Catahoula Leopard Dogs – Louisiana’s “hog dog” – are an amalgamation of native American dogs, Spanish Mastiffs, Red Wolves and Greyhounds, but because of the breed’s name, some people assume that all Catahoulas have “leopard” markings and blue eyes. In fact, the breed is noted for its many and unusual coat colors and patterns, as well as varied eye color. When the breed finally gains full acceptance with the AKC, we honestly don’t know how its breed standard will read, in part because there have been three lines present in Catahoula bloodlines that, over the years, have frequently been crossed to create the rich color variations of Catahoulas seen today.
The Wright line is the largest, with dogs weighing around 100 pounds. Developed by Preston Wright, it’s said that this line is from dogs originally produced from Hernando de Soto’s dogs.
The Fairbanks line of Catahoulas was developed by Lovie Fairbanks are 70 pounds, and are yellow or brindle in color.
The smallest line coming in at around 55 pounds is the McMillan line developed by T.A. McMillin of Sandy Lake, Louisiana. These dogs carry a blue leopard coloring, and the unique glass eyes for which the breed is known.
The United Kennel Club was the first national dog registry to recognize the Catahoula in 1995.
“Eyes” by Joyce Baldassarre is available as a print, poster, and many more formats here.
Wow a lot of misinformation here. Maybe you should get your information from the official breed registry, NALC. Also, an actual picture of a purebred catahoula would be good, instead of an aussie.
Thanks for the input, Terry. The information presented was gathered by a variety of sources, including the NALC which is linked. The artist identified their work as a Catahoula, and we’re not in the habit of renaming works of art. Perhaps to be more helpful, you could provide your own picture of a Catahoula here?
See… no long hair and fringe on ears, like an Australian Shepherd
Again, not long haired. Broader nose, thicker back skull, ears that hang down not stand up and tipped over (like an aussie).
This is Blue. I purchased her in a parking lot in Oklahoma. Blue came from KY. She is a great nursing home visitor because of her eyes and her down like, layered coat. She wants to have her way and does pout if she don’t. Blue rarely barks at all. When she does, something is up!