Dogs express anxiety in various ways, including whining, barking, shaking, and whimpering. When a dog gets stressed, it may become destructive or aggressive. The best method to treat your dog is to figure out what's wrong. Anxiety is usually apparent and easy to spot.

The black mouth cur is a medium-sized dog breed always used for herding. This purebred dog is not for first-time owners because of its high energy levels and strong, determined mentality. Still, it can thrive in an active family who enjoys spending time outside and has previous puppy experience. Black mouth curs have much more going for them: they're lively, loyal, and bold. They are lovely working dogs and can also make good friends when partnered with the correct owner and living situation.

The black mouth cur is also fiercely protective of its territory and rarely gets along with other dogs. This breed is sensitive to the words of its owners and will quickly cower if screamed at or severely punished. They are exceedingly affectionate toward family members. Because they're so energetic and strong, they require a lot of space to wander and play and should have a large area of land that they can access at all times of the day. Because of their high energy levels, black mouth cur might need a lot of exercise sessions.

History of the Black Mouth Cur Dog

The black mouth cur's background is a little hazy. Since the 1800s, we've known them to live in the southeastern United States. However, few people know when or where the first ones originated. Many breed enthusiasts believe the black mouth cur originated in Tennessee or Mississippi in the southern United States, although the breed's exact origins are unknown.

Likely bred to be multi-purpose working dogs, they excel at most of the activities of typical farm dogs. Black mouth cur can herd livestock and thus can make a good herding dog. They make good tracking and hunting dogs and are brave guard dogs who will not hesitate to defend their home and family against perceived threats from strangers.

The black mouth cur traveled west with the pioneers to occupy new territories and eventually became prevalent across the country. Despite their prominence in the United States, black mouth curs have never gained widespread recognition outside of the United States. They are primarily a North American favorite. Ironically, the American Kennel Club (AKC) does not accept these all-American dogs. It is likely related to the breed's variety and that breeders frequently attempt to produce dogs with varied features. 

However, the United Kennel Club recognizes the black mouth cur breed standard and classifies it as a Scent Hound. There are different cur dog breeds for a dog lover, such as mountain cur, Stephen Cur, Blue Lacy, etc.

Black Mouth Cur Breed Characteristics

The black mouth cur is a medium to large dog of various sizes. Some dogs are about 16 inches tall and weigh approximately 40 pounds, while others are approximately 10 inches taller and weigh around 100 pounds. Black mouth curs kept as pets or for protection are on the larger side of the breed's size range, but those bred to hunt tree raccoons and other predators are often under 60 pounds.

The coat of the black mouth cur is short, yet it comes in a range of colors. Their nose is usually black (thus their name), but their bodies might be yellow, brown, red, or black. Black mouth cur can have a brindle pattern on their bodies. Some have thick hair, while others have more pleasing, softer hair and a short coat.

The black mouth cur is a dog breed that is slender, muscular, and athletic looking. These dogs appear to be ready to act at any moment, and their legs are relatively large, which allows them to travel long distances. Their medium-sized ears fold over adorably, and these canines have a charming smile. Besides the black muzzle markings, their ears sometimes have a black or dark-colored wash. 

Black Mouth Cur Anxiety

Dogs can suffer from anxiety like humans. It is a natural and acceptable emotion, despite its unpleasantness. Dog disorders impact all breeds, but it manifests differently in each one. Although all canines experience stress occasionally, if we leave their excessive worry untreated, a dog may develop anxiety disorders. Dog anxiety can develop into negative behavior and related health problems.

Does your dog get nervous when he sees you preparing to leave the house? Does he erupt with excitement when you return home? While you were gone, did they chew up shoes, claw the door, or eat off part of an end table? If yes, your dog may suffer from anxiety issues. Various other reasons may cause your dog's anxiety as well. Scroll down to learn more.

Black Cur Anxiety Causes

Several factors can cause anxiety in dogs. The following are some of the most likely causes of dog anxiety: separation, fear and aging.

