Dr. Sergey Uhanov
Last updated: 6th November 2023
Canadian Cur
By
Dr. Sergey Uhanov
Last updated: 6th November 2023
Primarily bred for hunting raccoons, the Canadian Cur is friendly, intelligent, and adaptable. Today, it is kept as a pet or used to hunt bears, deer, coyotes, squirrels, and boars. Some even train it to herd cattle. This medium-sized dog has a long body, broad face, and drop ears, coming in various colors.
Quick Information
| Other names | Canadian Cur |
| Coat | Medium to short, coarse, straight coat with a soft undercoat |
| Color | White and brown, golden, merle, speckled, light brown, spotted, brindle, or cream |
| Breed type | Purebred |
| Group | Hound, Hunting |
| Life expectancy | 12 – 15 years |
| Size | Medium |
| Height | 16 – 26 inches |
| Weight | 30 – 60 pounds |
| Litter Size | 3-8 puppies |
| Behavioral Characteristics | Intelligent, trainable, versatile, friendly, and loyal |
| Good with children | Yes |
| Barking Tendency | Moderate; they bark to alert their owners |
| Climate compatibility | High; they are highly adaptable |
| Apartment compatibility | Low; they need ample outdoor space |
| Do they shed | They shed very little |
| Are they hypoallergenic | No |
| Trainability | High |
| How much do they cost | $500 – $1,000 |
| Competitive Registration Qualification/Information | FCI, UKC, AKC |
| Country | USA |
History and Origin
This breed is relatively modern, developed in the 1980s by Canadian hunters David Rogers and Larry Smith. They sought to create an outgoing, sturdy, quick-witted hunter capable of tracking raccoons. To achieve this, they selected the Border Collie and the English Pointer as the foundation stock, breeding the offspring for selective traits and features over generations. Over time, Kemmer and Busher mountain curs and a Leopard cur were mixed into the gene pool. Initially a raccoon treeing dog, it quickly displayed prowess at handling other prey. The UKC recognized it in 1998. However, the AKC has yet to give full recognition. Currently, it is part of the Foundational Service Class.
Temperament and Personality
Its amiable nature makes for an excellent companion, besides its evident hunting skills. Incredibly loyal, it gets along well with young kids. Still, its prey drive might make it give chase to other pets. This breed is unsuitable for apartment life, requiring large open areas to run around in. It does best when provided with a job, from exercise or chores such as cattle herding. Fearless in front of predators, it is incredibly protective of its family, barking loudly to draw attention to strange people and animals. However, its independence might pose a problem if left alone for long periods. Correct and consistent training is vital to avoid such concerns.
Care
Exercise
As hunters, they require adequate workouts to remain physically and mentally healthy. You must spend a minimum of ninety minutes exercising your dog every day. Brisk daily walks and outdoor playtime in an open, fenced field are great for managing their energy. Dog sports are also a great option to explore for your pet.
Grooming
These dogs don’t shed much. An occasional bath and regular brushing are enough to maintain hygiene. However, too many baths can dry out the skin, causing issues. You need to take special care of their ears since the drop shape allows infections more easily. Check them for any indicators, such as wax build-up and excess hair. Trim the nails and brush the teeth as needed.
Health Problems
This breed is commonly healthy. Typical problems are mange, hip dysplasia, hyperuricosuria, degenerative myelopathy, and ear infections.
Feeding
They are active dogs, having a huge appetite to keep up with their stamina. Give your pet good quality food and avoid overfeeding to prevent obesity. Always consult your veterinarian while making a meal plan for the proper recommendations.
Training
Training is easy due to their intelligence and desire to please. Keep sessions consistent and fun to keep their interest for the best outcome.
Socialization: Early socialization is crucial to teach them when to activate their protective behavior and when to remain calm. Persistent teaching and instincts help them pick up new tricks and commands quickly. “Goldilocks” training, a balance between positive rewards and firmness, is good at curbing unpredictable attitudes. Crate training is an excellent method for house-breaking.
Leash: Keep your pet leashed on walks, as its hunting drive might cause it to run after a scent. Make it heel beside or behind you to establish dominance properly.
Interesting Facts
- A natural bobtail defines it.
- This breed is highly adaptable and can track over rugged terrain in any climate.
FAQs
The word “Cur” likely originated from the 13th-century Middle English term “curdogge,” which itself probably came from the Old Norse “kurra” or “curren,” which means to grumble or growl. This moniker refers to their way of alerting their owner of prey or predators via barking.
