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The Mountain Cur is a type of working dog that are bred specifically for treeing and trailing small game, like squirrel and raccoons. They're also used for hunting and baying big game like bear and wild boar as well as being just an all-purpose farm dog. Curs are a member of the Hound group, and the Mountain Cur is one of several varieties of cur. They can also be used as water dogs. Mainly bred in Ohio, Kentucky, Virginia, and Tennessee, it has been registered with the United Kennel Club since 1998. The Mountain Cur Breeder's Association was formed in 1957.
The Mountain Cur is a breed that enjoys being outdoors. It is very energetic and loves hunting and chasing animals. The breed is usually bred for work outdoors. Small living quarters, such as an apartment may prove to be too confining for this breed.
This breed requires plenty of exercise. They have strong hunting instinct and enjoy the outdoors. They were bred to roam mountainous terrain and enjoy being used as a working dog. Some of the tasks they are acclimated to are baying feral pigs, treeing squirrels and hunting raccoons. They also enjoy herding, but should only be allowed to herd tough livestock.
The Mountain Cur is a very active working dog which 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.
Mountain Cur Care Skill
1.Be prepared to enjoy 10 and 12 years with your dog, as this is the Mountain Cur dog's average life expectancy.
2.Expect an adult male Mountain Cur dog to grow to 24 to 28 inches and weigh between 85 and 110 pounds. Females will grow to 23 to 27 inches and weigh between 80 and 105 pounds.
3.Be aware that Mountain Cur dogs take more time to mature than most breeds. Be patient and gentle in your training. This breed does not respond well to harsh training methods, as it can be sensitive.
4.Brush your dog's coat every day, if possible. They are heavy shedders, shedding once or twice a year, but do not require frequent bathing because their coats rid themselves of much of the dirt they collect. Trim your dog's nails every two to three weeks.
5.Train your Mountain Cur dog when it is a puppy. Because of his large size, you'll want to teach your pet basic obedience and household manners very early. These dogs are quick learners and eager to please.
6.Know that the Mountain Cur dog is prone to certain health conditions such as hip and elbow dysplasia (a malformation of the joints), cancer and bloat.
7.Remember that the Mountain Cur dog needs to spend much of its waking hours with the family and does not do well when left alone in the back yard.
8.Exercise your Mountain Cur dog daily. This dog is happy to walk and does require intense running.
9.Feed your Mountain Cur dog high-grade dog food. The first ingredient should be meat if you want a quality product. Crude protein should be no less than 30 percent and crude fat no less than 20 percent. Also, the fiber content should be 4 percent or less.
10.Socialize your Mountain Cur dog when it is young to be with other people. This breed can by shy or reserved with strangers if it has not had proper socialization.
11.Vaccinate your Mountain Cur dog when you first get him and make sure he gets yearly booster vaccinations to maintain immunity to diseases. Also worm your adult dog every three months and consult your veterinarian about flea-control products.
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