The Black Mouth Cur
Vital Stats of Black Mouth Curs
Vital stats of this breed include the following:
- Dog breed group: Working
- Height: 16 to 25 inches
- Weight: 40 to 95 pounds
- Lifespan: 12-18 years
Physical Characteristics of Black Mouth Curs
This breed has a large, muscular frame covered in short coats that are generally yellow, reddish brown or brindle.
Additionally, the Black Mouth Cur’s powerful head has strong, square muscles that sometimes have black shading. This breed has study, athletic midsections and long tails that hang low.
Care for Black Mouth Curs
The Black Mouth Cur is a bold and protective breed that requires attention to training as it grows from a puppy to an adult dog. It is essential to begin training when they are still young puppies.
This breed requires a daily brisk walk as well as plenty of outdoor space to run and play. If you live in an apartment, this dog will not be a good choice for you. They need to live on a farm or a house with a big, securely fenced backyard.
Health of Black Mouth Curs
Similar to any other breed, the Black Mouth Cur is prone to specific health problems. This breed is susceptible to ear infections, as in the case with all drop-eared breeds. Other conditions common in this breed include the following:
- Hip dysplasia
- Elbow dysplasia
- Entropion
- Ectropion
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
- Cataracts
- Demodicosis/Demodectic Mange/Demodex Mange
- Epilepsy
History of Black Mouth Curs
While most famously in the novel Old Yeller, the Black Mouth Cur’s origin is somewhat of a mystery. However, it is known that the breed originated in the southeastern United States, most likely in Mississippi or Tennessee.
This breed most likely descended from European and Asian cur dogs who were brought to North America and used by pioneers and settlers to hunt and farm the land from Florida to Texas. They needed a farm dog who could help them herd livestock and hunt in the rugged terrain of the region, as well as ward off dangerous wildlife.
The breed played a major role in the settling of the American frontier. Some also claim that westward expansion by European settlers would not have been possible without the Black Mouth Cur.
During this time period, curs were crossbred with other dogs as needed. However, the lack of record keeping contributes to the unknown specifics when it comes to the origin of the Black Mouth Cur.
Due to these variations, it has been made difficult to establish breed standards. Therefore, many kennel clubs, such as the American Kennel Club don’t recognize the breed.
For more information on the Black Mouth Cur or other dog breeds, don’t hesitate to contact us here at All Pets Veterinary Medical Center with the link below!
