Origin
The Catahoula cur originated from Northern Louisiana near Catahoula Lake. Its name is from the Choctaw Indian word which means “sacred lake”. This breed is probably the result of breeding local dogs with Greyhounds, Mastiffs and Bloodhounds that are brought to the place by the Spanish explorers.
These dogs are sometimes called Catahoula hounds or Catahoula leopard curs but their name was formally changed to Louisiana Catahoula Leopard Dog after they became Louisiana’s state dog in 1979.
These dogs were used to trace as well as capture wild hogs which are roaming around the forests.
In 1976, the Louisiana Catahoula Cur Association was founded and in 1977, it was followed by the National Association of Louisiana Catahoulas.
Various organizations associated with the breed include the Catahoula Cur Breeders Association and the American Catahoula Association.
The former registers the Catahoulas while the latter works in promoting and maintaining the conformation of the breed as well as their working ability by certified testing, trials, clinics and shows.
Traits and Behavior
A good Catahoula cur is not hostile towards the people. It is suspicious with strangers but not shy and it is devoted and protective with the family members. The male ones may also be aggressive to the other male dogs.
Generally, this breed works aggressively which is necessary for capturing unruly hogs and cattle.
In addition, they have the instinct to trace as well as capture game and if they can’t do it, they need to have another channel for their vitality.
They are outstanding watchdogs and they will bark to warn the approaching strangers.
They should be treated firmly but properly since they will not accept any mistreatment and physical abuse.
Pet Care and Diseases
Brushing them weekly will keep their coat shiny and clean. It will also help lessen their shedding. A bath will usually be required just a few times every year. The Catahoula cur should not be tied outside in your yard and they must not be on their own.
They require companionship as well as exercise for a minimum of one hour daily. Engage their minds with some training sessions and activities that they enjoy.
Early and regular socialization is needed for these dogs most especially when you want them to be approachable with the other animals particularly the dogs.
With appropriate training, the consistency as well as socialization, they can be an excellent family member that will protect and love you.
The Catahoulas are usually healthy, but just like all the other breeds, they can also be subject to some health conditions.
Examples of the health problems they may acquire are deafness and canine hip dysplasia. Not all of them will get these health conditions but you must be aware of these when you’re having this type of breed.
Appearance
The Catahoula cur has a very athletic appearance, making them look lean and extremely muscular without also looking either stocky or lanky. They weigh around 55 to 80 pounds and they stand for about 20 to 26 inches tall. Their weight must also be balanced with their height.
They have a flat and broad skull but some have long and narrow ones. Ideally, their skull and muzzle are equally long as well as parallel to each other.
The Catahoula curs are also famous for their glass eyes but a lot of the breed member may not have them. They have medium-sized ears that are dropped down close to their head.
Their lips can either be slightly hanging or tightly fitted with many colors or color combinations similar to their nose.
Additionally, these dogs have a deep chest which provides them with an excellent lung and heart capacity.
Their legs are sturdy as well as strong-boned.
Naturally, their tail is long which is either straight slightly curved but sometimes, it is cropped to a small stub. The Catahoula curs have a single, short to medium-length coat that is close-fitting.
They are also famous for their merle coat though they come in an unending variety of colors as well as patterns. These include brindle, solid colored patchwork, quad-color, tri-color, silver or gray leopard, black leopard, blue leopard and red leopard and many more. Some of the breeds also have spots of more than five patterns or colors.
General Information
The expected life expectancy of a Catahoula Cur is about 10-14 years. The average litter size is around 8-12 puppies. This breed is also known as the Catahoula Leopard Dog, Catahoula Hog Dog, Catahoula Cur, Catahoula Hound, Leopard Dogs and Leopard Cur.
Breed Club
Visit these dog club websites dedicated to Catahoula Curs. Click this link: