Native Americans tended to use the dog for hunting large game. European settlers used the dog for hunting and herding livestock. The first white settlers in Louisiana are believed to have used the dog to hunt feral pigs in the swamps of Louisiana. As a result, the physical characteristics of Catahoulas are somewhat varied. Some do not always make a good family dog, and are better suited to a working or active performance home. Aggression, destructive behavior, and undesirable behaviors all begin when inadequate mental and physical exercise is provided. As a working dog, Catahoulas have been bred primarily for temperament and ability rather than for appearance. As a result, the physical characteristics of Catahoulas are somewhat varied. Some do not always make a good family dog, and are better suited to a working or active performance home.