American Leopard Hound
Also known as Leopard Cur
United States, Coonhounds and American hounds
- Size
- Large
- Height
- 53–68 cm
- Weight
- 16–34 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–15 yrs
- Determined
- Alert
- Vocal
- Hardy
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
The American Leopard Hound is a tough, short-coated hunting dog from the United States, best known for its spotted 'leopard' pattern. It comes in many colours, including red, blue, black and brindle, and its eyes may be brown, yellow or blue. It is a working tree dog rather than a common pet.
Size
- Size
- Large
- Height at shoulder
- 53–68 cm
- Adult weight
- 16–34 kg
Typical adult ranges. Males are often at the top of the range and females at the bottom. Bigger breeds keep filling out until 18–24 months.
Lifespan
12–15 years
Most American Leopard Hounds live 12–15 years. Like other large dogs, they're usually considered senior from about 7, when twice-yearly vet checks help catch problems early. Keeping them lean is one of the most effective things you can do for a long life. How old is that in human years?
Temperament
Bred to track and tree game, it is determined, alert and quite vocal. With its people it is usually loyal and willing, and it will bark to warn of anything unusual.
- Determined
- Alert
- Vocal
- Hardy
Food
For a typical 25 kg adult- Energy
- ≈ 1,250 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Water
- 1 L–1.5 L
- a day, from all sources
- Most adults do well on two measured meals a day rather than one large one.
- Puppies of large breeds need a diet made for large-breed growth, so they grow steadily rather than fast.
- Choose a complete food for their life stage, and ask your vet before changing diet if they have a health condition.
Starting points only — age, activity and the food itself change the numbers. Work out portions for your dog · Foods to avoid
Exercise
90–120 min a dayIt needs a lot of exercise, ideally including scent trails, long walks or hunting. A bored hound is likely to find its own entertainment.
Grooming & shedding
The dense short coat needs only a weekly brush. Check ears and feet after outings.
Health
Recall can be unreliable when a scent takes hold, so use secure areas. It can be noisy, which may not suit close neighbours. Breed-specific health information is limited.
The breed can be prone to
- Little breed-specific health data published
- Hip dysplasia
- Ear infections
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Hip scoring
- Eye examination
Not every American Leopard Hound is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. See common conditions and the symptom checker.
History
Its ancestors are thought to be dogs brought to Mexico by Spanish colonists, later taken north by settlers who hunted bear and other game with them. The UKC recognised the breed as the Leopard Cur in 1998 and renamed it the American Leopard Hound in 2008. It joined the AKC Foundation Stock Service in 2012.
- Country of origin
- United States
- Type
- Coonhounds and American hounds
- Recognition
- Recognised by the UKC; in the AKC Foundation Stock Service; not recognised by the FCI or The Kennel Club
Is a American Leopard Hound right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
- People who'd rather not spend much time grooming
Think twice if
- You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day
- You need a dog you can easily lift or carry
Cost to keep
Higher than average- Food, insurance and medicines cost more for a big dog
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 12–15 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Not sure? Try the breed finder.
American Leopard Hound FAQ
How big does a American Leopard Hound get?
Adult American Leopard Hounds typically stand about 53–68 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 16–34 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do American Leopard Hounds live?
Typically 12–15 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a American Leopard Hound need?
As a guide, around 90–120 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a American Leopard Hound need?
An occasional brush is plenty. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are American Leopard Hounds easy to train?
Generally trainable with consistent, reward-based practice.
Do American Leopard Hounds shed?
A little. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are American Leopard Hounds good with children?
Many get on well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a American Leopard Hound live in a flat?
It's usually a challenge — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do American Leopard Hounds have?
The breed can be prone to little breed-specific health data published, hip dysplasia, ear infections. Not every American Leopard Hound is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by the Petopedia editorial team to our editorial standards. General guidance, not veterinary advice.