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What’s the best dog food for Catahoula Leopards?
Catahoulas are the only breed of dog to have originated in the state of Louisiana, near to the Catahoula Lake, hence the breed’s name.
They are known for their many varied coats and eye colors and patterns. The coat can be spotted and the main colors of this breed are yellow, black, brindle, red and blue, or mouse (grayish). Any of these may also include white points and a white collar.
Historically they were used as multi-purpose working dogs, used for hunting, herding stock.
They benefit from foods made specifically for medium-large breeds with high protein levels for energy and added taurine and vitamin A to protect eye health and vision.
A diet rich in high-quality animal protein sources such as chicken, beef, or fish, is vital so look for a dog food with named meat protein sources at the top of the ingredient list.
As with many larger breeds, Catahoula Leopards are prone to skeletal issues such as hip dysplasia. It is, therefore, crucial to choose a dog food that has appropriate and balanced levels of calcium and phosphorus to support healthy bone growth. Look for recipes which contain glucosamine and chondroitin also.
However, remember each dog is an individual, and their nutritional requirements may vary. It’s always a good idea to consult with a veterinarian to create a personalized and balanced diet plan.
Below, you can see our recommendations of the best foods for Catahoula Leopard Dogs to help you choose the right food for your pet.
You’ll find The Dog Food Advisor’s best dog and puppy foods for Catahoula Leopard Dogs.
You’ll also learn the answer to each of the most frequently asked questions we get about Catahoula Leopard Dogs.
Best Dog Food for Catahoula Leopards December 2024
Here are The Dog Food Advisor's best dog food brands for Catahoula Leopard Dogs for December 2024.
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1. Stella & Chewy’s
Stella & Chewy’s Chewy Chicken Freeze-Dried Raw Dinner Patties is one of 13 raw recipes included in our review of the Stella & Chewy’s Raw-Freeze-Dried product line.
Stella & Chewy’s Chewy Chicken Freeze-Dried Raw Dinner Patties derives the bulk of its meat protein from chicken. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 56.5% protein, 32.9% fat and 2.6% estimated carbs… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 58%.
Responsibly sourced cage-free chicken with a complete and balanced level of vitamins, minerals and other nutrients with added taurine.
Main Ingredients Chicken with ground bone, chicken liver, chicken gizzard, pumpkin seed, organic cranberries Type Grain-Free Protein Percentage 56.5% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For Puppies & Dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at StellaAndChewys.com"We changed our dogs diet about 3 months ago to Stella & Chewy frozen raw diet and they are doing great! Our 14 year old male had lost weight and muscle but has now gained 3lbs back and he is energized. It’s amazing how good he feels. Our 2 year old female was gaining too much weight but with the new diet she has levelled out and doing wonderfully."
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2. Diamond
Diamond Naturals Extreme Athlete is one of 13 dry recipes included in our review of the Diamond Naturals product line.
Diamond Naturals Extreme Athlete derives the bulk of its meat protein from chicken. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 35.6% protein, 27.8% fat and 28.7% estimated carbs… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 78%.
Cage-free chicken for great taste and nutrition, proper levels of protein and fat with 91% of the protein comes from chicken and egg ingredients. Contains glucosamine and chondroitin for joints, enhanced with superfoods and guaranteed probiotics.
Read our review of the full Diamond Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Chicken meal, chicken, ground white rice, chicken fat (preserved with mixed tocopherols), cracked pearled barley Type Grain-Inclusive Protein Percentage 35.6% AAFCO Standards Adult Maintenance Best For Dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at DiamondPet.com"We switched from a much more expensive feed when he was about a year and a half. He liked Extreme Athlete a lot more and it provided him with plenty of energy for hunting all day in hot and cold weather. We feed him this all year. Add a little more when he is going to be super active. Great product for a good price."
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3. Acana
Acana Free-Run Poultry Recipe Grain-Free is one of six dry recipes included in our review of the Acana dry product line.
Acana Free-Run Poultry Recipe Grain-Free derives the bulk of its meat protein from chicken. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 33% protein, 19.3% fat and 39.7% estimated carbs… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 59%.
The first two ingredients are fresh or raw chicken & turkey; nutrient-dense and high in protein. Includes fresh vegetables & fruit like whole pumpkin, collard greens, apples, and pears. No added grain ingredients, soy, corn, wheat or tapioca.
