Catahoula Leopard Dog Puppies

Catahoula Leopard Dogs are intelligent, loving, and hardworking. They are driven and focused when working, but playful and energetic at home. Catahoulas are protective of their family members and make great watchdogs because of their wariness of strangers. However, when introduced to people they do not know, Catahoulas aren't shy. Generally, this breed gets along with other dogs, but may occasionally be aggressive toward other male dogs to assert dominance. These dogs are energetic and need plenty of exercise, so they're not ideal for apartment living. They are good with children, but only if they are raised in the same home during puppyhood. All in all, the Catahoula makes a loyal, affectionate family dog, and faithful watchdog if need be.

Catahoula Leopard Dogs are generally healthy, but could be subject to hip dysplasia or deafness.

Catahoula Leopard Dogs need room to run around, and a home without a large fenced in yard will leave them feeling unfulfilled. Campers, hunters, hikers, or runners will make great companions for this breed, and if you have something to herd you may have found your new best friend.

Catahoula Leopard Dogs should be brushed weekly to keep their coat shiny and clean. They'll also need a bath a few times a year, as needed.

Catahoula Leopard Dogs shed a moderate amount year-round which can be reduced by weekly brushing.

This breed varies greatly in appearance, and their coats can be black, red, and yellow, often with spotting and speckling of various colors. They typically have a smooth and short coat, or a coarse and medium length coat. Their most distinct feature is their eyes, which often come in light colors with cracked glass patterns that give them a striking look. They also carry the heterochromatic gene, which means they often have two different eye colors.

The Catahoula Leopard Dog is a fairly new breed, and it was developed in northern Louisiana, near Catahoula Lake. This breed is most likely the product of breedings between Bloodhounds, Mastiffs, Greyhounds, and local mutts. While the exact history of the Catahoula Leopard Dog is foggy, it is clear that the people of Louisiana and the Native Americans appreciated the breed for its exceptional working abilities, especially hunting, herding, and scenting. By no surprise, the breed became the state dog of Louisiana in 1979, and it was recognized by the United Kennel Club (UKC) in 1995. The Catahoula was entered into the American Kennel Club's Foundation Stock Service of rare breeds in 1996, but has yet to meet the requirements for official recognition.