The Catahoula Leopard Dog is a medium-to-large working breed developed in the United States, specifically Louisiana, during the 19th century. Known for their striking coat patterns, unmatched work ethic, and fierce loyalty, Catahoulas have a fascinating history rooted in hunting, herding, and companionship.

The breed’s lineage traces back to Native American dogs, Spanish mastiffs, and greyhounds brought by explorers and settlers. This diverse ancestry contributed to the Catahoula’s distinctive spotted coat, keen intelligence, and exceptional tracking and herding abilities.

Catahoulas were primarily bred to herd wild hogs and cattle, showcasing their fearless nature and independent mindset. Their rugged versatility made them indispensable to early settlers navigating the dense swamps and forests of Louisiana.

While not as widely recognized as some breeds, Catahoulas have a reputation for being hardworking and highly capable. Today, Catahoulas are still valued for their working abilities but also make loyal and protective family companions. They thrive in active households and excel in tasks like herding, search-and-rescue, and agility sports.

If you have a Catahoula, it’s essential to provide a high-protein diet to support their energy needs and maintain their active lifestyle. For recommendations on the best foods for Catahoulas, see our list of expert-approved options validated by our in-house pet nutritionist Laura Ward.

Catahoulas’ General Characteristics:

• Origin: Louisiana
• Size: Medium
• Height: 22-24 inches
• Weight: 50-95 pounds
• Lifespan: 10-14 years

Catahoulas’ Appearance: 

• Coat: Short and smooth
• Colors: They may come in blue, gray, black, tan, liver, red, white and patched
• Build: Muscled and powerful

Catahoula Leopard Dog’s Temperament: 

• Independent: The Catahoula Leopard temperament is intense, serious and focused when working out in the field
• Playful: Playful and affectionate at home with their family
• Intelligent: Catahoulas are intelligent and easy to train. They are quick learners and excel in various tasks, including obedience training, agility, and working roles.

Training and Exercising: 

• Training: Without training and mental stimulation, this breed can become destructive in the home. 
• Exercise: The Catahoula Leopard Dog needs space to expend his copious amount of energy and always needs a job to do. Outdoor activities like swimming, hiking, and retrieving balls or flying discs can also provide a good outlet for expending energy.

Grooming and Shedding:

• Grooming: The breed’s strong, fast-growing nails should be trimmed regularly with a nail clipper or grinder to avoid overgrowth, splitting and cracking.
• Shedding: Catahoula Leopard Dogs have a short, smooth coat that sheds moderately. Weekly brushing can help reduce the amount of flying fur

Interesting Facts:  

• Catahoulas are the only breed of dog to have historically originated in the state of Louisiana.
• Well-known actors, Paul Newman and Sylvester Stallone have both owned Catahoula.
• Teddy Roosevelt: The 26th president of the United States owned Catahoulas for hunting.

Catahoula Leopard Price:

The average cost of a Catahoula Leopard in the U.S. varies depending on the dog’s pedigree, the breeder’s reputation, location, and whether the dog is intended for show, breeding, or as a pet. Here’s a general guide:

Show Quality or Breeding Quality Catahoula Leopard

Price Range: $600-$900

If buying a Catahoula Leopard puppy or specific breeds of Catahoula Leopard, the price will be towards the more expensive end of the spectrum.

Rescue or Adoption:

Adoption Fee: Around $50-$500

A Catahoula Leopard adopted from a rescue organization or shelter generally costs less. This fee often includes initial veterinary care and spaying/neutering.