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German Shepherd Black Mouth Cur Mix: Traits, Care, and Training

Categorized as German Shepherd Types and Mixes
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The German Shepherd Black Mouth Cur (GSD BMC) mix is a unique cross between two intelligent, energetic working breeds – the German Shepherd and the Black Mouth Cur. This mixed breed combines the best traits from both parent breeds, resulting in an loyal, athletic, and highly trainable companion.

In this comprehensive guide, we will cover everything you need to know about the GSD BMC mix including their history, appearance, temperament, exercise needs, trainability, health issues, and more.

History of the German Shepherd Black Mouth Cur Mix

As with most designer dogs, the German Shepherd Black Mouth Cur mix likely originated within the past couple decades in America.

The German Shepherd breed dates back to 1899 in Germany, where Captain Max von Stephanitz developed the breed from various sheep herding dogs. German Shepherds quickly became popular as working dogs used by police and military. Today, they are one of the most popular breeds worldwide.

The Black Mouth Cur originated in the southern United States as an all-purpose farm and hunting dog. Their history is less documented, but they have existed in America for several centuries. They are known for their stamina, courage, and loyalty.

While the German Shepherd BMC mix is still relatively uncommon, they combine the best traits of both parent breeds. Their hybrid vigor makes them an intelligent, athletic, and healthy canine companion.

German Shepherd Black Mouth Cur Mix Appearance

The German Shepherd Black Mouth Cur mix can vary quite a bit in appearance, often blending characteristics of both parent breeds.

Size: These dogs are considered a medium to large-sized breed. Height at the shoulder ranges from 19-25 inches tall once fully grown. Weight as an adult typically spans between 45-95 pounds.

Males tend to be taller and heavier than females. The German Shepherd parent contributes larger size genes, while the Black Mouth Cur parent’s smaller size balances things out in the mix.

Coat: The coat of the German Shepherd Black Mouth Cur mix is medium in length, ranging from short to medium long. The texture can be straight, wavy, or somewhere in between.

Common coat colors include different shades of black, brown, yellow, tan, and brindle. Many dogs will have a mix of colors and patterns. The back and saddle area often showcases darker black and brown tones.

They have a dense double coat that sheds moderately throughout the year. During spring and fall shedding seasons, they will blow their undercoat and shed more heavily. Their coat is not hypoallergenic and requires regular brushing.

Ears: Floppy ears from the Black Mouth Cur or pointy, erect ears from the German Shepherd are both possible in this mix. Their ears are large compared to the size of the head and have a wide base.

Eyes: Almond shaped eyes are a distinguishing feature of this breed. Eye color varies and can be light amber, medium brown or dark brown. Some dogs may have one eye that is a different color from the other.

Tail: The German Shepherd Black Mouth Cur mix has a long, bushy tail that reaches to the hock joint. When relaxed, the tail hangs down naturally. When alert or excited, their tail often curls upwards or waves back and forth rapidly.

Body: These athletic dogs have a well-proportioned, muscular build. They have a broad head with a medium-length muzzle. Their skull is flat on top. They have a black nose and strong jaws with a scissors bite.

The chest is deep and robust with a sloped hind end. Their rear legs are angled for an efficient, ground-covering stride. Paws are oval-shaped with thick pads.

German Shepherd Black Mouth Cur Mix Temperament

The GSD BMC has a loyal and courageous temperament. They form strong bonds with their family. Here are some of the most notable traits:

  • Intelligent
  • Energetic
  • Protective
  • Loyal
  • Trainable
  • Playful
  • Alert
  • Confident

These dogs need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. They excel at canine sports and jobs such as search and rescue, hunting, herding, and more. With proper socialization, they get along well with children and other pets. Their protective nature makes them excellent watchdogs.

Exercise & Training Needs

The German Shepherd Black Mouth Cur mix has high exercise needs. These energetic dogs require 60-90 minutes of exercise daily. They enjoy activities like hiking, running, swimming, agility, and playing fetch.

Along with physical exercise, these dogs need mental stimulation through training, interactive toys, and jobs. Without adequate activity, they may develop destructive behaviors or anxiety.

Thanks to the intelligence of both parent breeds, the GSD BMC mix is highly trainable. They respond very well to positive reinforcement training and are eager to please their owners.

Early socialization and obedience training is essential for these dogs. It helps prevent problematic behaviors and ensures they behave appropriately around other dogs and people.

Grooming & Maintenance

The German Shepherd Black Mouth Cur mix has moderate grooming needs. Their medium-length double coat should be brushed 1-2 times per week to remove dead hair and distribute skin oils.

During shedding seasons in the spring and fall, they will require more frequent brushing. Occasional baths can help remove excess dirt and dander when needed.

Other grooming needs include:

  • Nail trimming every 2-3 weeks
  • Ear cleaning 1-2 times per month
  • Teeth brushing 2-3 times per week

Their floppy ears are prone to developing infections if not cleaned regularly. Check and wipe their ears weekly.

