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Stephens Stock
Hound breed from Southeastern Kentucky, United States
Breed overview
Reviewed · Database recordAbout the Stephens Stock
The Stephens Stock is a medium-sized hound breed originating from southeastern Kentucky, United States. It has a short coat that is typically black with white markings or black and tan. Known for its courageous, loyal, intelligent, alert, work-focused, and energetic temperament, this breed was developed for hunting. Adult males and females weigh an estimated 18–29 kg and stand 46–58 cm tall. The estimated lifespan is 10–16 years. Grooming needs are low (score 3), shedding is moderate (score 3), and trainability is average (score 3). The breed has moderate energy (score 3) and is moderately suited for children and other dogs (both score 3), but less suited for apartment living (score 2). Recognition status varies by registry.
Quick facts
Stephens Stock at a glance
Sizemedium
Breed groupHound
OriginSoutheastern Kentucky, United States
Lifespan10–16 years
Male weight18–29 kilogram
Female weight18–29 kilogram
Male height46–58 centimetre
Female height46–58 centimetre
Origin and history
Where the breed comes from
The Stephens Stock was developed in southeastern Kentucky by the Stephens family in the early 20th century from Mountain Cur stock. The breed was selectively bred for a specific hunting style described as 'silent on track, tree with a chop,' targeting small game such as squirrel and raccoon. This history is based on available records, but details about the exact timeline and breeding practices are not fully documented. The breed was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1995, though its recognition status varies by other registries. The Stephens Stock remains a working hound, valued for its courage and tenacity in hunting. Its origins in the Appalachian region have shaped its characteristics, but the full historical narrative may contain gaps or uncertainties.
Physical characteristics
Structured dataSize, build and coat
Female
18–29 kilogramAdult weight46–58 centimetreAdult heightCoat typesShortCoat colorsBlack with white markings, Black and tanRecognitionvaries by registryData methodai assisted draft
Temperament
Typical breed tendencies
Courageousloyalintelligentalertwork-focusedenergetic
Breed tendencies are general guidance. Individual behavior depends on genetics, socialization, training, health and environment.
Exercise, training and maintenance
1–5 methodologyDaily care profile
Moderate compared with other breeds
Moderate compared with other breeds
Moderate compared with other breeds
Moderate compared with other breeds
Family suitability
Home and household fit
Supervise every dog–child interaction.
Introductions and socialization still matter.
Exercise, enrichment and noise tolerance affect fit.
Climate suitability
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
A general morphology-based tendency. Individual dogs still require shade, shelter, water, acclimation and weather-appropriate activity. Method: climate-morphology-v1.
Health overview
Veterinary sources requiredHealth considerations
No Stephens Stock-specific screening programme or peer-reviewed disorder-prevalence study is currently attached to this profile. This is not evidence that the breed has no health risks. Owners should use routine preventive veterinary care and discuss screening appropriate to the individual dog's history, examination and family line.
Veterinary disclaimer: This profile is educational and does not replace examination, diagnosis or treatment by a veterinarian.
Feeding overview
Nutrition and feeding
Research in progress
Reviewed feeding guidance will appear after an approved source is imported and editorially reviewed.
Decision support
Potential advantages and challenges
Potential advantages
- Commonly described as loyal.Supported by temperaments.loyal: true
Potential challenges
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Growth chart
Stephens Stock puppy growth
Modeled estimates
Open interactive chart From puppy weight to adult size
Compare male and female growth, check weight by age and estimate mature size.
Adult male weight18–29 kilogramAdult female weight18–29 kilogramGrowth modeladult-range-size-model-v1
Preview only. Open the complete chart to adjust age, current weight and measurement units.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions
What is the size and lifespan of a Stephens Stock?
The Stephens Stock is a medium-sized breed. Estimated adult weight ranges from 18 to 29 kg for both males and females, and height ranges from 46 to 58 cm. The estimated lifespan is 10 to 16 years. These are modelled estimates and may vary among individual dogs.
What is the temperament of a Stephens Stock?
The breed is described as courageous, loyal, intelligent, alert, work-focused, and energetic. However, individual temperaments can vary. They were bred for hunting, so they may have strong instincts and a high prey drive.
How much exercise does a Stephens Stock need?
The breed has an energy score of 3 (moderate), indicating a need for regular exercise. As a working hound, it likely benefits from activities that engage its hunting instincts, such as tracking or scent games. Specific exercise requirements are not detailed in the available facts.
What are the grooming needs of a Stephens Stock?
Grooming needs are low (score 3). The short coat requires minimal brushing, and shedding is moderate (score 3). Routine care like nail trimming and ear cleaning is recommended.
Is a Stephens Stock good for families or apartments?
The breed has a moderate suitability for children (score 3) and other dogs (score 3), but individual behavior varies. Apartment suitability is low (score 2), likely due to its energy level and working background. A home with a yard may be more appropriate.
Where does the Stephens Stock originate from?
The breed originates from southeastern Kentucky in the United States. It was developed from Mountain Cur stock by the Stephens family in the early 20th century.
Is the Stephens Stock recognized by major kennel clubs?
Recognition status varies by registry. The breed is recognized by the United Kennel Club (UKC) as of 1995, but its status with other registries is not specified in the available facts.
Data transparency
✓ Published · VerifiedSources and review status
APIThe Dog API ↗The Dog API Terms of Service (effective 2023-07-01)
VETERINARY SOURCEWSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines and Toolkit ↗Copyright; factual citation and original summary only
Image source: The Dog API. Last reviewed 7/20/2026.