21 Cur Dog Breeds What is Cur Dog? Cur Dog Characteristics Cur Dog Breeds List Cur Hunting Dogs
What is Cur Dog?
The word "cur" is an umbrella term covering a wide range of breeds with similar characteristics. A cur dog is a category of working, hunting, and herding dogs developed in North America, often characterized by short coats, sturdy builds, and high intelligence. While historically used to describe mixed-breed or "low-bred" dogs, modern curs - like the Mountain Cur or Black Mouth Cur are often specialized, versatile working dogs with strong loyalty and high energy. They are generally known to be intelligent, loyal, energetic, and shorthaired, used historically as farm guardians, hog hunters, and treeing dogs.
CUR DOG CHARACTERISTICS
Strong hunting instincts & abilities
All cur dogs have a strong prey drive. They can also be territorial and possessive, so they are best suited for experienced owners. Curs are inclined to roam and explore, which means an escape-proof garden is essential. They are known as "treeing" dogs, meaning they excel at chasing game up trees
High energy
Cur dogs are packed full of energy and need plenty of opportunities for exercise. Stewart recommends at least 60-90 minutes of vigorous exercise each day, including activities such as:
playtime
on and off-leash walking
running alongside a bike
hiking
dog sports
having a job to do
Versatility
These dogs are highly adaptable, often used for both working on farms and acting as family companions
Good work ethic
Stewart noted that cur dogs love to have a job and can get easily bored without enough mental stimulation. If you do not provide enough activities, they will likely come up with their own entertainment, which may involve destructive behaviour!
Physical characteristics
Curs are medium-sized dogs, usually weighing 12-22 kilograms as adults. Their coat is short and dense, often described as water resistant. Common coat colours include black, brown, yellow, brindle and various multi-colour mixes. Most Curs usually have a powerful, athletic build and floppy ears. Their faces tend to be broad, with pronounced cheeks and a robust muzzle.
Temperament
They are known for being exceptionally loyal, protective, brave, and sometimes independent, requiring active owners who can provide daily exercise and mental stimulation.
The Black Mouth Cur is a versatile, short-haired Southern ranch dog known for its intelligence, high energy, and loyalty. Weighing 35-95 lbs, these dogs are highly trainable, affectionate with families, and protective. They require significant daily exercise and space, making them ideal for active owners, but less suitable for apartment living. For people who hunt, no other dog will do. Among this swift hunter's quarry are boar, bear, coon, squirrel and deer. With medium-sized game, the Black Mouth catches and kills it with no questions asked. The black mouth cur, named for a square black muzzle, is a short-haired ranch dog with a sweet personality. Although a black muzzle is a defining feature, not all black mouth curs possess it. Their energy, intelligence, and tenacity make them loyal workers and companions, while their desire to bond with humans makes them great family dogs. They can become territorial, so ensure you socialize your black mouth cur if you have other pets in the house. This dog never retreats. It is also proficient at treeing and baying. During the hunt, trailing is semi-open or silent, with a chop or yodel acceptable on tree or at bay.
Curs rarely trot, even while hunting, going from a walk to a ground-covering sprint. These dogs are avid hunters, yet can also work with cattle. Breeders say a pup will train himself treeing, protecting and/or bunching and penning cattle by six months of age. As relentless and overpowering as this cur appears at work, he is kind and protective with his family. Loyalty and fearlessness are the norm. They have a burning desire to please their master. Good with children, this breed needs an owner who projects a natural authority over the dog. The owner must set rules the dog must follow and stick to them. They must be stern without being harsh, remaining calm and confident. The dog must be convinced he is below humans in the pack order. It is paramount that this dog receives daily mental and physical exercise. Curs that lack in exercise can become high strung and rammy. While this dog excels at having a job, they are equally content living with family members, with plenty of play and adventures. Their joyful personality and playful demeanor bring smiles to their family's faces every day. Although affectionate and family-oriented, black mouth curs can be territorial about food, toys, or people. Their prey drive may lead them to chase or attack small animals like rabbits and squirrels.
The Mountain Cur is a versatile, intelligent, and highly energetic working dog breed, historically used for hunting and treeing game. Weighing 30โ60 pounds, they are loyal, affectionate with family, and protective, making them good, but demanding, family pets that require significant exercise. 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. 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. Some lines are bred for tree dogs and others for baying. This very tough large-game, raccoon and squirrel hunter is willing to face a squealing razorback or an angry wildcat when it is cornered. It has a strong desire to please its master.
