The Catahoula Leopard Dog

The Catahoula Leopard dog originated from the Nordic wolfhound. In 1979 the Catahoula dog was made the state dog of Louisiana. You will find the Catahoula leopard dog is considered a herding dog. There typical features are white and black further that is rather spotty. They have a sleek form, with plenty of muscle. These dogs have a long tail, thin legs, and droopy ears. They can be white and tan as well. The coat is short, coarse, and usually tight to their bodies. You may mistake them for a mixed Labrador based on their appearance and frame. The Catahoula leopard dog is usually 55 to 80 pounds making them medium sized. You will also find they are 20 to 26 inches in height.

Like most herders the Catahoula leopard dog offers a wonderful temperament for families. They are independent, protective, and territorial, but extremely affectionate with their family. Their characteristics make them good for herding and watch dogging. You will find they are aloof with strangers. Since they can be independent they are not recommended for new dog owners or lax owners. They are best with an active master they can get respect from. You will also want to check with a dog breeder regarding children and other pets with the Catahoula leopard. Their temperament typically asks for older children, and only larger dogs rather than small pets.

Grooming and other care is very important for any dog. You will find that for the Catahoula leopard dog grooming is often easy. The short coat just needs to be brushed once a week to remove dead or loose hair. They can be bathed twice a year if they get dirty. You should trim their nails on a regular basis and check their teeth. You will find the Catahoula leopard dog sheds an average amount of hair a year.

When you provide the proper care for your Catahoula leopard dog you will find they live for about 12 to 13 years. Some health ailments they are prone towards include hip dysplasia and deafness. You will also find that they can have eye issues such as tunnel vision. In some cases these dogs have contracted cancer, but they are not considered genetically predisposed. For proper care you need to provide a healthy diet and plenty of exercise. Since the Catahoula dog was breed for herding they require a pretty high protein diet. You should check with a breeder or your vet for the best food. A dry food that is high in protein or a natural diet may be best.

For exercise you will want to ensure that they have daily walks and a yard. They do not do well in apartments for the most part. They need to get at least an hour of exercise if not more than that on a daily basis. The Catahoula does not do well when they have been tied up to a runner or placed in a kennel. It is best to spend a lot of time with this breed and avoid eight hours of being gone. The dog does better when you provide them with a lot of attention both indoors and out. Exercising should be a combination of things such as toys, running, jogging, and walking. Training is also important. They need to be socialized early as well as given obedience training. You may take a combination of training, play, and walks to help get the proper exercise.