Catahoula Bulldog |
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He is not recognized by the F.C.I. |
Origin |
U.S.A. -> U.S.A. | |
Translation |
Francis Vandersteen | |
This breed is also known as |
American Mastahoula |
A brief presentation of the Catahoula Bulldog |
Protective and loyal, the Catahoula Bulldog is a medium-to-large hybrid breed developed from the Louisiana Catahoula Leopard Dog and the American Bulldog. The breed is thought to have existed for over 100 years. Although its origins are unknown, the Catahoula Bulldog is said to be popular in the South because of its protective nature and ability to catch bears. It is known for its alert disposition and ability to seek out suspicious intruders. It is adept at agility tasks. This magnificent breed is able to live in rural or urban environments with a varied climate, but a warm climate is preferable. Its energy levels are high and it needs to be constantly active. |
History of the Catahoula Bulldog |
The Catahoula Bulldog has been reported to exist for at least 100 years. Although it's an old American dog used mainly in the South, there are no well-documented records of the breed. The name Catahoula is derived from a Native American word meaning "clear water". This breed is known to be a favorite dog in the southern states and continues to be a favorite breed due to its effectiveness in protection. In the past, ranchers used the Louisiana Catahoula Leopard Dog to help herd and catch hogs. Its intelligence and strong work ethic convinced breeders to continue using the breed for their tasks. There was initially a problem with the Louisiana Catahoula Leopard Dog being able to bring home catches due to their size and weakness. Catahoulas also lacked the aggression needed to hunt more aggressive prey, such as bears. Because of this, the American Bulldog was crossed with the Catahoula to increase its aggression, strength and bulk. The Catahoula Bulldog became known for the endurance and agility that breeders and hunters loved. He became adept at catching pigs and successfully hunting bears. In 1951, Tom Stodghill, founder of the Animal Research Foundation, launched the breed registry. In 1968, Bart Perry, a breeder based in Midlothian, Texas, received the first official recognition from the Animal Research Foundation for crossing the Louisiana Catahoula Leopard Dog with the American Bulldog. Its strong hunting instincts were not overlooked. Over time, the breed became popular with local breeders and its popularity soared. The Catahoula Bulldog is not officially recognized by the American Kennel Club due to its hybrid status. |
A little of the Catahoula Leopard Dog |
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The Catahoula Leopard Dog is supposed to have originated from Nordic Wolfhounds introduced between three and five hundred years before the arrival of the Spanish, but no one really knows. The state of Louisiana is cited as the point of origin, in particular the Catahoula region. In 1979, the breed was designated the state dog of Louisiana. The Catahoula was named after a parish in northeastern Louisiana and the marbled patches on its coat. At one time, this breed was used to round up wild hogs and cattle that had escaped and were living in the woods and swamps. It was a highly coordinated and organized team effort, fast, dangerous and a marvel to watch. | ||
Presentation of the Catahoula Leopard Dog | ||
A little of the American Bulldog |
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The American Bulldog was developed as a general-purpose farm dog in the southern United States, with a specialty in catching pigs and cattle. The breed is a direct descendant of the old English Bulldog, now extinct, and is widely regarded as the modern breed in appearance, temperament and use closest to its ancestor. The American Bulldog was almost extinct by the middle of the 20th century, but was revived by the efforts of two breeders, John D. Johnson and Alan Scott, who subsequently developed two distinct lines that were named for them. | ||
Presentation of the American Bulldog |
Appearance of the Catahoula Bulldog |
The Catahoula Bulldog strongly resembles the American Bulldog. It has tight skin and a short, smooth coat. Its water-repellent coat can be composed of different color combinations: black, brown, white, black and brown, black and white, brown and white, black with tan patches and patches and white with gray. If this breed lives in a seasonal climate, it may also develop an undercoat to help protect against extreme weather conditions. The ears are slightly floppy, while the eyes vary in brown, ice blue, gold, emerald green or a combination of both. Its posture is strong and muscular, and the face can carry an intimidating expression. |
Temperament of the Catahoula Bulldog |
The Catahoula Bulldog tends to be a laid-back, relaxed breed that comes alive at the sound of a suspicious noise. It is described as a loyal, intelligent and protective breed that loves to be with its family. This loving breed loves to please others and is incredibly expressive with its ears. This protective dog makes an exceptional watchdog that is used to hunting game and trees. Its solid structure enables it to be constantly on the move, but also attentive to guarding its family. This breed is fierce and fearless, which can make it intimidating for families at first. Early training should be provided to ensure children have a safe environment and know how to interact with the Catahoula Bulldog. Extra care must be taken when strangers are involved. Your dog may need early intervention to tell the difference between a friendly stranger and an unwelcome intruder. Your loyal dog may make the decision to chase other animals or dogs around the house if this behavior is not dealt with quickly. If left unchecked, his initial goal of hunting will shift into high gear. The energy levels of this hybrid are high, and constant stimulation and interaction must be part of everyday life to keep the Catahoula Bulldog engaged with others. The Catahoula Bulldog can be stubborn to train purely because of its independent nature, and is therefore not recommended for first-time dog owners. |
Needs and activities of the Catahoula Bulldog |
The Catahoula Bulldog requires intense play and exercise to keep it engaged and contained. At least two long, brisk walks a day should be planned for your lively cchien. Swimming, running and other intense play activities can be included in the mix. An ideal environment for your hybrid would be a large urban or rural home with access to a yard or field. Apartment living can be managed, but is discouraged. If left to its own devices, your Catahoula Bulldog will indulge in property destruction, which can be costly. Establish yourself as pack leader while enjoying the company of this impressive dog and you'll have a happy partnership. |
Maintenance of the Catahoula Bulldog |
The Catahoula Bulldog is not considered a hypoallergenic breed, and extra care is required if you are allergic to dogs. This breed is known to have little or no shedding due to its smooth, short coat. Shedding is most likely to occur in stressful situations. Drooling is not known to occur in this breed. The Catahoula Bulldog has no significant or persistent odor despite its constant activity. Brushing may be a weekly event to detangle or matter, they are not problems. You may want to check the feet often, as an active dog can be prone to cuts on the pads or nail tearing. Consistent foot care should be part of the grooming routine from day one. This will ensure your Catahoula Bulldog's cooperation in the event of a problem or injury. |