Fear Related Anxiety

Loud noises, strange persons or animals, visual elements such as hats or scarves, new or unfamiliar locations, specific scenarios such as the vet's office or car journeys, or surfaces such as grass or wood floors can all be triggers. Although some dogs may simply have transient reactions to these stimuli, they may significantly affect overly anxious canines.

Separation Anxiety

We believe separation affects at least 14% of dogs. When we leave canines with separation anxiety alone and separated from their family, they cannot find solace. It affects their mental health. Unwanted actions, including peeing and pooping in the house, damaging furniture, and excessive barking, are common manifestations of anxiety in dogs' behavior. Separation anxiety occurs when the dog becomes overly devoted to its owner and gets extremely worried when left unattended. It's not just a little whining before you go or a little trouble while away. It's a complex issue and is one of the leading causes of dog owners' frustration and eventual surrender.

Age-Related Anxiety

Linked to cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS), it primarily affects senior dogs. Memory, learning, perception, and awareness deteriorate in dogs with CDS. It is comparable to the early stages of Alzheimer's disease in humans. In addition, it is naturally confusing and stressful for senior canines. A Calming Cuddle Bed might help your black mouth cur relax and feel better when they are suffering from anxiety. 

Anxiety Symptoms

So, how would one determine whether the dog is anxious? There seem to be a few significant indicators to look out for: defecating or urinating in the house, constant barking, pacing, aggression, drooling, panting, self-destructive conduct, depression, repetitive or compulsive behavior and restlessness are all symptoms of anxiety.

Most of these symptoms could result from past anxiety-inducing experiences, but any of them could become permanent, leading to more severe issues. Without question, the most dangerous sign of dog anxiety is aggression. This aggressiveness might be directly or indirectly manifested depending on the situation. A direct attack occurs when a dog behaves viciously toward people or other animals. However, indirect aggression can be just as destructive when a person stands between the dog and the subject of the dog's hostility, such as another dog. Aggressive behaviors like growling or barking can cause problems for humans and other dogs.

Separation anxiety can cause dogs to pee and poop in the home, even if being housebroken. It is inconvenient for owners and can cause property damage, not to mention the unpleasant smells, stains, and debris cleanup.

Separation anxiety causes other destructive behavior in dogs. Damage to inlets and outlets, such as entrances and windows, is typical but stressed dogs risk injuring themselves. Anxiety-ridden dogs can injure themselves trying to get free from dog crates or breaking through doors and openings, resulting in severe injuries and pricey veterinarian intervention.

How to Help a Dog With Anxiety

If your puppy has been diagnosed with anxiety, you could first try to prevent or avoid situations that might trigger your dog's anxiety. Avoiding triggering situations does not mean that you will have to stop doing fun things, but it will help reduce the anxiousness in your dog. In addition, you can use calming inserts or a dog cuddle bed to help your puppy relax and stay calm. Following is a list of some other things you could do to help your dog deal with anxiety:

and Counterconditioning

Dog owners can use various training strategies to ease their dog's nervousness. One way is counterconditioning. Counterconditioning seeks to change the dog's response to anxiety-causing stimuli by replacing the nervous or aggressive behavior with a more desirable behavior, such as resting or concentrating on the owner.

Desensitization is another training approach. The owner slowly introduces the source of fear to the dog, preferably in little doses and at a lower intensity. Repetition of contact, rewarding positive behavior, and proper training can help manage anxiety. Because it's not always simple to train an anxious dog, the owner may wish to contact a professional dog trainer to help determine the ideal training techniques and strategies for your dog.

CBD Oil for Dog Anxiety

CBD oil can treat canine anxiety effectively. CBD is present in cannabis and hemp, which has proven to help treat various health concerns in both dogs and humans. According to anecdotal evidence from dog owners, CBD oil helps reduce dog anxiety.

Many people use CBD oil to treat their anxiety. Unfortunately, there is presently no research on the effectiveness of CBD for treating anxiety in canines. As a result, if a dog owner thinks about using CBD oil to treat the dog's anxiety, they should ensure it is safe for their pet. Many people consider CBD oil an acceptable treatment for dog anxiety. However, every breed is unique and will face different results. In addition to CBD oil, pet owners may use a calming water fountain to help their puppy be at ease and relax. Your dog will get fresh water every time they drink from this water fountain.

