Louisiana Catahoula Leopard Dog

Catahoula Leopard Dog
Abney’s Tails I Win
"Flip"

The official State dog of Louisiana, the Catahoula Leopard Dog's origins are a bit of a mystery. They probably go back more than 400 years to the Spanish exploration of the Gulf of Mexico. It is believed that the local Catahoula Indians took some of the Spanish war dogs and crossed them with the local red wolf. Later on, during the French explorations of the new world, the French Beauceron dog was introduced to the bloodline, and the modern Catahoula is believed to be the result. This is an incredibly versatile dog which has been used to herd cattle, round up wild boar, hunt deer, raccoons, and squirrel, as a protector, and in search and rescue work.

Tall and athletic, the Catahoula stands up to 26 inches at the shoulder. He takes his name from the splotchy, leopard-like appearance of his coat which is believed to have come from his wolf ancestors. The short, dense coat may be any color or color combination except white. The Catahoula has webbed feet and a keen nose, enabling him to hunt successfully in swamps.

Perhaps the Catahoula's most compelling feature are his light-colored eyes. The Catahoula has other wolf-like qualities including the ability to stalk game silently until he sights it, a wariness in the presence of strangers, and the Catahoula "grin". Typically one-family or even one-person dogs, the Catahoula is affectionate but very protective. A loyal dog with a strong sense of territory, he is suspicious and aloof with strangers.

Intelligent and independent, this dog can be highly dominant toward people and other dogs, and plenty of early socialization and obedience training is critical. Training can be challenging and must involve plenty of praise and love, and lots of perseverance. The Catahoula must have a strong leader as master - and if you're not up to the job, he is! Stubborn and hard-headed, he will challenge your authority. Give him an inch and he'll take a mile. The Catahoula may not be the best choice for first-time dog owners; those who have had experience raising and training dominant dogs are best suited for this breed.

This rugged athlete needs at least one hour per day to run off his boundless energy. He is best suited to country living.

Back to Choosing a Breed	Return to State Listing
Back to Alphabetical List
	Go Home
Top of Page