Very protective of the property and family; without an owner who is more dominant than itself, it 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. Mountain Curs are smart dogs known for their loyalty, making them exceptional hunting companions. They are high-energy dogs that require ample regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent undesired behaviors from forming. Because of their history as pioneer dogs, Mountain Curs are alert. They can be prone to barking, especially if they think anything is amiss - even if that is just a delivery person approaching your home. Socializing your Mountain Cur puppy early and consistently is important to help your pup learn that new people and experiences do not have to be intimidating. You can entertain this dog with: Tracking games, Hiking, Fetch, Agility training, Hunting.
The Camus Cur is a rare working dog, frequently classified among the 14 types of Cur dog breeds known for their hunting, herding, and guarding skills. As a breed type designed for rugged, rural work, they are loyal and intelligent, but they require high levels of physical and mental activity to stay content. The unusual Camus Cur is one of the newer cur breeds, created by crossing Mexican breeds with the Catahoula Leopard Dog. It belongs to the "cur' group, which are typically intelligent, loyal, and energetic hunting/herding dogs. These dogs are suited for experienced owners due to their high energy and independent, protective nature. Primarily bred for hunting ("treeing" game) and working livestock, making them high-energy and intelligent. They are medium-to-large, athletic, and muscular, typically possessing a short, low-maintenance coat. They are courageous, protective, and loyal to their owners, often acting as excellent watchdogs. Due to their high energy levels, they need significant daily exercise (often 60โ90 minutes) and plenty of space, making them unsuitable for small apartments or inactive lifestyles. They require regular mental stimulation, such as training, to prevent boredom-induced destruction.
Also known as the Catahoula Cur, this intelligent, affectionate, and independent breed originates from Central Louisiana. They were originally used to hunt wild hogs. Catalouha leopard dogs need an experienced owner to manage their assertive and territorial personality traits. This breed comes in a wide range of colours, often with distinctive patterns. The Catahoula Leopard Dog is a versatile, intelligent, and energetic working breed originating from Louisiana. Known for their striking coat patterns (leopard-like spots) and often blue or glass eyes, they are medium-large, muscular dogs (40โ95 lbs). They are loyal family companions but require firm training, extensive exercise, and early socialization due to their independent and protective nature. The Louisiana Catahoula Leopard Dog is independent, protective and territorial. Loving with its family and all people it knows well but can be reserved with strangers (this would include strange children).
Socialize well, preferably at a young age. They need to be allowed to come up and smell a person. They mature right around 2 years of age. Affectionate with his master. The Catahoula is not recommended for an owner who does not take the pack leader issue seriously. These dogs tend to be serious about their work, whether it be farm work or hunting and companionable with their family. They require a pet parent who is firm and consistent with training and who can provide them with lots of exercise. Catahoula leopard dogs generally have an energetic and alert temperament. And with their family they have fairly affectionate and playful personalities. They can be aloof around strangers, but they are not aggressive toward people. They do not always get along with other household pets, including dogs, due to their territorial nature and prey drive.
Male Catahoulas can be aggressive when they are around other male dogs, thanks to their working instinct. But they sometimes can coexist with dogs when raised together from a young age. Though they have a low tendency to bark, these dogs will bark to alert you, and some are more vocal than others. Catahoula leopard dogs need lots of exercise to be happy and healthy. They also require consistent training and socialization from an early age. Fortunately, their grooming needs are fairly straightforward. Catahoula leopard dogs are high-energy herding dogs, so they need both ample exercise and mental stimulation to be content and well-behaved at home. They're prone to becoming destructive if they don't get their energy out in a constructive manner.
The American Leopard Hound is an energetic, intelligent, and versatile hunting dog breed, often used for treeing game like raccoon or bear. Medium-to-large (35-75 lbs, 21-27 inches), they are known for their short, spotted ("leopard") coats, high endurance, and loving, protective nature toward families, requiring high daily exercise. Sometimes confused with the Catahoula leopard dog, the American leopard hound is perfect for dog owners looking for a slightly smaller breed that is better suited for family life, affectionate with kids and other dogs.The American leopard hound is very protective and requires a lot of mental stimulation, and, like all hounds, is very vocal. One of the oldest cur breeds, the American Leopard Hound has a strong work ethic and an impressive ability to track their prey. This intelligent breed is easily trainable but incredibly active. They come in nine different colours with solid, brindle, and leopard patterns. The American Leopard Hound sounds intimidating, however, when he is home with the family he is a lovable and easy-going hound. When he is on the hunt, he is tenacious and brave. He has been used to hunt feral hogs, large livestock and even bear.
