The Original Mountain Cur, or simply the Mountain Cur, had its earliest lines in the Southern United States, especially near the Appalachian Mountains. Great working dogs, they have abilities for trailing, treeing and baying game, and also for guarding.
Cur dogs were the first American purebred. Pioneers brought European dogs along with them, so as to be guarded by them from wild animals and other possible dangers. These European dogs, which usually were hunting hounds and terriers, were crossed with native canines, out of which the most notable was the Indian Cur.
From its ancestors, the Mountain Cur gained good scenting abilities, great energy, herding abilities and tenacity. Some have said that without these dogs, the Southern Mountains could not have been settled by the incoming Europeans. They are called “mountain” dogs because they provided advantages to settlers in wild, wooded areas, but they also adapted well to swampy or dry areas. The Original Mountain Cur Breeders Association has registered this breed of dog since the late 50s. It is also recognized by the UKC, KSBA and DRA.
The Mountain Cur has a somewhat generic Cur appearance. It is stocky and muscular and has a wide head with high-set ears and a heavy muzzle. Its dark-colored eyes are very expressive. The neck is strong and well muscled. The catlike feet are appropriately built for speed. The legs are muscular and straight. It can be born with dewclaws on its hind feet and even with two on each foot. It has a heavy coat that can be colored brindle, yellow, black and blue. Some dogs have white markings on their coat. The coat can be smooth or rough and a fine undercoat is also present. The dog can be born with a bobtail.
Mostly to be found in the South, it is used as a farm dog and a hunting dog. It can handle small game such as squirrels and raccoons, but also big game such as bear, boar and bull. It is great as a treeing dog and also has good skills as a tracker. It is very protective of its caring family. Despite its friendliness and displayed loyalty, it is not very appropriate as a pet, given its strong hunting instincts.
Apartment life does not fit this dog, which is happiest with a job to do in the outdoors. It is intelligent and brave, not intimidated by larger, angry animals. It is not submissive and thus its owners must be very firm in taking the role of pack leaders. All dogs view their caring humans as part of their pack and all packs need leaders.
The human must become the alpha male in a consistent, determined way, but calm at the same time. There are rules that the dog must be taught to clearly understand and follow. It is actually very eager to please and protect its masters. Good communication with the dog is important. Being very energetic, if it is not taken hunting and put to work, it must be walked daily or taken for jogs. It always enjoys activities in the outdoors and sports.
A great hunting and farm dog, the Original Mountain Cur must be given work and access to outdoor activities, and not kept as a pet.
