Catta Whatta Dog? – Louisiana’s remarkable Catahoula leopard dog

The Louisiana Catahoula Leopard Dog, also known as the Catahoula Leopard Dog, Catahoula Cur, and / or Catahoula Pig Dog, is one of the oldest breeds found in the United States, if not the oldest. First registered in 1686 near Catahoula Parish in Louisiana, these incredibly handsome, fearless, tireless, hardworking dogs with leopard spots and pale white / blue eyes were immediately deemed worthy of their weight in gold.

The word “Catahoula” is believed to be a corrupted version of the indigenous Choctaw word for “beautiful clear water” … aptly describing her striking pale blue / white “crystal” eyes.

It is believed that they are descendants of the Spanish war dogs of Hernando de Sotos (greyhounds and mastiffs), abandoned 100 years before, the theory is; they were captured and raised with “dogs” believed to be domesticated red wolves; belonging to the Choctaw Indians in the Catahoula Lake region of Louisiana. They were later bred with dogs that early settlers brought with them to Louisiana. From that, three lines were derived.

The three lines from which they descend are: McMillan, Fairbanks and Wright; each with a specific distinctive character. Whatever their pedigree, they are extraordinary dogs! Indians, hunters and settlers recognized the value of his tireless and courageous nature. Used to drive wild boars out of the forest, they instinctively incited the animal. His target’s screeching would attract other wild pigs in the area. The dogs would then draw not one, but several to chase them down and catch the prepared owners. The wild pigs would follow the guide dog into the pen, at which point the dog would gently climb it to safety. The remaining dogs would guard the entrance to the pen when the owner closed the door, leaving the wild pigs trapped. As dangerous as it was, it was all in one day’s work for a Catahoula!

The Catahoula proved its worth in other valuable ways. Labeled as a “scent” hound, with its extraordinary nose and webbed feet, the Catahoula would easily “roll up” and herd stray cattle “pulling” them out of alligator-filled swamps.

Hunters and trappers appreciated his tenacity. Not only would they make possum and raccoon “trees”, they would climb the tree to keep it there!

Things to know about a Catahoula leopard dog, before acquiring one:

1. Temperament: Loyal to their owners; they are not particularly friendly to strangers. They are stubborn, energetic, assertive and persistent. Tremendously independent, they are natural leaders of the pack.
2. Watchdog capacity: Exceptionally protective of his family … human or animal.
3. With other dogs: He does not allow dogs … he can be aggressive, especially with people of the same sex.
4. Children: Good with children they have “grown up” with and if they have socialized when they were puppies. Due to their innate herding instinct, they should be closely supervised with young children.
5. Small animals: He is not good with small animals. Great predator boost. It must be socialized when very young.
6. Activity level: tireless – needs a minimum of 2 hours of exercise a day – this dog is bred for work … he needs a job!
7. Special skills: Excellent hunting dog, can be aggressive with livestock.
8. Health: generally healthy, with the exception of possible hip dysplasia and vision problems. The whiter the dog is, the more likely it is to have hearing and / or vision problems.
9. Size: Medium – Tall – 20-26 inches Weight varies depending on which of the three lines they descend from.
McMillan – 50-60 pounds
Fairbanks – 65-70 pounds
Wright – 90-110 pounds
10. Useful life: average of 10 to 14 years.
11. Learning ability: Exceptionally high.
12. Problem solving ability: high
13. Grooming Care: Minimal – Short to medium coat.

It should be noted that a novice dog owner is no match for this amazing dog. They will run in circles around you! Channeling your energy is like trying to control lightning in a bottle! This is not a dog that will be happy in an apartment, condo, or small fenced yard … remember, they can effortlessly climb a pen over six feet!

Bottom line: A Catahoula Leopard Dog needs firm and strong leaders, who respect your dog’s physical activity needs, challenge them mentally, and get their attention. There is almost a feeling of madness with this breed.

They respond better to positive reinforcement training and without punishment. They love to learn and face each new challenge with enthusiasm. They can be aggressive in dog parks. They can be eternally loyal and affectionate to their owners.

Although they are not yet recognized by the American Kennel Club, the state of Louisiana has shown its appreciation for this wonderful animal. In 1979, the Louisiana Catahoula Leopard Dog was honored and recognized as their state dog.