Nickname        : The Leopard-like Dog

Breed Origins : America ( 1500’s )

Breed usage     : Herding and hunting

Dog Weight      : 45 - 95 Pounds

Dog Height       : 20 to 26 inches to the shoulder

History
The Catahoula Leopard originates from America and was bred originally for Herding and hunting. It’s origins can be dated back to antiquity and its descendents are believed to be the mastiffs and greyhounds. Its hunting capabilities are legion and it has been used to hunt both large and small game. The name often causes confusion and people tend to think that its descendents are African or Asian but in fact the truth is less exotic - the Catahoula Leopards are popularly bred to have spots like a leopard, hence the name! This dog is classified as one of the Herding Dog Group. The Catahoula Leopard is not currently Registered by the AKC (American Kennel Club) and is therefore in the category of dogs termed Unrecognised & Rare Breeds.
The American origins and history of the Catahoula Leopard dates back to the 1500’s when its descendents (the mastiff and greyhound) were believed to have been breed with the Louisiana Red Wolf. It was therefore originally called the Louisiana Catahoula Cur. This name was changed when, in 1979, the Governor of Louisiana signed a bill establishing it as the Louisiana State Dog - the Louisiana Catahoula Leopard Dog. Its unusual history explains the following facts - Name Facts and Dog Names: This dog’s name is commonly mis-spelt as the Catahola Leopard, the Catahoula Lepard and the catahoula leoperd dog. It is sometimes referred to as the Catahoula Cur, the Catahoula Hound and the Catahoula Bulldog and the Hog Dog.

All Information and Tips About This Dog :

• Character and Temperament
  Dogs in the Herding Group ( sometimes referred to as the Pastoral Group ) include the Catahoula Leopard, were developed to perform a variety of tasks relating mainly to the herding of livestock. The types of livestock that these dogs are associated with are quite diverse and include sheep, cattle, reindeer and any other cloven footed animals. The Herding groups of dogs are eminently suited to these pastoral tasks as many of the breeds have a weatherproof double coat to protect them from the elements when working in severe weather conditions. Their natural abilities have been fully recognised and the initial livestock herding function have been extended to include police work and Search & Rescue amongst other duties. The Herding dogs, such as the Catahoula Leopard or Catahoula Cur Dogs, are medium to large in size. They are intelligent, active, courageous, and determined dogs who make excellent companions and respond well to firm training. Their instincts are very strong and given half a chance they will try to herd, or round up, the family. They enjoy work and look to their owners to provide tasks to enable them to meet their instincts and be rewarded accordingly.

• Health info - potential problems
  Resolving dog health problems, including those of the Catahoula Leopard Dog, can prove to be costly and it would be wise to consider the benefits of obtaining dog health insurance. Common health problems and questions occur in relation to the Bones, Joints, Muscles, Nerves, Ears, Eyes, Teeth and the Mouth. Other, more serious, issues can relate to the Digestive System, Heart & Respiratory Systems, Immune & Blood Systems, Reproduction and Urinary Systems. Potential health problems of the Catahoula Leopard Dog can include:
  • Hip dysplasia (abnormal development of hip joints)
  • Eye Problems
  • The life expectancy for this particular breed is 10 – 12 years.

• Grooming and Care
  Catahoula Leopard Dog requires weekly care and grooming. Grooming consists of not only brushing out the coat and bathing but also giving attention to the eyes, teeth, ears, feet and nails. A regular routine also ensures that any potential health problems are identified as quickly as possible.