Pet Wiki

Mountain Cur

Also called Original Mountain Cur, Stephens Stock Mountain Cur

A bold, fast-working hunter that is smart and easy to train when it gets regular time with its people.

SizeMedium
Weight13.6 to 27.2 kg (30 to 60 lb)12
Height41 to 66 cm (16 to 26 in)males 46 to 66 cm, females 41 to 61 cm21
Lifespan14 to 16 years1
CoatShort double coat, smooth or rough
OriginUnited States, in the Appalachian mountain settlements of states such as Kentucky, Tennessee, Virginia and Ohio.12
Last checked2026-09-30
Recognised breedShort profile
brave and determined hunting partner
quick to learn and eager to work
steady family companion and watchdog
213

Personality what they are like

A bold, fast-working hunter that is smart and easy to train when it gets regular time with its people. At home it tends to be a loyal family dog that gets along with other pets and keeps an eye on the property, being neither timid nor hot-headed.213

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Mountain Cur. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

  • Brushingevery week
  • Bathevery 8 weeks
  • Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery month
  • Ear checkFloppy ears trap moisture, so check and dry themevery week
  • Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
  • ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
  • Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
  • Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 8every year

Coat and looks how to spot one

short double coat, smooth or rough

A short outer coat that can feel either smooth or slightly rough, lying over a dense, soft undercoat. The dog itself is sturdy and muscular, built for long days in hilly woodland.2

Coloursblackblack and tanblack brindlebluebrindlebrownredyellowblondebuttermilk buckskinwhite markings up to one third of the coat21

Daily activity how busy a day looks

A high-drive working dog that is happiest with a real job such as hunting, tracking or farm work, plus plenty of daily exercise. Without enough activity it can become restless.12

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

The short coat is easy to keep: a weekly brush and the usual checks of ears, nails and paws after outings are generally enough.2

Home where they are happiest

Best suited to a rural or active home with secure outdoor space and access to fields or woods to work in.1

Company who they like around

Bonds closely with its family and does well with regular human contact; usually sociable with other household pets.12

The story where it all began

Settlers in the Appalachian frontier kept these all-round curs to hunt, guard the homestead and help on the farm. The type almost vanished after World War II as families moved to factory towns, but in the 1950s a group of breeders including Hugh Stephens, Woody Huntsman, Carl McConnell and Dewey Ledbetter gathered the remaining dogs and founded a breed club in 1957.12

Fun facts for the dinner table

  1. 1

    Frontiersman Daniel Boone is said to have bred Mountain Curs and taken them on his expeditions.1

  2. 2

    It is a versatile hunter that trees squirrels and raccoons but will also take on large game such as bear and wild boar.1

  3. 3

    The UKC colour list includes the unusual shade called 'buttermilk buckskin'.2

  4. 4

    Many Mountain Curs enjoy water and can retrieve from it.1

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The name 'Mountain Cur' comes from the breed's history as a working dog in the Appalachian Mountains, where 'cur' referred to a type of hardy, mixed-breed dog used by early settlers for hunting and guarding.3

Name ideas for your new friend

RangerDukeScoutSadieBearMaggieRockyLuckyCedarHazelBooneWillow

A day in the life told by a Mountain Cur

I woke up at dawn, ready for action. My human and I headed to the field where I tracked a scent through the tall grass. I found a rabbit trail and barked to let them know. After a good run, we went back to the farm. I checked on the chickens and the cat, then helped move some logs. At home, I played tug-of-war with the kids and later lay on the porch, keeping an eye on the road. When the sun set, I curled up with my human, tired and happy. Another good day.

A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.

Recognised by the official bits

UKC
Recognised 1 November 1998.2
Original Mountain Cur Breeders of America (OMCBA)
Breed association formed in 1957 by breeders of the McConnell, Stephens, Ledbetter, Arline and York strains.2
AKC
Has an AKC breed page describing it as a treeing hunting dog; not a fully recognised AKC breed.3

Treats they will love homemade and simple

Simple Carrot Crunchies

Carrots are low in calories and high in fibre, making them a crunchy, satisfying treat that won't pile on the pounds.

You need

  • 1 large carrot, washed and peeled

How

  1. Cut the carrot into thin, bite-sized sticks or rounds.
  2. Steam or boil the carrot pieces for 5–7 minutes until just tender, or serve raw for extra crunch.
  3. Allow to cool completely before offering to your dog.

How much: Give 2–3 small pieces per day for a medium-sized dog, adjusting for your dog's size and daily calorie allowance.

