Dr. Sergey Uhanov
Last updated: 25th February 2026
Kemmer Stock Mountain Cur
By
Dr. Sergey Uhanov
Last updated: 25th February 2026
Bred as big-game hunters, Kemmer Stock Mountain Curs used to track and tree bobcats, bears, mountain lions, and wild hogs. Now they go after the lesser game too such as squirrels and coons, and find use on farms as cattle herders and guards. These medium to small dogs have dropped, high-set ears, muscular bodies, and broad heads. Due to a lack of a specific standard, they can come in several colors and patterns. “Cur” may also reference their natural bobtails, coming from the term “cur-tailed.”
Kemmer Stock Mountain Cur Pictures
Quick Information
| Other names | Kemmer Stock Mountain Cur |
| Coat | Rough or smooth coat with a fine undercoat |
| Color | Yellow, brindle, black, blue, brown, red, or buckskin with some permissible white markings |
| Breed type | Purebred |
| Group | Working |
| Life expectancy | 10 – 16 years |
| Size | Small to Medium |
| Height | 12 – 18 inches |
| Weight | 30 – 50 pounds |
| Litter Size | 5-6 puppies |
| Behavioral Characteristics | Affectionate, loyal, eager, fearless, and determined |
| Good with children | Yes |
| Barking Tendency | Moderate; they bark to warn about intruders |
| Climate compatibility | High; they do well in any weather |
| Apartment compatibility | Low; they need plenty of outdoor play |
| Do they shed | They are light shedders |
| Are they hypoallergenic | No |
| Trainability | High |
| How much do they cost | $500 – $1,000 |
| Competitive Registration Qualification/Information | KSBA, UKC |
| Country | USA |
History and Origin
Developed in the 1970s by Robert Kemmer and his wife Lou Ella in Tennessee, this breed is comparatively recent. He used Mountain Curs as the foundation stock, selectively breeding for specific desirable traits. It originally hunted invasive wild hogs entering America through the Columbian Exchange. These hogs were aggressive and destructive, often clearing out entire fields for sustenance. Thus, a strong and fearless competitor was needed to control the growing population, leading to the Kemmer Stock Mountain Cur. Eventually, it honed its treeing skills, inherited from the Mountain Cur, starting work as a tracker and a treeing dog. The UKC inducted this stock in 1991. However, due to its lineage as a Cur, the AKC has yet to give full recognition.
Temperament and Personality
These Curs get along incredibly with humans and are very attached to their masters. Despite being hunters, they make brilliant companions, mixing well with children and other dogs. However, their instincts might make them chase smaller creatures. They are excellent guard dogs and herders, alerting of approaching predators with loud barks. For active pets with great stamina, one must provide them with a job to prevent boredom and anxiety. These determined and courageous stalkers do not rest until their prey is found and brought down, often going against much larger boars and bears. They crave praise and affection and will do anything to earn them.
Care
Exercise
Due to their pedigree, they require ample mental and physical exertion to remain fit. Daily walks and outdoor playtime in a vast open field are ideal workouts. Practicing and learning new skills and tricks is a fantastic way of providing mental exercise.
Grooming
As relatively low-shedders, regular brushing is enough to keep them neat and clean. Bathe them when necessary according to their activity levels, but avoid frequent baths as they can cause dryness and irritation. Please pay special attention to their ears, as the dark, moist environment of the drop shape is prone to infections. Brush their teeth daily and trim their toenails as needed.
Health Concerns
The main concern with this breed is ear infections and mange. Apart from this, conditions such as hip dysplasia and cataracts are possible. Buy from reputed breeders to lower the risk of such problems and have a long, healthy life.
Feeding
Due to their high stamina and activity, they have a substantial appetite. Still, avoid overfeeding as they tend to become overweight. Always discuss with your veterinarian about feeding options, considering age, weight, and overall fitness.
Training
Kemmer Stock Mountain Curs are very friendly, with a powerful urge to please their owner. This attitude is constructive for training.
Socialization: Early socialization helps your dog control its prey drive around other animals. Breeders recommend spending plenty of time with your pet since infancy, creating solid bonds and encouraging obedience. But it can become demanding and unruly if given too much attention, so you must establish a balance. However, never beat your Cur. Instead, use firmness and consistency to teach acceptable behavior.
Interesting Facts
- The popular idiom “barking up the wrong tree” originates from treeing, where dogs such as the Cur would force a tree-dwelling creature up a tree and corner it till their owner dealt with it appropriately.
- Robert Kemmer established a twelve-point breed standard, focusing on tracking and treeing techniques and tendencies.
