The Catahoula Rottweiler mix is a cross between the Catahoula breed – a dog famous for its floppy ears and Dalmatianesque leopard print. Bred in Louisiana, the Catahoula breed is a running dog, bred initially as a cattle herder. The Rottweiler, on the other hand, was bred in Germany for hunting and had its ancestral roots in the Roman Empire.
Catahoula Rottweiler Mix – At a Glance
| Weight: | 35–100 pounds |
| Height: | 20–27 inches tall |
| Lifespan: | 10–12 years |
| Coat colours: | tri-coloured coat of brown, black and white. |
| Temperament: | High prey drive, friendly, intelligent, loving. |
| Suitable for: | Active couples / singles, families with children. |
What Does a Catahoula Rottweiler Mix Look Like?
The Catahoula Rottie mix takes a bit of both of its parent breeds when it comes to its physical appearance. Its deep brown eyes and short-haired coat are both solidly Rottie, but its spotted tri-coloured coat – brown, white and black – is one of the traits of the Louisiana-bred Catahoula.
Photo: @winston__gram
The History of the Catahoula Rottweiler Mix
Unfortunately, due to the specific hybrid nature of the Catahoula Rottweiler mix, there isn’t much of a history to speak of for these dogs. However, we do know plenty about their parent breeds and will explain them below.
Catahoula History
The Catahoula has its storied history in Louisiana and is one of the only dog breeds to have been bred in the state itself. The name itself stems from the area around the Catahoula River – its name that’s Choctaw in origin and the dog is believed to have descended from the Native American tribes that originally kept dogs for hunting purposes.
How Popular Are Catahoulas?
While Catahoulas aren’t particularly popular outside Louisiana – for example, they rate well outside the top 150 most popular dog breeds in the country – they have competed in sledge-dog races in Canada. So, they might not be the most popular dog in the States but have earned their reputation north of the border.
Who Are Catahoulas a Good Dog For?
Catahoulas have a tremendous amount of energy that needs to be burned off. They’re the perfect dog for active outdoors people, who enjoy hiking or running in the hills. Like Rotties, Catahoulas have a seemingly endless amount of energy and will need to be thoroughly exercised to be kept healthy.
How Did Catahoulas Come About?
Catahoulas were originally bred in Louisiana, though their exact lineage is unknown. It’s theorized that Catahoulas came from either French hunting dogs like the Beauceron, crossed with a smaller dog, or they’re of Native American descent, as their namesake would suggest.
When Did First Cross-Breed Catahoulas?
As the origins of the Catahoula are unknown, our history with crossbreeding the Catahoula is equally spotty. They’re known for their versatility and workhorse nature, so are likely matched with similar dog breeds.
Some of the most popular Catahoula crossbreeds include:
- Labrador Retriever Catahoula Mix (Labrahoula)
- Beagle Catahoula Mix (Beagahoula)
- Catahoula Bulldog Mix (Bullahoula)
- German Shepherd Catahoula Mix (German Shepahoula)
- Catahoula Blue Heeler Mix (Cataheeler)
Rottweiler History
The Rottweiler history dates back to Ancient Rome, where they acted as guard dogs for centurion encampments. Their modern history is one of guardianship, too – but for estates of the German aristocracy in 19th century Europe. Today, the Rottie is a beloved family pet, though hasn’t lost its protective nature.
How Popular Are Rottweilers?
According to the American Kennel Club, the Rottweiler ranks as the eighth most popular dog in the US in 2021.
Who Are Rottweilers A Good Dog For?
Rotties are great dogs for almost anyone who can handle their size and weight, and their incessant need for exercise. So, anyone with plenty of time, energy, land and/or youth!
How Did Rottweilers Come About?
Rottweilers have a long and storied history as guardian dogs, both in Europe in the 19th century, and have an ancestral history dating back to the Roman Empire.
How Did First Cross-Breed Rottweilers?
Rottweilers have been cross-bred throughout the ages, though only recently with great success in the last century in the United States. They are often bred with dogs of similar size, though not exclusively.
