What makes the Catahoula Cur Unique?
The breed is sometimes referred to as the “Catahoula Hound” or “Catahoula Leopard Hound”, although it is not a true hound, but a cur. It is also called the “Catahoula Hog Dog”, reflecting its traditional use in hunting wild boar.
Breed Groups
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| Size: | Males – 56 to 58 cm (22 to 26 inches) Females – 51 to 61 cm (20 to 24 inches) |
| Weight: | Males – 16 to 37 kg (55 to 80 lb) Females – 16 to 37 kg (55 to 80 lb) |
| Origin: | United States of America |
| Life Span: | 10 – 14 Years |
| Colour: | Red Merle, Yellow, Red, Brindle, Black, Black merle |
| Litter Size: | 8 to 12 puppies |
Is the Catahoula Cur Right For You?
This tough yet strikingly beautiful dog can have a spotted, brindle, solid, or patched coat of many colors. Other outstanding physical characteristics are his webbed feet, which allow him to swim well and work in soft, marshy areas, and his eyes, which may be blue, green, brown, or amber. Some Catahoulas have eyes that are each a different color or “cracked” eyes: two different colors within the same eye.
Expect to provide this hard-working and independent dog with at least an hour of strenuous exercise daily as well as firm guidance during training. When their exercise and leadership needs are met, Catahoulas are loving, calm, and dedicated companions.
In 5 Words
- Inquisitive
- Gentle
- Energetic
- Intelligent
- Loving
Characteristics
Learn About the Catahoula Cur
Description
Catahoula Leopard Dogs have sturdy, medium-sized frames covered in short, tight coats that come in a number of colors including brindle, yellow, chocolate and merle. Their heads are broad and flat with medium-length muzzles,The skull is broad and flat, framed by pendant ears that hang down just below the eye. Their eyes are their main feature, and have been termed “haunting” or “glass eyes” because of their light-blue color, or half blue, half brown “cracked” eyes, although all brown is also an acceptable eye color. The legs are solid and strong boned. The deep chest provides for good heart and lung capacity.
Short History of the Catahoula Cur
The “cur” dog is one of the few working breeds that originates right here in the United States. They come from different lines, and of different types. While all have a common origination from the southern part of the US, they have similar but distinctively different hunting styles, traits, and separate regional originations. The Louisiana Catahoula Cur Association was formed in 1976, followed by the National Association of Louisiana Catahoulas in 1977.In 1686, Henri De Tonti recorded seeing dogs with mottled spots and white eyes while he was exploring. The name of the Catahoula comes from the Parish of Catahoula. The word “Catahoula” is a corrupted version of the word for “beautiful clear water” in the Choctaw Native American language. Catahoulas are thought to descend from “war dogs” (mastiff and greyhound types) brought to America by Spanish explorers. One of these explorers, Hernando de Soto, was reported to have set these dogs to attack Indians, and then abandoned them with their victims. Some of these dogs that were left behind bred with dogs belonging to the Indians, which may have been domesticated red wolves, and later with settlers’ dogs. Some believe the Beauceron had a part to play in the “Cat’s” genetic makeup. The Catahoula was used by settlers to drive out wild animals, especially boars, from the forest and into the settler’s pen. Flushing boars from the woods was difficult, and most shepherd dogs could not achieve this goal. Historically the Catahoula Leopard Cur was used in teams to round up feral pigs and cattle, and it is also competent in treeing raccoons. Today it remains rare, but an enthusiastic band of breeders organize shows and trials in obedience, treeing, and herding.
Temperament
The Catahoula Leopard Dog is independent, protective, dominating, territorial, intelligent, energetic and loyal. have a high learning rate, but their naturally assertive nature means they need a firm handler who can dominate when training this breed. These dogs are referred as excellent caretaker for children. Catahoula Cur dogs do not tolerate isolation and thrive on interaction. Having a chore or job helps occupy their time. These dogs prove wonderful pets for any home, but under a dominant owner. They are also known as an independent, protective, and territorial in nature.This breed is a working dog, and needs a dominant owner who shows leadership.
Caring for Your Catahoula Cur
Grooming & Bathing
Since the Catahoula is a short, single-coated dog, the grooming needs are minimal. They should have a bath a couple of times of year (unless they get into something and get filthy) and a good brushing once a week. The nails should be trimmed regularly and the teeth kept clean. This breed is an average to light constant shedder. When nervous or stressed, they have a tendency to shed more, especially when you are petting them.
Exercise & Training
Begin training the day you bring your Catahoula puppy home. He is intelligent and learns quickly, but he needs a strong leader. For best results, be patient, firm, and consistent to develop the strongest bond with your Catahoula. Let him know what you expect, and then let him go to work. Always look for behaviors you can reward instead of punishing him for infractions. Harsh corrections can damage the dog’s self-confidence and personality. Regular training practice and social interaction will help ensure that you live together happily. A bored or lonely Catahoula is destructive in his attempts to entertain himself.
Catahoula Cur Picture Gallery
