Siberian Black Mouth Cur

The Black Mouth Cur is a medium to large working dog that displays considerable variation in size due to the breed's development across different regions of the American South for diverse working purposes. Height ranges substantially from 16 to 25 inches at the shoulder, with males typically standing at least 18 inches and females at least 16 inches. Weight shows similar variability, spanning from approximately 35 pounds in smaller individuals to nearly 100 pounds in the largest specimens, though most fall somewhere between 40 and 80 pounds. This size variation reflects the breed's selection primarily for working ability rather than conformity to strict physical standards, with different lines developed for specific hunting or farm work requirements. The Black Mouth Cur presents a distinctly athletic and muscular appearance, conveying the power and stamina necessary for long days of demanding physical work. The body is well-proportioned with a deep chest that provides ample lung capacity, strong straight legs, and a sturdy frame that appears ready for action at any moment. The head is broad with a moderately defined stop and a strong, square muzzle that gives the breed its name when displaying the characteristic dark or black pigmentation around the mouth and muzzle, though some individuals lack this marking entirely. Medium-sized ears fold over and hang close to the head, contributing to an earnest and attentive expression. The tail may be naturally long or short, with many individuals historically having docked tails for work purposes. The coat of the Black Mouth Cur is short, dense, and close-lying, providing protection during outdoor work without requiring extensive maintenance. Coat texture varies from coarse and rough to finer and smoother, with both types appearing within the same litters. The predominant colors include various shades of yellow, fawn, and red, though brown, black, and brindle patterns also occur throughout the breed. While the dark muzzle is considered breed typical and gives the dog its name, the presence and extent of black pigmentation around the mouth varies considerably, and some purebred Black Mouth Curs display little or no dark muzzle coloring. White markings on the chest, feet, and tail tip are common and acceptable within the breed.

The Siberian Husky is a medium-sized working dog that presents a picture of balance, power, and endurance. Males typically stand between 21 and 23.5 inches at the shoulder and weigh 45 to 60 pounds, while females measure 20 to 22 inches in height and weigh 35 to 50 pounds. The breed's body is moderately compact with a length slightly greater than height, creating the rectangular outline characteristic of sled dogs built for efficient movement over great distances. The Siberian Husky moves with a smooth, effortless gait that reflects its heritage of pulling light loads at moderate speeds across vast frozen expanses, covering ground with minimal expenditure of energy. The head of the Siberian Husky is proportionate to the body, presenting a refined appearance with a medium-length muzzle that tapers gradually toward the nose. The breed's eyes rank among its most striking features, appearing in shades of blue, brown, or one of each color, and sometimes displaying particolored patterns within the same eye. The eyes are almond-shaped and set slightly obliquely, conveying an expression that is keen, friendly, and sometimes mischievous. Medium-sized triangular ears set high on the head and carried erect add to the breed's alert and interested expression. The well-furred tail resembles a fox brush and is carried in a graceful sickle curve when the dog is at attention, though it may trail behind when the dog is working or relaxed. The Siberian Husky's double coat provides essential protection against Arctic temperatures and represents one of the breed's defining characteristics. The undercoat is soft, dense, and sufficiently long to support the outer coat, while the outer coat consists of straight, smooth-lying guard hairs of medium length. The coat gives the dog a well-furred appearance without obscuring the clean-cut outline of the body. All colors and markings are permitted, ranging from pure white through various shades of gray, tan, and red to solid black, with most individuals displaying striking facial markings and white undersides. The breed sheds its dense undercoat profusely once or twice annually, requiring increased grooming during these periods.