Additonal Breeds Starting
With Letter:
Pet Sites
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COUNTRY:
USA
WEIGHT:
35-55 pounds, over 55 pounds disqualifies
HEIGHT:
16-23 inches, over 23 inches disqualifies
COAT:
Short, smooth
COLOR:
Black, a few white markings permissible
OTHER
NAMES: Stephens Cur
GROUP:
Hound
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In the years after World War II, five strains of mountain curs were recognized.
Hugh Steph-ens's family, of southeastern Kentucky, had owned one strain
for over 100 years, always preferring their "Little Blacks." Stephens
was first Vice President of the Mountain Cur Club but, in 1970, it was felt
the Stephens strain and the McConnelJ lines were distinct enough to form
their own registry.
At that time
the name Stephens Stock was chosen for the breed, honoring the Stephens
family. These curs were more houndlike than many of the others, as they
worked a cold track and opened on the trail. Several hunters preferred
them, due to the dogs' sound on the trail, good change of voice at the
tree and their competitive hunting spirit. Colors other than black do
occur but are not registerable.
Stephens dogs
are quick, sensible and easy to train. Natural at treeing, they are specialists
at squirrel and coon. Although Stephens Stock are too small to go after
big game alone, they are very courageous and will work as a team on mountain
lions and bears. These dogs are very responsive to kindness and are family-oriented
but wary of strangers.
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