| Stephens Stock | |||||||||||||||||||||
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| Other names | Stephens Cur Stephens Stock Mountain Cur | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Common nicknames | Little blacks | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Origin | United States | ||||||||||||||||||||
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| Dog (domestic dog) | |||||||||||||||||||||
TheStephens Stock, also known as theStephens Stock Mountain Cur or simply theStephens Cur, is abreed ofcur from theUnited States.
The Stephens Stock is a small, compactscent hound-like cur that stands between 16 and 23 inches (41 and 58 cm) in height and weighs between 35 and 55 pounds (16 and 25 kg).[1][2] The breed has a short coat that is black in color with some white markings on the extremities, it has a small head with a narrow muzzle which gives the impression of a sleek hound.[1][2] A high-energy breed, the Stephens Stock possesses strong hunting instincts and adapts poorly to being kept as a pet.[2]
The Stephens Stock was developed by the Stephens family from southeastKentucky who for over a century maintained a distinct line ofMountain Cur, eventually in 1970 it was determined that this line of dogs was so distinctive that it was declared to be a separate breed.[1][2] Hugh Stephens is considered the founder of the modern breed,[1] it was recognised by theUnited Kennel Club in 1998.[3]
The Stephens Stock is predominantly used to huntsquirrel andraccoon; too small to huntblack bear andcougar singly, when hunted as a pack they are considered to have sufficient courage to take on either species.[1][2]
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