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Treeing Cur |
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He is not recognized by the F.C.I. |
Origin |
U.S.A. | |
Translation |
Francis Vandersteen |
A brief presentation of the Treeing Cur |
| The Treeing Cur is one of the many Cur breeds that were developed as hunting and farm dogs in the southern United States, capable of herding sheep and cattle, guarding property and hunting small and large game. Although they are consummate and courageous hunters, they generally make very pleasant and loyal companions at home too, and if socialized, are generally friendly to other dogs. A mix of hunting dogs, Terriers and Feist breeds, Cur dogs like the Treeing Cur have been bred for their abilities rather than their looks, and often vary greatly in size and color. |
History of the Treeing Cur |
| The Cur classification is generally reserved for versatile hunting and working dogs that were developed in remote rural areas in the southern part of the United States. While the word Cur is generally defined as an aggressive, unhealthy or mongrel dog, and is often used to describe a mean or cowardly person, a dog registered as a Cur breed is a specialized working animal that has been composed of several types of dog chosen for their specific skills, with little or no consideration for the dog's physical appearance. Cur dogs have been mentioned in historical documents as far back as the 1700s and, in most cases, were originally mixtures of hounds and Terriers, with the occasional hound or herding dog thrown in for good measure. Cur dogs eventually split into several breeds, including the Black-mouthed Cur, the Catahoula Cur and the Mountain Cur, due to the different environments in which they were developed and the different needs of the farmers and settlers who bred them. Like other dogs of the Cur breed, the Treeing Cur is an excellent all-round working dog, fully capable of working as a sheep or cow herding dog, guarding hearth and home, tracking and hunting, although its specialty is tracking and pursuing tree-climbing animals such as raccoons, squirrels and even bears. The Treeing Cur was recognized as a breed by the United Kennel Club in the winter of 1998, largely thanks to Cur breeders Alex and Ray Kovac. |
Appearance of the Treeing Cur |
| The Treeing Cur is one of the most varied dogs in terms of size and color among the Cur breeds; all colors are accepted, with the exception of albinism, they can measure between 46 and 61 centimeters at the shoulder and their weight can vary from a modest 13.5 kilos to a solid 27 kilos. Their backs are strong, slightly longer than their waists, and they are endowed with a generous amount of muscle. The head is generally quite broad and flat, tapering to a muzzle slightly shorter than the length of the skull, with a square black nose that can be black or pink. The Treeing Cur has medium to long rounded ears that fall close to the cheeks, and its eyes are set wide apart; although brown is the preferred color, it can also be green, yellow or blue. |
Temperament of the Treeing Cur |
| These dogs are generally alert, intelligent and athletic, but while they have a strong desire to please their master, they also have a very strong will; after all, they were bred to be able and willing to protect their families from large predators like mountain lions and bears, as well as to hunt brutal wild boars, and to manage livestock like the Texas Longhorn. Although interactions between dogs and young children always require supervision, this breed is generally friendly and affectionate towards family members of all ages, and with proper socialization, is also generally pleasant towards other dogs. However, it does require firm training to prevent it from becoming too protective of its home and family. They are naturally skilful hunters, using all their senses when stalking prey, although some follow their game in silence while others bark when in pursuit. |
Needs and activities of the Treeing Cur |
| These are extremely athletic, active dogs bred for power and stamina, and they tend to need plenty of exercise to maintain their prowess, at least an hour to an hour and a half of vigorous exercise a day. It's also important to remember that these dogs are as mentally active as they are physically, and that mental stimulation is as essential as physical activity. Alternative activities such as hunting or herding competitions, agility training and even canine freestyle dancing can help meet these needs. While these dogs make exceptional rural companions, they are generally not at home in smaller, apartment-like environments. |
Maintenance of the Treeing Cur |
| These dogs have very low grooming requirements, due to their easy-care, single-layer coat. This dog should only be bathed when absolutely necessary, as frequent bathing can lead to skin dryness and irritation. Brushing is generally only necessary once or twice a week, to control shedding and give the coat a glossy sheen. Nail care involves monthly trimming. Exorbitant dental expenses can be avoided by brushing teeth three times a week. Dogs with floppy ears, such as the tree-dwelling Cur, are somewhat prone to ear infections. To avoid this, many Cur owners will trim the excess hair inside the ear canal and keep the ears clean and dry. |
English (United Kingdom) 
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