One of the American Leopard Hound's finest qualities is his sharp mind. The breed is devoted to their families and is particularly protective of their young ones. American Leopards, one of the country’s oldest tree dog breeds, are renowned for their keen sense of smell and ability to follow their prey over distances of many miles.
These adorable pups are bred for hunting and have a lot of stamina. As a result, they thrive in homes with large backyards where they may run around freely. Because of their ability to form strong human bonds, they're ideal for households of all sizes, from single pet owners to those with young children. With this breed, you'll get a dog that's always on the lookout for danger, keeps you on your toes, and is entirely devoted to you.
American Leopard Hounds are a breed of dog with a wide range of characteristics and facts.
Highlights
- This dog's coat is easily recognizable. Yellow, black, brindle, red and blue, or mouse (greyish) are the primary colours of this breed. White points and a white collar can be added to any of these as well.
- On top of that, they have a thick fuzzy undercoat beneath their rough outer coat. They're relatively simple to care for.
- When it comes to youngsters, the American Leopard Hound is one of the calmest and kindest breeds. Make sure that younger children can still play gently, though.
- This breed is capable of coping with extremes of both heat and cold because it is a pretty hardy one.
- American Leopard Hounds were originally known as the Leopard Cur by the United Kennel Club (UKC) in 1998 but were renamed in 2008 to reflect their inclusion in events for coonhounds.
- American Leopard Hounds have a lot of energy, so they'd want a house with a lot of space to run around in.
Characteristics
Social Appearance
Adaptability
A little dog isn't inherently better for an apartment than a larger one, contrary to popular opinion. A high-rise apartment isn't the best place for a tiny dog with a high level of energy and barking. Being quiet, low energy, pretty peaceful indoors, and friendly with the other inhabitants are all good attributes in an apartment dog. And you can find a great crate for your dog here to give them a little more personal space in your apartment.
Sensitivity Level
Some dogs ignore harsh criticism, while others take even the slightest sneer seriously. Choose one of these breeds if you have a noisy or forceful owner, an unpredictable schedule, or a dog that is easy-going, tolerant, resilient, or even "thick-skinned." How many are there? Do you host a lot? Are you in a garage band? Choose a dog that isn't too sensitive.
Protective nature
The propensity of a breed to warn you when outsiders are nearby. There is a greater likelihood that these dogs will respond to any perceived threat, whether it is the mailman or a squirrel outside the window. Dogs of these breeds are more likely to get along with strangers who are welcomed into their homes.
Potential for Playfulness
After the age of six months old, a dog's level of interest in play can be gauged by its breed. Some breeds will want to play tug-of-war or fetch until they're old and grey, while others will be content to lounge on the couch with you the majority of the time and enjoy your company.
Personality Appearance
Intelligence
The same goes for sheepdogs, who were bred to herd animals and require a high level of intelligence and attention. In the absence of cerebral stimulation, they may resort to self-employment such as digging and chewing. Dog sports and jobs like agility and search and rescue can help a dog's brain.
Energy Level
Dogs with a high level of energy are always ready for action. They have the stamina to put in a long day's labour because they were originally bred to do a specific function, such as retrieving game for hunters or herding animals. These animals require a lot of movement and mental stimulation, and they're more prone to jump, play, and explore any new sights and smells.
The canine version of a couch potato, a low-energy dog is satisfied to lounge around all day. Think about your own level of exercise and lifestyle when choosing a dog breed.
Easy To Train
Creating associations between a cue (like "sit"), an action (like sitting), and a reward (like a treat) is easier for easy-to-train dogs. Other dogs need more patience and repetition to learn.
If your dog approaches training with a "What's in it for me?" mentality, you'll need to use treats and games to motivate him.
Family Affection Level
Affectionate With Family
Some breeds remain distant and independent, while others form close bonds with one individual and are indifferent to others. The level of attachment a dog has for its human partners depends on how they were raised.
Kid-Friendly
A kid-friendly dog is kind with children, strong enough to bear heavy-handed pets and hugs, and tolerant of running, shouting children. Who's on that list may surprise you: Fierce-looking Boxers and American Staffordshire Terriers are good with kids (which are considered Pit Bulls). Chihuahuas are small, fragile, and possibly sharp canines.
