Mountain View Cur

The Mountain View Cur is an exceptional treeing dog, famed for intelligence and diligence. Named after the Mountain View Kennel where it first developed, there is talk of removing the “Cur,” as it denotes a breed of unknown pedigree, which is untrue in this case. It has a characteristic bobtail, and puppies born with longer tails are usually docked. Its narrow muzzle, soft paws, and floppy ears give it a friendly look, much loved by enthusiasts.

History and Origin

This relatively recent breed was created in the late 1980s by Michael and Mary Bloodgood at the Mountain View Kennel in Afton, New York. They aimed to improve the already brilliant treeing and tracking abilities of existing Mountain Curs to obtain the best hunting dog. Of the fifty-six specimens of both Original Mountain Cur and Kemmer ancestry chosen initially, only six individuals had the desired traits, out of which four of them had a common lineage. These four Curs, three female and one male, formed the foundation stock. However, two of these females bore aggressive and unintelligent pups and were thus culled. The remaining pair were joined by another breeding pair, forming the basis of the program. Their bloodline is present in most registered dogs today.

Initially developed to track and hunt tree-climbers such as raccoons and squirrels, these dogs quickly proved themselves efficient at handling larger prey such as boars, cats, bobcats, and bears. Realizing that their new variety was unique from other Curs, the Bloodgoods, along with eleven other founders, sought to create a separate registry to prevent crossbreeding and preserve the purity of these carefully cultivated abilities. They decided to maintain the new certification with the ASANHA in 1995. However, due to recent policy changes that denied them recognition as tree dogs, the founders chose to create an independent body for their purpose. Thus, in 1996, the Mountain View Cur Registry was established with the motto “Breed for Quality, not Quantity, on Ability, not Myth.”

Temperament and Personality

This breed thrives best in homes with sizeable yards and access to open fields and hunting grounds. Highly protective of family and property, it does not become immediately aggressive but prefers to gauge the situation, making for a fantastic watchdog. Its nose is extraordinary, helping in tracking a variety of games like wild boars, hogs, hares, bears, bobcats, raccoons, squirrels, coyotes, and herding cattle. When hunting, it prefers to be independent, chasing nearly cold trails successfully and checking in regularly with its handler.

As a pet, its eagerness and desire to please is well-known, making it a joy to have around children. Extremely intelligent, providing your companion a job is vital to preventing unruly behavior caused by boredom or loneliness. When well-cared for, its happy and attentive personality brings endless enjoyment to a home.

Training

These dogs live to please and lap up attention, making training easy. Consistency and providing an outlet in the form of playtime or a job are essential to avoid unruly and destructive habits.

Socialization: They start treeing quarry at only seven months old, so early socialization is crucial. Spend plenty of time with your pet for the first four months to encourage lifelong bonding and loyalty. They respond splendidly to positive encouragement and rewards, so you must implement these tools to help teach good manners.

Leash: They usually hunt without a leash. However, it is better to keep them leashed in public places as they might run after scents. Ensure your dog learns to heel beside or behind you to establish your position as the pack leader properly. If you do not do so, they might try to lash out by biting and growling.

Interesting Facts

• They all do not hunt the same way; 70% are semi-silent, 20% prefer being completely silent, and 10% open trail their prey.
• This breed is an excellent competition dog, winning the National Coon Championship in four states for four consecutive years.