by C.V.Rajan

Created on: September 04, 2008   Last Updated: September 06, 2008

The Catahoula Leopard Dog is an intelligent,active,strong herding dog that originated in the Catahoula region of northern Louisiana.

Though no breeding records exist, they are believed to be a cross between Native American Indian dogs and various Mastiffs, Bloodhounds and Greyhounds brought over by Spanish settlers in the 16th century.

BASIC FACTS:

Height: 20-26 inches.

WEIGHT: 40-50 pounds.

LIFE EXPECTANCY: 12-13 years.

COAT:

Catahoulas have a single, short, dense coat in a variety of colors. As these coats are short, they do not need much grooming; it is enough if their coats are brushed once in a month.

EYES:

The breed may have eyes like "cracked glass" or "marbled glass". This occurs when both the colored and glass portions are present in the same eye.

TAIL:

The tail of the Catahoula is mostly long and whip-like, reaching past the hocks of the back legs, although there are rare occurrences of bob tail.

FEET:

Catahoula's feet have prominent webbing that extends almost to the ends of the toes. This foot makes them great swimmers.

TEMPERAMENT:

Catahoulas are highly intelligent, energetic, and have a high pain. The Catahoula temperament is not well suited for everyone. They are not very friendly with strangers and children unless well trained. Due to their high energy levels, and physical strength, the Catahoula breed is not for inexperienced or meek owners. The ideal place for this breed would be in a rural area where they can have plenty of space to expend their energy. The amazing fact is that many Catahoulas can actually climb trees, aided by their long, hard and sharp nails which help them grip the barks.

Catahoulas will do fine in apartments only if they get plenty of exercise and attention. If kept in the back yard, they still need daily walks and companionship to feel settled and centered. Otherwise, they can get lonely, depressed and sometimes destructive. Games of fetch, vigorous hikes and "tasks" will keep their minds healthy and alert.

TRAINING:

It's best to take this particular dog breed to an obedience school when they are young, to train them in the proper ways of acting around other dogs as well as their family. They are however, quick to learn and are often the star pupils in the training classes by virtue of their intelligence.

Other than the obedience training, the breed can be trained easily by their own masters. The Catahoula will definitely amaze you with its Intelligence and learning ability.

Sources:

www.thebreedsofdogs.com/CATAHOULA_LE OPARD_DOG.htm
www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Catahoula_Leo pard_Dog
www.terrificpets.com/dog_breeds/Catahoula_Le opard_Dog.asp

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