The University of Louisiana at Lafayette is welcoming a four-legged member to its family who's as distinctive as the Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns themselves.
The University unveiled its new live mascot – a Catahoula Leopard Dog – Saturday during halftime of the Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns football game against South Alabama at Our Lady of Lourdes Stadium. The selection brings together two storied Louisiana traditions.
“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,” said President Dr. Ramesh Kolluru. “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 Ragin’ Cajuns faithful can rank their favorites through Nov. 17. The winning name will be revealed during the Nov. 21 home football game against Coastal Carolina.
The seven-week-old puppy has a striking blue merle coat, with silvery-gray fur splashed with charcoal and black markings. His expressive face features lighter markings above his “glass” eyes, a dark forehead and a soft 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 place the Ragin’ Cajuns call home.
A committee representing student government, alumni, athletics, faculty, community stakeholders and University administration unanimously selected the Catahoula as the new mascot. The Office of Communications & Marketing is leading the initiative.
The puppy was not present at Saturday’s game but was introduced via video. He remains with his breeder for extensive training, including socialization, obedience and acclimation to crowds and loud noises. He will make periodic visits to campus as part of his training, with plans for an early appearance at a basketball game in 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.
And while the University is gaining a new mascot, one thing isn’t changing: Its teams will remain the Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns.
For all things related to the newest Ragin’ Cajun, visit louisiana.edu/mascot. In addition to the official ballot where fans can rank their favorite names through Nov. 17, the website features the reveal video shown during Saturday’s game and official puppy portraits. Wallpapers and screensavers for phones and desktop computers also are available for download.
Photo caption: The University of Louisiana at Lafayette’s new mascot, a yet-unnamed Catahoula Leopard Dog, was introduced during Saturday’s football game. (Photo courtesy of the University of Louisiana at Lafayette)