The Catahoula Leopard dog is an intelligent, energetic, and hard-working dog that has a long history of herding and hunting. Sometimes denounced as an aggressive dog, they are better described as aggressive workers, as they have a very strong work ethic and love to work, but it is also true that they are very wary of strangers.
The Catahoula temperament is not right for everyone; these dogs are very protective of their territory and family, especially the males, but they are kind and gentle with other dogs when on neutral ground.
It is these traits, combined with their independent nature, high energy levels, and physical strength, that can make a Catahoula too difficult to handle for some owners who are inexperienced or who lack the confidence, energy, or strength to discipline. these dogs properly. , and it can make having such a dog a problem. This can be especially so for those who live in apartments and small spaces. Also, the CLD does not do well when tied to a runner or placed in a kennel. It is best to recognize that you will need to spend a lot of time with this breed and to avoid leaving this dog for a full day at work. Eight hours away from home can be too much for this normally active and energetic creature.
The Catahoula Leopard Dog is also too independent-minded to be the ideal training partner for the intensely competitive trainer. On the other hand, for someone who wants a powerful and exceptionally capable companion, the CLD can go from swimming to climbing trees in a single walk (seriously, check out the pictures on the internet).
The Catahoula has no equal when it comes to driving cattle.
CLD eyes can be brown, blue, aqua, green, gold or a combination of any of these colors in one eye called ‘cracked’ or two different color eyes altogether! Eye color can often vary with a different color in each eye. Given the diversity of these traits, it is difficult to predict which characteristics will dominate.
Catahoulas are naturally protective of what and who they believe belongs to them. In fact, many owners will say that the Catahoula owns them. Catahoulas are a naturally dominant breed, so YOU should always be in control! They are also very territorial and don’t always discriminate between friend or foe, so I don’t advise letting a Catahoula, or any dog, run free without supervision.
Research into the origins of the name suggests that the name may be attributed to a mispronunciation or slander of the word “Couthaougoula”, meaning Choctaw. This word was used to describe the Indians or their dog, giving the inference that the Indian was no better than his dog.
A Catahoula with a light gray or tan coat may have spots almost identical to the leopard’s. It is theorized that this was the result of natural selection in that it is particularly effective camouflage in low light and overcast conditions.
A CLD should have a short single coat, medium floppy ears, large round feet with thick pads and well defined toes, and have a muscular but athletic build. Catahoulas have deep chests, a clearly folded flank, and fairly long, straight legs.
Breeder Web, unlike other sites, does not serve as a link between the person who wants to find puppies for sale and the person who has bred their Catahoula Leopard Dog puppies.
If you’re looking to purchase this breed of dog, do your best to ensure you’re buying from a good humane breeder and not a dog breeder who breeds more than three types of dogs, as that tends to target breeders who are less focused on the dog and more on the winnings.
When you see dogs for sale online, keep in mind that while buying a puppy through a website alone may be tempting, it’s generally unwise.
Dog breeders advertise their puppies and dogs for sale in the breeder directory and in classified ads. Remember that breeders know your dog’s breed best and should be able to provide you with their puppies’ temperament and any special care the specific breed needs. Take your time as you make a commitment that will last a decade or more.