How to Prevent Dog Anxiety

It's impossible to foresee everything that may make your dog uneasy, and it's even more challenging to tell if his anxiety will progress to a more severe disorder. However, there are techniques to avoid anxiety issues in dogs and puppies.

Socialization

Healthy socialization can help avoid anxiety. Introducing your dog to new people, creatures, dogs, places, and experiences can help the dog become a well-adjusted canine citizen and avoid an overblown response down the line. Putting the dog in an unfamiliar situation and watching what occurs is not socialization. Instead, socialization introduces dogs to new situations in a controlled, well-thought-out manner so that the outcomes are safe, beneficial, and confidence-building experiences.

There are a few novel settings to expose your black mouth cur puppies to as soon as possible, preferably during their first 16 weeks of life. The best part is that you can do most of these experiences in and around your home. In addition, each pleasant event strengthens your puppy's personality.

Obedience Training

Dog obedience training is essential for preventing and controlling anxiety in dogs. It creates trust and lays the groundwork for a strong connection. In addition, obedience lessons are an excellent way for dogs to socialize with other dogs in a controlled atmosphere. Well-trained dogs are more likely to positively interact with other dogs than dogs without the proper training.

Exercise and Nutrition

Exercising regularly and stimulating a dog's physical and mental health are essential. A motivated dog is much less likely to develop destructive tendencies, and proper nourishment is necessary for your dog's health. Hence, take care of your dog's physical and mental requirements to avoid behavior problems that aren't caused by anxiety. It can help identify the areas where the dog requires the most help.

Situation Avoidance

Owners can also try to avoid or prevent circumstances that trigger their dog's anxiety if they identify the dog with anxiety concerns. If you know your dog becomes frightened among large groups of dogs, one should limit visiting dog parks during peak hours. Avoidance does not imply that you must put his life on hold, but it can help you and your dog cope with stress. If dog owners cannot prevent the origin of the anxiety, you could use a leash, body harness, and, sometimes, basket muzzles to avoid harmful situations. You may expect these circumstances if you understand your dog's triggers.

Black Mouth Cur Temperament

Although many individuals keep black mouth curs as pets, most breed members must work. And the way you raise your black mouth cur dogs has a significant impact on their personalities. They're intelligent and trainable for skilled owners, capable of learning a wide range of abilities, orders, and activities. Black mouth curs have a high level of motivation and will happily labor all day in the field until retiring for the evening. They care about their owners, but they undoubtedly like working much more. Black mouth curs raised as pets can be highly different.

Companion or pet black mouth curs are often exceptionally loyal and caring canines who form deep bonds with their families. They're usually great with kids, though owners should supervise encounters with little children because this breed may be hyperactive. In addition, because of their size, children may sustain accidental injuries.

Because black mouth curs are sensitive, their owners must use tough but gentle teaching methods. Throughout the process, owners should shower them with praise, attention, and positive reinforcement. If handled in a positive, caring manner, most of them will enjoy learning new things and pleasing their guardian. The black mouth cur is a very active dog who requires a lot of activity to stay happy. Therefore, they recommend at least one very long daily walk as frequent outings to the lakeside or dog park.

Final Thoughts

Most dogs, like people, will experience anxiety during their lives. While not all dogs experience anxiousness, we can recognize it as a condition. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatments for dog anxiety is critical. Understanding these essential aspects can assist you in determining the best strategies to help the dog in pressure-inducing situations.

If an owner suspects the dog is experiencing anxiety, they should consider using products like relaxing memory foam and calming bed.  You can also offer Calming Zen Chews to your dog in such a situation to help your dog feel relaxed and calm. You can also offer Calming Zen Chews to your dog in such a situation to help your dog feel relaxed and calm. 

The black mouth cur is a fascinating breed that can make an excellent pet for some households. However, before opting to bring one of these black muzzled beauties into your home, carefully examine the available room and the time you have to devote to your new pet.