Plott Hounds

This interesting dog is not a breed that I've ever heard of. If you wish to read about this magnificent dog, you can read about it here. It is the official state dog of North Carolina. Apparently it is only one of four breeds originating in America. I'm not quite sure which other breeds there are, but I'll guess (1) American Bulldog and (2) Catahoula Leopard dog (State dog of Louisiana). Here's a blurb from the referenced link:

"The Plott Hound is the only American hound without British ancestry. The breed's designated name honors its American founders and family tree. Seven generations of the Jonathan Plott family, beginning in the 1750's, bred their dogs exclusively within the family. A mix of bloodhounds and curs reportedly comprised the original stock. The dog's working claim to fame is coldtrailing bear and raccoons in the Appalachian, Blue Ridge, and Great Smoky Mountains of the Eastern United States. The Plott Hound is American through and through. The Plotts family have only rarely put these dogs on the market; so while the breed was officially recognized in 1946, it is still rare outside the southern states. Its is most efficient in the search for coyotes, wolves, and wildcats. They are extremely hardy and have superior hunting instincts. The breed has been carefully developed to be stronger and more persistent. They can make a good family companion but are seldom kept as one. Most people get these dogs for the hunt."



The Catahoula is quie an interesting dog. I was not familiar with the breed until I transported and neat little girl about 4 months old. She was both loving and lively. She was red and gray. Interesting mix. This is the state dog of Louisiana.

You'll of course remember that my Macy is part American Bull Dog. Our local SPCA has a part Calahoula and part pit bull. Beautiful dog.

Anyway, I wanted to introduce you to a couple of breeds of dogs. Party time is upon us with the holidays and asking people if they know the state dog of either NC or LA would be a terrific icebreaker. Kids, dogs, and weather are safe conversational topics.