Catahoula Leopard Dog: Everything You Need To Know

Catahoula Parish in Louisiana is the home of the Catahoula Leopard Dog, an American breed of dog. In 1979, it was made the state dog in Louisiana. The United Kennel Club (UKC), which recognizes it under the name Louisiana Catahoula Leopard Dog and the American Kennel Club Foundation Stock Service, calls it Catahoula Leopard Dog. Both registries have given the breed a herding category designation. However, it was traditionally used for hunting feral boars.

Catahoula Leopard Dogs have a distinctive appearance and strong work ethic. These dogs are tough and can be found in forests and swamps. They need a strong leader with the time and consistency to keep them busy.

The Louisiana Catahoula Leopard Dog, a moderate breed in all aspects, is neither a bulldog nor a sighthound.

Louisiana Catahoula Leopard Dog is muscular and powerful. It’s medium-sized to large in stature and slightly larger than its height. He has a wide head, long hair, dropped ears, and an undocked tail. He has an air of endurance and agility.

The Louisiana Catahoula Leopard Dog, contrary to his name has many coat and pattern options and different eye colors.

Breed Information

Features

• Eyes: Blue, green, brown, or amber
• Ears: Large, triangular, and drooped
• Nose: Long
• Tail: Long and tapered, set medium or high

Expectations:

• Exercise Requirements: High
• Energy Level: High
• Longevity Range: 10-14 years
• Tendency to Drool: Low
• Tendency to Bark: Moderate
• Tendency to Dig: Low
• Social/Attention Needs: Moderate to High
• Bred For: Herding, hunting, and companionship

Coat:

• Length: Short to medium
• Characteristics: Single-coated, smooth to course
• Colors: Blue, gray, black, tan, liver, red, white, chocolate, buff. It may be multicolored, spotted, merle, patched, or solid
• Overall Grooming Needs: Low
• Club Recognition:
• AKC Classification: Foundation Stock Service
• UKC Classification: Herding

Catahoula Leopard Dogs are multi-purpose dogs that can be used for many purposes. They are strong and muscular, but also have agility and endurance. They can be serious at work, but they are also playful at home.

Catahoula Leopard Dog, a medium-large, short-coated, medium-sized dog, is well-known for its varied eye and coat colors. This word, which is Choctaw in origin, is meant to translate as “sacred lake”. The only breed of Catahoula that has historically been bred in Louisiana is the Catahoula.

Because they are independent, territorial, and protective, the breed needs to be socialized early and requires guidance. They are not tolerant of mistreatment and will defend themselves against harm.

They are loyal, affectionate, gentle, and know where they belong in the family. They are also known as the Catahoula Hog Dog. They can be used as guard dogs, stock dogs, and bay dogs.

Spanish explorer Hernando De Soto arrived in Florida in 1539 and began his exploration of the Southeastern United States. His scribes noticed that there was only one domestic animal in North America. It was the Native American’s dog. He looked like a wolf, but he could bark like a dog.

These native dogs were crossbred with the Spanish explorers’ “bloodhounds and mastiffs, greyhounds”, which they brought. These dogs were called “Wolf Dogs” in Northern Louisiana by Native Americans. The French arrived with their hounds and they crossed them again to create the Catahoula Leopard Dog.

Another story is about how Catahoula acquired his working instincts. The Catahoula used crossbred dogs to catch wild cows and hogs in Central Louisiana. This practice became a plan for managing wild herds.

Catahoulas have a unique method of managing their stock that is different from other working and herding breeds. They create a “canine fencing” around the herd and the master directs the wild herd. Catahoula Leopard Dog breeders are very conscious of this natural working instinct. He must possess these instincts, regardless of his appearance, to be a true Catahoula.

The Catahoula Leopard Dog, like almost all dogs, is susceptible to hip dysplasia. Also known as canine hip dysplasia (or CHD), the Catahoula Leopard Dog may also be affected. Animals that are too white have a higher chance of developing a medical condition. Catahoulas are all-white due to their genetic merle coloring. They can be deaf in one or both ears, with an 80% chance. Deafness in just one ear is called “directional deafness”. Breeders will often euthanize dogs that are deaf in one ear.

