Catahoula Breed Description

Catahoula leopard dogs, which are often referred to as simply Catahoulas, are thought to have originated in the state of Louisiana. According to the Dog Breed Info website, the breed was designated as Louisiana's state dog in the late 1970s and gained their interesting moniker from a parish in the state's northeastern region. Alongside their unique appearance, Catahoula leopard dogs are known for their strong personalities.

  1. Appearance

    • Catahoula leopard dogs have short coats with either a merle, or tan and black, color pattern. This breed of dog features expressive eye colors that match well with the dog's coats to create very distinct appearances. These animals have broad, flat skulls, deep chests and strong legs. Catahoula leopard dogs weigh between 55 and 80 pounds, with males growing up to 26 inches tall and females growing up to 24 inches tall.

    Personality

    • This canine breed possesses protective and independent personality traits; the Dog Breed Info website states that these dogs thrive in conditions where they have structure and solid human leadership from dominant owners. Despite this, Catahoula leopard dogs are friendly and loving towards humans they are well-acquainted with. These dogs are territorial and tend to be reserved around both adults and children that they do not know.

    Health and Life Expectancy

    • The Catahoula leopard dog breed is a relatively healthy one. Prone to hip dysplasia in a similar fashion to many dog breeds of similar size, Catahoula leopard dogs can experience issues with their ears and eyes, such as deafness in one or both ears, tunnel vision and irregular pupils. This breed of dog has a life expectancy of approximately 12 to 13 years.

    Living Conditions and Exercise Needs

    • Catahoula leopard dogs are a breed intended for hunting and, as such, these dogs need daily exercise in the form of walking, running, jogging or hiking. Without this daily exercise, Catahoula leopard dogs can exhibit destructive behavior such as chewing and digging. In terms of living conditions, this breed of dog needs human attention and, if kept outside, need direction, an insulated dog house and regular interaction with people. Due to the dog's short coat, they cannot remain outdoors during extreme weather conditions.

    Grooming

    • This breed of dog has a short, single coat that requires very little grooming. In addition to a twice-yearly bath, Catahoula leopard dogs should be brushed out once a week and have their nails and teeth looked after regularly. These dogs are average-to-light constant shedders, according to the Dog Breed Info website.