Catahoula Leopard

Group

Foundation Stock Service

Weight

23-43 kg

Height

51-60 cm

Lifespan

12-13 years

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About the Catahoula Leopard Dog

Reviewed by:

Dr. Shamsul Alam Roky

Veterinarian

The Louisiana Catahoula Leopard Dog, often known as the Catahoula Leopard Dog, or Catahoula hog dog, is a breed with a high work ethic. Many people consider this breed a dedicated companion and working dog. They are courageous, independent, loyal, and even devoted to their owners.

If you enjoy a good challenge, this breed may be the perfect fit for you. Continue reading to see whether the Catahoula Leopard Dog is a suitable companion for you.

What is the history & origin of the Catahoula Leopard Dog?

Opinions differ as to the precise origin of the Catahoula leopard dog. Still, they were first established in the northern portion of Louisiana state, near the Catahoula Lake.

It is widely believed that the breed originated when de Soto and his Spanish conquistadors arrived in the area and mixed their greyhounds with the dogs held by the local Native Americans.

Bloodhounds, greyhounds, and mastiffs are likely breeds for the combination. French fur poachers in the 1700s further mated dogs with their Beaucerons from the resultant stock, resulting in the dogs we recognise today.

Historically, Catahoulas were prized as outstanding hunting partners. They were also employed to hunt wild hogs and herd the great wild cattle and pigs in Louisiana. The individuals who bred the dogs stressed their working ability above their aesthetic appeal.

What is a Catahoula Leopard Dog Breed?

Given the nickname, King of the Stock Dogs, the Louisiana Catahoula leopard dog is recognised by the United Kennel Club and the American Kennel Club. In addition, it is a part of the American Kennel Club’s Foundation Stock Service, which is the first step toward breed recognition.

The Catahoula leopard dog is a medium-to-large shepherd dog breed from the United States distinguished by its short, silky hair, available in various eye-catching colours and patterns.

Single-coloured coats include black, a crimson, yellow, brown, and tawnish colour (brindle) and double-brindle coats. There are also black, blue, and red coats with a leopard pattern that gives the dog its name. The variety is so great that mating two solid-coloured Catahoulas often results in a litter of brindle or a combination colour known as merle.

Their coats are short, silky or medium, coarse coats. Even though the Catahoula has a single coat, it sheds often.

Catahoulas are renowned for their eyes, which usually seem slate grey, pale blue, or white due to glass and cracked glass patterns. Catahoulas also have the heterochromatic gene; hence, they have two distinct eye hues.

Who is a Catahoula Leopard Dog Best For?

Catahoulas are better companion dogs than family dogs since they do not like sitting around. They must be in an environment where they may pursue their natural hunting and herding instincts. Include plenty of activities for your dog sports like hiking, running, and hunting.

This dog has a work ethic that is uncommon among individuals. He enjoys going on runs with his owner. The Catahoula is only suitable for a particular kind of owner. This breed is not suitable for first-time dog owners and must be trained and handled by someone who is both kind and firm.

Catahoulas are relatively tolerant to youngsters if adequately socialised and educated. They interact best with older children who treat a dog with care.

Catahoula Leopard Dog Grooming & Shedding

Catahoulas are quite simple to groom. The short coat needs just a regular brushing to remove stray hair and disperse skin oils and reduce loose fur and filth. Depending on how filthy your dog becomes, a bath should be given once a month.

This breed tends to have fast-growing nails. Approximately once per month, examine your Catahoula’s nails to see whether they need trimming. Examine your dog’s ears at least once each week for wax accumulation or anything odd, and be sure to dry them after bathing or swimming properly. Additionally, it would help if you cleaned your dog’s teeth as often as possible.

Do Catahoula Leopard Dogs bark a lot?

Catahoulas are excellent guard dogs and will bark if an outsider approaches the residence. Catahoula Leopard dogs are loud barkers. Particularly Catahoulas with significant separation anxiety bark excessively when left at home alone. Excessive barking, on the other hand, should be discouraged.

What is the average weight & height of a Catahoula Leopard Dog?