He is able to hunt various types of prey and then hold the prey by using eye contact and body language until the hunter shows up. At home, he also uses eye contact and body language to convey his wishes so his family knows what he needs or wants. The American Leopard Hound is easy to train. The American Leopard Hound is a goofy, lovable hound that loves his family. He will form a very strong bond with his family and do almost anything to please them. He is protective of his family, especially children and will guard them from strangers. Playing games or just going for long walks will give him enough exercise to keep him healthy. Since he is a hound, he can vocalize very well and if left alone outside for long will make your neighbors upset with his baying and barking. He will get along well with other dogs and if his family is not home during the day, it might be beneficial for him to have a doggy playmate. With other pets in the home, he should be closely monitored and corrected when he exhibits unwanted behaviors. Training is relatively easy since he is intelligent and eager to please. Since he does have such a high prey drive, make sure you have a secure fence to keep him from terrorizing neighborhood pets.
The Kemmer Stock Mountain Cur is a specialized, high-energy hunting and working dog developed from Tennessee mountain cur lines to track big game (bears, hogs) and small game (squirrels, raccoons). These intelligent, muscular medium-sized dogs weigh 30โ60 lbs, possess strong treeing instincts, and are known for being loyal family guardians. One of the smaller cur breeds weighing up to 13 kg, the Kemmer Stock Mountain Cur is derived from one of the original cur varieties, the Mountain Cur. The Mountain Cur is a medium sized dog that is very intelligent and easy to train. He should never exhibit shyness or viciousness and should always be willing to do what he can to please his family. The Mountain Cur is a fiercely loyal dog and will protect his family, even to the death if need be. He was bred to work and needs a job to do to ensure he expends all of his extra energy. Otherwise, he can become destructive and a nightmare for his owner. He does well with children and other dogs, but he should be watched closely around small dogs and other small pets.
The Mountain Cur is an energetic dog that is dauntless when hunting and takes his job of protecting his family seriously. He is usually silent when hunting but can become vocal at home when he is left alone for too long. The Mountain Cur has to have a job at home or he will become bored and easily become a nuisance and even destructive. He is not a submissive dog by nature and needs to have a strong leader or he will take the dominant role in the family. He can easily become over-protective of his family if he is not properly trained or socialized. Socialization should be started as soon as possible to ensure he is not shy or overly aggressive towards strangers. The Mountain Cur does have a strong prey drive and should be closely watched when around other small pets within the home, including cats. He does well with children that he is raised with as long as he sees them as higher in the pecking order than him.
The Mountain View Cur is a rare, healthy, and intelligent hunting dog developed in the 1980s from Mountain Cur stock, specializing in treeing game. Standing 16โ24 inches tall and weighing 25โ55 lbs, they are affectionate, loyal, and protective, making them great for active families, though they require significant daily exercise. Mountain View Curs have an outstanding disposition and love kids. They are protective of the property and family, but not overly protective or aggressive. Basically, they have the sense to know when there's trouble and when there's not. People who have these dogs say owning a Mountain View Cur is an enjoyable endeavor for the whole family. They will amaze you daily and will try to please you every way they physically can. As one owner said, he "believed they would cut wood for him if they could."DogsWhen hunting, these dogs check in every 20-30 minutes when cast out on raccoon and about half that time on squirrel. They hardly ever need a leash put on because if you're moving through the woods, they will keep you in check until you stop and take a stand. They load and kennel on their own. They make natural rig dogs, winding game hundreds of yards away. Mountain Curs are fast track dogs and swing out on cold tracks and drift with their heads up.
About 70% are semi-silent trailers, 20% are silent and about 10% are open trailers on coon. Almost all open trail on big game (bear, lion and hog) and about 99% are totally silent on squirrel track.Mountains Curs have a clear ringing chop on the tree and many will give a locate bark when they first hit the tree. They are stay-put tree dogs and are known to have the game pinpointed 99% of the time. The Mountain View Cur is a natural straight tree dog, showing very little interest in non-tree game. Unless encouraged, the few that have, have been easily broken from it. Only a strong reprimand is necessary, because they want to please their master.Even though the Mountain View Cur has been bred for hunting raccoon and squirrel, they have also been used successfully on bear, lion, bobcat, boar, opossum, pheasant, grouse, turkey, rabbit, hare, coyote, and for even herding cattle. Basically if you sick โem on it, they will get it.Because of their high intelligence, scenting ability and self-control, there is also great interest in the Mountain View Cur for search and rescue, drug control and law enforcement dogs. They have an amazing scent ability and have a rare sense of self-control that is appreciated by owners. No wonder the police have shown great interest in using this dog for search and rescue or to locate hidden drugs. The Mountain View Cur is a dog that lives to please their master. They are devoted and affectionate, and are quick and easy to train.