The Animal insider channel has a very detailed introduction video about this breed with the title: “Catahoula Leopard Dogs 101: Everything You Need To Know – Is It the Right Dog for You?“.

Catahoula leopard dog size

The Catahoula’s short to medium-length single coat lies close to the body. Its texture may range from smooth to coarse. The average sizes of a Catahoula Leopard Dog are about 22-24 inches and the average weight is about 50-95 pounds. Below is some other information about these Native American dogs. 

Catahoula Leopard Dog size chart:

The average Catahoula Leopard Dog size predictions for male and female dogs:

The average Catahoula Leopard Dog size chart by age:

Catahoula Leopard Dog puppies do not reach their full size until they are at least 18 months. They still have a playful, puppy-like personality throughout this period.

Catahoula leopard dog Colors

Catahoula dogs come in a variety of colors, including brown, black, and blue. These dogs are most varied in color. Catahoula dogs are loyal to their colors throughout their lives.

Most white Catahoulas are spotted, earning them the name Catahoula Leopard Dog. Some cats have one color while others have multiple colors.

Red Catahoulas grades may include any combination of brown, blue, white, black, or livery. Catahoulas can look similar to Labrador Retrievers or Australian Green Heifers.

There are many variations in the coat color. They are spotted a lot and can have spots of all colors. These dogs are light-skinned and can be black and tan or black and white. They also have a range of gray and black tones that give them a blue tint, which is related to the Australian Blue Heeler’s coat color.

These are some of the most popular colors in Catahoula.

• Blue Leopard.
• Dark Leopard.
• White Leopard with Light Gray.
• Light Leopard with Dark Patches
• Solid Tan
• Solid Red
• Dark Red Leopard with White Trim
• Light Red Leopard.
• Leopard with Tan or Red Trim
• Black with Brindle, and White Trim.
• Solid Silver (Gunmetal).
• Solid Brown (Chocolate).

Catahoula Leopard Dog shedding

Catahoulas shed mild to moderate year-round. This makes them great for pet parents who don’t want a lot of coat maintenance but still want their dog to have a nice, smooth coat.

However, it’s best to brush your Catahoula weekly to remove dead hair and keep its coat shiny. The Catahoula needs to be socialized early and often, especially if you want it to become friendly with other animals. Catahoula is not recommended for shy or first-time owners.

Catahoulas won’t shed much, but there are a number of factors that can cause a Catahoula Leopard Dog to shed more than usual, including an under-or over-nutrition diet, allergies, anxiety…

Catahoula leopard dog price

Catahoula Leopard Dogs are a rugged, hardy breed. They were developed in the American Deep South to be hunting and farm dogs. These dogs can cost between $600 and $900 depending on their breeder. These dogs are very affordable compared to other breeds.

Price variations will vary depending on breeder experience, bloodline, and training. There are many sizes of litter. Some can have as few as four puppies and others as many as twelve.

The registration certificate, preliminary veterinary care, and initial shots are included. Puppyfind.com lists Catahoula Leopard Dogs at a lower price, ranging from $200 to $700. The packages that are included in the price can vary between breeders.

Breeders may claim that prices don’t depend on their coat or color, as it has been proven to be possible to mix and match both. It is usually determined by the parentage and bloodline.

Breed Characteristics & Care

Characteristics:

• They are more likely to treat children well than others.
• They are average at dealing with cats.
• They have a lower level of skill in handling other dogs.
• They can be trained but are not very skilled.
• They can shed very little.
• Catahoula Leopard Dogs make the best watchdogs.
• They have an intelligence level that is above average.
• It’s very simple to groom them.
• They are not very popular outside of Louisiana.
• They can be adapted to certain circumstances.
• They are not hypoallergenic.

Tasty Tidbits:

These dogs should not be kept outside. Two reasons are why they should not be outside. They cannot tolerate cold or freezing weather because of their single coat. They are companion dogs, and they do not cope well with isolation.