According to breeding standards, male Catahoula Leopard Dogs must be between 51 and 60 cm in height, while females must be between 51 and 61 cm in height. Males weigh in between 23 and 43 kg, while females weigh in between 24 and 32 kg.

Are Catahoula Leopard Dogs easy to train?

Training and socialising should begin as early as puppyhood. Catahoulas tend to be independent and territorial; negative tendencies and behaviours may develop if you do not guide and train your dog.

Use positive training techniques and strive to make training sessions enjoyable. But always be consistent with your directions and commands, so your dog understands that undesirable conduct will not be tolerated.

In addition, introduce your Catahoula to other people, other dogs, and environments from a young age to increase its comfort and confidence. Positivity gained in a variety of scenarios might assist in reducing a dog’s aggressive and territorial attitude.

How do Catahoula Leopard Dogs behave? A look at their temperament and personality

The Catahoula Leopard Dog temperament, when correctly raised, is not hostile or aggressive toward humans. However, they are vigilant and cautious around strangers. They have an aggressive personality, so they need an owner or family with the same trait.

Passive owners will rapidly lose their alpha position, and the dog will eventually take control of the household. This is undesirable; therefore, it is essential to recognise that, while the Catahoula Leopard Dog is a lovely dog, it is not the ideal pet for everyone. Only a particular kind of owner may handle this adult dog breed.

The Catahoula Leopard Dog is not an incessant barker, but he will alarm his family when people or vehicles approach. Additionally, he will bark when other animals come and often fight other dogs or animals that do not belong on your land.

This includes animals who stray from their owners’ houses and find their way to yours. In other words, this is not a dog that does well in apartment buildings or heavily crowded areas with other animals.

Does the Catahoula Leopard Dog have any common health issues?

Catahoula Leopard Dogs are generally healthy, but like many large breeds, they can be prone to certain health conditions. Here are some key concerns to be aware of:

Hip Dysplasia: This genetic condition occurs when the hip joint doesn’t fit properly, potentially leading to pain and mobility issues. Even if both parent dogs are screened and healthy, some puppies in the litter may still develop hip dysplasia.
Deafness: Catahoulas may experience issues with deafness, which can be hereditary. Health checks on the parents can help reduce the incidence, but there are no guarantees. Deaf dogs can lead fulfilling lives with proper training using hand signals and other alerting methods.
Eye Problems: Catahoulas can be prone to various eye issues, including cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), which can lead to vision loss. Regular eye exams can help catch these issues early.

What is the lifespan of a Catahoula Leopard Dog?

Catahoula Leopard Dogs often live between 12 and 13 years.

How much does a Catahoula Leopard Dog need to be fed?

This breed should consume between two to three cups of high-quality dog food each day. The quantity of food a dog requires varies significantly on its size and lifestyle.

The size of Louisiana Catahoula Leopard Dogs varies, so not all will consume the same quantity. If they spend the majority of their time hunting or working, they may consume more food.

Due to their high level of activity, this breed would thrive from a high-protein diet with readily digested carbohydrates, such as maize or rice. Look for dog food that is mostly composed of animal protein.

How much can you expect to pay for a Catahoula Leopard Dog in Australia?

Catahoula Leopard Dog purebred pups will cost around $1,100. Expect to be placed on a waiting list since this breed is rare.

If you want to become a reputable breeder, the AKC does not acknowledge Catahoula Leopards on their national dog registry. Instead, the breed is governed by the AKC’s Foundation Stock Service, and all dogs must be registered to ensure the breed’s preservation.

Catahoula Leopard Dog FAQs

Is a Catahoula Leopard Dog ideal for a first-time dog owner?

Catahoulas are not suitable for first-time dog owners and must be trained and handled by someone who is both kind and forceful. They are highly independent and headstrong, despite their affection for humans and ability to become excellent family pets.

Does Catahoula Leopard Dog suffer from separation anxiety?

Catahoulas Leopard Dogs have moderate to high degrees of separation anxiety. Your dog may get concerned if you are absent for an extended time since they are very friendly and like the company of others.

Are Catahoula Leopard Dogs hypoallergenic dogs?

Catahoulas do not perform well with allergy patients due to their tendency to cause allergic reactions. Although Catahoulas are not hypoallergenic, they do not shed excessively.