Read our review of the full Acana Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Deboned chicken, deboned turkey, chicken meal, whole red lentils, whole pinto beans Type Grain-Free Protein Percentage 33% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For Puppies & Dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Acana.com"My dog is rather picky but when I first opened the Acana Free-Run poultry formula she was sniffing the air and licking her chops. She raced over to the bowl and finished it all. She loved it. I love that it’s better for my dog and contains natural animal ingredients. I am happy my dog finally enjoys her food."
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4. Ollie
Ollie Fresh Beef Dish With Sweet Potatoes is one of five fresh recipes included in our review of the Ollie Fresh product line.
Ollie Fresh Beef Dish With Sweet Potatoes of its meat protein from beef. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 32.1% protein, 25% fat and 34.9% estimated carbs… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 78%.
High-quality food with no by-products or fillers.
Read our review of the full Ollie Dog Food (Fresh) range here
Main Ingredients Beef, carrots, beef kidneys, potatoes, peas Type Grain-Free Protein Percentage 32.1% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For Puppies & Dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at MyOllie.com"My little Rookie loves his Ollie!! He knows when he sees that orange container come out if the fridge that he’s in for a treat!"
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5. Blue Buffalo
Blue Buffalo Freedom Grain-Free Adult Chicken is one of six wet recipes included in our review of the Blue Buffalo canned product line.
Blue Buffalo Freedom Grain-Free Adult Chicken derives the bulk of its meat protein from chicken. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 36.4% protein, 27.3% fat and 28.4% estimated carbs… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 75%.
Real Chicken as the first ingredient, no by-product meats, no corn, wheat or soy and no artificial flavors ot preservatives.
Read our review of the full Blue Buffalo Freedom Grain Free Dog Food (Canned) range here
Main Ingredients Chicken, chicken broth, chicken liver, carrots, peas Type Grain-Free Protein Percentage 36.4% AAFCO Standards Adult Maintenance Best For Dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at BlueBuffalo.com"Great quality food that was recommended by my dogs’ vet. The dogs loved the food and left none in their bowls."
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6. The Farmer's Dog
The Farmer’s Dog Pork Recipe is one of four fresh recipes included in our review of the The Farmer’s Dog Fresh product line.
The Farmer’s Dog Pork Recipe derives the bulk of its meat protein from pork. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 36% protein, 28% fat and 28% estimated carbs… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 78%.
Human-grade meat and veggies, fresh and balanced recipes.
Read our review of the full The Farmer’s Dog range here
Main Ingredients Pork, sweet potatoes, potato, green beans, cauliflower Type Grain-Free Protein Percentage 36% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For Puppies & Dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at TheFarmersDog.com"My dog LOVES the food and I love the convenience and nutritional value!"
More Top Picks
To view more top dog foods by category… click the link below that best meets your personal feeding needs.
Here are the most frequently asked questions we get about feeding Catahoula Leopard Dogs:
Frequently Asked Questions
How big are Catahoula Leopard Dogs?
Adult male Catahoula Leopard Dogs typically stand between 22 to 26 inches (56 to 66 cm) at the shoulder and weigh around 65 to 90 pounds (29 to 40 kg). Females are smaller, usually measuring 20 to 24 inches (51 to 61 cm) and weighing 50 to 65 pounds (23 to 30 kg).
What is the temperament of a Catahoula Leopard Dog?
Catahoula Leopards are intelligent dogs that can be reserved and aloof with strangers but never shy. They are loving and protective towards their family with affectionate and playful personalities. They don’t always get along with other household pets, including dogs, due to their territorial nature and prey drive. But they sometimes can coexist with dogs when raised together from a young age.
Are Catahoula Leopards easy to train?
Due to their independent qualities, the Catahoula is not the easiest breed to train. Make sure to use positive reinforcement when training.
An important factor to consider when training your Catahoula is socialization. Introduce them to different people, places, sounds, and experiences at a young age. The earlier you familiarize your pup with different things, the more comfortable they will feel on a day to day basis. This is especially important when you are trying to get your Catahoula to get along with other dogs.
How much exercise does a Catahoula Leopard dog need?
The Catahoula Leopard Dog needs space to expend their copious amount of energy and always needs a job to do. Exercise could include play time in the backyard or several walks a day. Outdoor activities such as swimming, hiking, and retrieving balls or flying discs can also provide a good outlet.
What health conditions can affect Catahoula Leopard Dogs?
Issues such as hip dysplasia, deafness, and eye problems have occasionally occurred in the Catahoula Leopard dog. However, for the most part they are a healthy breed with a relatively long life expectancy for their size.
Final word
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