Stephens Stock

The Stephens Stock is a small, compact scent 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 southeast Kentucky who for over a century maintained a distinct line of Mountain 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 the United Kennel Club in 1998.[3]

The Stephens Stock is predominantly used to hunt squirrel and raccoon; too small to hunt black bear and cougar singly, when hunted as a pack they are considered to have sufficient courage to take on either species.[1][2]