Catahoulas 101

Herding group

The Catahoula Leopard Dog is a strong, protective breed that's best in the hands of those experienced with guardian dogs. They are intelligent, active and devoted to their families, although generally not fond of strangers or other dogs. And while they love their families, they may be too physical and large to be recommended for families with small children. This is not a breed for beginners, but those who can handle them will enjoy the company of a dog who'll never back down.

Nationwide Outline Icons Vibrant Blue Heart 24x24pxWhat we love about Catahoulas

A serious dog for serious work

Energy level
Energy LevelEnergy Level
Bark level
  • bark-very-vocalVery vocal
  • bark-talkativeTalkative
  • bark-as-neededAs needed
Size
22 to 24 inches tall
Group Size Large
Lifespan
10 to 14 years
020
Weight
50 to 95 lbs
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Mature adult Catahoula

5 years to 8 years

Risk level for common Catahoula conditions

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Cruciate ligament tear (knee)

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Trauma

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Foreign body ingestion

Senior Catahoula

9+ years

Risk level for common Catahoula conditions

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Arthritis

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Liver disease

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Kidney failure

Catahoula puppy

0 to 6 months

Risk level for common Catahoula conditions

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Foreign body ingestion

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Gastroenteritis

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Conjunctivitis

Young adult Catahoula

7 months to 4 years

Risk level for common Catahoula conditions

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Allergic reaction

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Foreign body ingestion

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Trauma

Mature adult Catahoula

5 years to 8 years

Risk level for common Catahoula conditions

risk-level-bar

Cruciate ligament tear (knee)

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Trauma

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Foreign body ingestion

Senior Catahoula

9+ years

Risk level for common Catahoula conditions

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Arthritis

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Liver disease

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Kidney failure

Catahoula puppy

0 to 6 months

Risk level for common Catahoula conditions

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Foreign body ingestion

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Gastroenteritis

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Conjunctivitis

Young adult Catahoula

7 months to 4 years

Risk level for common Catahoula conditions

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Allergic reaction

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Foreign body ingestion

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Trauma

2-Catahoula leopard dog standing up GettyImages-1175747069

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3-Fun fact-Catahoula leopard dog GettyImages-626912906

Named for Catahoula Parish in Louisiana, where it is also the state dog.

Catahoula Leopard Dog coat care and colors

Nothing could be easier than keeping the Cat's coat tidy. Weekly brushing and regular nail trims (get them used to them early) take care of most grooming needs.

How often should I bathe my Catahoula Leopard Dog?

Catahoula Leopard Dogs can be bathed monthly, weekly or as needed (if they roll in mud, for example!). Use a pet-specific shampoo and conditioner or an all-in-one product. If your dog’s coat or skin isn’t looking healthy, check with your veterinary healthcare team to see what might be causing the problem.

What type of coat does my Catahoula Leopard Dog have?

The Catahoula Leopard Dog has a short, sleek coat.

How often should I brush my Catahoula Leopard Dog?

Weekly brushing with a hound brush or glove will keep your Catahoula Leopard Dog's coat in good shape.

Catahoula exercise & training

Full speed ahead

Exercise level

The Catahoula will take all the exercise you can offer them. The minimum is a long, brisk walk, ideally every day.

Independent study

Trainability

The Catahoula is strong-willed and intelligent. Start socializing and training early, with consistent no-nonsense handling. Get a trainer's help sooner rather than later if you run into challenges.

Catahoula fun facts

Top girl names for Catahoulas

100%

of Catahoulas are female

0%

of Catahoulas are male

Top boy names for Catahoulas

Nationwide loves Catahoula Leopard Dogs of every name, from Aaron to Zog the Destroyer

Other breeds like Catahoulas

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