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The Catahoula Leopard Dog Breed Description Submitted by:
Panhead Catahoulas
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Catahoula Leopard Dog
Also known as: Catahoula Curs, Louisiana Catahoula
Leopard Dogs
History: The
history of the Catahoula is murky at best, but the
animal we know today appears to have appeared first in
Catahoula Parrish, Louisiana, eventually leading to its
status as the state dog of Louisiana. The technical
term for the breed is Louisiana Catahoula Leopard Dog,
though it is known colloquially by several variations.
According to the oral traditions of the American
Indians of the Catahoula Lake region, the dogs were
captured by the local warriors following the massacre of
DeSoto and his conquistadors, and later intermingled
with the Louisiana Red Wolf, which may or may not be
extinct. French Canadian trappers and traders who
subsequently infiltrated the region ("Acadia") were
known to have brought in Beaucerons, who likely figure
as well into the breed we know today.
Colors and Coats Available: Breed is known for it's "leopard" coat,
which can come in many colors and combinations of
colors, as well as solid or nearly solid configurations
such as black, gray, and chocolate.
Average Heights and Weights:
An exceptionally large male may range up
near a hundred pounds, more generally from fifty to 75
pounds. Females range somewhat smaller, but can be quite
large in the extreme case.
Grooming and Special Care Needed:
Short, "painted on" hair,
minimizes grooming considerations. More importantly, the
dog requires exercise and a role to perform, which can
span a wide range of possibilities.
Health Concerns:
Rare occurrences of deafness. Catahoulas, like many of
us, have a tendency to develop hip problems in their
later years.
Average Life Span: Some live well into their teens, but ten
to twelve years is probably more typical. Many
Catahoulas lead dangerous lives, hog hunting and such,
which probably skews the statistics.
Best Suitable Environment: Catahoulas need room to run, or at least
some provision for regular exercise. If you are a
jogger, that will do, likewise regular walks in the
woods. They thrive on a ranch or farm, where they will
assist with every chore. Equally, they are adaptable to
a large fenced in yard and well-defined watch-dog and
baby sitting duties.
Personality/Temperament: Very loyal, attached, and protective
toward their family unit ("pack mentality"), often not
solicitous toward strangers. The best thing about
Catahoulas is their high intelligence and strong desire
to please their master. This makes them adaptable to a
variety of situations, but they must be trained as to
what is expected of them.
View Breeders of the
Catahoula Leopard Dog
Catahoula Leopard Dog Description
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