Catahoula Leopard Dog Breed Description

An Owner's Catahoula Leopard Dog Description
It's kind of neat having a companion like Blue, with such unique coloring and markings. Generally, the first thing a person will say on seeing him is, "Ooh, what a pretty dog!" And that he is, but Blue has more going for him than just a pretty coat. He's full of personality and he's a great farm dog. He requires a firm voice - he can be somewhat headstrong and determined to get his way. But he respects my lead and has learned well from the basic obedience training that I put him through.

His hunting instincts keep him alert and, at times, overly eager to chase things, especially some of the smaller farm animals. He particularly likes to irritate our piglets by chasing them into a corner. Truth be told, he's irritating the piglet's mother - the litter seems to enjoy his antics. Chasing the animals isn't something he does regularly, but he does it whenever he's in a certain mood. I'm guessing it's frustration at not being used to hunt.

Blue is the signature of our little ranch, as small as it is. He's seems to always be patrolling the grounds, checking on this or that, just like a kid looking for something to do. There are times, though, when that curiosity will get him into trouble. Like the time he got into the chicken coop and the rooster lit into him with both feet -and Blue couldn't squeeze his way back out fast enough!! He won't go near the chickens anymore. Live and learn, that's my Blue.

 

 

Introduction

Also known as the Catahoula Hog Dog, these dogs are descended from war dogs brought by the Spaniards to the New World and from dogs owned by Native Americans. By 1979 they were designated the State Dog of Louisiana. The "leopard" in their name refers to the mottled spots on their coat. At one time "Cats" were used to round up feral pigs and cattle that had escaped captivity and were living in woods and swamps. Catahoulas weigh between 60 and 75 lbs. and stand approximately 24 inches tall. They are easily trained, although you must be in charge. Coat colors are merle to any color.

Colors

Ranging in color from red, blue, yellow, and even tan or white colors.

Living Area

The Catahoula Leopard dog breed is best suited to the country, or to living on a farm in order to run and explore during the day. Living in an apartment or suburb is not only dull for the dog, but it can also cause them to act out their boredom.If this dog breed does need to live in a smaller area, they will require a lot of attention and ability to get out to burn off their excess energy. Try schedule time away every day to make sure this dog is happy and content-or you may find that your home or yard has been damaged from the lack of attention.Ideally, the Catahoula should be able to have a set pattern of work chores to do each day so that they can fully utilize their intelligence and their energy. These are dogs that work well to herd cattle and to manage other animals on a farm.This is not a dog that you can leave alone during the day or leave outside chained to a pole. This is a dog that needs to be played with regularly, needs direction, training, and some sort of goal in order to be kept happy.If you leave this dog outside during cold weather, they will need a heated dog house and sleeping area as their short coat doesn't protect them from the elements as well as a longer coat might.

Recognized By

AKC, UKC, APRI, ACR

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