Black Mouth Cur

The Black Mouth Cur is an American working cur from the south-eastern states — a versatile farm and hunting dog defined by its job rather than by its looks.

History

It comes from the American south, where settlers kept curs as all-purpose dogs: herding cattle and hogs, treeing game, guarding the homestead. The dark muzzle gives it the name. Registries differ on the standard because the type was maintained by working ability rather than by pedigree.

Temperament

The breed is known for being courageous, loyal and driven, closely bonded to its family and protective of it, with the stamina of a dog expected to work all day.

Care and training

It needs a great deal of exercise and a real job; it is a poor fit for a household that cannot provide one. Training should start early and stay consistent. The short coat needs almost nothing.

Health

Generally robust from generations of working selection, with hip dysplasia and ear infections among the known tendencies. These are patterns for the breed rather than a forecast for one dog; the measured facts are in the panel.