Catahoula Leopard Dog

The Catahoula Leopard Dog is a striking working breed from Louisiana — often marbled with merle "leopard" spotting and pale glass eyes — bred to herd and hunt half-wild stock.

History

It was developed in the American South, and in Louisiana in particular, to work cattle and hogs in dense swamp and forest, driving and holding animals that had gone feral. It is the state dog of Louisiana, and its distinctive coats and eyes are part of the breed's identity.

Temperament

The breed is known for being energetic, intelligent and independent, devoted and protective toward its family while wary of strangers. It has a strong working drive and needs a real outlet.

Care and training

It needs a great deal of exercise and mental work, along with early socialising and firm, consistent training suited to a strong-willed dog. The short coat is easy to keep.

Health

A known tendency is deafness, especially where two merles are bred together, along with hip dysplasia and eye conditions. These are patterns for the breed rather than a verdict on one dog; the measured facts are in the panel.