Catahoula Leopard DogCharacteristics, history, training and care

The AKC says that in 1539, when the Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto landed in Florida, his scribes noted that North America had only one domestic animal: the Indians' dog, which looked like a wolf but barked like a dog. These dogs were later crossed with dogs brought by the Spanish and, later still, with French hounds. Wikipedia says that in the mid-18th century French settlers crossed the local dogs with the Beauceron.

The first settlers around Catahoula Lake, in Louisiana, used these dogs to catch wild hogs and cattle. On 9 July 1979, Governor Edwin Edwards declared it the official state dog of Louisiana; the UKC recognised it in 1995, and the AKC admitted it to the Foundation Stock Service in 1996.

How the breed developed

• 1539 – Hernando de Soto notes the Indians' dogs.
• Mid-18th century – Crosses with French dogs.
• 9 July 1979 – Official state dog of Louisiana.
• 1995 – Recognised by the UKC.
• 1996 – Enters the Foundation Stock Service (AKC).

Indicative rating: 5 stars means the highest level. It is based on the ratings the American Kennel Club gives the breed; the breed is not recognised by the FCI.

Wikipedia says it is usually muscular, with a rectangular body, a large head, drop ears, a strong muzzle, a thick neck and a long, curved tail. The eyes can be any colour or combination: blue, brown, green or amber.

General appearance

Wikipedia says it has a single coat, either short and smooth or medium-length and coarse.

Wikipedia says it comes in many colours: blue merle, red merle, brindle and solid colours. The “leopard” look comes from the merle gene. Darker colours are preferred, and a mostly white coat is not desirable.

The AKC describes it as loyal, vigilant and independent. Without training and mental stimulation, it can become destructive in the house. Being independent and territorial, socialisation is very important for it to be a gentle, affectionate companion.

The AKC says it works like an adult from as early as 10 months, but needs a firm, consistent owner.

Tips for effective training

• Always give it a job. Otherwise it becomes destructive.
• Socialise it early. It is territorial.
• Be firm and consistent. It is independent.
• Do not keep it in a flat. The AKC says it is not suitable.

The AKC says it needs space to burn off its very high energy and always needs a job. It is not suited to the city or a flat; without exercise and attention, it starts digging and chewing.

Tips for a balanced life

• Suits very active owners with a yard.
• Trim its nails often.
• Check the ears regularly.

Coat and skin care

The AKC recommends weekly brushing and the occasional bath. The nails grow quickly and should be trimmed regularly, and the ears checked often.

Common health problems

The AKC says most are healthy, but occasionally the following occur:

Other care

• Ask for the puppy's hearing test.
• Trim the nails regularly.
• Go for yearly check-ups.

The AKC recommends good-quality food suited to the dog's age, and attention to its weight.

Tips for a healthy diet

The table gives a starting estimate, calculated with the formula from the Merck Veterinary Manual. The first two calorie columns show the calories per day for a healthy adult dog. The last column shows what this means in dry food with 3,500–4,000 kcal per kilogram.

• Adjust the portion to its level of effort.
• Do not let it run right after a meal.
• A dog is at the right weight when you can feel its ribs without pressing hard.

Foods to avoid

Some human foods are dangerous for dogs: chocolate, coffee, grapes and raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol (a sweetener used in chewing gum), macadamia nuts and alcohol.

Physical and emotional maturity

In dogs, sexual maturity usually comes between 6 and 12 months, but in large breeds it can be delayed until about two years. The body also reaches its adult form later than in small breeds.

Mating and pregnancy

Pregnancy lasts about 63 days, counted from ovulation. Mating a female on her first heat is not recommended. Only healthy dogs of typical breed appearance should be used for breeding.

Caring for the puppies

In large breeds, a litter has around 7 puppies on average. Socialisation starts in the first weeks: gentle handling, everyday noises and new people.

• Louisiana's dog. Since 1979.
• Eyes of any colour. Even different from each other.
• Spotted like a leopard. Thanks to the merle gene.
• Seen by Hernando de Soto. In 1539.
• A wild hog hunter. That is what it was used for.

Is it recognised by the FCI?

No; it is recognised by the UKC.

What colour are its eyes?

Any colour, even a different colour in each eye.

Is it suitable for a flat?

No, according to the AKC.

How long does it live?

The AKC gives 10–14 years.