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]
^ abcdeMorris, Desmond (2001). Dogs: the ultimate dictionary of over 1,000 dog breeds. North Pomfret, VT: Trafalgar Square Publishing. p. 235. ISBN1-57076-219-8.
^ abcdeDe Prisco, Andrew; Johnson, James B. (1990). The mini-atlas of dog breeds. Neptune City, NJ: T.F.H. Publications. p. 345.
