[green pastures]

Thank you Hair. AND I would adopt this dog in a heart beat if I didn't already have 2 dogs with special needs and who aren't always that keen on other dogs.

[Joe 6-pack]

I volunteer (pretty much only weekends) at a local no-kill shelter. On of the dogs there is a Catahoula that is pretty bright, and generally friendly, although when I was introduced to the "inmate population," he was described to me as having some "personality issues." Nobody seemed to be able to figure out what the problem was, but I developed what I believe is a pretty sound theory.

The dog has the most stunning blue eyes you can imagine. It's virtually impossible to not stare at them, and I've noticed otherwise extremely experienced dog handlers approach the dog for the first time, establish direct eye contact with him, and continue to stare into his eyes, even as the dog bares his (unusually long) teeth.

Imagine a dog that has been "stare challenged" by every human it ever encountered!! I've related my theory to others who find it obvious afterwards, but when one is looking at the dog, one's entire focus is on those icy blue eyes....