Catahoula Leopard Dog

The Catahoula lineage was started in the mid-1700s, when French settlers crossbred local dogs with Beauceron dogs. On July 9, 1979, in recognition of the historic significance of the Catahoula cur to the state of Louisiana, Governor Edwin Edwards signed House Bill #75 officially naming the Louisiana Catahoula Leopard Dog as the state dog. On January 1, 1995, the Louisiana Catahoula Leopard Dog was recognized by the United Kennel Club. In 1996, the AKC added the Catahoula Leopard Dog into their Foundation Stock Service. ==Appearance==

Though physical characteristics are varied, Catahoulas are usually muscular dogs with a rectangular-shaped body. They tend to have a large head with drop ears and a strong, slightly tapered muzzle. The Catahoula has a single smooth short or coarse medium coat. ==Work==

The Catahoula was initially used for hunting. Native Americans tended to use the dog for hunting large game. European settlers used the dog for hunting and herding livestock. The first white settlers in Louisiana are believed to have used the dog to hunt feral pigs in the swamps of Louisiana. Catahoulas are used as bay dogs, tree dogs, and for hunting a variety of wild game, including small game, such as raccoons and squirrels, as well as big game, such as deer, mountain lions and bear. They are also used for scent trailing game and as a search and rescue dog. ==References==