The Tan Mountain Cur is a breed that's perfect for families with kids, thanks to its gentle and patient nature. They're also highly energetic, so they need plenty of exercise and playtime.
One thing to note is that Tan Mountain Cur puppies are relatively small in size, weighing between 20-40 pounds. This makes them a great fit for families living in smaller spaces.
These puppies are also known for their intelligence and trainability, which makes housebreaking a breeze. With consistent training and positive reinforcement, your Tan Mountain Cur puppy will learn to behave quickly and easily.
One of the best things about Tan Mountain Cur puppies is their loyalty and affection towards their families. They make great companions and are always happy to see you come home.
Check this out: National Dog Show Great Dane
Breed Characteristics
Mountain Cur puppies are naturally energetic and adventurous, making them perfect for families who love to explore the great outdoors. They thrive on having a "job" or task to do, so proper training is essential for their happiness and well-being.
They're affectionate dogs that love to be around their people, but they're also low-key and don't require a lot of fuss. One thing to keep in mind is that they have a high prey drive, which can make it difficult to safely house them with other pets.
Size
The Mountain Cur is a sturdy breed, and its size is one of its most notable features. Males stand 18 to 26 inches at the shoulder.
Females are slightly smaller, reaching a height of 16 to 24 inches. Both males and females weigh in at 30 to 60 pounds, making them a compact yet robust breed.
Family-Friendly Dogs
Mountain Curs are a great choice for families who are active and love the outdoors, as they thrive on having a "job" or task to do and are naturally energetic and adventurous.
They're also surprisingly affectionate and low-key, making them a great fit for families who want a dog that's more laid-back.
However, it's essential to supervise interactions between young children and Mountain Curs, as these dogs won't tolerate rough handling.
Older children should be fine with Mountain Curs if they treat the dog with respect, but it's still crucial to teach them how to interact with the dog gently.
Mountain Curs have a high prey drive, which can make it challenging to safely house them with other pets, such as cats, other dogs, and small pets.
Check this out: Can Pit Bulls Make Good Pets
Coat Color and Grooming
The Mountain Cur's coat is a beautiful thing, with a range of colors including black, tan, brown, yellow, brindle, and black and brindle, and may even have white points.
Their coat sheds twice a year, in the spring and fall, so be prepared for some extra brushing during those times. They have a double coat, consisting of a thick top coat and a smoother undercoat, which helps them stay comfortable in both hot and cold conditions.
The Mountain Cur's short hair makes them very easy to groom, requiring only a weekly brushing and occasional bathing. They have sensitive skin, so it's best to limit bathing to only when necessary.
Their coat protects them from the elements, and they often prefer to spend more time outdoors than indoors, which is great for their natural instincts but might require some extra cleaning when they do come inside.
Discover more: When to Breed Female Dog
Care and Feeding
Tan Mountain Cur puppies need plenty of mental and physical stimulation daily to prevent destructive behavior, so make sure to provide them with obedience training and plenty of exercise from puppyhood on.
A different take: Dogs Breeds That Start with B
They require dental hygiene and nail care, so brush their teeth twice a week and trim their nails once a month to remove tartar buildup and bacteria.
Their diet should be formulated for a medium to large breed dog with high energy levels, and you should ask your veterinarian for recommendations about their diet as it will change from puppyhood to adulthood and into their senior years.
Feeding
Feeding your Mountain Cur requires careful consideration of their high energy levels and nutritional needs.
An ideal Mountain Cur diet should be formulated for a medium to large breed dog with high energy levels.
You should ask your veterinarian for recommendations about your Mountain Cur's diet, as there is far too much variation among individual dogs to make a specific recommendation.
Mountain Curs are very active dogs and as such have a higher caloric requirement than other dog breeds.
Adult Mountain Curs need to eat about 2 cups of food a day, divided into at least two meals for easier digestion.
If you're unsure about your dog's body condition or diet, consult with your veterinarian to avoid health problems like arthritis and diabetes.
Care and Feeding
To keep your Mountain Cur happy and healthy, you'll want to provide regular exercise and mental stimulation. A daily walk, run, or playtime is essential, with outdoor access ideal.