This dog is not suited for apartment living, they need at least a home with a secure yard, or even better - a country lifestyle. Beautiful in appearance and temperament, the Mountain View Cur is a dog treasured by all privileged enough to own them. The Mountain View Cur is both courageous and willing to please, showing a pleasing level of self-control not found in other similar breeds. They are highly intelligent and are being trialed for search and rescue, drug control and law enforcement. With their highly skilled nose that can follow a trail even if it is slightly old, and their control and willingness to listen and obey orders, this dog looks to have a bright future. This breed is ideal as a family pet as they love children and will protect both family and property. They are not above goofing around with the children and having some high energy fun games. Hiding from this hound is never going to work, they will just track you down in an instant. The Mountain View Cur is affectionate and loyal, and is adaptable to many styles of living, although apartment living is out. The Mountain View Cur likes room to roam around in and a well-fenced yard is the minimum requirement. A house in the country is even better. This dog loves to have a job, they like to feel useful and to please their master. They are a good looking dog with a serious demeanor on the job, and happy and attentive when at home.
The Blue Lacy is a medium-sized, high-energy working breed developed in Texas in the mid-1800s, known for its intelligence, intensity, and distinct coat colors. As the state dog of Texas, they are exceptional herders and hunters. They require intense daily exercise, a strong, active owner, and are loyal, protective companions, often with yellow to orange eyes. Lacys are intelligent, intense, active and alert. Originally created to work feral hogs, the Lacy was developed into an all-around working breed for ranchers, cowboys, hunters and trappers. They have incredible drive and determination. Bold and brave, they excel at herding cattle and hunting wild boar. They are naturally territorial and will protect their property. Though Lacys make excellent companions, they don't do well with passive owners. This breed needs a calm yet assertive leader who establishes clear rules. Lacys also need consistent mental and physical exercise.
Due to their intelligence, they can be quickly trained to perform many tasks. Excellent herders and hunting companions, Blue Lacys became a mainstay on Texas ranches, where it was said that each dog could do the work of five cowboys. The Blue Lacy is the ultimate working dog. Intelligent, energetic, and adaptable, they are both easy to train and eager to work. As such, they need copious amounts of physical and mental exercise, along with close companionship with their humans, to flourish as family pets. The Blue Lacy's ranch-hand past is core to the breedโs personality and needs. The Lacy Game Dog Registry describes them as "spectacular working dogs" that are "energetic and dedicated." Despite being bred to herd large animals, well-socialized Blue Lacys can be gentle with children and can get along well with people of all ages, though they may need time to warm up to strangers. Barking and boundless energy are great traits for a herding dog but are probably less desirable in a family pet. Because of this, your Blue Lacy puppy needs constant guidance on how to channel their working-dog instincts into safe, appropriate activities.
Bored and lonely Blue Lacys with energy to burn are more likely to engage in unwanted behaviors, such as excessive barking and destructive chewing. It is important to safely expose your Blue Lacy puppy to various animals, people, environments, activities, and objects during their first 16 weeks of life. Socializing your pup during this crucial learning period can help them feel comfortable in a variety of settings. Ask your veterinarian to suggest age-appropriate activities for your pet. Blue Lacys like to put their brains to use during training. Calm, consistent, positive training that uses rewards instead of punishment is the best approach for training the Blue Lacy dog breed. If you use treats as a reward during training, be sure to factor them into your dogโs daily calorie count. Play, toys, and other things your dog enjoys can also be used as rewards.
The Canadian Cur is a rare, versatile working dog originally bred for hunting raccoons, bears, and other game in cold climates. They are known for their high courage, intelligence, and stamina, often used for both big game hunting and farm work. These athletic, high-energy dogs possess a strong prey drive and are fiercely loyal to their families. Originally bred for hunting racoons, Canadian Curs are courageous enough to take on larger prey, including bears, mountain lions, and coyotes. The Canadian Cur is a very active working dog that needs a lot of daily exercise. When they are not hunting, they need to be taken on a daily, long, brisk walk or jog. While out on the walk the dog must be made to heel beside or behind the person holding the lead, as in a dog's mind the leader leads the way, and that leader needs to be the human. In addition, they will benefit from a large safe area where they can run free. This breed enjoys outdoor activities and sports. Its amiable nature makes for an excellent companion, besides its evident hunting skills. Incredibly loyal, it gets along well with young kids. Still, its prey drive might make it give chase to other pets.
