Black Mouth Cur- Everything You Need to Know

Strong, energetic, and courageous, the Black Mouth Cur is known as a working dog bred to help hunters and farmers in the rugged region of the southeastern United States. This breed can protect the home, track game, and herd livestock, although these dogs also have a soft side that doesn’t react well to harsh rebukes. Black Mouth Cur is recognized as a herding group by the UKC; however, AKC has not recognized Black Mouth Cur yet.

Black Mouth Cur Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Intelligent	High Energy
Guard Dogs	Frequent Barking
Loyal Companions	High Socialization Needs

Black Mouth Cur Basic Information

Name: Black Mouth Cur
Height: Male-18 to 25 inches // Female- 16-23 inches
Weight: Males– 40 to 95 Pounds // Females- 35-80 pounds
Size: Large
Coat: Short & Smooth
Color: Brown, Chocolate, Black, Red, Fawn, Gold, Yellow
Energy: Medium to High
Activities: Companion Dogs
Group: Herding group
Barking Level: High
Shedding Level: Medium
Hypoallergenic: No
Litter Size: 5 to 10 Puppies
Life Span: 12 to 15 Years
Other names: Southern Cur, Southern Black Mouth Cur, Yellow Black Mouth Cur, American Black Mouth Cur, Blackmouth Cur, East Texas Cur, East Texas Brindle Cur, Red Black Mouth Cur, Yellow Cur

Breed Recognition:

UKC = United Kennel Club
DRA = Dog Registry of America, Inc.
FBMCBO, Inc.= Foundation Black Mouth Cur Breeders Organization, Inc.
NKC = National Kennel Club
ABMCBA = American Black Mouth Cur Breeders Association
ACA = American Canine Association Inc.
ACR = American Canine Registry
APRI = American Pet Registry, Inc.
CKC = Continental Kennel Club
NSBMCBA = National Southern Black Mouth Cur Breeders Association
SBMCBA = Southern Black Mouth Cur Breeders Association

History

The origin of Black Mouth Cur is a mystery. Still, it is believed to have come from Southern parts of the United States, particularly Mississippi or Tennessee. Having descended from European and Asian cur dogs, the tradesmen and settlers brought this breed to hunt in the rough terrains, protect themselves from the wild forests, look after their livestock, and farm their lands.

Black Mouth Curs were bred for more than 100 years by the Ladner family and they are the most famous breeders of these pure breed dogs. Other variations are:

Alabama Black Mouth Curs are bought for their red coats
Florida Black Mouth Curs are known for their yellow coats

The color variations of Black Mouth Curs make it difficult for breed recognition. Thus, American Kennel Clubs do not register them. However, The United Kennel Club recognized the Black Mouth Cur in 1998, appearing in show rings.

Different types of Black Mouth Curs

The Black Mouth Cur is a muscular and powerful dog with a square or at least longer body than tall. They are tenacious canines with an innate urge to work. Being a hunter, Black Mouth Curs are built to move efficiently over harsh terrain for long periods. It is believed that the original Curs were seen across Asia and Europe. But the Black Mouth Cur has its tale in the Southern US hence the “Southern Cur Dog.” What seems more likely is a little differentiation within the breed, depending on the area they originate from.

Different types of Black Mouth Curs are:

Foundation Black Mouth Cur (originated from Texas)
American Black Mouth Cur
Ladner Yellow Blackmouth Cur (originated from Mississippi)
Red Alabama Blackmouth Cur
Florida Black Mouth Cur
Florida Yellow Black Mouth Cur
Southern Black Mouth Cur (originated from Alabama)
Southern Cur

Black Mouth Cur Personality

The Black Mouth Cur enjoys being around family and humans and is excellent with kids. However, these breeds are a poor option for novice owners or those who cannot keep up with a demanding energy level because of their high exercise needs. Black Mouth Curs mostly live in the US and are rare in other parts of the world. These breeds are obedient, adaptable, and share a desire to learn.

Black Mouth Cur Physical Features

The Black Mouth Cur is a muscular, athletic, rugged, sturdy Southern dog. Their coat color varies from shades of red, black, brown, fawn, yellow, and brindle. Some BM Curs are born with lighter coats, and some are born with heavier coats; these two coat varieties can be seen in the same litter.

The undeniably strong muzzle is tan, black, or the same color as the coat. They have medium-sized hanging ears with lengthy tail. They may also have small patches of white under their chin, around the nose, neck, legs, chest, and the tip of their tail. Their eyes may be yellow, brown, or green. Their legs are almost long, which makes them travel long distances.

The size of Black Mouth Curs differs based on the breed’s purposes. For example, herding dogs weigh over 100 pounds, and tree dogs weigh between 35-50 pounds.

Friendliness Overview

Affection level	High
Family-Friendly	High
Kid-Friendly	High
Pet-Friendly	Medium
Strangers-Friendly	Medium

Adaptability Overview

Good for New Pet Owners	Medium
Good for Apartment Living	Low
Sensitivity Level	Medium to High
Tolerates being alone	Low
Cold Tolerance	Medium
Heat Tolerance	Medium

Black Mouth Cur Temperament

Even though they are bred to work, the Black Mouth Cur is valued for their strength, courage, and loyalty, and they are becoming excellent family dogs. Black Mouth Curs are susceptible and energetic dogs, mainly with a high work drive. They were bred initially for property protection and herding, and they are very connected with their owners and immediate family. Black Mouth Curs can be trained effortlessly since there is something like a treat, ball, or toy that they will do anything for.

