Description

The Black Mouth Cur is an unquestionably muscular, sturdy, rugged Southern dog. The coat comes in a variety of shades of yellow, fawns and brindle. Some BM Curs are born with heavier coats and some are born with lighter coats; these two different coat types can appear in the same litter. The undeniably powerful muzzle is black, tan or the same color as the coat. Black muzzles are usually preferred and any other color is considered a fault. The ears are medium-sized and hanging. The tail can be quite lengthy. Many are born with a short tail or have a docked. The chest is deep and solid.

Origin

The southern United States is well populated with cur-type dogs that are used by local hunters and sportsman. They are used throughout the southern area of the USA. It was a Black Mouth Cur who played the role of Old Yeller, in the famous Disney movie Old Yeller.

Temperament

For the people who hunt, no other dog will do. Among this swift hunter's quarry is boar, bear, coon, squirrel and deer. With medium-sized game, the Black Mouth catches and kills it with no questions asked. This dog never retreats. It is also proficient at treeing and baying. During the hunt, trailing is semi-open or silent, with a chop or yodel acceptable on tree or at bay. Curs rarely trot, even while hunting, going from a walk to a ground-covering sprint. These dogs are avid hunters, yet can also work with cattle. Breeders say a pup will train himself treeing, protecting and/or bunching and penning cattle by six months of age. As relentless and overpowering as this cur appears at work, he is kind and protective with his family. Loyalty and fearlessness are the norm. They have a burning desire to please their master. Male dogs are especially affectionate to women, preferring ladies for company and being aloof with strange men. Notably protective of children. Some object to parents disciplining children, which of course, children love. VERY IMPORTANT POINT: do not strike or spank to train. This is very counter-productive. Bmcs are VERY voice sensitive. A stern voice, USED SPARINGLY, is the best tool. If you can get them to figure out what you want them to do, youve got it made. Intelligent, predictable, with an even temperament, the Southern Curs are loyal to their families, giving their lives, if necessary, to protect them. Start training the Black Mouth puppy as soon as you bring it home. Training sessions should be short and frequent to keep them from becoming bored. This working dog should not be trusted with non-canine pets.

Height

Height: 16-25 inches (40-64 cm.)

Weight

Weight: 45-95 pounds (20-43 kg.)

Known Health Problems

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Conditions for Living

The Black Mouth Cur is not the best choice for apartment life.

Exercise Requirments

The Black Mouth Cur is a hunting dog that needs a great deal of regular extremely intelligent, and even a long run once a day would not be enough to keep them occupied. Very physical dog, unless it senses fragile young children or women. Needs plenty of room to run. They do best in a home with a large yard to protect. They make great jogging companions. Lack of exercise can cause a wide variety of behavior problems.

Life Expectancy

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Grooming

The short hair of the Black Mouth Cur is easy to groom. Occasionally comb and brush to remove dead and loose hairs. Bathe only when necessary as bathing can dry out the skin causing skin problems. Keep the ear canal free of excess hair and the toenails clipped.

Group

Herding