The University of Louisiana at Lafayette has welcomed a new four-legged member of its family: a Catahoula Leopard Dog that will serve as the university’s live mascot.
The university unveiled the puppy Saturday during halftime of the Ragin’ Cajuns football game against South Alabama at Our Lady of Lourdes Stadium. The selection brings together two Louisiana traditions.
The new mascot was introduced in two parts. First, was a narrated video on the scoreboard that introduced the breed to the crowd. The video also included video of the new 7-week-old dog with his mother and siblings.
Secondly, public address announcer Ed Perkins then directed the fans to a presentation on the field with a photo of the new mascot with a countdown to the statement, “Today a new tradition begins.”
The crowd was also given a QR code on the scoreboard to vote on the name of the new mascot.
“There’s only one Ragin’ Cajuns, and we’re the only public university and NCAA Division I athletics program in the nation with a live Catahoula as its mascot,” President Ramesh Kolluru said. “Our fans wanted a mascot they could connect with. We listened. This new ambassador will bring our University community together, inspire school spirit and strengthen the bonds among students, alumni and fans. Now, we’re inviting everyone to help name him.”
The university has selected five possible names, and fans can rank their favorites through Nov. 17. The winning name will be announced during the Nov. 21 home football game against Coastal Carolina.
The 7-week-old puppy has a blue merle coat, with silvery-gray fur and charcoal and black markings. He has lighter markings above his “glass” eyes, a dark forehead and a gray muzzle.
Native to Louisiana, the Catahoula Leopard Dog has been the state’s official dog since 1979. Known for its intelligence, strength, loyalty and distinctive markings, the breed reflects the character and spirit of the state.
A committee representing student government, alumni, athletics, faculty, community stakeholders and university administration unanimously selected the Catahoula as the new mascot. The university’s Office of Communications and Marketing is leading the initiative.
The puppy was not at Saturday’s game but was introduced in a video. He remains with his breeder for training, including socialization, obedience and acclimation to crowds and loud noises.
He will make periodic visits to campus as part of his training, with an appearance at a basketball game planned for January 2027. He is expected to move to Lafayette in the spring, with his official debut as the university’s mascot planned for fall 2027.
As the university’s live mascot, the Catahoula will participate in campus activities, community events and athletics traditions. Plans also include regular opportunities for students, faculty and staff to interact with him. A separate costumed mascot is scheduled to debut during the 2027 football season.
The university’s athletic teams will remain the Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns.
For more information about the new mascot, including the name ballot, reveal video and puppy portraits, visit louisiana.edu/mascot. Wallpapers and screensavers for phones and desktop computers also are available.
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