The main difference between American Leopard Hound and Catahoula is that Catahoula dogs are larger than American leopard hounds and have a single, smooth short, or coarse medium coat.
American Leopard Hound and Catahoula are two types of American dog breeds. Both dog breeds are loyal and intelligent and often possess spotted coats. However, there are several differences between the two dog breeds.
Key Areas Covered
1. American Leopard Hound
– Facts, Appearance, and Behavior
2. Catahoula
– Facts, Appearance, and Behavior
3. Similarities Between American Leopard Hound and Catahoula
– Outline of Common Features
4. Difference Between American Leopard Hound and Catahoula
– Comparison of Key Differences
Key Terms
American Leopard Hound, Catahoula
American Leopard Hound – Facts, Appearance, and Behavior
The American Leopard Hound is an American hunting dog breed. Its ancestry can be traced back to dogs that were brought to Mexico by Spanish conquistadors. Subsequently, the breed was introduced to the United States by early settlers who relied on it for hog-hunting purposes.
The American Leopard Hound is a medium-sized dog, standing between 21 to 27 inches tall and weighing around 35 to 75 pounds. It has a short double coat with a leopard or spotted pattern and comes in various colors like red, blue, merle, brindle, black, and more. The coat contains less than one-third white. This breed has medium-length drop ears and can have yellow, brown, or blue eyes.
Behavior of American Leopard Hound
The American Leopard Hound is a gentle and easily sociable breed, which makes them great companions for families with children of all ages. They have a natural affinity for kids, but it is essential to supervise interactions and ensure that younger children are able to play gently. Moreover, these dogs possess remarkable resilience and can withstand extreme temperatures, whether it’s scorching hot or bitterly cold, due to their tough nature. With their high energy levels, American Leopard Hounds benefit from living in homes with ample space and a large yard where they can freely run, explore, and expend their energy.
Catahoula – Facts, Appearance, and Behavior
The Catahoula Leopard Dog is an American dog breed with its name derived from Catahoula Parish in Louisiana. It is officially recognized by the United Kennel Club (UKC) under the name Louisiana Catahoula Leopard Dog. Catahoulas typically stand at a shoulder height ranging from 20 to 26 inches. In terms of weight, they usually range between 50 to 90 pounds. On average, their lifespan spans from 10 to 14 years.
Catahoulas exhibit a wide range of physical characteristics, but they typically possess a muscular build with a rectangular body shape. Their prominent features include a large head with drooping ears and a robust, slightly tapered muzzle. These dogs also have strong, thick necks and long, curved tails. One distinguishing trait of Catahoulas is their varied coat colors, which can include blue merle, red merle, brindle, and solid colors. Solid-coated Catahoulas often have small patches of other colors, such as white, on their face, legs, or chest. Moreover, Catahoulas typically possess a single smooth short, or coarse medium coat.
Behavior of Catahoulas
Catahoulas are versatile working dogs used for various purposes, such as bay dogs, tree dogs, and hunting a wide range of wild game. However, it’s important to note that Catahoulas are not suited for outdoor living and should not be left alone outside. They thrive as companion dogs and do poorly in isolation. These dogs possess high intelligence and therefore require firm, patient, and consistent training to bring out their best qualities. Catahoulas are energetic and active, necessitating at least an hour of vigorous exercise daily to meet their physical and mental needs.
In terms of grooming, Catahoulas have a light to moderate year-round shedding. Regular weekly brushing is recommended to remove dead hair and maintain a glossy coat. By providing them with proper care, exercise, and training, Catahoulas can thrive as loyal and capable companions.
Similarities Between American Leopard Hound and Catahoula
- They may have a spotted coat.
- Both breeds are intelligent and loyal.
- They are working dogs.
Difference Between American Leopard Hound and Catahoula
Definition
American Leopard Hound is an American hunting dog breed, whereas Catahoula is an American dog breed that is similar to American Leopard Hound but is larger in size.
Weight
The weight of a Catahoula typically ranges from 50 to 95 pounds, while an American Leopard Hound weighs between 35 to 75 pounds.
Height
A Catahoula dog stands between 20 and 26 inches tall, whereas an American Leopard Hound measures between 21 and 27 inches in height.
Coat and Colors
The Catahoula has a smooth short, or coarse medium coat that comes in various colors and patterns. The most common patterns include blue merle, red merle, and brindle. Some Catahoula Leopard Dogs may have a solid color coat with small patches of other colors dispersed throughout. The American Leopard Hound possesses a short and dense double coat characterized by a rough outer layer and a fine wooly underlayer. It comes in various colors, such as blue, black, brown, gray, yellow, or merle. Approximately 60% of American Leopard Hounds have solid coat colors, while the remaining 40% display brindle patterns or leopard-like spots.
Temperament
Catahoula dogs are intelligent, energetic, and protective, while American Leopard Hounds are energetic, friendly, and alert.
Training
American Leopard Hounds are easier to train than Catahoulas, which are very independent.
Average Lifespan
The average lifespan of a Catahoula is 10 – 14 years, whereas the average lifespan of an American Leopard Hound is 12-15 years.
Conclusion
The main difference between American Leopard Hound and Catahoula is their size. Catahoula dogs are larger than American leopard hounds. In addition, Catahoulas have single, smooth short, or coarse medium coats, while American leopard hounds have short double coats with a leopard or spotted pattern.
Reference:
1. “Catahoula Leopard Dog.” Wikipedia. Wikipedia Foundation.
2. “Catahoula Leopard Dog.” Dog Time.
3. “American Leopard Hound.” Dog Time.
Image Courtesy:
1. “Catahoula Leopard Hound Dog” By Boygobig – Own work (CC BY-SA 4.0) via Commons Wikimedia
2. “Coahoma Arkansas Logan” By Nagygabornet – File:Coahoma_Arkansas_Logan (CC BY-SA 4.0) via Commons Wikimedia
Leave a Reply