Black Mouth Curs may be challenging for novice owners due to their need for constant mental stimulation and high energy levels. However, they are brilliant dogs who do best with early socialization and training.

Black Mouth Cur Training

Black Mouth Curs are intelligent dogs, so training them is an easy process. They will learn quickly and complete any complex tricks to win those treats you have waiting for them. They’re sensitive dogs, so they react best to positive reinforcement. The training should be firm and consistent. This dog needs to be reminded that its owner is its chief. Otherwise, they can outsmart you and may not respond to your training.

Black Mouth Cur can be a little aggressive so avoid yelling, hitting, or punishing them. However, every dog needs heaps of treats and loves to follow the training better. Black Mouth Cur’s training should start when they are young and maintain during their early life stages to impart obedience.

Trainability Overview

Easy to Train	Medium
Intelligence	Medium to High
Prey Drive	Medium
Tendency to Chew, Nip & Play-bite	Medium to High
Tendency to Bark or Howl	Medium to High
Wanderlust Ability	Medium to High

Black Mouth Cur Exercise Needs

The Black Mouth Cur is a high-energy hunting dog that needs a great deal of exercise, at least two-three hours daily. So, if you’re looking for an active partner to join you on adventures, the Black Mouth Cur is your dog. Black Mouth Curs need both physical and mental stimulation. Lack of exercise can cause a wide variety of depression, idleness, boredom, and destructive behaviors.

Black Mouth Curs need long, daily walks, regular exercise, and activities that keep them occupied. Lack of exercise can result in behavioral problems. With their webbed feet, Black Mouth Curs are great swimmers too.

Exercise Needs Overview

Energy Level	Medium to High
Exercise Needs	High
Playfulness	High
Intensity	Medium

Black Mouth Cur Grooming

Black Mouth Curs are short-haired dogs and shed an average amount, so they have minimal grooming needs and are the least time-consuming. Moderate shedding makes them a good choice for allergic people. They need baths occasionally, as a regular bath can cause their skin to dry out. However, every couple of months is enough, unless they have gotten dirty or been in the salty water. Nail trimming is essential as they are inclined to have problems with their eyes and ears; ensure to keep an eye out for any infections. Tooth brushing is needed to prevent dental disease, gingivitis, and bad breath.

Grooming Needs Overview

Amount of Shedding	Medium
Tendency to Drool	Low
Tendency to Snore	Low to Medium
Easy to Groom	Medium

Black Mouth Cur Health

Black Mouth Curs are considered healthy dogs with a long lifespan and fewer genetic issues affecting other breeds. However, all breeds are sensitive to some health problems, and Black Mouth Curs are no exception. Therefore, regular health check-ups are advised to prevent common health diseases.

Health Overview

Basic Health	Medium
Weight Gain Possibilities	Low to Medium
Size	Medium

Ear Infection: Black Mouth Cur is prone to ear infections. So, cleaning their ears with wet cotton once a week can help to prevent ear infections. Also, pay special attention during their grooming sessions.

Epilepsy: An inherited disease for which the cause is unknown. Black Mouth Curs may undergo seizures one or the other time but seem perfectly normal in between the events.

Heart Disease: Heart Diseases might cause unusual heart rhythm and heart murmurs. This disease can be diagnosed through an ECG or an X-ray.

Hip Dysplasia: This life-threatening hereditary disorder is caused when the rear leg bones do not fit in the joints correctly. This condition can be triggered by several factors such as obesity, injuries, and wrong exercises. This disease can be rectified through medications or hip replacement surgeries.

Cataracts: The cloud-like spots on the eye lens are a sign of cataracts. Dogs might experience vision impairment.

Elbow Dysplasia: Elbow dysplasia happens when the bones of the elbow joint don’t fit correctly. This misalignment creates abnormal pressure at the joint, causing chronic rubbing, following severe osteoarthritis. Symptoms include lameness in the forelimbs and mild to moderate pain.

Black Mouth Cur Diet and Nutrition

The Black Mouth Cur is energetic and needs a high-quality working dog diet and nutritional food to stay healthy and energized. They need approximately 1000 calories daily, which equates to about 2 cups of kibble every day. These breeds need both fat and protein in their diet to help maintain their lean muscles and to keep high energy levels. As a puppy, you should divide their food into three meals daily. Black Mouth Curs are inclined to gaining weight, so ensure not to overfeed them.

Recent studies have started to note that the legumes in grain-free foods are creating Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) in some dogs, so grain-free foods should be thoroughly vetted. Check with your veterinarian about what food will be most suitable for your Black Mouth Cur.

Black Mouth Cur Living Conditions

As energetic dogs, the Black Mouth Curs are not suitable for apartment life. They need plenty of time to exercise and play. They are better suited for houses with yards and vast outdoor space.

Adding a Black Mouth Cur to Your Family

Things to Remember Before Buying a Black Mouth Cur

It is always recommended to get from local, reliable breeders as they guarantee the happiness and well-being of both the parents and the puppies. In addition, they should give you the health clearance records and gene tests for a vaccinated dog.