Catahoula Leopard Dog
Description
The Catahoula Leopard Dog is the state dog of Louisiana. It is believed that he is descended from the Mastiffs, and Greyhounds, and that he was brought to Louisiana by the Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto in the 16th century. Some dogs were left behind and mingled with the local dogs. The Catahoula is named after a Parish in Northeastern Louisiana. At one time he was bred to work as part of a team to round up cattle that had escaped. Catahoula’s weight ranges between 55 and 88 lbs. Male Catahoulas stand between 22 and 26 in. tall. Females stand between 20 to 24 in. tall. They have a short single coat on occasion the coat can be a bit course it comes in a variety of merles blue, gray, whit, liver, red, black and patched. Patched dogs are mostly white with colored patches. Solid colors brindle, yellow, chocolate, red, black.
Temperament
You absolutely need to be a strong pack leader for this dog if you wish to have any success in raising him. Loving toward his family and all that he knows he will be guarded with strangers and this includes children as well. This dog is NOT recommended for the first time dog owner. Very independent, intelligent. For the right owner the Catahoula can make a great companion dog or family pet…but it takes the right owner. With proper socialization, and training you will do fine.
Grooming/Exercise
They will need to be bathed at least twice a year. Give your Catahoula a good brushing at least once a week to keep his coat healthy. Keep his nails trimmed. For the right partner the Catahoula can make a fantastic running or jogging companion. They need long daily walks and a secure area to play in. It is rather iffy if they do well in apartments or not…some do…some don’t. It really depends on the dog. Make sure that if you do live in a apartment he gets sufficient exercise.
Health
Life Expectancy is between 12 to 13 years.
Possible Issues
- Hip Dysplasia
- Deafness
- Eye Issues
- Cancer (in some older dogs)
