The Catahoula dog breed is beautiful, muscular, and tough. These amazing dogs were originally bred to work in forests and swamps to assist farmers and herders. They are high-energy dogs that stand anywhere from 20 to 26 inches in height at the shoulder and typically weigh about 50 to 70 lbs.
Though these dogs aren’t as popular as other breeds, they’re some of the most lovable pups you can have. Catahoulas make for great guard dogs and are awesome family pets. It’s best to meet their high-energy needs by providing them with protein-heavy kibble or wet food and ensuring that they get the daily exercise that they need. If not, you may find them terrorizing your home and shredding anything that they can get their paws on.
It’s also helpful to have meals that provide enough moisture, fat, and calories to maintain the dog’s beautiful spotty coat. In this review, we’re going to go over our top dog food picks for Catahoulas.
A Quick Look at Our Favorites in 2023
Image Product Details
Best Overall
Ollie Fresh Dog Food
Only uses fresh meats, veggies, and fruit
Gently cooked to preserve nutritional value
No artificial ingredients or fillers
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Best Value
Farmina N&D Ancestral Grain Adult Dry Dog Food
No byproducts
Contains omega fatty acids
Low glycemic formula
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Castor & Pollux ORGANIX Dry Dog Food
High-quality chicken
Promotes healthy digestion
Full spectrum of minerals
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Purina Pro Plan High Protein Shredded Dog Food
Contains real chicken
Reliable brand
Good for digestive health
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Best for Puppies
Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Small Paws Dog Food
Easy to digest
Contains essential nutrients
Portioned ready-made trays
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The 11 Best Dog Foods for Catahoula Leopards
1. Ollie Fresh Dog Food – Best Overall
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Main ingredients: Beef, chicken, turkey, or lamb
Protein content: Varies
Fat content: Varies
Calories: Varies
The beautiful Catahoula Leopard dog is something of a conversation due to their striking coat pattern that makes them stand out in a crowd. Combine this with their loyal and affectionate nature, and you’ve got yourself an incredible dog!
To keep them in excellent health, you’ll need to feed them a high-quality diet, and our pick for the best overall dog food for Catahoula Leopards is Ollie Fresh Dog Food. If you want dog food that is as close to homemade as possible but without having to do all the work yourself, Ollie might be perfect for you and your dog.
It’s a subscription-based food service that uses whole meats, grains, veggies, and fruits that are slowly and gently cooked to retain their nutritional value. There are no added fillers or artificial ingredients among the four recipes of chicken, lamb, turkey, and beef. Ollie also offers baked kibble — beef or chicken — that is made using fresh food gently baked in small batches.
You start your subscription by filling in a quiz about your dog, and you’ll be sent a starter pack that is heavily discounted. If your dog doesn’t like the food, you’ll get a full refund.
The only issue with this food is the cost. It is fairly expensive, but given the quality, chances are that your Catahoula will love it, and they’ll get the benefits of a healthy diet! All in all, we think this is the best dog food for your Catahoula Leopard.
Pros
Only uses fresh meats, veggies, and fruit
Choice of when and how often it’s delivered
Gently cooked to preserve nutritional value
No artificial ingredients or fillers
Cons
Few options
Some owners want the best bang for their buck and this formula by Farmina definitely fits the bill as the best dog food for Catahoulas for the money. It’s one of the best dog foods for the money and it’s super high in protein. It has limited carbohydrates, and it’s also low in fiber. So, if your dog is suffering from a yeast infection or other than digestive problems, this may be a good choice.
Only uses fresh meats, veggies, and fruit
Choice of when and how often it’s delivered
Gently cooked to preserve nutritional value
No artificial ingredients or fillers
- Only uses fresh meats, veggies, and fruit
- Choice of when and how often it’s delivered
- Gently cooked to preserve nutritional value
- No artificial ingredients or fillers
Few options
- Few options
Main ingredients: Chicken, Dehydrated Chicken, Whole Spelt, Whole Oats
Protein content: 30.0% min
Fat content: 18.0% min
Calories: 3,997 kcal/kg, 400 kcal/cup
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The formula is made of deboned chicken and has tons of vitamins and minerals to keep your dog healthy and well-feed. Note that this is also a low glycemic formula, which is helpful for dogs who have issues with high blood pressure or diabetes. This meal contains zero legumes, byproducts, or peas. The downside is that it contains chicken as the main protein, which some dogs may not like, or they may be allergic.
Pros
No byproducts
Contains omega fatty acids
Low glycemic formula
Cons
Contains chicken as the main ingredient
This formula by Castor & Pollux is organic and made from chicken and oatmeal. It’s free of artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives and contains a healthy blend of superfoods. Not only does it have organic blueberries, sweet potatoes, and flaxseed, but it also has organic barley and oatmeal for a nice amount of fiber.
