Stephens Stock

Also called Stephens Cur, Stephens Stock Mountain Cur

Recognised breedShort profile

From Southeastern Kentucky, United States1

At a glance the quick version

Sizemedium

keen hunting drive

energetic

brave in the field

Coat and looks how to spot one

short, smooth coat

A compact, sleek little cur with a hound-like look, a small head and a fairly narrow muzzle.1

Coloursblack with white markings1

Personality what they are like

A driven, high-energy working dog with strong hunting instincts. It is happiest with an active, hunting-focused home rather than a quiet life as a house pet.1

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Very high. Bred to hunt squirrel and raccoon, it needs plenty of daily work or vigorous exercise.1

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

The short coat is low maintenance; an occasional brush-down keeps it neat.1

Home where they are happiest

Best suited to rural owners who hunt or can offer lots of outdoor activity.1

Company who they like around

Often works alongside other dogs in packs when hunting larger game.1

The story where it all began

The Stephens family of southeastern Kentucky kept its own line of Mountain Cur for more than a hundred years. In 1970 the line was set apart as a breed of its own, with Hugh Stephens credited as its founder, and the United Kennel Club later recognised it.1

Fun facts for the dinner table

1
The breed is named after the Kentucky family that kept the line going for over a century.1
2
It is mainly used for treeing squirrel and raccoon.1
3
Working in a pack, these small curs have enough nerve to hunt black bear and cougar.1

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The breed is named for Hugh Stephens, the Kentucky family who developed this distinct line of Mountain Cur into a separate breed.2

Name ideas for your new friend

DixieBooneMooseBriarMapleCoyJayRidgeSawyerOakleyHazelRanger

A day in the life told by a Stephens Stock

I woke before dawn, eager to scent the air. My human and I headed into the woods; I led the way, nose low. I treed a squirrel and wagged my tail, proud. We ran for miles, my muscles humming. Later, I rested by the porch, my ears still alert. Another perfect day working alongside my partner. I'm ready for tomorrow's adventure.

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

Recognised by the official bits

UKC: Recognised by the United Kennel Club in 1998 (per Wikipedia)1

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Stephens Stock. 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

Treats they will love homemade and simple

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

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

Frozen Yoghurt and Fruit Treats

These refreshing frozen treats are perfect for warm days and use simple, dog-safe ingredients. Yoghurt provides calcium and probiotics, while strawberries and apple add vitamins and natural sweetness.

You need

30g plain, unsweetened yoghurt (no additives or sweeteners)
2-3 medium strawberries (washed and chopped)
Half a small apple (cored and chopped into small pieces)

How

Wash the strawberries and apple thoroughly. Core the apple and chop both fruits into small, bite-sized pieces.
Mix the chopped fruit together in a small bowl.
Place a few pieces of fruit (no more than five) into each compartment of a small silicone mould or ice cube tray. Each mould should be roughly 30mm x 25mm x 17mm or smaller.
Pour the plain yoghurt over the fruit, filling each mould to the top.
Place the mould or tray in the freezer for at least 3-4 hours, or until fully frozen.
Pop the treats out of the moulds and serve immediately.

How much: Small dogs can have one treat per day; medium/large dogs can have two per day. These count towards the 10% treat allowance, so reduce your dog's main meals accordingly.

Recipe from PDSA

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 Stephens Stock, and at what times?

Adult Stephens Stocks do best with at least two meals a day, and puppies need three to four smaller meals. Feeding at the same times each morning and evening helps their digestion. For exact amounts, check the food label and ask your vet.3

What should a Stephens Stock eat, and which foods are dangerous?

A high-quality dog food suited to an active working breed is ideal. Dangerous foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and raw bones, keep these well away. Your vet can help you choose the best diet for your dog's energy needs.4

How often should I bathe a Stephens Stock?

Furry Diary's starting plan suggests a bath every 8 weeks, and general guidance says at least every three months. If your dog gets very dirty or has skin issues, you can bathe more often. Always use a dog-safe shampoo.5 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Stephens Stock need brushing?

A weekly brush is perfect for this short, smooth coat, it keeps shedding under control and the coat neat. Furry Diary recommends brushing every 7 days, which matches general advice for short-haired dogs.5 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a Stephens Stock's nails, and how often?

Trim nails every 4 weeks, or sooner if you hear them clicking on the floor. Cut a tiny bit at a time, stopping before the quick (the pink part). If you're unsure, ask your vet or a groomer to show you.5 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Stephens Stock need?

This breed has very high energy and needs plenty of daily vigorous exercise, think long walks, runs, or hunting work. Furry Diary suggests daily walks and play, but this dog truly thrives with a job to do.1 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a Stephens Stock's teeth and ears?

Brush teeth at least every other day (daily is ideal) using dog toothpaste only. Check ears weekly and dry them gently, floppy ears can trap moisture. Never push anything into the ear canal.5 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Stephens Stock live?

Lifespan varies for this breed, and no specific number is given in our sources. Your vet can give you a good estimate based on your dog's health and lineage.

Is a Stephens Stock good with children and other pets?

This dog often works alongside other dogs in packs, so it can get along well with them. Its strong hunting instincts mean caution with small pets like cats. For children, early training and supervision are key, ask a breeder for their experience.1

Can a Stephens Stock be left alone?

This breed is happiest with an active, hunting-focused lifestyle and may struggle if left alone for long hours. It needs plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. If you must leave it, consider a dog walker or a companion dog.1

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.