Recipe from The Kennel Club

Pumpkin & Yoghurt Pup-Cup

Pumpkin is packed with fibre and vitamins, helping dogs feel full without extra calories, and low-fat yoghurt keeps it light.

You need

  • 1 cooking pumpkin
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat yoghurt
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat whipping cream
  • Cinnamon, to sprinkle

How

  1. Peel the pumpkin and remove all seeds.
  2. Cut the flesh into small pieces and steam for 15 minutes until soft.
  3. Mash the cooked pumpkin until smooth and let it cool completely.
  4. Mix 1 tablespoon of the mashed pumpkin with the yoghurt.
  5. Spoon the mixture into a small paper cup.
  6. Whip the cream until soft peaks form and spoon it on top of the yoghurt mixture.
  7. Sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon over the cream.

How much: One pup-cup is plenty for a medium-sized dog as an occasional treat. Adjust portion size for smaller or larger dogs.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Blueberry and Oat Bites

These three-ingredient treats are quick to make and packed with antioxidants from blueberries and fibre from oats. They are low in fat and perfect as a training reward.

You need

  • 100g oats
  • 1 banana (mashed)
  • 40g fresh blueberries (chopped)
  • Splash of water (as needed)

How

  1. Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F).
  2. In a bowl, mix the mashed banana, oats, and chopped blueberries together.
  3. Add splashes of water gradually until the mixture comes together into a large ball.
  4. Roll out the mixture on a lightly floured surface to about 1-2cm thick.
  5. Use a knife or cookie cutter to cut into shapes.
  6. Place the shapes on a lined baking tray.
  7. Bake for 15-20 minutes until slightly browned.
  8. Leave to cool completely before serving.

How much: Offer one or two bites per day for a medium-sized dog. Reduce your dog's usual food portion to account for these treats.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use

Owner questions the things everyone asks

How often should I feed my Mountain Cur, and at what times?

Feed adult Mountain Curs at least two meals a day, and puppies three to four smaller meals. Times can be consistent with your routine. For exact amounts, check the food label and ask your vet.4

What should a Mountain Cur eat, and which foods are dangerous?

Feed a high-quality dog food appropriate for its age and activity level. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and others listed by the ASPCA. Always consult your vet for specific dietary needs.5

How often should I bathe a Mountain Cur?

Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests a bath every 8 weeks, and general guidance says at least every three months. Bathe more often if your dog gets very dirty or has skin issues.6 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Mountain Cur need brushing?

Brush your Mountain Cur once a week to keep its short coat healthy. That's enough for this easy-care breed.26 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a Mountain Cur's nails, and how often?

Trim nails about every four weeks, or sooner if you hear them clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time and stop before the pink quick. If unsure, ask your vet or a groomer.6 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Mountain Cur need?

This is a high-energy working breed that needs plenty of daily exercise, ideally with a job like hunting or farm work. Daily walks and active play are essential to keep it happy and prevent restlessness.12 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a Mountain Cur's teeth and ears?

Brush your Mountain Cur's teeth two to three times a week using dog toothpaste, and check its floppy ears weekly for moisture or dirt. Dry them gently if needed. Never push anything into the ear canal.6 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Mountain Cur live?

Mountain Curs typically live between 14 and 16 years, a good long life for a dog of its size.1

Is a Mountain Cur good with children and other pets?

Yes, the Mountain Cur is a loyal family dog that usually gets along well with children and other pets when properly socialized. It is neither timid nor aggressive.213

Can a Mountain Cur be left alone?

Mountain Curs bond closely with their families and do best with regular human contact. They can be left alone for moderate periods if they have had plenty of exercise, but they may become restless if under-stimulated. Consult a breeder for your specific situation.12

Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.

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Treeing Tennessee BrindleBlack Mouth CurAmerican Leopard HoundStephens StockMountain Feist

Where this comes from

Every fact on this page has a numbered source. Spotted an error? support@petwiki.app.

  1. Wikipedia: Mountain Cur en.wikipedia.orgused for origin, history, weight, lifespan, uses, fun facts
  2. UKC Mountain Cur breed standard ukcdogs.comused for recognition, size, coat, colours, temperament, history
  3. AKC: Mountain Cur akc.orgused for temperament, AKC listing
  4. VCA Animal Hospitals: Feeding times and frequency for your dog vcahospitals.comused for owner questions
  5. ASPCA: People foods to avoid feeding your pets aspca.orgused for owner questions
  6. ASPCA: Dog grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions

Checked 2026-09-30. Text is written in our own words from these sources.