Dog Friendly
Human and dog friendliness are two distinct concepts. While some dogs will attack or try to dominate other dogs, others prefer to play than fight, and yet others will flee. Not only breed matters. Dogs who lived with their littermates and mother until at least six to eight weeks of age and who spent lots of time playing with other dogs throughout puppyhood, are more likely to have high canine social skills.
Physical Appearance
Amount of Shedding
Having a dog in the house means having to deal with dog hair on your clothes and all over your home. However, the amount of shedding varies widely among the different breeds of dogs. Some dogs shed all year long, while others ``blow" just during specific times of the year, and still others don't shed at all. Pick a breed that sheds less or lower your requirements if cleanliness is important to you. You can get an excellent deshedding gadget to assist keep your house a little cleaner.
Drooling Potential
When they come over to say hello, drool-prone dogs may leave huge, wet patches on your clothes and drape ropes of slobber down your arm. If you don't mind a little drool, go for it; but if you're a stickler for cleanliness, you may want to look for a dog with a low drool rating.
Easy To Groom
Some dogs may be brushed and go, while others need to be bathed, clipped, and otherwise groomed on a regular basis in order to maintain their health and cleanliness. Grooming a dog that requires a lot of effort and patience may not be in your best interest.
Exercise Needs
Some breeds can tolerate evening walks around the neighbourhood. Those bred for physically demanding vocations like herding or hunting require frequent, vigorous exercise.
If these dogs don't get enough exercise, their pent-up energy might show in undesirable behaviours like barking, chewing, and digging. If you are an energetic person who enjoys playing outside with your dog, you should select an active breed.
Average sizes and life expectancy of the breed
Weight
35 to 75 pounds.
Lifespan
12 to 15 years.
Height
21 to 27 Inches.
History
When the American Leopard Hound was first registered in 1960, it was called the American Leopard Cur. In May 2008, they changed their name to their current one. Their lineage and origins are hotly debated. Most experts believe these canines are a mix between Mexican dogs and Spanish conquistador hunting breeds. A second prominent notion is that the breed originated in the US and was a fusion of numerous different hound and herding breeds from Europe.
Regardless of origin, this breed was well established in eastern North Carolina in the 17th century. These canines were used mostly as hunting dogs as they moved west from Kentucky through Tennessee, Texas, and Oklahoma. They killed boar, bobcat, cougar, and even bear.
In the US, dogs trained to hunt creatures that tend to perch in trees are called "tree dogs." Dogs will corner and back up trees to retain their prey until their human hunter arrives. The American Leopard Hound's agility and intelligence allowed it to corner the game without injury. They did this by "ducking and evading" danger while remaining close enough to stop the prey from leaving.
Personality and Temperament
The American Leopard Hound is a lively, social, and intelligent creature. Their intellect and desire to please their masters make them extremely trainable. They are loyal, loving dogs who go to great lengths to please their families. They are also known to be quite protective of youngsters.
American Leopard Hounds are recognised for their good nature. They have a long history of being employed as hunting dogs and may chase smaller animals. This behaviour can be unlearned, although it may present issues for owners of multiple dogs.
American Leopard Hounds can also vocalise like other hounds. This is another hunting-related feature. If left alone for too long, they may start baying and barking loudly, upsetting the neighbours. The American Leopard Hound's high prey drive may result in escape attempts if left unattended and they see another animal approaching.
Health
Like other hound breeds, the American Leopard Hound is prone to certain health issues. Despite the fact that most dogs are in excellent condition, there may be a handful that require special attention and regular veterinary examinations.
The American Leopard Hound is prone to a number of health issues, including:
Hip dysplasia
Dogs of all sizes can suffer from hip dysplasia, but it is most common among large and large-breed breeds. Owners must first grasp the basic anatomy of the hip joint in order to comprehend how the disease operates.
Ball and socket joints make up hip joints. In dogs with hip dysplasia, the ball and socket do not fit or develop properly, and instead of sliding smoothly, they rub and grind against each other. As a result, the joint gradually deteriorates and eventually loses its ability to operate.
Double Merle
Having two Merle dogs in a litter might produce genetic problems and should be avoided at all costs. It is more common for congenital deaf and blindness to be present in puppies of double Merle parents.