This breed is unsuitable for apartment life, requiring large open areas to run around in. It does best when provided with a job, from exercise or chores such as cattle herding. Fearless in front of predators, it is incredibly protective of its family, barking loudly to draw attention to strange people and animals. However, its independence might pose a problem if left alone for long periods. Correct and consistent training is vital to avoid such concerns. Training is easy due to their intelligence and desire to please. Keep sessions consistent and fun to keep their interest for the best outcome. Early socialization is crucial to teach them when to activate their protective behavior and when to remain calm. Persistent teaching and instincts help them pick up new tricks and commands quickly. โGoldilocksโ training, a balance between positive rewards and firmness, is good at curbing unpredictable attitudes. Crate training is an excellent method for house-breaking. This breed is highly adaptable and can track over rugged terrain in any climate.
Parnell's Carolina Cur is a small-to-medium, slender squirrel dog developed in South Carolina by James Parnell. Originating from an accidental cross between a tiny Feist and a Stephens Stock Mountain Cur, these dogs are highly specialized for hunting, particularly known as excellent squirrel dogs with natural treeing instincts and often, naturally bobbed tails. Developed by the late James Parnell of Hartsville, South Carolina. They are small to medium-sized cur dogs, weighing up to 16 kg (approx. 35 lbs), and are generally more slender than other cur varieties. They are known to have naturally bobbed tails. Primarily used as squirrel dogs and treeing dogs, known to be fearless and high-energy hunting partners. They are highly intelligent, easily trained, and dedicated hunters that can be reserved but are loyal to their owners. The breed resulted from a cross between a small Feist named "Pee Wee" and a Stephens Stock Mountain Cur named "Kate". These dogs are specialized hunting companions, valued in the, Carolinas Sportsman article for their ability to hunt for many years.
The Southern Black Mouth Cur is a versatile, energetic, and loyal working breed originating from the U.S. South, prized as a hunting, herding, and ranch dog. Known for their signature dark muzzle and short coat, these intelligent dogs are 16โ25 inches tall and weigh 35โ95 pounds, offering dedicated companionship and fierce loyalty to families. Famous for their portrayal in the film Old Yeller, this breed is usually pale brown with a black mouth. Southern Black Mouth Curs are powerful. For people who hunt, no other dog will do. Among this swift hunter's quarry are boar, bear, coon, squirrel and deer. With medium-sized game, the Black Mouth catches and kills it with no questions asked. This dog never retreats. It is also proficient at treeing and baying. During the hunt, trailing is semi-open or silent, with a chop or yodel acceptable on tree or at bay. Curs rarely trot, even while hunting, going from a walk to a ground-covering sprint. These dogs are avid hunters, yet can also work with cattle. Breeders say a pup will train himself treeing, protecting and/or bunching and penning cattle by six months of age. As relentless and overpowering as this cur appears at work, he is kind and protective with his family. Loyalty and fearlessness are the norm. They have a burning desire to please their master. Good with children, this breed needs an owner who projects a natural authority over the dog.
The Stephens' Cur (or Stephens' Stock) is a small-to-medium, agile, and intelligent scenthound, originally from Kentucky, used primarily for hunting squirrels and raccoons. Known as "little blacks," they typically feature a black coat with white markings, weighing 30-55 lbs and standing 16-23 inches tall. They are tenacious, vocal hunters with strong treeing instincts and a life span of 10-14 years. The Stephens Cur is a scent hound of medium weight reaching between 44 to 55 pounds. Originating in South-eastern Kentucky by the Stephens family who began this breed, they have been developed for a purpose, which is to hunt squirrels and raccoons. They have strength and tenacity and can also tackle larger game like mountain lions and wild boars. Dedicated and loyal, this canine is also lively and affectionate with children and family members. While they socialize with other dogs, they are not to be trusted around smaller animals that they may consider to be prey. Elegant in appearance, easy to train, and a happy dog in general, the Stephens Cur does need a lot of exercise. As their master, you must assert your leadership and dominance right from the start of your partnership to avoid any behavioral issues. This dog is only aggressive in the field, when they are on the hunt, but they do need to be socialized from their early days to produce a calm, happy dog. Their nickname of 'Darkie' refers to their dark rich coat color; the coat fits them like a glove.
The word "cur" once had a derogatory meaning to the name, which was often given to a mangy mongrel of unknown parentage. Nowadays the word 'cur' refers to a type of dog. In these modern times, the Cur has gained respectability and has a pedigree or is known as a purebred. The Stephens Cur has gained popularity because of their strong work ethic as much as their elegant appearance. This little dark dog can slip quietly around but once they get on a trail they will tell you about it all with a loud melodious voice. They may be small but they are aggressive in the hunting field. Fast and furious, they are efficient hunters. Once they get home though, the aggression is forgotten. They turn into a mellow, playful and kind dog, although you cannot trust them with small furry animals. Their hunting instinct is very strong. Socializing when young and with positive training methods will produce a dog to be proud of. They are courageous, courteous, and outstanding as a breed. The Stephens Cur has performed well in coon hunting trials. This dog is registered with the Canadian and the United States Kennel Clubs. Good with children and people of all ages, they can be quite wary and reserved when strangers come calling.