Some popular Rottie crosses include:
- Great Pyrenees Rottweiler Mix (Great Rottie)
- Corgi Rottweiler Mix (Corottie)
- Rottweiler Labrador Retriever Mix (Labrottie)
- Rottweiler Siberian Husky Mix (Rottsky)
- Rottweiler Border Collie Mix (Borderwieler)
What is the Temperament of the Catahoula Rottweiler Mix?
The Catahoula Rottweiler mix is a very even-tempered dog, even if they are full of energy. In general, their demeanour is one of friendliness and warmth. They are very intelligent dogs who seek an active lifestyle, so you can expect an energetic dog, but aren’t particularly aggressive. Given, however, that both dogs were bred for hunting, you might expect them to have a certain prey instinct.
Are Catahoula Rottweiler Mixes Friendly?
Generally, yes. If properly socialized with other dogs and people, Catahoula Rottweiler mixes are wonderfully friendly dogs.
Are Catahoula Rottweiler Mixes Easy to Train?
If you can find a trainer that can handle the sheer amount of energy these dogs have, then typically they’re easier to train than most. Both parent breeds were bred for running and hunting, so you can imagine them to be easily trainable, it’s in their genes.
How Much Can Catahoula Rottweiler Mixes Weigh?
On average, Catahoula Rottweiler mixes can weigh anywhere from 40-100lbs.
How Tall Can Catahoula Rottweiler Mixes Get?
On average, you can expect your Catahoula Rottweiler mix to reach 20-27 inches high at their shoulders.
Similar Sized Breeds
Other medium-sized dog breeds like a smaller female Husky, the Golden Retriever, or any previously-mentioned crosses of either the Rottie or Catahoula can reach a similar size to this cross.
Does a Catahoula Rottweiler Mix Shed?
They’re fairly moderate shedders. This is because the two parent breeds are light shedders (Catahoula) and heavy shedders (Rottweilers), therefore when you mix the two, you get something in the middle. They will require a weekly brush, but you won’t be able to knit a small Corgi from the remains of their shedding. Perhaps a hat or something.
How Much Exercise Does a Catahoula Rottweiler Mix Require?
The Catahoula Rottweiler mix is one of the most energetic cross breeds you’re likely to come across. Make sure you have plenty of time, energy and land to devote to the exercise requirements of this dog. One 45-minute walk, or a thirty-minute run every day, or at least most days of the week is a necessity.
How Long Does a Catahoula Rottweiler Mix Live?
The lifespan of the Catahoula is between 10-14 years, while the Rottweiler is between 8-10 years.
Therefore we can assume the life expectancy of the Catahoula Rottweiler mix is anywhere between 10-12 years.
Like with any dog, there are a number of factors that will determine the number of years your specific Catahoula Rottweiler mix lives like diet and exercise.
What Health Conditions Could the Catahoula Rottweiler Mix Have?
Despite these relatively minor health issues, your Catahoula Rottweiler mix is typically quite a healthy dog!
How Can You Find a Catahoula Rottweiler Mix For Sale?
Given that the breed is relatively rare, you’re unlikely to find a puppy for sale anywhere. Given that, you should check out your local animal shelters, or ask if they could keep an eye out for a Catahoula Rottweiler mix for you. Check our guide on how to find a reputable dog breeder.
How Much Does a Catahoula Rottweiler Mix Cost?
Roughly, the Catahoula Rottweiler mix may cost you around $600-$900, though that price can fluctuate depending on location. You should seriously consider looking into local shelters before going the purchasing route.
Is the Catahoula Rottweiler Mix the Right Breed For You?
Although this is a question that only you can answer, the Catahoula Rottweiler mix may be the right breed for you if you’ve been looking for a companion for the outdoors, a hunting companion, a chaser and a working dog.
If you’ve got a lot of outdoor space, energy and time to devote to this dog, then this might just be the dog you’ve been looking for. They are also very good with children and so would be the perfect family fit as well.