No byproducts
Contains omega fatty acids
Low glycemic formula
- No byproducts
- Contains omega fatty acids
- Low glycemic formula
Contains chicken as the main ingredient
- Contains chicken as the main ingredient
Main ingredients: Organic Chicken, Organic Chicken Meal, Organic Oatmeal, Organic Barley
Protein content: 26.0% min
Fat content: 15.0% min
Calories: 3,617 kcal/kg, 383 kcal/cup
This particular recipe is free of wheat, soy, lentils, and corn, and it’s great for both small and large dogs. The formula is USDA-certified and it’s one of the best meals that you can offer your dog to promote healthy digestion. The downside is that it’s expensive.
Pros
High-quality chicken
Promotes healthy digestion
Full spectrum of minerals
Cons
Expensive
High-quality chicken
Promotes healthy digestion
Full spectrum of minerals
- High-quality chicken
- Promotes healthy digestion
- Full spectrum of minerals
Expensive
- Expensive
Main ingredients: Chicken, Rice, Whole Grain Wheat, Poultry By-product Meal
Protein content: 26.0% min
Fat content: 66.0% min
Calories: 4,038 kcal/kg, 387 kcal/cup
This particular recipe includes live probiotics for immune health and support, and it’s made with real chicken. So, if you’re looking for a solid high-protein formula for your Catahoula, here’s one to consider. This recipe is great for adults and young pups, but there are few flavor options available if your dog is allergic to chicken.
Pros
Contains real chicken
Reliable brand
Good for digestive health
Cons
Few options
Hill’s Science has one of the most dedicated dog brands when it comes to balanced nutritious meals. This formula is great for young pups that are still developing and it’s one of the most popular picks on Chewy. It comes in convenient trays, so you don’t need to worry about whipping out any measuring cups.
Contains real chicken
Reliable brand
Good for digestive health
- Contains real chicken
- Reliable brand
- Good for digestive health
Main ingredients: Chicken Broth, Chicken, Pork Liver, Brown Rice, Wheat Flour
Protein content: 5.0% min
Fat content: 3.0% min
Calories: 88 kcal/ 3.5-oz tray
This formula contains natural ingredients including chicken, vegetables, and brown rice, and it’s packed with a tasty gravy. These high-protein meals help your pup to develop lean muscles and grow strong bones. It’s also an easy-to-digest formula, so if your pup is struggling with dry kibble, it’s a good wet meal option to consider. The downside is that wet food is more perishable than dry food.
Pros
Easy to digest
Contains essential nutrients
Portioned ready-made trays
Cons
Perishable
Royal Canin has become one of the biggest dog food brands in the marketplace, and this meal doesn’t disappoint. It’s a highly palatable wet food meal that’s perfect for larger dogs and those with nutrient deficiencies. This formula contains a range of B vitamins, amino acids, and powerful antioxidants.
Easy to digest
Contains essential nutrients
Portioned ready-made trays
- Easy to digest
- Contains essential nutrients
- Portioned ready-made trays
Perishable
- Perishable
Main ingredients: Water, Chicken, Pork Liver, Chicken By-Products, Pork By-Product
Protein content: 6.5% min
Fat content: 3.5% min
Calories: 1,002 kcal/kg, 386 kcal/can
The recipe should help your dog maintain adequate nutrient levels and provide digestive support. It has a smooth taste and texture, which seems to go over well with many dogs–at least according to the dog owner reviews. However, if your dog requires a high or low level of daily protein, this meal may not be ideal as a standalone option.
Pros
Supports nervous system function
Great for a shiny coat
Has essential nutrients and antioxidants
Cons
Pricey
Low-protein option
- ACANA Wholesome Grains Limited Ingredient Diet Dry Dog Food
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Main ingredients: Deboned Lamb, Lamb Meal, Oat Groats, Whole Sorghum, Lamb Liver
Protein content: 27% min
Fat content: 17% min
Calories: 3,370 kcal/kg, 371 kcal/cup
Catahoulas love high-protein meals, and this formula by ACANNA is just that. Not only is it packed with real high-protein lamb, but it’s also full of healthy vegetables including pumpkin and butternut squash–both of which are also high in fiber and help support good health.
Supports nervous system function
Great for a shiny coat
Has essential nutrients and antioxidants
- Supports nervous system function
- Great for a shiny coat
- Has essential nutrients and antioxidants
Pricey
Low-protein option
- Pricey
- Low-protein option
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Main ingredients: Deboned Lamb, Lamb Meal, Oat Groats, Whole Sorghum, Lamb Liver
Protein content: 27% min
Fat content: 17% min
Calories: 3,370 kcal/kg, 371 kcal/cup
This meal is a heart-healthy option, and it’s full of vitamins and free of preservatives. It’s also free of gluten, legumes, and potato ingredients. So, if your dog has any allergies or you prefer a meal lower in carbs, this may be a good option. The downside is that it’s pricey and there are few recipe variations.
Pros
Nutrient-dense meal
High-protein option
No legumes or gluten
Cons
Few recipe variations
Expensive
Does your Catahoula love fish? If so, you may want to check out this formula by Merrick. This salmon-based meal is full of protein, omega fatty acids, and healthy fat. It contains about 25% protein and also has a healthy mix of whole grains to support digestive health.
