The German Shepherd Catahoula Mix is also known as the “Gurak” is a very interesting mix of two breeds that are well-known for their intelligence and trainability. The first breed, the German Shepherd Dog (GSD) was originally bred to protect sheep from predators, but it has evolved into one of the most versatile dogs in existence today.
Its intelligence allows it to be trained for police work, search and rescue operations, and military tasks like fetching supplies or even disabling bombs/weapons. It can guard your property or haul things for you if need be; this dog’s job prospects are only limited by your imagination!
While I will say that German Shepherds require proper training to avoid these kinds of problems (or any dog for that matter), I have never met a GSD who wasn’t worth the investment.
Catahoula German shepherd mix – At a glance
| Weight: | 50–95 pounds |
| Height: | 20–26 inches at the shoulder. |
| Lifespan: | 10–14 years |
| Coat colours: | Gray, black, red, and blue merle. |
| Temperament: | Loyal and protective, highly active and energetic dogs, intelligent. |
| Suitable for: | Experienced owners, active families with children, individuals. |
| Exercise: | 1–2 hours daily. |
| Grooming: | Low to moderate grooming. |
| Cost: | $300–$800 from a reputable dog breeder, $100–$400 from shelter or rescue organization. |
Overview, and Origin of the German Shepherd Catahoula mix
The Catahoula Leopard Dog (CLD) is a Louisiana-based breed known for its hunting and herding abilities. It was originally bred from Native American dogs and Mastiffs, which gives it its unique spotted coat pattern. This breed is also considered very intelligent and is often used in law enforcement and search and rescue operations.
When these two breeds are combined, you get the Gurak – a powerful, agile dog with keen intelligence and an insatiable desire to please its handler. Training this dog should be fairly easy as it will already have some of the basic obedience commands down pat; further reinforcement will make it even more intelligent.
The Gurak is loyal to its family, but it is still wary of strangers; I recommend early socialization with both people and other pets. Some Guraks can be aggressive towards strangers, especially if they are not properly trained at an early age – so let them know who the boss is! Teach your young Gurak how to deal with children as well.
Guraks generally have a high energy level that requires physical activity on a daily basis. Walking or jogging alongside their handlers would suffice for most days, but you should also consider playing fetch/other games to burn off excess energy every now and then. When indoors, be sure to provide them with chew toys so they can “release”.
What does a German Shepherd Catahoula mix look like?
The appearance of a German Shepherd Catahoula can be very different, depending on if they favor the Catahoula or German Shepherd parent. So, here is a rough idea of what they may look like.
Size and Build
These dogs are commonly medium to large and physically fit. They typically weigh 50 to 95 pounds, with a height of around 20 to 26 inches. They have an athletic body type with a very solid and muscular frame, a deep chest as well as strong posture which clearly indicates the power and agility hidden within them.
Coat Type and Color
They typically have a short to medium length, dense or somewhat coarse coat depending on which side the puppy takes more to. However the color variation are quite broad since Catahoulas have patterns from merle (blue or red) to brindle, black, tan, white and patches or spots. For other German Shepherd colors like black and tan, sable or solid black may also be present. This combination often means that this mix inherits some of the Catahoula’s beautiful color patterns or German Shepherd flashy markings with each dog’s coat pattern seemingly unique.
Face and Head
The blend of these two breeds is typically apparent in the face with a broad head, and almond-shaped eyes that can be very expressive. Eye color can range anywhere from the brownish amber to, if they take after that Catahoula with the blue or heterochromatic eyes, even blue. Catahoula Shepherds can have upright, floppy or semi-pricked ears —many will have the combination with the ear being semi-pricked or one ear up while the other droops now.
Tail and Legs
Their tails are usually straight (though often subtly bushy), and their legs long, sturdy, and designed for both agility and speed.
Are Catahoula leopard aggressive dogs?
Wondering if Catahoula leopard dogs are aggressive? Keep reading to find out more about this breed and whether it is the right dog for you. The Catahoula Leopard Dog has a rather unusual origin; they were first bred on Catahoula Plantation in Louisiana using their own stock, along with the help of escaped female hunting dogs and red wolf genes.
The name of their breed came from the plantation owner’s last name – LaPrade. They were made famous by their use as farm dogs that guarded against animals such as bears and wild boars, as well as fighting animals such as bulls and alligators!
These days they’re used as guard dogs but still retain their instinct to hunt small animals such as deer, rabbits, and raccoons.
Behaviour
Catahoula Leopard Dogs are bred to be working dogs and as such, they are very active and need a lot of exercise – at least 1-2 hours per day. They are also very intelligent and can be quite independent. So they need owners that are firm but fair and who can provide them with plenty of mental stimulation in the form of obedience training, tricks, or problem-solving exercises.
They can be quite vocal, barking both when playing and when they feel something is wrong. So they’re not the best choice for homes with close neighbors.
