CATAHOULA BULLDOG Breed Standards
The Catahoula Bulldog is a hybrid (not a purebred dog); it is a cross between the Catahoula Leopard Dog and the American Bulldog for a specific purpose. (Al Walker of Animal Research Foundation states: The Catahoula Bulldog is recognized as 50% Catahoula Leopard and 50% American Bulldog in the first generation cross. In succeeding generations it may be 75%-25% mix in either direction.The 75%-25% cross should not be exceeded to maintain the desirable characteristics of each breed.
SKILLS: They are a unique and extraordinary dog possessing wonderful qualities and high intelligence. The Catahoula Bulldog can be trained for several uses. They make excellent watch, guard, and catch dogs. You need not feel vulnerable with one by your side. They will hunt and tree game and can basically be considered as a working breed.
SIZE: The appearance of the Catahoula Bulldog is a medium to large size dog that weighs 34-45 kg. (75-99 lbs) and stands 61-66 cm. (24-26 in) at the shoulder.
COAT: Normally he does not have an undercoat but usually develops one when living in seasonal or colder climate. Their ear set varies from a rose type to button over and sometimes cropped for a regal look. They tend to use their ears in a very expressive manner, as if they are talking with them. His eyes can be a soft to dark brown, ice blue, emerald green, gold or any combination of all of these. Catahoula Bulldogs come in a wide variety of colors. A pure white coat is commonly seen with or without striking ice blue eyes, a soft sable brown and white coat with or with out merle, or the infamous merling patterns. Merling produces a huge range of colors and patterns. Some are white with gray, black and tan patches and blotches; some have very large areas of color and smaller patches and spots.
CARE REQUIRED: Comb and brush with a firm bristle brush, and bathe only when necessary. This breed is an average shedder.
CHARACTER: The general character of the breed is very intelligent and versatile, a multi-purpose breed par excellence. He can be used as a working dog herding farm animals, protecting livestock and also for hunting large or small game. He has a lot of stamina and perseverance making him ideal for the jobs.
TRAINING: Needs a great deal of exercise
SOCIAL BEHAVIOR: As pets they are easily trained and are very loyal to everyone who intimately surrounds them. They love to be around their family and are very tolerant of children. They are a level headed breed that wishes to please and respects their owner for teaching them proper obedience.
EXERCISE: As a family pet he is extremely loyal and as a home guardian, nothing will get by his keen hearing and will certainly alert you to an intruder. Being weary of strangers, he will assess the situation at hand and act appropriately. Catahoula's make great family and children's companions because they seem to enjoy obedience training and pleasing their owners.