Dogs with aggressive personalities should never be allowed to walk without a leash. They need toys that are strong, durable, and tough to chew on. This type of dog should not be purchased from puppy mills, pet shops, or breeders that do not offer health clearances. You want one that isn’t susceptible to genetic diseases.

Care:

It is vital to keep them in touch with others and socialize properly. They should get at least an hour of exercise each day. They also need mental stimulation. If they are out in the open, they should be on a leash as they may chase other dogs.

Feeding:

Two meals per day should be provided with high-quality, dry dog food. This is for hunting or high-energy dogs. To prevent common problems like bloat, they need to be fed two meals. In addition, it is possible to supplement nutrition for Catahoula Leopard Dog with some human food that dogs can eat such as some nuts, some fruits such as watermelon, strawberries.

Catahoula Leopard Dog temperament with other dogs

Catahoulas are able to be socialized with other dogs and pets if they are properly raised. Some Catahoulas might not be able to live with other animals, so they may have to be raised in single-animal homes. Catahoulas can be aggressive towards other dogs, particularly if they are both males.

Catahoula Leopard dogs were bred to hunt wild pigs and cattle. It is intelligent and energetic, which is a necessity. Catahoulas can be dominating and pushy, especially when they are with dogs of the same gender. He can cohabit with other pets, but he may not be able to live with them.

They can be good family dogs, even if they are impulsive, assertive, intelligent, and tempered. They are not “outside dogs”, they need lots of companionships. These dogs make excellent watchdogs and can be raised with children to become their protectors.

Early socialization is crucial for these dogs, who can be territorial and headstrong. This breed is intelligent and energetic. They need a loving, experienced trainer. This breed is very strong-willed and should be trained regularly throughout their lives. They are gentle, affectionate, and loyal as family dogs.

Catahoula Leopard Dogs are intense, focused, and serious when out in the field. They can also be protective, playful, and affectionate at home with family. Catahoulas can be socialized well from their puppyhood. However, they are not aggressive towards people.

Catahoula leopard dog vocalizations

Catahoula Leopard Dog bark is the same as any other dog breed. Catahoulas bark with a loud, high-pitched voice that can sometimes drive people crazy. Sometimes they bark in a loud and aggressive voice, while also barking.

You don’t know if you have ever heard dogs making strange noises while playing with other dogs, or if you are scared of the Catahoula leopard grumbling/gurgling sounds. This is a mistake. There are some breeds that can’t make any noise but others that can. One of these breeds is the Catahoula leopard.

Catahoula leopard dogs love to play with their owners. When they’re with other dogs, they can’t help but make this silly noise. They are independent dogs who can be trained and won’t let you down.

Catahoula Leopard dogs do howl excessively. Catahoula Leopards are always looking for affection and attention. If they don’t get enough, they howl. Catahoula Leopards can also howl, as they are vocal dogs.

The Catahoula Leopard dog is an “independent hunter” which is somewhat surprising considering its ability to handle a lot of attention.

If he is kept alone for long periods of time, he can become very vocal.

Catahoulas are not only able to bark, but they can also become bored and destructive if left unattended.

If they are not given the proper attention and enrichment, they may howl or chew furniture or dig holes in their yard.

To keep your Catahoula entertained, leave him toys and enrichment items such as Kongs or food puzzles.

Consider hiring a dog walker if you work long hours. This will allow your dog to be walked around the block and get some exercise.

Catahoula Leopard dog intelligence ranking

Are you curious about whether Catahoula Leopard Dogs are intelligent breeds? Catahoula Leopard dogs were bred to herd wild cattle and pigs. It is intelligent and energetic, which is a necessity.

The Louisiana Catahoula Leopard, like all smart dog breeds, needs stimulation to keep it happy and energized. These dogs are extremely intelligent and can quickly assess situations. This makes them great law enforcement officers. Catahoula Leopard Dogs are rated 3 out of 5 by dog experts as intelligent dogs.

Catahoula Leopard Dogs Are Smarter Than Other Dogs. Pet owners want their dogs to be the smartest dog in the neighborhood. While this might hold true, there are many other ways to make your dog smart.

A smart dog is only potential if a person is willing to work with it and help train its intelligence. Although dogs are smarter than the average two-year-old, there are many breeds that have intelligence. Intelligence can be defined as a combination of several features.

