Overview
The Treeing Cur is a medium-sized, athletic hunting dog from the American Midwest. It was developed as an all-round farm dog that could hunt, guard and handle stock.
It is used to tree squirrels, raccoons, opossums and larger game such as boar, bears, mountain lions and bobcats.
History
The Treeing Cur grew out of the cur dogs kept by rural families in the American Midwest, who needed a single animal to hunt, guard the home and work stock. The United Kennel Club first recognised the breed on 1 November 1998, thanks largely to the efforts of Alex and Ray Kovac.
Because working ability mattered more than appearance, the breed has remained the most varied of the cur breeds in both size and colour.
Appearance
Treeing Curs are medium-sized, athletic dogs built for speed and agility in rough country. Size can vary a good deal from one dog to another.
The coat is dense and close, and all colours except albino are accepted. The ears hang naturally, the tail may be long, bobbed or docked, and scars are not penalised in the show standard.
Temperament
This is a driven, determined worker with great stamina and a strong hunting instinct. It is typically devoted to its family and also keeps a guarding streak.
It needs purpose and activity, and is happiest with an owner who hunts or provides equivalent work.
Care and exercise
Plenty of vigorous daily exercise and a job to do are essential. It is not suited to idle apartment life and needs a secure yard or regular runs.
Coat care is easy: occasional brushing is enough. Check ears and feet after work in rough terrain.
Health
There is no well-documented list of breed-specific problems. As a working hunting dog it is generally considered robust.
