Abney Catahoulas Breeding Standard  

It is our objective to produce Louisiana Catahoula Leopard Dogs that perform the tasks for which they were intended while maintaining a level of conformation, health, temperament, and intelligence befitting a dog that may be utilized for Work, Hunt, Show, and/or Pet.

At Abney Catahoulas we will only breed after we have investigated the background of each dog to be used in our program. Normally, the first four (4) generations are what are commonly considered as the prominent genetic factors to be brought forward when breeding. We will research six (6)generations whenever possible. We also review the litter mates and litters of those dogs within that ancestry before a decision is made for any breeding. By checking into the sixth generation we know what to expect and usually are not surprised by what arrives. Genetics being what they are, there are no guarantees with any breeding, but by utilizing these studies, it gives us a better vision into what may be produced by the breeding pair.

When the decision is made to go outside of our kennel for breeding, or to acquire a different line, we review the pedigree of the dog and its ancestors in the same manner as our own. This affords us the opportunity to view those dogs that are related, however distant, to each of those being bred. There is always the possibility of something being present but not displayed, but, by checking the dogs within the line as well as the litter mates of each dog, we eliminate a lot of unknowns.

A study provided by reproduction specialists has proven that a female may be bred in successive heats between the ages of two and five years. Breeding successive heats will provide a strengthening of the uterine muscles. Although this study demonstrates the positive effects of successive breedings, care should be taken to ensure the health and recovery of the female prior to consecutive breeding. Any consecutive breeding should be followed by one year of non-breeding. After each breeding our females undergo special attention to aid in regaining their strength and health. During this time the female is evaluated for the length of time required to recover, or any problems that may have arisen during the pregnancy and/or whelping period. A determination is made for future breeding. No dog will be bred that is not 100% healthy and in excellent mental and physical condition.

We will not breed a bitch that is under 12 months of age and has not had a full heat cycle. We will not breed a dog, or allow him to be used as a stud, prior to 14 months of age. We will only breed our dogs 1)when there are six (6) or more people with deposits on a waiting list to provide homes for the puppies; 2)for our own use; 3)to accommodate breeding and/or genetic studies. We maintain approximately 14 dogs, and this results in our breeding between four and five litters each year. We list our planned breeding to inform others which dogs may be bred, however, we will not breed when there are puppies still available from previous litters.

Our dogs undergo a variety of tests for hearing, vision, temperament, ability, strength and soundness. We do hip studies utilizing the expertise of five(5) of our own veterinarians. These x-rays are kept on file and are viewable at their location. We also utilize the results of the Orthopedic Foundation of America. In addition to the results of these tests, we evaluate the entire dog. Some breeders will disregard the other valuable assets of the total dog simply because of one set of tests. We evaluate the total dog to determine its assets. We utilize all of the information available to us in order to ensure healthy and sound puppies. Please review the hip study by the American Veterinary Association.

Catahoulas that are descendants of a hunting and/or working backgrounds are the foundation of our breeding stock. Although we are not hunters or ranchers, we strive to keep those valuable assets of the Catahoula firmly within our breeding program. We have traced some of our bloodlines back to the Indians at Sandy Lake, Louisiana, where the Catahoula was used by those Indians as hunting dogs. We have one of the oldest bloodlines in existence today, and we have been afforded the pleasure of producing dogs that will perform the tasks required by both rancher and hunter.

We have placed dogs in locations where they are working cattle, horses, and goats. Our dogs may be found hunting deer, hogs, squirrel, phesants, raccoon, black bear, or mountain lion. Hunters seeking a dog that will follow the blood trail of a wounded animal have purchased our dogs and are extremely pleased with the results provided. Our dogs have been placed within Law Enforcement and Search and Rescue Groups where tracking is the main job.

We strive to produce a Catahoula that can be used for work, hunt, show and pet while maintaining a sound, stable, and even temperament. We reserve the right of First Choice of All Litters.

View Our Breeding Policy Outline