Some breeds of dogs are easier to train and can listen to your requests, while others are great working dogs that are capable of herding livestock.

Catahoula Leopard dog mix

Catahoula Leopard Dog, a breed of Catahoula Leopard dog, was developed in Louisiana in the 16th century. It is located near Catahoula Lake. Catahoula, the Choctaw word meaning “sacred lake”, is Catahoula.

Catahoula Leopard Dogs have a striking appearance and strong work ethic. These dogs are tough and can be found in forests and swamps. They need a strong leader with the time and consistency to keep them busy.

Catahoula Leopard Dog is also known as Catahoula Hung Dog, Louisiana Catahoula C, Catahoula Cur, and Louisiana Catahoula Leopard Dog. It is the official state dog of Louisiana.

Leopard Dogs are beautiful, hardworking, and great with children. These traits are also present in the Catahoula Mix, which is a mix of features from both parent breeds.

Catahoula crossbreeds are any crossbreeds in which the Catahoula Leopard Dog appears as one of the parents.

Catahoula mix dogs can be bred from the same parent breeds as other designer and mixed breed dogs.

Catahoula mix dogs are energetic and work hard. These dogs can make great family pets. Catahoulas can also be great family dogs. Let’s take a look at some popular Catahoula mixes.

There are many Catahoula Mixes, but there are some that are more popular with dog owners than others.

• 1. Labahoula – Labrador Retriever Catahoula Mix
• 2. Catahoula Pit Bull Terrier and Mix
• 3. Catahoula German Shepherd Mix
• 4. Catahoula Boxer Mix
• 5. Catahoula Australian Cattledog Mix
• 6. Catahoula Husky mix
• 7. Catahoula Beagle Mix
• 8. Catahoula Aussie Mix – Catahoula Australian Shepherd Mix
• 9. Catahoula Border Collie Mix
• 10. Catahoula Great Dane Mix
• 11. Catahoula Bulldog Mix
• 12. Bloodahouli-Bloodhound Catahoula Mix
• 13. Catahoula Black Mouth Cur Mix
• 14. Pooda Houla/ Pooahoula-Poodle Catahoula Combination
• 15. Catahoula Rottweiler Mix

Catahoula mix dogs have lots of energy. Catahoula mixes need to be active and engaged in regular exercise. If possible, they should have a job. If you don’t have the time or energy to exercise Catahoula mix, avoid them.

Catahoula Leopard dog mix with Pitbull (Pitahoula)

The Catahoula Leopard Dog Pit Bull Mix is a cross of two popular breeds: the American Pit Bull Terrier and the Catahoula Leopard Dog.

Pitahoula (Catahoula & Pitbull mix)

• Height: 22 inches
• Life expectancy: 8-13 Years
• Colors: Gray/Merle, Red, and White
• This is suitable for: Experienced owners, active families, and couples
• Temperament: Energetic, intelligent, loyal & loving, alert, protective

The Pitahoula, a Pitbull and Catahoula mix, is an affectionately known dog breed that is slowly gaining popularity in the United States.

The Pitbull and Catahoula designer dog breeds are striking and intense breeds. The Pitahoula is the ultimate combination of beauty and brawn.

The colors of the Catahoula Leopard Dog Pit Bull Mix are stunning! You can choose from a wide range of colors and patterns, including:

• Blue Merle,
• Red Merle
• White Merle
• Chocolate
• Brindle
• Blue
• Black and silver

One of their most attractive traits is their beautiful colors.

The appearance and size of this mix will vary greatly. The Catahoula Pitbull’s weight can vary depending on his parents’ size. He can weigh between 40 and 85 pounds. He can be between 18 and 23 inches tall.

You can get a Pitbull and Catahoula mix puppy from a reliable breeder for between $400-$800.

Louisiana Catahoula Leopard dog Pictures

Some cute pictures of Catahoula Leopard dogs

See more cute animal pictures

Catahoula Leopard Dog puppies

Photos of Catahoula Leopard Dog puppies

Popular Catahoula Leopard Dog Names