So, are Catahoula leopard dogs aggressive? Generally speaking, no – but like all breeds, there will always be some that are more aggressive than others. They are powerful dogs and can be protective of their family and home. So, they may not be the best choice for first-time dog owners.
With the right training and socialization, however, they can make excellent family pets. If you’re interested in adopting a Catahoula leopard dog, be sure to visit your local shelter or rescue organization to find out more about these wonderful dogs!
What is the temperament of Catahoula German shepherd mix?
Catahoula German shepherd mix temperament is a bit unpredictable. This is due to the fact that the breed is a mix of two very different dog breeds. You can never really predict how your Catahoula German shepherd mix will behave because its temperament could be anywhere from mellow to high-strung.
However, with proper training and socialization, you can help ensure that your Catahoula German shepherd mix has a good temperament.
If you are considering adding a Catahoula German shepherd mix to your family. It is important to be aware of both the good and the bad aspects of this breed’s temperament so that you can make an informed decision.
Loyal and protective
On the other hand, Catahoula German shepherds are loyal and protective of their families and make great guard dogs. They are also intelligent and can be easily trained. On the other hand, they can be quite high-strung and require a lot of exercise and stimulation. Without proper training and socialization, they may become aggressive or destructive.
If you are thinking about adding a Catahoula German shepherd mix to your family. It is important to be aware of both the good and the bad aspects of this breed’s temperament so that you can make an informed decision. With proper training and socialization, however, these dogs can make wonderful family pets.
Highly active and energetic dogs
The Catahoula German Shepherd mix is known for being a highly active and energetic dog. They require a lot of exercise and need to be kept busy or they will become bored, which can lead to destructive behavior.
These dogs are also very loyal and protective of their family and make great watchdogs. They can be quite territorial and may bark excessively when someone unfamiliar comes to the home.
However, with proper training and socialization, these dogs can be excellent companions. Catahoula German Shepherds mixes tend to be intelligent and respond well to obedience training. With enough exercise, discipline, and love, they can make wonderful pets.
Do Catahoulas have skin problems?
There is no definitive answer to this question, as every dog is different and may experience different skin issues. However, some Catahoula owners have reported that their dogs have suffered from skin problems such as dryness, flaking, and itching.
If your Catahoula has been experiencing any sort of skin issue. It is important to take him or her to the vet for a diagnosis and treatment.
Fortunately, many skin problems can be treated with relative ease. So, don’t hesitate to seek help if you think your dog might be affected. In the meantime, here are a few tips for keeping your Catahoula’s skin healthy:
Tips to avoid from allergy and skin problems
By following these tips, you can help keep your Catahoula’s skin healthy and free from problems. If you do notice that your dog is having skin issues.
- Keep him or her away from any irritants, such as plants.
- Don’t bathe your Catahoula more than once or twice a month. Frequent bathing can strip the skin of its natural oils and contribute to dryness.
- Switch to high-quality food if your dog’s coat is looking dull. A healthy diet may help promote new cell growth in the areas that are flaking.
- Supplement his or her diet with Omega 3-6 fatty acids; most veterinarians agree that this will benefit most dogs’ skin health by promoting cell regeneration and moisturizing dry skin. You should also make sure you’re giving him or her enough Vitamin E (most vets recommend 1000 IU daily) to keep skin cells flexible and smooth. If your dog is taking any medication, check with your veterinarian to make sure it won’t interact adversely with the fatty acids or Vitamin E.
- Avoid using harsh shampoos and detergents when bathing your Catahoula; they can strip away natural oils and cause even more dryness.
However, be sure to take him or her to the vet for a proper diagnosis and treatment. With a little TLC, your Catahoula’s skin should be back to normal in no time!
What health conditions could the German shepherd catahoula mix have?
Catahoula Shepherd (German Shepherd-Catahoula mix) might inherit certain health issues present in both parent breeds.
Look for these possible health conditions:
Hip Dysplasia
Seen in German Shepherds, and can occur in Catahoulas as well. Hip dysplasia — This genetic disorder involves the hip joints and can cause arthritis and movement problems in later life.
Elbow Dysplasia
An additional type of arthritis that they can also suffer from. As a result, there will be pain and lameness as they become older, particularly in an active dog.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
One of the well-known conditions that dogs suffer from is Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA). This eye disease, present in both breeds, eventually causes blindness due to a progressive loss of vision. Therefore, the best is to get regular eye checkups to catch signs as soon as they appear.
Degenerative Myelopathy
This condition affects the spinal cord and can result in loss of mobility, and is common within German Shepherds. This disease is permanent but there are supportive care and physical therapy that can be done to help.
Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (Bloat)
In this serious condition, the stomach will twist and cut off blood supply, which can be fatal without urgent treatment. Large-chested dogs are at greater risk — think German Shepherds.
Deafness
Hereditary deafness is also common in Catahoula Leopard Dogs, especially if they are merle. That could go through to the mix, particularly where there are dogs with merle coloring.
