| The Black Mouth Cur is well-muscled, with a coat that comes in a number of colors and shades. The muzzle is square-shaped and may be black or the same color as the coat. The ears are medium-sized and hanging, and may either be black or the same color as the coat. 'Black Mouth' refers to the dark pigmentation around the lips that also extends into the interior roof of the mouth, though not the tongue. The tail of a Black Mouth Cur is medium length, though a bobtail does naturally occur in the Wetherford Ben line. The feet are webbed. |
| Height: |
16-25 inches |
| Weight: |
45-95 pounds |
| Color(s): |
Various colors and shades, generally red, yellow, brindle, fawn or buckskin; occasionally solid back or white |
| Coat: |
Some heavy, some light; short; either coarse or fine, or a combination of both coarse and fine |
| Description: |
The Black Mouth Cur is a rugged hunting dog that has its origins in the Southern United States of America. Black Mouth Curs are used for herding cattle, baying hogs, hunting squirrel, raccoon, bear and mountain lion. Certain lines are used more for one activity than others, such as Wetherford Ben for herding, Red Alabama for hog baying, and Ladner for treeing ability. However, they are a multipurpose breed, and one dog, if quite talented, may be used for hunting, herding, and baying. The Ladner Yellow Black Mouth Cur hails from Mississippi, the Red Black Mouth Cur from Alabama, the Wetherford Ben Black Mouth Cur from Texas, and the Florida Black Mouth Cur from Florida. |
| Temperament: |
Black Mouth Curs are known for their loyal temperament. They are protective of their family and property when needed. They hunt well with other dogs when properly socialized. |
| Training: |
Black Mouth Curs are quick learners and have a burning desire to please their master. Consistent training will generally yield positive results. Harsh tones are used more effectively than corporal punishment with Black Mouth Curs. |
| Care & Grooming: |
This is an active breed that needs to be well-exercised. Black Mouth Cur have excellent jumping and climbing ability, making them great in the field. However, this can also mean a fence of six feet high or higher is required to enclose this athletic breed. |
| Shedding: |
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| Health: |
Black Mouth Curs are generally a hardy breed. As with other similar breeds, entropion (slight turning in of eyelid) is a correctable health issue. Their active nature exposes them to the possibility of torn ligaments and pulled muscles. |
| Lifespan: |
12-16 years |
| Litter Size: |
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