Catahoula Leopard Dog

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Short History of the Breed

The Catahoula Leopard Dog is a mixture of Grey Hound, Mastiff, Red Wolf and Beaucheron that bred in the swamps and bayous of Louisiana during the 17th and 18th centuries. Several cultures invaded the area and left behind the "War Dogs" they brought from their homeland. The breeding of these four dogs is what the Catahoula Leopard Dog is today. Catahoulas are a true American original and are the State Dog of Louisiana.

Physical Description and Size

This description was taken from the website of Don Abney, a Catahoula expert.

Catahoula Standard
The Louisiana Catahoula Leopard Dog is a medium to medium-large, short-coated dog with a broad head, small-to-medium drop ears, and an undocked tail set as a natural extension of the topline. The Catahoula is well muscled and powerful but not bulky, giving the impression of agility and endurance. The
Catahoula is a moderate breed and should not resemble either a sighthound or a bulldog in appearance. The body is just slightly longer than tall and the distance from the elbow to the ground should equal 50-60% of the dog's height from the withers to the ground. The Catahoula should be evaluated as a multi-purpose working dog, and exaggerations or faults should be penalized in proportion to how much they interfere with the dog's ability to work.

Temperament

These dogs are very active. They are used in every capacity known to man and excel at herding. They are very loyal to their people and will assertively protect "their people". These dogs are not aggressive, they are simply very strong willed dogs that are not for everyone.

Dog Care

Exercise is a must for Catahoulas. They are high energy, much like a Border Collie and need a job to do. If these dogs do not receive an outlet for their energy they will create one and that may include the "rearrangement" your house. They are short haired and minimal bathing is required.

Health Issues and Life Expectancy

Some pure bred dogs have been prone to hip dysplasia; however, through careful and conscientious breeders, this is being bred out. Life expectancy is 12-13 years of age. Generally, they are very healthy and strong.

Catahoula Rescue

Catahoula Leopard Dog - wikiFido-Dog Breeds, Rescues

This is a Rescue boy from Florida. He was adopted and is living happily ever after in Polk County, FL.

Catahoula Leopard Dog Rescue on WikiFido
Check out Catahoula Rescue

Additional Resources