Catahoula Leopard Dog Dogs for stud in Romney Marsh, Kent

The Catahoula Leopard Dog, also known as the Louisiana Catahoula Leopard Dog, Catahoula Cur or Catahoula Hog Dog, is an American working breed named after Catahoula Parish in Louisiana, where it was developed to drive cattle and hunt feral boar. The name comes from the Choctaw language, and in 1979 the breed was declared the official state dog of Louisiana. Its striking spotted coat is produced by the merle gene, and any eye colour is accepted, including odd-coloured pairs. The United Kennel Club recognised the breed in 1995 and the American Kennel Club added it to its Foundation Stock Service in 1996, though it is not recognised by the Kennel Club in the UK and remains rare in Europe.

Catahoulas are muscular, athletic dogs: males stand around 61 cm at the shoulder and females around 56 cm, with adults typically weighing between 23 and 43 kg. The short, dense coat comes in merle, brindle and solid colours and needs only a weekly brush. This is an intense, intelligent working breed, loyal and naturally protective of its family, but it demands daily physical and mental work, so it suits active, experienced owners rather than first-time buyers or homes wanting a quiet companion. Well-socialised Catahoulas live happily alongside older children and other dogs. Life expectancy is typically 10 to 14 years.