What Is a Catahoula Dog?

The Catahoula is a rare dog breed that has its origins in America. It is named after the lake in north central Louisiana around which the breed originated, and it is the state's official dog. It was officially designated Louisiana's state dog in 1979.

  1. History

    • The early settlers of Louisiana first noticed a breed of Native American dog that likely descended from the Carolina Dog and the red wolf. The Carolina Dog was a breed that accompanied the first humans across the land bridge from Asia 8,000 years ago. With the settlers came a number of European breeds such as bloodhounds, mastiffs and greyhounds, which cross-bred with the native dog. The settlers began to use these dogs as herding animals for pigs and cattle. Today the breed is considered rare and is not recognized by the American Kennel Club.

    Appearance

    • Catahoula is a large breed that grows to between 20 and 26 inches at the shoulder and weighs between 55 and 80 lbs. It has a robust, muscular body shape and its skull is broad and flat. It has a medium-length muzzle.

    Coat and Color

    • The Catahoula's coat is short and single-layered and is best kept indoors during cold weather. This short coat has fairly minimal grooming requirements. Coloration varies from solid colors to mixed patchwork-type patterns of black, tan and white. Eye color can also vary from brown to blue; one of each color is common.

    Temperament

    • The Catahoula is a highly energetic dog. It is a very pack-orientated breed that needs to know its place in the family or it can become overly dominant. This pack mentality also makes the dog protective of its masters and family. It is deeply loyal to its owners and those it sees as higher pack members. The breed is likely not suited to young families and is best with owners who are strong willed.