Description of a Stephens Stock.

In the years after World War II, five strains of mountain curs were recognized. Hugh Steph-ens's family, of southeastern Kentucky, had owned one strain for over 100 years, always preferring their "Little Blacks." Stephens was first Vice President of the Mountain Cur Club but, in 1970, it was felt the Stephens strain and the McConnelJ lines were distinct enough to form their own registry.

At that time the name Stephens Stock was chosen for the breed, honoring the Stephens family. These curs were more houndlike than many of the others, as they worked a cold track and opened on the trail. Several hunters preferred them, due to the dogs' sound on the trail, good change of voice at the tree and their competitive hunting spirit. Colors other than black do occur but are not registerable.

Stephens dogs are quick, sensible and easy to train. Natural at treeing, they are specialists at squirrel and coon. Although Stephens Stock are too small to go after big game alone, they are very courageous and will work as a team on mountain lions and bears. These dogs are very responsive to kindness and are family-oriented but wary of strangers.