Nutrient-dense meal
High-protein option
No legumes or gluten
- Nutrient-dense meal
- High-protein option
- No legumes or gluten
Few recipe variations
Expensive
- Few recipe variations
- Expensive
Main ingredients: Deboned Salmon, Chicken Meal, Brown Rice, Barley, Oatmeal, Turkey Meal
Protein content: 25 % min
Fat content: 16 % min
Calories: 3,739 kcal/kg or 396 kcal/cup
The formula is free of potatoes, lentils, and peas and contains no artificial preservatives or flavors. You can give this formula to adult dogs or small pups who prefer dry food over wet meals. The formula also contains glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint and hip health– something that’s crucial for young & adolescent dogs. The downside is the limited recipe options and the large kibble size.
Pros
Has omega fatty acids
High-protein formula
Supports healthy coat
Good for digestive health
Cons
Limited recipes
Large kibble pieces
Here is another chicken-based favorite. This is a simple formula that has chicken and turkey as the main ingredients. It’s also blended with salmon and turkey for a taste that your dog is guaranteed to love. The meal is free of artificial colors, soy, corn, and wheat–it’s also made in the USA. It’s ideal for adult dogs and helps to maintain lean muscles and daily nutrition. If you have a mature dog and are looking for an affordable, no-frills formula here’s one to check out. The downside is that it’s not suitable for pups.
Has omega fatty acids
High-protein formula
Supports healthy coat
Good for digestive health
- Has omega fatty acids
- High-protein formula
- Supports healthy coat
- Good for digestive health
Limited recipes
Large kibble pieces
- Limited recipes
- Large kibble pieces
Main ingredients: Chicken & Broth, Turkey Broth, Turkey, Chicken Liver, Ocean White Fish
Protein content: 7.5% min
Fat content: 4.0%
Calories: 1,071 kcal/kg, 395 kcal
Pros
Affordable
Well-balanced formula
Ideal for aging dogs
Cons
Not for pups
Limited flavors
This meal contains real deboned duck and it’s sure to have your dog licking the bottom of the bowl. All of the ingredients are sourced from trusted farmers. It’s a simple formula that contains the day today vitamins and minerals that your dog needs for optimal health.
Affordable
Well-balanced formula
Ideal for aging dogs
- Affordable
- Well-balanced formula
- Ideal for aging dogs
Not for pups
Limited flavors
- Not for pups
- Limited flavors
Main ingredients: Deboned Duck, Duck Liver, Turkey Broth, Dried Egg Product
Protein content: 8.0% min
Fat content: 7.0% min
Calories: 996 kcal/kg
This particular recipe is free of wheat, soy, grains, and corn, so it’s perfect for dogs suffering from yeast infections or digestive issues. It’s also made in the USA and is one of the most popular wet food options on Chewy. If you need a good grain-free formula for your dog that isn’t too expensive and comes from a reputable brand, this is one to consider. The downside is that this food is perishable.
Pros
Full nutrient profile
Grain-free formula
Free of artificial flavors and preservatives
Supports yeast infection recovery
Cons
Perishable
Catahoulas are large dogs that will need more daily calories than small or medium-sized dogs. And this particular formula is made especially for large breeds. It helps support joint and bone health and includes chondroitin and glucosamine in addition to omega fatty acids.
Full nutrient profile
Grain-free formula
Free of artificial flavors and preservatives
Supports yeast infection recovery
- Full nutrient profile
- Grain-free formula
- Free of artificial flavors and preservatives
- Supports yeast infection recovery
Main ingredients: Chicken By-Product Meal, Brewers Rice, Chicken Fat, Brown Rice
Protein content: 26.0% min
Fat content: 18.0% min
Calories: 3,958 kcal/kg
The recipe also has a unique blend of antioxidants to repair damaged cells and promote better cellular health. This meal includes a healthy mix of fibers and easy-to-digest proteins–something that is essential for dogs suffering from stomach problems are other digestive issues. Overall, you’ll find that this is a heart-healthy meal guaranteed to satiate your large Catahoula any time of the day. The downside is that it’s pricey and there are limited flavors available.
Pros
Great blend of antioxidants
Easy-to-digest proteins
Quality fiber blend
Contains taurine
Promotes cellular health
Cons
Pricey
Limited flavors
Conclusion
To sum things up, we found that Ollie Fresh Dog Food was the best overall pick according to its nutritional content and price. In 2nd place, we listed Farmina N&D Ancestral Grain Chicken & Pomegranate due to its price point, high-antioxidant formula, and limited carbohydrates.
Great blend of antioxidants
Easy-to-digest proteins
Quality fiber blend
Contains taurine
Promotes cellular health
- Great blend of antioxidants
- Easy-to-digest proteins
- Quality fiber blend
- Contains taurine
- Promotes cellular health
Pricey
Limited flavors
- Pricey
- Limited flavors
Another good option is Castor & Pollux Organix Chicken & Oatmeal Recipe, which comes in 3rd place and is made from organic chicken and fibrous oatmeal. Overall, there are many good options for feeding your Catahoula Leopard dog. We hope you’ve found the perfect food!
Featured Image Credit: B Young, Shutterstock