The Treeing Tennessee Brindle is a medium-sized, highly energetic, and intelligent hunting dog breed originating from the U.S. Appalacia/Ozark regions, developed in the 1960s to "tree" game. These loving, loyal, and vocal dogs (30-50 lbs) make excellent companions for active families but require significant daily exercise. Although the treeing Tennessee brindle is still predominantly used as a working dog for hunters, this is a playful and energetic pup that can make an excellent pet for active families. This dog is bred specifically for tree hunting skills. The dog will track the scent of an animal and chase them up into a tree to make it easier for the hunter to access them. The treeing Tennessee brindle has a loud, baying bark which is used to alert the hunter that they successfully found the quarry. A treeing Tennessee brindle does need a decent amount of exercise to satisfy their built-in working drive and energy level. This dog is known for being extremely laid-back when in the home environment if they've been given enough exercise. Also, this dog is loyal to a fault and will enjoy curling up at the feet of their owner on the sofa. There are a variety of activities that you can enjoy with this breed, which is suitable for active households.
The treeing Tennessee brindle will suit a family that enjoys hiking and spending time in the great outdoors because the breed loves to be active. This dog is also intelligent and eager to please and known for enjoying competitive dog sports like agility. Of course, if you want to get involved in scent work trials, the treeing Tennessee brindle would make an excellent partner for this activity. Like all dogs, the treeing Tennessee brindle will benefit from proper training and socialization starting in puppyhood. Use positive techniques and rewards, and be consistent and patient in your approach to get the best results. This dog should be trained to stay on-leash and to come when called. Their high prey drive can make them dart off when they spot wildlife, so care should be taken to ensure this doesnโt happen. The treeing Tennessee brindle is an expert vocalizer. The dog has been bred to alert a hunter that they've trapped their quarry. The dog's tendency to bay and howl can be common in the home environment too. You may need to work on rewarding quiet behavior to ensure this natural tendency doesn't get out of control. The Treeing Tennessee Brindle is courageous and brave. The dog is an excellent hunter with a bay that sounds like a crying baby. Intelligent, lively, alert and friendly, they make loyal companions.
Closely related to the Black Mouth Cur, this breed is found with two coat colours: fawn or yellow. They always have black markings around their muzzle. The Yellow Black Mouth Cur is a rugged, medium-to-large Southern US working breed, famed for its yellow coat and black muzzle. Known for high intelligence, energy, and loyalty, they are excellent hunting, herding, and family guardian dogs. They need significant daily exercise and consistent, positive training. They usually have short fawn, yellow, or red coats with a distinct black muzzle (mask) and dark-colored lips/gums. They are muscular with a broad chest. They are typically Brave, affectionate, intelligent, and highly protective of their family. They need hours of daily activity, making them better suited for rural homes with large yards than apartment living. They are trainable but independent, they need a confident owner who uses positive reinforcement. They are generally hardy dogs with a lifespan around 12-16 years, though they can suffer from ear infections. They are great with children but may have a high prey drive toward small pets and work best as the only pet.
The Cajun Squirrel Dog is also known as the Original Cajun Squirrel Dog or the Kemmer Stock Hybrid Squirrel Dog for Robert Kemmer who is thought to have founded the modern version of the breed during the 70s. They use sight, smell and hearing to bay both small and large game and are natural treeing dogs. This medium sized breed can be easily trained and makes a true companion and loyal watchdog. Cajun Squirrel Dogs do well with children and other pets, even small critters if trained and socialized early. This breed does best when living somewhere with outdoor property on which to roam. They are known to live 12-14 years in good physical shape. The Cajun Cur (often identified as a type of Kemmer or Black Mouth Cur) is a versatile, intelligent, and energetic working dog, commonly used for hunting and herding, particularly in Louisiana. They are loyal, protective, and require intense daily exercise, making them better suited for active families or farm life rather than apartment living. The Kemmer Stock Hybrid Squirrel Dog makes a good all-around dog if you want a good hunting dog or a dog for the kids. It will hunt about 200 yards from you and use every ability it has. Friendly, active and alert.
