generally hardy; routine screening and field care matter.

• Common Issues: Hip dysplasia, ear infections (moisture/debris), occasional allergies/skin nicks from brush, eye irritation from seeds
• Working Risks: Cuts/foxtails, tick-borne disease—use prevention and post-hunt checks
• Life Expectancy: 12–16 years
• Recommended Testing: Hips (OFA/FCI); ophthalmologist exams (CAER) as advised; regular ear/skin checks for working dogs

‍

Are Mountain Curs good family dogs?
Yes—devoted and affectionate in active homes that provide training, structure, and daily exercise.

Do Mountain Curs bark a lot?
They’re vocal when treeing/alerting. Teach a reliable “quiet” and give scent outlets.

Do Mountain Curs shed?
Low to moderate; weekly brushing controls hair and dander.

Are Mountain Curs hypoallergenic?
No.

How much exercise does a Mountain Cur need?
Plan for 60–90+ minutes daily—hikes, runs, scent work, and training games.

Can Mountain Curs live in apartments?
Possible for very active owners with enrichment and bark management; easier with access to trails/fields.

Mountain Cur vs Black Mouth Cur—what’s different?
Both are American cur breeds; Mountain Curs tend to be slightly smaller and more treeing-oriented, while Black Mouth Curs often skew to stock/versatile farm work. Lines vary—meet breeders’ dogs.

Are they good with cats and small pets?
Prey drive varies—introduce carefully and supervise; management is key.

‍