Catahoula Leopard Dog

Dog of Louisiana

            The Catahoula Leopard Dog was developed in the United States.  It is believed the State of Louisiana is the area it originates from, and is the state dog.  Although a relatively older breed, the Catahoula Leopard Dog is still not a recognized breed by the American Kennel Club (AKC), although it can be registered through their Foundation Stock Service (FSS).

            Catahoula Leopard Dogs are first and foremost working dogs, and therefore have been selectively bred for abilities and temperament instead of appearance.  For this reason the breeds’ physical appearance greatly varies from dog to dog.  Size and weight can vary; typically they stand between 20 – 26 inches and weigh between 55- 80 pounds, as with most breeds the males are typically larger.  Their coat is short and can come in a wide variety of colors and patterns, including blues, reds, yellows, merles, and solids.  The eyes are often a haunting light blue, although Catahoula Leopard Dogs will also have half brown/blue eyes or all brown as well.

            The origin of the Catahoula Leopard Dog is unknown.  While it is widely accepted that they originated in Louisiana, it is debated how long they have been their and from where they came.  One theory is that these dogs descended from war dogs brought to Louisiana by Hernando de Soto in the 16^th century.  These dogs were Mastiff and Greyhound crosses, and some believe they were then crossed with either red wolves, or more likely the ancestors of the Carolina Dog.  In the 17^th century French settlers brought with them the Beauceron and these were added to the gene pool as well.  A second theory credits the ancestor of the Catahoula Leopard Dog to be the Nordic Wolfhound, having been introduced at least 300 years before the Spanish arrived.

            Catahoula Leopard Dogs do not do well in the city; they are multi-talented working dogs that need room to run.  This breed is used with livestock and hunting.  They will go after wild cattle and hogs in any terrain, from swamps to mountains.  Catahoula Leopard Dogs will hunt raccoon, bear, pigs, deer, or even squirrel.