Make sure you are this breedโs confident, firm, but calm, consistent pack leader and plenty of mental and physical exercise to avoid any unwanted temperament issues. These medium-sized squirrel dogs will be 16-24 inches at the shoulder if females, 18-26 if male. They have no strict weight requirements and standards say weight should be proportionate to height. This breed can bay both large and small game and are said to be natural treeing dogs with no equal. They are also true companion dogs that love kids and that can be taken wherever you go; if they are trained and socialized early they will dedicate their lives to their owners. They are very biddable and intelligent which means they learn quickly with an excellent memory. Cajun Squirrel Dogs can become capable watch dogs if trained to do so. Members of this breed should do well with other pets if trained early as they can be easily taught to leave small animals alone. These rugged little dogs have short coats that require little care. Brush them every week or so to remove dead hairs and bathe them as necessary.
Check the ears and teeth for cleaning weekly and monitor the nails for trimming. Train and socialize them as puppies, they are notorious for quickly catching on, especially if you keep them with you as your companion. Due to their history as hunting dogs, they will need plenty of outdoor exercise daily and would do best with a large property to roam; after training they are said to be responsible off leash. Robert Kemmer of Crossville, Tennessee began breeding these squirrel dogs during the 1970s and this endeavor was continued by Calvin Boutte of Louisiana (hence "Cajun"). The Kemmer Stock Mtn Cur Breeders Association was founded in 1991 complete with a breed standard. These dogs are usually a yellowish or "blonde" color but can also be black, chocolate, blue, brindle and "buttermilk buckskin". They notably have long legs in relation to the body and natural bobbed or long tails.
The Cracker Cur was essential to the history of the Florida Cracker cowboys and their cattle ranching culture, dating back to the introduction of cattle in the 1500s. They played an important role in protecting the cattle from predators like wild cats and bears. The Florida Cracker Cur is a versatile, intelligent, and courageous working dog breed refined over centuries for Florida cattle ranching. Known for its speed, low-to-the-ground agility, and protective nature, this short-coated breed excels at gathering, herding, and guarding cattle against predators in harsh, thick environments. Known for being hard-working, dedicated, and courageous, willing to confront much larger animals like bulls. 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.
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. Some lines are bred for tree dogs and others for baying. This very tough large-game, raccoon and squirrel hunter is willing to face a squealing razorback or an angry wildcat when it is cornered. It has a strong desire to please its master. Very protective of the property and family; without an owner who is more dominant than itself, it can become over-protective. The Florida Cracker 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 with dogs, we become their pack.
The entire pack cooperates under a single leader. Lines are clearly defined and rules are set. Because a dog communicates his displeasure with growling and eventually biting, all other humans MUST be higher up in the order than the dog. The humans must be the ones making the decisions, not the dogs. That is the only way your relationship with your dog can be a complete success. Primarily a herding and ranching dog, developed to work with Florida's early cattle ranchers and settlers. Intelligent, strong-willed, and protective of their families and herds. Happiest in an outdoor environment like a farm or ranch and are not a good fit for apartment living. Often confused with the Black Mouth Cur, but they are a different breed with a different history and purpose.
The Foundation Stock Mountain Cur is an American working breed, recognized for its treeing/trailing prowess (squirrels, raccoons) and intense loyalty. Originating in the Appalachian Mountains, these athletic dogs, weighing 30โ60 lbs and standing 16โ26 inches, are intelligent, trainable protectors. They require high activity levels and are registered in the AKC Foundation Stock Service since 2017. Bred for hunting and treeing small game, this breed is known for its intelligence, high energy, and loyalty. They are affectionate family companions that require significant exercise and firm, consistent training. Brave, intelligent, and eager to please, though they can be independent. Good with families if provided with a job. High-energy; requires significant room to run, daily exercise, and mental stimulation to prevent boredom. Short-coated with a variety of colors including black, blue, yellow, and brindle. Generally healthy with a lifespan of 10โ13+ years. "True dog of the land," they were used by early settlers for guarding and hunting. The breed was brought back from the brink of extinction after World War II, with the Original Mountain Cur Breeders of America (OMCBA) established in 1957. Their primary use remains hunting and guarding, but they are also used for search and rescue.
The Plott Hound (or Plott Cur) is a loyal, intelligent, and energetic scent hound originally bred for big-game hunting. As North Carolinaโs state dog, this medium-to-large breed is known for its athleticism, brindle coat, and "chase" instinct. They are affectionate with family but tenacious in the field. This breed makes a fine companion. Loyal and intelligent, the Plott Hound is quick to learn, quick to love and good with children. Its personable nature is surely not evident on the trail. This large-game hunter and scenthound has great courage. Determined, courageous and proud, it will play chicken with a 500-pound bear or a wild, angry boar. The Plott has a curiously sharp and high-pitched voice, unlike the deep-throated howl common to other coonhounds. Socialize this breed at an early age and be sure to teach it simple obedience like walking on a leash. Plotts tend to drool and slobber. They need a firm, but calm, confident, consistent handler. Proper canine to human communication is essential. The Plott Hound is an interesting hound with a tenacious nature. He is a loyal and affectionate companion and does well in families with children. The Plott Hound is the only coonhound breed that does not have ties to the Foxhound. He is a very vocal hound and loves to run.
