Treeing Cur
Also known as Cur
United States, Coonhounds and American hounds
- Size
- Medium
- Height
- 46–61 cm
- Weight
- 14–27 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–16 yrs
- Athletic
- Bold
- Energetic
- Versatile
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
The Treeing Cur is a medium-sized, athletic American hunting dog bred to chase game into trees and hold it there. It varies widely in size and may be any colour; the tail is sometimes naturally short. It is valued for speed and agility in rough country and for being a practical all-rounder.
Size
- Size
- Medium
- Height at shoulder
- 46–61 cm
- Adult weight
- 14–27 kg
Typical adult ranges. Males are often at the top of the range and females at the bottom. Most reach adult size by around 12 months.
Lifespan
12–16 years
Most Treeing Curs live 12–16 years. Like other medium dogs, they're usually considered senior from about 8, when twice-yearly vet checks help catch problems early. Keeping them lean is one of the most effective things you can do for a long life. How old is that in human years?
Temperament
Cur breeds were developed by working families who needed a hunter, guard and stock dog in one, so the Treeing Cur is typically bold, energetic and alert. With its people it is usually loyal and eager to work.
- Athletic
- Bold
- Energetic
- Versatile
Food
For a typical 20.5 kg adult- Energy
- ≈ 1,080 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Water
- 820 ml–1.2 L
- a day, from all sources
- Most adults do well on two measured meals a day rather than one large one.
- Choose a complete food for their life stage, and ask your vet before changing diet if they have a health condition.
Starting points only — age, activity and the food itself change the numbers. Work out portions for your dog · Foods to avoid
Exercise
90–120 min a dayThis is a high-energy hunting dog that needs a lot of daily exercise and ideally regular hunting or scent work. It is not suited to a quiet, sedentary home.
Grooming & shedding
The short, dense coat needs only a weekly brush. Check for cuts, ticks and sore pads after time in the woods.
Health
Strong prey and treeing drive means secure fencing and a lead near wildlife. It may bark when it has quarry treed. It is rare outside the United States, and little breed-specific health data is published.
The breed can be prone to
- Little published breed-specific health data
- Injuries from hunting in rough terrain
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Hip scoring
Not every Treeing Cur is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. See common conditions and the symptom checker.
History
Cur dogs were bred across rural America by settlers who could not afford several specialist dogs. The Treeing Cur was developed in the Midwest from this pool of working dogs, selected purely for ability rather than looks. Alex and Ray Kovac led the push for registration, and the UKC recognised it in 1998.
- Country of origin
- United States
- Type
- Coonhounds and American hounds
- Recognition
- Recognised by the UKC since 1998 and by other US registries such as the NKC and PKC; not recognised by the FCI, AKC or The Kennel Club
Is a Treeing Cur right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
- People who'd rather not spend much time grooming
Think twice if
- You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day
Cost to keep
About average- Moderate food and insurance costs
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 12–16 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Not sure? Try the breed finder.
Treeing Cur FAQ
How big does a Treeing Cur get?
Adult Treeing Curs typically stand about 46–61 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 14–27 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Treeing Curs live?
Typically 12–16 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Treeing Cur need?
As a guide, around 90–120 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Treeing Cur need?
An occasional brush is plenty. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Treeing Curs easy to train?
Generally trainable with consistent, reward-based practice.
Do Treeing Curs shed?
A little. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Treeing Curs good with children?
Many get on well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Treeing Cur live in a flat?
It's usually a challenge — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Treeing Curs have?
The breed can be prone to little published breed-specific health data, injuries from hunting in rough terrain. Not every Treeing Cur is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by the Petopedia editorial team to our editorial standards. General guidance, not veterinary advice.