Their high energy levels mean they need plenty of physical activity to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. I've seen Mountain Curs thrive in homes with large yards or regular outdoor adventures.
Their coat requires minimal grooming, with weekly brushing sufficient to keep it in good condition. This makes them a great choice for busy families or those who don't want to spend hours cleaning their dog's coat.
Mountain Curs are generally healthy, but potential health issues include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and eye problems. Regular veterinary check-ups can help identify any potential issues early on.
To prevent health problems, it's essential to provide a balanced diet and plenty of fresh water. A high-quality dog food that meets your Mountain Cur's nutritional needs is a must.
For another approach, see: Black Mouth Cur Health Problems
Here's a quick rundown of your Mountain Cur's exercise needs:
Early socialization is crucial for Mountain Curs, as they can be wary of strangers. Consistent leadership and patient training will help your dog develop good manners and a strong bond with your family.
Health
The health of your tan Mountain Cur puppy is a top priority, and with proper care, they can live up to 16 years, just like their breed is known for.
Mountain Curs are generally a healthy breed, but like all dogs, they can be prone to certain health issues. Skin infections and irritation are common problems, so keeping their sensitive skin and coat clean is crucial.
You can help prevent skin irritation by using fish oil supplements, especially if your dog spends a lot of time outdoors in cold weather.
Ear infections are another common issue in dogs, and regular ear cleaning with commercially available ear cleaners can help prevent them.
A different take: Embark Breed and Health Dog Dna Test Stores
Some other potential health problems to watch out for include hip dysplasia and arthritis, which can be managed with glucosamine chondroitin supplements.
You should also be aware of parasites, heart conditions, diabetes, bloat, flea and tick infestations, and skin problems, which can be prevented or managed with vet care, preventative medication, and vaccinations.
Here are some common health issues to keep an eye out for:
- Skin infections and irritation
- Hip dysplasia and arthritis
- Ear infections
- Parasites
- Flea and tick infestation
- Skin problems
- Heart conditions
- Diabetes
- Bloat
- Cancer
Training and Behavior
Mountain Cur puppies are highly intelligent and require daily mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. They can be trained for various tasks, such as hunting or chores, and even enjoy puzzle toys and feeders.
Their intelligence comes with a stubborn streak, so consistency and patience are key when training. They'll try to achieve pack leader status, making early establishment of dominance crucial.
Establishing a strong bond and clear communication with your Mountain Cur puppy is essential for successful training. They thrive on positive reinforcement and respond well to tasks that challenge their minds and bodies.
Mountain Curs are natural athletes who love the outdoors and need regular exercise to prevent restlessness and destructive behavior. Long, challenging walks and rigorous playtime are a must for this breed.
Temperament & Intelligence
Mountain Curs are highly intelligent dogs with a desire to please, making them a joy to train with positive reinforcement.
They are even-tempered and eager to please, but they do need a job to do and may not adjust well in a home without regular stimulation.
This breed requires daily mental stimulation, which can be provided through tasks like accompanying hunters, chores around the home, or puzzle toys and feeders.
Mountain Curs are naturally athletic and love the outdoors, so they'll thrive in a home with a large yard and plenty of opportunities for exercise.
They can be stubborn at times, which may affect their trainability, but with consistent and firm training from an early age, they can learn to respect their human leaders.
Establishing dominance early on is crucial, as Mountain Curs will try to achieve pack leader status if left unchecked.
With the right training and socialization, Mountain Curs can be well-trained and well-adjusted companions.
Exercise
Mountain Curs are extremely active dogs, requiring daily mental and physical exercise to prevent destructive behavior.
If you don't plan on using your Cur for farm work, hunting, or canine competition, you'll need to commit to long, challenging walks and rigorous playtime on a daily basis.
They can be well-trained and well-socialized, but only if they receive the right amount of exercise and mental stimulation.
Mountain Curs require daily mental stimulation, which can be achieved through puzzle toys and feeders, or even just a job or task to keep them engaged.
If they don't receive enough exercise, they may try to achieve pack leader status, making training very difficult.
Establishing dominance early on with proper training is crucial to avoid this issue.
Tip
Mountain Curs are high-energy dogs that need plenty of exercise to stay happy and healthy. They require a lot of physical activity to keep them from getting destructive.
