History

• The leopard catahoula is primarily a herding breed of dog that originates from the Nordic wolfhound introduced in North America before the first arrival of the Spanish. Catahoula is a parish in northeastern Lousiana where the breed is believed to have first been introduced where it was used to hunt feral pigs and escaped livestock. In 1979 the leopard catahoula was named the state dog of Louisiana.
  
  

Temperament

• Puppies should be socialized early to increase comfort with adults and small children. Leopard catahoulas can be territorial and prone to "pack leader" mentality so it is recommended a puppy be brought up in a structured household with established boundaries. The dogs are very affectionate with known people, comfortable around children when socialized to them, and respond well to discipline at an early age.
  
  

Health Problems

• Catahoula puppies should be examined for potential hip dysplasia and deafness, according to dogbreedinfo.com. These problems may not appear during the dog's early years though signs of potential hip problems can be identified early and are typically mitigated through vigorous exercise which the breed requires. Puppies should have their vision tested early as the breed is prone to tunnel vision, a condition where the eyes of the dog do not open fully or the pupils of the eyes have been abnormally formed.
  
  

Living Conditions

• This breed of dog is not particularly well suited for apartment living. Puppies may be kept in smaller spaces though the breed only takes 2 years to mature so owners may find a rather rambunctious animal tearing up the carpet along with the furniture in very little time. Leopard catahoulas need exercise. The breed also thrives on human companionship to facilitate the socialization process. According to dogbreedinfo.com, puppies that are kept in near empty homes often become aggressively distrustful of people.
  
  

Grooming

• The catahoula is a short-haired breed with a single coat of fur. Grooming needs for puppies are minimal outside of periodic nail trimmings to save any polished surfaces the dogs may be walking on. This breed is a light to moderate shedder, but should still be brushed at least once a week with a stiff comb.