Catahoula Leopard Dog

The Catahoula leopard dog is named after the lake near which it originated in Louisiana: Catahoula Lake. It is thought that the breed's ancestors are bloodhounds, greyhounds, and mastiffs. The official name of the breed is Louisiana Catahoula leopard dog, but the “Louisiana” is rarely used when describing the dog. There are several organizations formed to support the breed: National Association of Louisiana Catahoulas, The Louisiana Catahoula Cur Association, American Catahoula Association, and Catahoula Cur Breeders Association. The breed has yet to be officially recognized by the American Kennel Club. The breed is rarely recommended for first-time dog owners, but can make an excellent pet for someone with experience.

The American Leopard Hound or Catahoula Cur is said to be the first dog breed developed in United States. It is named after the Catahoula Parish in Louisiana. The American Leopard Hound is a medium to large-sized dog that can weigh between 40 and 90 pounds fully grown. This is a short-haired dog that can be blue or red merle (also known as blue or red leopard), brindle, tri-colored or various solid colors such as brown, fawn, red and black. White patches on the chest, legs and/or nose are often seen on any of these color varieties. Most Catahoula Curs have blue eyes; however, some have amber or brown eyes. It is also permissible for them to have one blue eye and one amber or brown eye. This is a muscular dog with triangular drop ears, a long tail and a square muzzle.

Personality

The American Leopard Hound is an affectionate, strong-willed and loyal dog. They are pack animals and need strong leadership from their owners who they (should) regard as their pack leaders. The American Leopard Hounds are very devoted to their human families and are very affectionate with people close to them. They tend to be suspicious towards strangers and need to be properly introduced. These dogs need ample exercise and are happiest when they have a task that is mentally and physically stimulating. They can be protective and territorial and therefore need strong leadership. American Leopard Hounds are extremely energetic dogs and can be quite assertive, but they are by no means aggressive. They are also very intelligent and easy to train. They make great family dogs, and due to their nature, they will even make a job out of "babysitting" your children. They make terrific protection and alarm dogs and will alert you whenever a stranger is about. They love interacting with their human families, and they do not enjoy being left alone for long periods of time. As such, you will want to provide your pet with plenty of toys to keep it occupied. Whether you are looking for a good hunting dog or a great family pet, the American Leopard Hound is a terrific choice. While these dogs can be quite active, they are also very gentle and can generally be trusted with children. However, it is essential to note that many Catahoula Curs may not interact well with other household pets.

Breed Characteristics

Catahoula Leopard Dog Build Information

The Catahoula Leopard Dog or Catahoula Cur is said to be the first dog breed developed in United States. It is named after the Catahoula Parish in Louisiana. Catahoulas are medium or large dogs with strong bones an athletic build. They have deep chests and strong legs. Their heads are broad with medium-sized drop ears and a long muzzle. Their coats are short and dense and require little attention.

Behaviour and Personality

The Catahoula is an affectionate, strong-willed and loyal dog. Catahoulas are pack animals and need strong leadership from their owners who they (should) regard as their pack leaders. Catahoulas are very devoted to their human families and are very affectionate with people close to them. They tend to be suspicious towards strangers and need to be properly introduced. These dogs need ample exercise and are happiest when they have a task that is mentally and physically stimulating. They can be protective and territorial and therefore need strong leadership. They can get aggressive if they perceive a threat towards themselves or their owners.

Appearance

Catahoula leopard dogs rarely need to be bathed, but they do require frequent brushing. Brush your dog’s coat once each week to remove debris and loose hair from its fur. The breed is a moderate shedder, but that shedding can be kept under control with regular brushing. It's strongly recommended to begin brushing your Catahoula leopard dog when it is a puppy. Getting your young dog used to grooming will make it easier for you both as the dog grows larger.

Catahoula Leopard Dog Common Health Conditions

Catahoula leopard dogs are generally healthy. They are prone to very few genetic health problems when compared to other breeds of dog. This may be due to the fact that their lack of tremendous popularity has prevented over breeding. This breed is prone to only hip dysplasia and deafness. The gene for the merle coat coloration is linked to deafness. Many Catahoula leopard dogs are born either unilaterally or bilaterally deaf. Raising a deaf puppy is not difficult, but it does take some patience. If you do not want a deaf puppy, be sure to test the hearing of the dog of your choice before committing to its purchase.

Catahoula Leopard Dog Pet Insurance

When adding a dog or cat to your family you want to make sure your pet is happy, healthy and protected. During its lifetime your pet is exposed to many illnesses and diseases and some breeds are affected by a congenital disease which is a condition existing at birth. At these moments when your pet is ill or maybe needs surgery, you want to be protected for the unexpected and high veterinarian costs.

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Breed Talents and Facts

The Catahoula leopard dog is the state dog of Louisiana. This breed is known to show aggression towards strange dogs. The dog is not one to be left without exercise; it needs at least an hour each day. Socialize your dog early and often if you want it to accept other animals. Interactions between children and this breed should always be supervised. This breed is not ideal for first-time owners. Training the Catahoula leopard dog should be done in a firm yet patient way. The Catahoula leopard dog is sometimes called the Catahoula hound or Catahoula leopard cur.