The Catahoula Leopard Dog
Vital Stats of Catahoula Leopard Dogs
- Dog breed group: Herding
- Height: 20 to 26 inches at the shoulder
- Weight: 50 to 95 pounds
- Lifespan: 10 to 12 years
Physical Characteristics of Catahoula Leopard Dogs
The Catahoula Leopard dog’s coat is notable for the endless variety of colors and patterns. This breed’s coat is single-layer, and although it may have any color combination, it is common in the following:
- solid color
- brindle
- leopard pattern
- patchwork pattern
His eyes stand out because he will often have bluish white eyes with a cracked glazed appearance, referred to as “glass eyes”. It is also common for this breed to only have one glass eye, with the other in amber or brown. They might also have glass eyes that have colors within the blue, where are referred to as “cracked glass” eyes.
Care for Catahoula Leopard Dogs
Catahoula Leopard Dogs require daily exercise and enjoy playing.
This breed is not high maintenance. However, if he does not receive an appropriate amount of exercise and attention every day, expect him to start causing trouble, such as digging holes and chewing things.
Health of Catahoula Leopard Dogs
Similar to any other breed, the Catahoula Leopard Dog is prone to specific health problems. Health problems that affect this breed include the following:
- hip dysplasia
- deafness
- eye problems
History of Catahoula Leopard Dogs
When the first settlers arrived in Louisiana, they discovered that the state’s woods were overrun with wild hogs. Therefore, they bred their own herding dogs with canines belonging to local Native Americans. The result was a tough and savvy dog with the ability to take on ferocious wild hogs, as well as other fierce livestock.
For many years, this breed was known as Catahoula Leopard Dog curs. They were formally named Louisiana Catahoula Leopard Dogs in 1979, when they were chosen to be the state canine of Lousiana. The United Kennel Club recognized the breed in 1995. The following year, the Catahoula Leopard Dog joined the American Kennel Club’s Foundation Stock Service.
For more information on the Catahoula Leopard Dog or other dog breeds, don’t hesitate to contact us here at All Pets Veterinary Medical Center with the link below!
