Catahoula Leopard

Life span: 10 to 14 years

Availability: Rare

About Catahoula leopard:
The Catahoula dog breed has a striking appearance and a strong work ethic. He’s a tough dog bred to work in swamps and forests and requires a leader who is firm and consistent, with time to keep him occupied. They are highly intelligent and energetic. They are assertive but not aggressive by nature.

Named for a Choctaw Indian word meaning "sacred lake," the Catahoula originated in northern Louisiana near Catahoula Lake. He's probably the product of breedings between local dogs and the Bloodhounds, Mastiffs, and Greyhounds brought to the area by Spanish explorers.

The United Kennel Club was the first national dog registry to recognize the Catahoula, in 1995. The Catahoula entered the American Kennel Club's Foundation Stock Service, which maintains records for rare breeds, in 1996.

The Catahoula is a unique dog with a fascinating heritage and strong working ability. It is not suited for life with every family, but when you make a commitment to one and form a bond with him, you have a steadfast protector and companion for life.

Visits to Groomer-Low

Drooling-No

Bath-Rare

Tolerance to heat-Get a heatstroke

Tolerance to cold- Need warmth

Exercise Requirement-Lots

Under Coat-No

Colour- Brindle, Black, Red, Yellow, Red Merle, Black merle

Coat Type-Smooth to coarse

Hair Length-Short

Hair Density-Sparse

Catahoulas are generally healthy, but like all breeds, they can be subject to certain health conditions. Not all Catahoulas will get any or all of these diseases, but it's important to be aware of them if you're considering this breed.

Canine Hip Dysplasia

Deafness

Obesity


Ear infection

Hypothyroidism

Temperament
Catahoulas are highly intelligent and energetic. They are assertive but not aggressive by nature. Catahoulas in general are very even tempered. They make a good family dog. When a Catahoula is raised with children, the dog believes that it is his or her responsibility to look after and protect those children.


Training & Intelligence

Catahoulas are highly intelligent and energetic. Training won't require too much attention and effort, though it won't be easier than other breeds. Expect results to come gradually. A Catahoula needs early socialization-exposure to many different people, sights, sounds, and experiences-when he's young, and it should continue throughout his life.


Breeding
Litter Size- 8 to 12 puppies (approximately)

Complication in Breeding-No

Procreation
Catahoulas are healthy and sturdy breed . Generally a dog takes around 18 months to reach his or her full height and structure. It is advisable to breed your dogs after at least two years of age. If you are a first timer at breeding then taking a vets help.