Dr. Sergey Uhanov
Last updated: 2nd November 2023
American Leopard Hound
By
Dr. Sergey Uhanov
Last updated: 2nd November 2023
Named after its distinctive patterned coat, the American Leopard Hound is an intelligent, energetic, and loyal treeing dog. It tracks bobcats, raccoons, cougars, squirrels, and other tree-dwelling animals. This medium to large breed exists in three patterns: Solid, Brindle, and Leopard. It also comes in nine color varieties and can have various markings. Apart from this, it has a broad face, drop ears, a low-set tail, and yellow, brown, or blue eyes. It is incredibly resilient and can survive in extreme hot or cold conditions.
American Leopard Hound Pictures
Quick Information
| Other names | Leopard Cur, American Leopard Cur, American Leopard |
| Coat | Short, dense, and smooth double-coat |
| Color | Yellow, black, blue, red, merle, brindle, or grayish, with white markings or collar |
| Breed type | Purebred |
| Group | Hound |
| Life expectancy | 12-15 years |
| Size | Medium to Large |
| Height | Males – 22 – 27 inches Females – 21 – 25 inches |
| Weight | Males – 45 – 75 pounds Females – 35 – 65 pounds |
| Litter Size | 5-8 puppies |
| Behavioral Characteristics | Affectionate, intelligent, eager, devoted, and energetic |
| Good with children | Yes |
| Barking Tendency | High; they can become yappy and loud |
| Climate compatibility | High; they do well in extreme weather |
| Apartment compatibility | Low; they are active and vocal, unsuited for apartment living |
| Do they shed | They are low-shedders |
| Are they hypoallergenic | No |
| Trainability | High |
| How much do they cost | $800 – $1,000 |
| Competitive Registration Qualification/ Information | FCI, UKC, AKC |
| Country | United States of America |
History and Origin
Despite being one of the oldest hunting dogs of America, their origins are still undetermined. They are likely descended from the hounds introduced to the Americas by the Spanish Conquistadors. However, the exact lineage is uncertain. Some believe they crossbred with other varieties in Mexico before entering the US. In contrast, others suggest they developed entirely in the Southern US via Spanish, Irish, French, and Scottish breeds. The accepted information is that they became established in North Carolina in the 1700s, spreading to Tennessee, Kentucky, Oklahoma, and Texas.
Despite being widespread, they failed to achieve stability, so the population sharply declined in the 20th century. Thus, crossbreeding became popular, and by the 1950s, few purebred specimens remained. To save the breed, three men worked independently to collect purebred hounds. They set up the American Leopard Cur Breeders Association or ACLBA in 1960 for their conservation. The UKC recognized them as the Leopard Cur in 1998, followed by a name change to American Leopard Hound in 2008 to allow competition in coonhound events. The AKC added them to its Foundational Stock Service in 2012.
Temperament and Personality
These dogs are clever, loving, and involved with their family. They are exceptionally good with children but might need supervision around other pets due to their hunting instincts. Despite showing affection with their eyes and gestures, they are not big cuddlers. Their protective nature makes them fantastic guard dogs, barking loudly to draw their owner’s attention. Leaving them alone will also result in noise, as they are highly attached to their family. As pack hunters, early socialization is vital to help integrate them into a multi-pet household. A well-trained American Leopard Hound is a lovable and loyal companion, suitable for all ages and homes.
Care
Exercise
As a hunting breed, it requires a job or ample exercise to stay healthy. A home with a large yard is ideal for running around. At least an hour of daily activity, including walks and outdoor playtime, is necessary. Indoor games such as chasing a ball, hide-and-seek, and learning tricks are also helpful for mental stimulation. Sports such as obedience, tracking, scent work, agility, and rally are also brilliant options.
Grooming
They don’t shed much, so weekly brushing is enough to stay groomed. Besides this, regular baths, especially after outdoor play, are excellent for managing dirt and debris. Check their ears for redness or infections, clean their teeth daily, and trim their nails to keep them neat.
Health Problems
These dogs are generally healthy but may suffer from hip dysplasia, periodontal disease, ear infections, and parasites like fleas and ticks. Breeders must avoid mating two merle-colored American Leopard Hounds, leading to a double merle cross. These puppies have a higher risk of congenital blindness or deafness.
Feeding
Their diet should be fixed, considering a medium to large, high-energy breed. Around three cups of high-quality dog food daily is adequate for most. Avoid overfeeding as it can cause obesity. Always give treats in moderation, and consult your veterinarian for recommendations based on your pup’s age, weight, and activity levels.
Training
They are famed for being eager and easy to handle. Their intelligence and pleasing nature makes them a joy to train into a cherished member of your family.
Socialization: Early socialization is critical to ensure your dog gets along with other people and pets in your home. Slow and calm introductions, reinforced with rewards and praise, are best to deter any unpleasant interactions. Consistent and proper training is essential to integrate it into your family as smoothly as possible.
Leash: Due to their high prey drive, they tend to run after scents and small animals. Thus, you should keep them leashed outside and train them to follow commands while tracking. Off-leash play should be allowed only in a fenced yard or enclosure.
Interesting Facts
- This breed is known for having much thicker and more durable feet than other hounds, capable of traversing all kinds of rugged terrain.
- It uses the “duck and dodge” technique to avoid injury while fighting and closing in on prey.
FAQs
Despite having similar coats, Catahoula Leopard Dogs are larger and less friendly than their American counterparts. Also, they belong to the herding group, while American Leopard Hounds are in the hound category with a higher prey drive.