Health Issues

As with any mixed breed, the GSD BMC can inherit health conditions from either parent breed. Some concerns to be aware of include:

  • Hip and elbow dysplasia – Malformation of these joints that can lead to arthritis.
  • Bloat – Life-threatening condition where the stomach twists. Avoid exercising before and after meals.
  • Allergies – Environmental or food allergies resulting in itchy skin or ears.
  • Heart disease
  • Cataracts – Clouding of the lens that causes vision loss.

With proper care, most German Shepherd Black Mouth Cur mixes enjoy a life expectancy of 12-16 years. Discuss any specific health concerns with your veterinarian.

Finding a German Shepherd Black Mouth Cur Mix Puppy

Since the GSD BMC mix is still fairly uncommon, finding puppies may be challenging. Avoid pet stores or online ads selling these puppies, as they often come from irresponsible breeders.

Instead, look for breeders focused on this mix who health test their breeding dogs. Ask to meet parent dogs to evaluate temperament. Reputable breeders will welcome questions and provide vet records.

Adopting an adult German Shepherd Black Mouth Cur mix is also an option. Check local shelters, rescues, and breed-specific rescues for adoptable dogs.

Expect to pay $500-1000 USD for a German Shepherd Black Mouth Cur mix puppy from a responsible breeder. Adoption fees are often lower, around $50-400.

Is the German Shepherd Black Mouth Cur Mix Right for You?

Before bringing one of these mixed breed dogs home, make sure you can meet their needs. The GSD BMC mix is best suited for active owners who can properly exercise, train, and socialize them.

They require a securely fenced yard and plenty of daily activity. First-time owners may struggle with meeting their demanding exercise and training requirements.

Homes with children should have kids who understand how to respectfully interact with dogs. Their protective nature makes proper socialization essential.

If you can provide structure, training, and an active lifestyle, the intelligent and devoted German Shepherd Black Mouth Cur will make a wonderful canine companion!

Frequently Asked Questions About the German Shepherd Black Mouth Cur Mix

Looking to learn more about this unique crossbreed? Here are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions.

Are German Shepherd Black Mouth Cur mixes good family dogs?

Yes! When properly socialized and trained, the GSD BMC makes a very loyal and affectionate family dog. They form close bonds and do well with children and other pets they are raised with. Their protective nature makes them excellent watchdogs.

How big do German Shepherd Black Mouth Cur mixes get?

These dogs are medium to large-sized, ranging from 45-95 lbs and 19-25 inches tall at adulthood. Females tend to be on the smaller end of the spectrum.

Do German Shepherd Black Mouth Cur mixes shed?

Yes, the GSD BMC sheds moderately year-round. They also blow their coats twice per year and will shed more heavily during the spring and fall. Regular brushing will help manage loose hair.

Are German Shepherd BMC mixes aggressive?

They are not inherently aggressive but need plenty of early socialization to prevent territorial behaviors or aggression towards strangers and other dogs. With proper training, they can get along well with most people and animals.

What health problems do German Shepherd Black Mouth Cur mixes have?

Some potential health issues to be aware of include hip/elbow dysplasia, bloat, allergies, heart disease, and eye conditions like cataracts. Lifespan averages 12-16 years.

How much exercise does a German Shepherd BMC mix need?

As high-energy dogs bred for endurance and stamina, the GSD BMC mix requires 60-90 minutes of exercise daily. This can include walking, running, hiking, swimming, play sessions, and mentally stimulating activities.

Are German Shepherd Black Mouth Cur mixes easy to train?

Yes, thanks to intelligence from both parent breeds, these dogs are highly trainable and eager to please their owners. They respond very well to positive reinforcement training methods.

Do German Shepherd BMC mixes make good hunting dogs?

Yes! With their athleticism, endurance, courage, and keen senses, the GSD BMC can make an excellent hunting companion and gun dog for activities like tracking, retrieving, flushing, and more.

Are German Shepherd Black Mouth Cur mixes recognized by the AKC?

No, the AKC does not recognize any mixed breed dogs. Both parent breeds are recognized by the AKC individually, however.

Final Thought

For those seeking an energetic, intelligent, and devoted canine companion, the German Shepherd Black Mouth Cur mix has a lot to offer. When properly trained and exercised, they make wonderful family dogs and excel at various jobs and activities. Their hybrid vigor gives them a long and healthy lifespan to share with their owners.

While finding a German Shepherd BMC puppy may take some effort, going through a responsible breeder is well worth it. This unique mixed breed combines some of the best qualities of both the German Shepherd and Black Mouth Cur. Their loyalty and versatility is unmatched!

By Andrew Garf

Andrew Garf has loved dogs, especially German Shepherds, since he was 10 years old. Though he also loves burgers, training dogs is his real passion. That's why he created the website TrainYourGSD.com - to help dog owners learn how to properly train, care for, and bond with their German Shepherd dogs.