About Strider

Meet Strider: Loyal Guardian & Working Partner The Basics Name: Strider Breed: Catahoula Leopard Dog (Typical high-drive temperament) Age: 5 years | Weight: 80 lbs Bite History: Zero (Human). (He has been successfully managed and protected his entire life, but has a high prey drive, having nipped and shaken an opossum and killed a mouse.) Location: East Tennessee The Summary Strider is a powerful, 80 lb working dog who thrives on structure, clear leadership, and a 'job' to do. He is the definition of a 'velcro dog' with his family-intensely loyal and deeply affectionate. True to his breed, he is a serious guardian of his home. True to his breed, he is a serious, vocal guardian of his home, often barking at unfamiliar sights and sounds. He also has a strong scent drive and loves to patrol and sniff around. Strider is best suited as a territory dog or watch/perimeter dog, and he can master other skills with training. Because we have prioritized his safety and success, we have focused on curated solo activities to ensure he stays in environments where he can succeed. He is a 'good boy' who has never bitten anyone, and we are looking for a handler who values that history of responsible management. Current Training & Neutrality Work We are not just 'managing' Strider; we are actively preparing him for his next chapter. Threshold Training: We are consistently training to maintain neutrality toward people and other animals. Our focus is lowering his arousal threshold to help him navigate the world with less stress. Training Style: Strider is highly intelligent and 'operator-oriented.' We use a prong collar for clear communication and plenty of high-value treats for reinforcement. Skills: He has a solid foundation in Sit, Focus, Lay Down, Wait, Touch, and Shake. He is currently working on perfecting Leave It. Ideal Environment & Space The 'Kingdom': Strider deserves a good, wide, securely fenced-in space, such as a farm, but it doesn't necessarily have to be one. He is a dog that needs to 'patrol' and move; a standard subdivision setting does not offer the mental peace he needs. Once he has adjusted, he is a great dog who sniffs, patrols, plays, and barks at anything he determines doesn't belong. Experienced Handlers Only: Adopters must have experience with high-drive working or guardian breeds. Adult-Focused Home: Due to his size, resource guarding (food), and protective nature, he should not be in a home with children, the elderly, or frequent strangers. Socialization Strider has spent his life as a 'single dog,' but he is not inherently aggressive toward other animals. He has several peaceful interactions with small breeds each year (family visits and a friend's poodle). While his temperament with large dogs is unknown, his ongoing neutrality training makes him a candidate for a home that can provide slow, professional introductions. Enrichment Strider loves using his nose. His favorite game is a 'muffin tin puzzle'-finding treats hidden under tennis balls. He needs an owner who will continue to provide this kind of mental 'work' to keep him engaged. Reason for Rehoming A recent move has shown us that our current environment is no longer the best fit for Strider's needs. We want him to have the attention, space, and the dedicated 'working-dog' lifestyle he deserves to truly thrive.

Contact

Sevier County
Maryville, Tennessee

Contact Person:

Chase Sutton

Email