If you're considering bringing a Mountain Cur into your home, it's essential to have a big backyard where they can run around and play. They're not suited for apartment living.
A Mountain Cur's high energy level means they need regular exercise sessions, ideally at least an hour a day. This can include walks, runs, and playtime in the yard.
Here's a rough guide to help you plan your dog's exercise routine:
Remember, every dog is different, so be sure to tailor your exercise routine to your Mountain Cur's individual needs and energy level.
Ownership and Adoption
If you're considering bringing a tan Mountain Cur puppy into your family, you'll want to think about the cost of ownership. You can expect to pay between $500 and $1000 for a Mountain Cur puppy.
It's also worth considering adopting a Mountain Cur from a rescue group or shelter. Rescues specifically for Mountain Curs might be hard to come by, but you can try contacting organizations that cater to all kinds of dogs.
To find a reputable breeder or rescue group, check out the website for the Original Mountain Cur Breeders Association. They can help you find a breeder near you. Here are some additional rescue groups you can consider:
- Wright-Way Rescue
- Angels Among Us Pet Rescue
- Rescue Me
- Paw Project
Almost Went Extinct
During World War II, many families who bred Mountain Curs left rural areas to assist with the war effort in the cities.
This led to a significant decline in the breed's population, making the Mountain Cur dog rare by the end of the 1940s.
The efforts of a few dedicated individuals, including Hugh Stephens, Woody Huntsman, Carl McConnell, and Dewey Ledbetter, helped save the breed and establish the Mountain Cur breed standard.
Essential to a Famous Explorer
Daniel Boone, a famous explorer, relied on Mountain Curs as he blazed trails through the Appalachian Mountains. He bred and raised them himself.
These dogs were essential to his expeditions, and he even carried pups in protective baskets while on the move.
Where to Adopt or Buy a Pet
If you're planning to bring a new furry friend into your life, you've got options. You can either adopt or buy a pet, and the cost can vary depending on the breed. For a Mountain Cur, you can expect to pay between $500 and $1000.
Adopting is a great way to give a loving home to a dog in need. Check with your local animal shelter, as they may have Mountain Curs waiting for a forever home. You can also try contacting rescue groups, such as Wright-Way Rescue, Angels Among Us Pet Rescue, Rescue Me, or Paw Project.
If you're set on buying a pet, make sure to do your research and find a reputable breeder. The Original Mountain Cur Breeders Association is a great resource to find breeders near you.
Related reading: Great Pyrenees Puppy Pictures
Owning Essentials
Owning a Mountain Cur requires meeting their lifestyle needs. Mountain Curs need regular exercise to stay happy and healthy.
They are great dogs, but also require a lot of space to roam. A securely fenced yard is a must-have for any Mountain Cur owner.
Mountain Curs are intelligent dogs, but they can be stubborn at times. Consistent training and positive reinforcement are key to developing good behavior.
They are great with families, but early socialization is crucial to ensure they get along with other pets and children.
Broaden your view: Great Pyrenees Breed Standard
Frequently Asked Questions
How to tell if your dog is a Mountain Cur?
Identify your dog as a Mountain Cur by its short coat, weight (30-60 pounds), and height (18-26 inches for males, 16-24 inches for females), which can come in various colors including blue, black, yellow, brown, or brindle
How much does Mountain Curs cost?
Mountain Curs typically cost between $500 and $1,000, depending on the breeder and location. Prices may vary, so it's best to research and contact a breeder for a more accurate estimate.
Is a Mountain Cur a good house dog?
Mountain Curs are well-natured and suitable for families with children and other pets when properly socialized. They thrive in active households with regular exercise and mental stimulation
Sources
- Mountain Cur - Dog Breed Information (akc.org)
- growling (dogzone.com)
- ree-climbing prowess (k9web.com)
- desire to chase (hillspet.com)
- Rescue Me (rescueme.org)
- United Kennel Club recognized the breed in 1998 (ukcdogs.com)
- Original Mountain Cur Breeders Association (omcba.net)
- Mountain Cur Dog Breed: Info, Pictures, Traits & More (dogster.com)
- Mountain Cur Dog Breed Information and Pictures (dogbreedinfo.com)
Featured Images: pexels.com