The Plott Hound is not necessarily recommended for apartment life because of his vocalization. He is a spirited dog with a bit of a protective streak which makes him an excellent watch dog for your property. Since he is all hound, a tall, secure fence is recommended to keep him from going on the trail of some unsuspecting animal in your neighborhood. The Plott Hound is a devoted companion and is willing to please as long as he feels it benefits him. Being a hound, he does have a stubborn streak that can make training a little difficult. He loves food and training goes best when treats are used as a reward. Families living in apartments or even subdivisions should not bring a Plott Hound into their family. He is a very vocal dog with his voice being high-pitched and very sharp. Many people may not be thrilled to have a Plott Hound for a neighbor. Daily training for this somewhat high energy dog is essential for his owner to keep his sanity. Generally, the Plott Hound gets along with other animals when he is trained to accept and respect them. Daily exercise is needed to keep him happy and healthy, however, since he is prone to bloat, do not allow him to exercise immediately after eating a big meal.
The Western Mountain Cur is a rugged, working dog that has good tree instincts. It is loud mouth but silent on track, and makes an excellent all round farm dog. A lot of times they are hunted from or worked with horses or mules. This is not a submissive, easygoing dog. It is a serious game dog with the toughness and courage to confront a very angry, very large cat, these Curs have learned to be decisive and dauntless. It is typically used as stock dogs, guards, and predator and varmint hunting dogs. It has good tree instincts is loud mouth but silent on track, and make excellent all round farm dogs. It can be used as a cow dog that rounds up, leads, and catches cattle. It is a predator dog that fights, catches, kills and keeps predators away. As a tree dog on trails, trees, and kills varmints. As a Hog dog that trails, bays up, and catches wild boar and as a ranch dog watching over the ranch, farm (or camp) and family. It has a strong desire to please its master. Very protective of the property and family; without an owner who is more dominant than itself, it can become over-protective. The Western Mountain Cur is noted for his courage. They are known for their extreme loyalty, courage, and high intelligence, making them devoted, active family companions, though they are often reserved with strangers.
The Treeing Cur is an American-originated, athletic, and intelligent working dog (30โ60 lbs) developed for hunting, treeing game, and guarding farms. Known for high energy and devotion to family, they need intense exercise and consistent training. They are hardy, short-coated dogs in various colors, appearing 18โ24 inches tall at the shoulder. This is not a submissive, easygoing dog. This game dog is athletic, intelligent and alert. With the toughness and courage to confront a very angry, very large cat, these Curs have learned to be decisive and dauntless. Usually silent on the trail, they make consistent guard dogs, but certainly are not ideal for suburbia, where there is no call to work. They have an exellent treeing ability. This is a very tough hunter that has been successful in raccoon, squirrel, opossum, wild boer, bears, mountain lion, bobcat as well as big game. It has a strong desire to please its master. It is very protective of the property and family; without an owner who is more dominant than itself, it can become over-protective. The Treeing Cur is noted for his courage. Although they are consummate and courageous hunters they typically make very pleasant and loyal companions within the home as well, and if socialized they are generally amicable towards other canines.
A blend of hound dogs, terriers, and feist breeds, Cur dogs like the Treeing Cur were bred for their abilities rather than for their appearance and often vary quite a bit in both size and coloration. These dogs are typically alert, intelligent, and athletic, but while they have a strong desire to please their owner, they also very strong-willed, after all, they were bred to be able and willing to protect their families from large predators like mountain lions and bear, as well as to hunt down brutal wild boar, and to manage livestock like Texas Longhorn. While interactions between canines and younger children always require supervision, this breed is generally friendly and affectionate towards family members of all ages, and with proper socialization they are also generally pleasant towards other dogs as well, however, they do require a firm hand at training in order to prevent them from becoming overly protective of their home and family. They are naturally skillful hunters and who use all of their senses when they are tracking prey, although some trail their game silently while others bark when they are in pursuit.
Dogica® collects only technical cookies. No any personal or private information being collected, saved or shared here. 3rd Party cookies could be collected by various installed widgets.
The information contained in or provided through DOGICA® site is intended for general consumer understanding and education only and is not intended to be and is not a substitute for professional advice.
Use of this site and any information contained on or provided through this site is provided on an "as is" basis without any representations, warranties or pay.
