Catahoula Leopard Dog Breed Information:
The Catahoula Leopard Dog breed has a striking appearance and a strong work ethic. They’re a tough dog, bred to work in swamps and forests, and they require a leader who is firm and consistent, with time to keep them occupied. Although these are rare, purebred dogs, you may find them in the care of rescue groups or shelters.
Catahoula Leopard Dog Group: Herding Dogs.
Catahoula Leopard Height: 20 to 26 inches tall at the shoulder.
Catahoula Leopard Weight: 50 to 90 pounds.
Catahoula Leopard Life Span: 10 to 14 years.
More About This Dog Breed:
The Catahoula should not be left to live outside. They're a companion dog and does poorly in isolation. Catahoulas are highly intelligent and need firm, patient, consistent training. Catahoulas shed lightly to moderately year-round. They require weekly brushing to remove dead hair and keep their coat shiny. Catahoula puppies need tough, durable toys.
Catahoula Leopard History:
Named for a Choctaw Indian word meaning "sacred lake," the Catahoula originated in northern Louisiana near Catahoula Lake. They're probably the product of breeding between local dogs and the Bloodhounds, Mastiffs, and Greyhounds brought to the area by Spanish explorers.
They are sometimes known as Catahoula curs, Catahoula leopard curs, or Catahoula hounds, but the name was officially changed to Louisiana Catahoula Leopard Dog when they became the state dog of Louisiana. The Catahoula was used to track and round up the wild hogs that roamed the forests, hence the name hog dog that they sometimes goes by.
The Louisiana Catahoula Cur Association was formed in 1976, followed by the National Association of Louisiana Catahoulas in 1977. Other organizations are the Catahoula Cur Breeders Association, which registers Catahoulas, and the American Catahoula Association, which works to promote and maintain the breed's conformation and working ability through shows, clinics, trials and certified testing. Events include Treeing, Hog Bay, Cow Bay, and Cow Trials. The breed was named state dog of Louisiana in 1979.
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Catahoula Leopard Size:
Males, 22 to 26 inches at the shoulder and 65 to 90 pounds; females, 20 to 24 inches at the shoulder and 50 to 65 pounds.
Catahoula Leopard Personality:
The proper Catahoula is not aggressive toward people. They are wary of strangers but never shy. With family members, they are loving and protective. Males can be aggressive toward other male dogs, and Catahoulas in general work aggressively, a necessity in rounding up unruly hogs or cattle. Their instinct is to track and herd game, and if that isn't an option for them, they need some other outlet for their energy. Catahoulas are excellent watchdogs and will bark a warning or otherwise go on alert at the approach of strangers. Treat them firmly but fairly. They do not accept mistreatment or physical abuse.
Catahoula Leopard Health:
Catahoulas are generally healthy, but like all breeds, they can be subject to certain health conditions. Not all Catahoulas will get any or all of these diseases: Canine Hip Dysplasia (CHD). Deafness.
Catahoula Leopard Care:
The Catahoula is not a dog that can be tied out in the yard and left on their own. They need companionship and exercise and should be as familiar with the inside of your home as the yard. Expect to give them at least an hour of exercise daily. Engage their mind with training sessions or fun activities.
Catahoula Leopard Feeding:
Recommended daily amount: 3 3/8 to 5 1/8 cups of a high-quality dog food daily, divided into two meals. To avoid gastric dilatation volvulus, also known as bloat, withhold food and water for at least an hour after vigorous exercise.
Catahoula Leopard Coat Color And Grooming:
Catahoulas are found in many coat colors and patterns. They may have color points, or trim, located on the chest, cheeks, above the eyes, or on the legs, underbody or under the tail. The leopard pattern has a base color with contrasting spots of one or more other colors. Solids have a single coat color. Brindles may have a light or dark base coat color with contrasting stripes. Catahoulas with a patchwork coat may or may not have one predominant solid color with one or more different size patches of different colors and shades placed randomly on the body. Rich, deep colors are preferable to the lighter colors, but no coat color or pattern is more valuable than another. Other grooming needs include dental hygiene and nail care. Brush your Catahoula's teeth at least two or three times a week to remove tartar buildup and the accompanying bacteria. Daily is better. Trim their nails once or twice a month, or as needed. If you can hear the nails clicking on the floor, they're too long. Short nails keep the feet in good condition and don't get caught in the carpet and tear
Catahoula Leopard with Children And Other Pets:
The Catahoula is suitable for families with children, but despite their family loyalty and protectiveness, they should always be supervised in the presence of toddlers or young children. Some Catahoulas get along well with other dogs and cats when they're raised with them.