Searching for a quality kemmer cur for sale can feel like a bit of a treasure hunt because these dogs are a specialized breed for folks who truly value a working dog's grit. They aren't the kind of pups you'll find sitting in a generic pet store window or popping up in every local classified ad. These are legacy dogs, bred with a very specific purpose in mind, and finding the right one requires a bit of homework and a lot of appreciation for what Robert Kemmer set out to do decades ago.
If you aren't familiar with the backstory, the Kemmer Cur is essentially a specialized line of the Mountain Cur. Robert Kemmer wanted a dog that had that legendary Mountain Cur work ethic but with a little more consistency in hunting ability and a specific temperament. He succeeded, and today, people who hunt squirrels, raccoons, or even larger game swear by these dogs. But before you go out and bring one home, there's a lot to talk about regarding what makes them tick and how to find a breeder who actually knows their stuff.
What Makes a Kemmer Cur Different?
You might be wondering why someone would specifically look for a Kemmer Cur rather than just any old cur or hound. It really comes down to the "cold nose" and the "treeing" instinct. A lot of dogs will chase a squirrel, but a Kemmer Cur lives to put that squirrel up a tree and stay there until you arrive. They have this incredible "bottom," which is just a fancy way of saying they have endless stamina. They don't quit just because the brush gets thick or the hills get steep.
When you're looking at a kemmer cur for sale, you're looking at a dog that is usually a bit more "refined" than the broader Mountain Cur category. They tend to be medium-sized, athletic, and look like they're built out of pure muscle and spring wire. They often come in yellow, brindle, or black and tan, but for most owners, the color doesn't matter nearly as much as the drive.
What's really cool about them is their intelligence. They aren't just mindless hunters. They're thinkers. If a trail goes cold, they'll work it out. If a raccoon pulls a trick, the dog usually figures it out before the hunter does. That intelligence is a double-edged sword, though—it means they can get bored easily if they don't have a job to do.
Finding a Reputable Breeder
Since these aren't "designer dogs," the community of breeders is relatively small and very tight-knit. Most of the time, the best way to find a kemmer cur for sale is through word of mouth or by looking into the Kemmer Stock Breeders Association (KSBA). This organization keeps the records straight and ensures that the bloodlines stay pure.
When you start talking to breeders, don't be afraid to ask the "tough" questions. A good breeder will actually love that you're asking. You want to know about the parents' hunting records. Have they been "treed"? Do they have a "loud" voice? Are they "trash-free," meaning they don't chase things they aren't supposed to, like deer or the neighbor's cat?
If a breeder can't tell you about the hunting style of the dam and the sire, you might want to keep looking. You aren't just buying a pet; you're buying a bundle of instincts. You want to make sure those instincts are sharp. Also, ask about health clearances. Even though curs are generally very hardy, it's always smart to check for things like hip dysplasia or any history of eye issues in the line.
Is a Kemmer Cur Right for Your Lifestyle?
Let's be honest for a second: a Kemmer Cur isn't the right fit for everyone. If you live in a tiny apartment in the city and your idea of a "walk" is a five-minute stroll to the coffee shop, this dog is going to make your life very difficult. They are high-energy, high-drive athletes. They need space to run, and more importantly, they need mental stimulation.
However, if you have some land, or if you're an avid hiker or hunter, they are fantastic companions. They're often called "velcro dogs" because they get very attached to their owners. While they're tough as nails in the woods, they can be incredibly sweet and protective at home. They're usually great with kids, provided they've been socialized early on. They just want to be part of the "pack."
One thing to keep in mind is their "off-switch." Some working breeds are "on" 24/7 and never stop pacing. Most Kemmer Curs have a decent off-switch if they've had a good day of work or exercise. They'll happily curl up by the fire after a long day in the woods. But if they're cooped up for three days straight? Yeah, your couch cushions might be in danger.
Training and Socialization
If you manage to find a kemmer cur for sale and bring that puppy home, the work starts on day one. These dogs are smart, which means they can be a little stubborn if they think they know better than you do. You have to be firm but fair. They don't respond well to heavy-handed or aggressive training—it just makes them shut down or get defensive. Positive reinforcement and clear boundaries are the way to go.
Socialization is a big deal, too. Because they can be protective, you want to expose them to all kinds of people, dogs, and environments while they're young. You want a dog that's confident, not one that's skittish or overly aggressive toward strangers. Most Kemmer Curs are naturally wary of outsiders at first, which makes them excellent watchdogs, but you want that to be a controlled trait, not a liability.
The Cost of Owning a Kemmer Cur
The price for a kemmer cur for sale can vary wildly. You might find a puppy for a few hundred dollars from a local hunter, or you might pay significantly more for a "started dog." A started dog is one that has already had some basic training in the woods. They know how to trail and tree, but they aren't "finished" yet. These are great for people who don't have the time or experience to start a puppy from scratch.
Beyond the initial price, you've got the usual dog expenses—vet bills, high-quality food (they burn a lot of calories!), and gear. If you plan on hunting, you'll also be looking at GPS tracking collars, which are almost a necessity given how far these dogs can range in the woods. They don't know when to stop, so you need to be able to find them when the sun goes down.
Why People Stay Loyal to the Breed
Once someone owns a Kemmer, they rarely go back to other breeds. There's just something about their personality that's infectious. They have this "old soul" vibe. They're loyal, they're incredibly capable, and they have a certain dignity about them. Whether they're staring up a tree at a squirrel or leaning against your leg while you watch TV, they're fully committed to whatever they're doing.
It's that commitment that makes them special. They aren't "part-time" dogs. They are all-in, all the time. If you're ready for that kind of relationship, then finding a kemmer cur for sale might be the best decision you ever make. Just remember to do your research, talk to the breeders, and be ready for a dog that might just be smarter than you are.
At the end of the day, Robert Kemmer wanted to create a dog that could do it all, and he pretty much nailed it. Whether you're looking for a top-tier hunting partner or a rugged companion for your outdoor adventures, the Kemmer Cur is a breed that stands in a league of its own. Just make sure you've got the energy to keep up with them!