Labahoula

He is not recognized by the F.C.I.

Origin
Canada <> U.S.A. -> U.S.A.
Translation
Francis Vandersteen

A brief presentation of the Labahoula

A robust, strong-willed hybrid dog breed, the Labahoula is a cross between the Labrador Retriever and the Catahoula Leopard Dog. These dog breeds are known for their leopard-like spotted pattern and bright eyes, which can often be heterochromatic (variable in color). These hybrid dog breeds will often retain the gentle, loving nature of the Labrador and the fearless, protective drive of the Catahoula Leopard Dog. The Labahoula is not a breed for the faint-hearted; these are very active, strong dogs that will require lifelong training. These dog breeds are best suited to rural lifestyles or suburban homes with large backyards.

History of the Labahoula

The history of the Labahoula remains a bit of a mystery, as these designer hybrids are of recent origin. This hybrid dog breed is currently only registered with the Dog Registry of America, so it's possible that the dog breed was created in the USA.

 

        

A little of the Labrador Retriever

        
The Labrador Retriever is known as America's most famous dog breed. The Labrador can be traced back to the St. John's Water Dog of Newfoundland, Canada, where the breed was used as a fishing net retriever for fishermen. Named after the Labrador Sea, the dog has a troubled history, coming close to extinction in the 1880s due to property taxes. English breeders saved the line and the Labrador Retriever was re-established in North America in the early 1900s.
Standard of the Labrador Retriever

A little of the Catahoula Leopard Dog

The Catahoula Leopard Dog is a large herding dog that shares common ancestry with the Nordic Wolfhound. These dogs were recognized for their versatile tracking, hunting and breeding skills in the 1970s in the state of Louisiana. Based on Labahoula's lineage history, we can assume that this hybrid could serve as a companion, guard, protection and hunting dog.
Presentation of the Catahoula Leopard Dog

Appearance of the Labahoula

Big, powerful and eye-catching are the traits that describe this hybrid. You're bound to see a lot of people taking one look at your striking dog. The Labahoula is a breed that can measure up to 61 centimeters in height and can tip the scales at 43 kilos. These dogs tend to have broad wedge-shaped heads, long muzzles and ears that drop to the jaw. There are two very distinctive features of this hybrid. The first is its eyes, which can be hazel, blue or amber, or both eyes showing different colors, a term called heterochromia. The second most notable feature of this hybrid is its uneven leopard coat, which is often patterned in dark blue, black or dark brown. These hybrids are likely to retain the water-repellent coat of their Labrador parent and, for the most part, coats tend to be short and close to the skin.

Temperament of the Labahoula

The Labahoula is a gentle, well-tempered breed of dog that will do very well with children and other pets if well socialized as a child. The Labahoula can have a very dominant, alpha-type personality, with behavior that may need to be monitored and even toned down through training, so it's important to be cautious when your dog meets a new face. For the most part, these hybrids are instinctively loyal companions to their families, but they can become wild and vicious if left alone for too long. Because of their dominant nature, owners are strongly advised to supervise their dogs whenever they are around other dogs, pets or children.

Needs and activities of the Labahoula

A very active breed, the Labahoula is not for couch potatoes. They need strong, confident owners who will assume the role of alpha. These hybrids require at least 90 minutes or more of daily physical activity. Activities your hybrid dog breed may enjoy include long runs, agility classes, field work, breeding, playing in dog parks, hiking and swimming. Because of their size and activity requirements, these breeds are best suited to a rural or suburban lifestyle, where they will have plenty of space to move around and expend energy.

Maintenance of the Labahoula

The Labahoula is considered a low-maintenance dog breed. They are not hypoallergenic and are not known for being big droolers. This busy, attractive dog is a seasonal shedder and will need to be brushed with a detangling tool during the summer months. The breed does not require weekly grooming and may not need regular bathing. Bathing should be done as needed. Other important maintenance requirements include brushing your hybrid's teeth a few times a week to prevent dental disease. Trimming their nails every few weeks is another important requirement if they are not worn down by exercise, nail tearing and cracking can otherwise result. Finally, ears should be checked and cleaned every 6 to 12 weeks for signs of debris, wax build-up or infection.

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