Cryptorchidism
According to anecdotal evidence, this breed has a higher risk of male infertility, in which one or both testicles do not reach the male scrotum. It is recommended that men undergo surgical exploration to locate and remove any testicles that have not descended by six months . It is possible to get testicular cancer later in life if an internal testicle is not surgically removed.
Recommended Health Tests
- Hip Evaluation
- Cardiac Exam
- Thyroid Evaluation
Nutrition
A feeding schedule for a medium-sized energetic dog should be followed. Unstructured feeding with two or three meals each day is preferable. When picking a diet for your dog, consider their age and daily exercise.
A dog that works in the fields has quite different needs than a dog that works in the house. Depending on the situation, you should feed 3 cups of high-quality dry food daily. If you're serving both wet and dry food, follow the manufacturer's guidelines. Consider any treats or training food you give your dog when calculating daily feeding amount.
Grooming
The coats of American Leopard Hounds are short and dense, requiring only minimal grooming to maintain their glossy appearance. They don't shed much, so a few brushings and a bath every now and again should suffice for these pups.
Because of their high level of activity, American Leopard Hounds rarely need to have their nails clipped. Overgrown nails can split and break, so you should still inspect them occasionally.
Weekly teeth and ear cleanings are recommended. Even in old age, brushing your teeth and cleaning your gums will maintain your teeth and gums healthy by removing any buildup of bacteria.
Exercise
The American Leopard Hound is a very energetic breed due to its hunting ancestry. A large fenced-in yard or country property is ideal for them.
Apartments and city life do not fit American Leopard Hounds. Depending on their activity level, they require suburban or rural life.
Plan to take your American Leopard Hound for frequent walks, swimming, hunting, agility training, or even just fetch. They enjoy playing with their owners.
Training
American Leopard Hounds are some of the easiest hounds to train because of their intelligence and eagerness to please. Stubbornness is not an issue for these dogs, who enjoy working with their owners.
It is common knowledge amongst dog owners and enthusiasts that the American Leopard Hound is the most eager and easy-going dog they have ever worked with.
This scent dog has to learn a good recall from the beginning. The American Leopard Hound is a dog that enjoys following scents and can be easily swayed away from home and family.
They'll return with a naughty doggie grin and a bounce in their step, though, if you practise calling them back from far and near.
Children and other pets
As a breed, the American Leopard Hound is great with kids of all ages. However, you must allow younger children to play gently. The American Leopard Hound is a great companion for children who are taught to approach and play with huge dogs early on. Even with a well-trained dog, monitor playtime.
The American Leopard Hound gets along well with other pets if introduced slowly and calmly, and early socialisation helps. It's best if they can meet new pets early on. It's all about training, socialisation, and chance.
Due to the breed's prey drive, smaller animals must be handled with care. A good start is important.
Puppies
With their brilliant eyes, attractive faces, and floppy ears, Leopard Hounds are the perfect hunting or adventure companions. Their eagerness to please and dedication make them excellent working dogs, but they also make fantastic pets.
Initially wary of strangers, an American Leopard Hound will quickly become one of your most loyal pals! They live a long time and are noted for their tenacity.
Their size necessitates a lot of outside area. Adaptable to both hot and cold climes, American Leopard Hounds are a sturdy breed.
The American Leopard Hound is a rare breed. Even rarer is the fact that these canines are occasionally mistaken for others.
Finding a breeder may help if you want an American Leopard Hound. Due to tremendous demand, puppies cost $800-$2,000. A hunter's dog breeder will likely charge extra.
Dog breeds related to the American Leopard Hound
Treeing Walker Coonhound: This raccoon-hunting dog, descended from the American foxhound, can also go after larger prey, such as deer and bobcats. The black, white, and brown markings on this medium-sized coonhound's dense and short coat make it a friendly, confident, and clever breed.
Treeing Tennessee Brindle: This breed's name should be enough to provide you all the information you need. An American treeing hound, it has a brindle coat. It's a great hunting dog because of its intelligence and good sense of smell.
Treeing Cur: Despite its size, this breed excels in tough terrain thanks to its quickness and agility. Its breeders didn't give much thought to beauty because it served numerous roles on the farm, including hunter, guardian, and herder. Yes, it can tree both huge and little prey, as the name says.