Hypothyroidism
This disrupts the production of hormones, and can cause weight gain, lethargy and skin problems. An easy-to-manage disease commonly found in both parent breeds.
Skin Allergies
This can cause skin irritation, itching, and even hair loss in both Germans Shepherds and Catahoulas.
Ear Infections
Ear infections routinely occur in floppy or semi-floppy eared dogs – the extra material that’s held inside its ears only brings about ear problems (this is a lot more real with German Shepherd mixes). These can be prevented by regularly cleaning and drying the ears.
Tip: Regular vet visits, a good diet and proper exercise may reduce the likelihood or severity of these problems in German Shepherd Catahoula mixes.
How Long Can a German Shepherd Catahoula mix Live?
The expected lifespan of the German Shepherd Catahoula mix is 10 to 14 years. Though it is not one size fits all, as several elements take effect like genetics diet exercise and proper vet care. Both German Shepherds and Catahoulas are relatively healthy breeds, so this mix could be a long, active live with appropriate care!
How much can a German shepherd Catahoula mix weigh?
There is no one definitive answer to this question as the weight of a German Shepherd Catahoula Mix can vary significantly depending on the individual dog’s genes and overall health.
However, on average, a healthy German shepherd Catahoula Mix will weigh between 50 and 95 pounds. As with any breed of dog, it is important to maintain regular vet checkups and keep an eye on your pup’s weight in order to ensure they stay healthy and don’t become overweight.
Excessive weight can lead to a number of health problems including joint pain, breathing difficulties, and diabetes. So, whether you’re thinking of getting a GS Catahoula Mix or already have one, be sure to keep an eye on their weight to ensure a long and happy life.
Grooming and shedding: Catahoula German shepherd mix
Grooming is usually low to moderate maintenance for a German Shepherd Catahoula mix, as they typically inherit their parents’ short to medium-length coat.
Here is a more detailed look at their grooming requirements:
Brushing
To keep the coat healthy and, as well manage shedding, you ought to brush them once or twice a week. They shed moderately throughout the year with a heavier shedding during seasonal changes (in spring and fall).
Bathing
Every 4-6 weeks, or as necessary, bathe. They only need to be bathed when they are extremely filthy or if they begin to smell, as too much bathing can remove natural oils from their coat.
Ear Care
Check their ears weekly and thoroughly clean when necessary to prevent infections. This is incredibly significant, particularly assuming your mix has floppy or semi-floppy ears that are more inclined to trap dampness and soil.
Nail Trimming
Every 3-4 weeks, or as soon as you hear them click on the floor — Cut their nails. Although active dogs might wear their nails down naturally, it is still important to routinely trim those nails because even a little overgrowth can lead to discomfort.
Teeth Brushing
Twice or thrice a week, you can brush their teeth in order to prevent plaque and dental problems. Weekly brushing can help prevent gum disease, which is seen in many different breeds of dogs.
Seasonal Shedding
On the other hand, if your dog has heavy shedding seasons (2-3 times a year), you may want to brush 3-4 times per week to get rid of the loose fur and minimize shedding around the house.
A coat type with little or no grooming requirements is common in this cross so sticking to regular brushing and bathing provides the perfect combo for a healthy and shiny fur coat!
How much exercise does a German Shepherd Catahoula mix require?
German Shepherd Catahoula mixes are high-energy dogs which average 60 to 90 minutes of exercise each day. Since both parent breeds are active, working dogs with instincts for physical and mental work, his mix could benefit from a balanced variety of activities to stimulate body and mind.
Everyday Strolls, Free Play or run
At least one longer walk or run (30–45 minutes is ideal) to satisfy your puppy’s need for exploration and exercise. Play such high-intensity games like fetch, tug-of-war or frisbee Not only do those activities wear them out but also provide quality time together.
Off-Leash Time and mental stimulation
That being said, if you have a safe, fenced-in space where they can run or play – this is best off-leash. As long as it is safe they love to be able to run and have space. You can tire your dog out mentally by doing some puzzle toys, obedience training, or scent work. Smart and curious, they like to learn new things and take on challenges.
Agility or Herding Activities
This blend can excel at agility, obstacles runs or even herding if you have access to that. These activities provoke the inclination to get to work and develop some sense of competence outdoors.
Tips for Exercise Needs
- Split Classes: Morning and Evening Sessions.
- Avoid Extreme Weather: While Catahoula Shepherds are relatively competent in terms of climate control, they might do best when spared amazing warmth or extreme components, so change practice to suit.
- Watch for Fatigue: They should be tired, but not exhausted. Signs that a little more activity would be too much for the puppy, especially if he is a young and old dog.
Regular and varied exercise prevents unwanted behaviour, and keeps this intelligent mix happy and balanced.
How can you find a German Shepherd Catahoula mix puppy for sale?
This hybrid is less common, so discovering a German Shepherd Catahoula blend puppy might require a little research. To find a reputable breeder or adoption source, follow these tips:
Explore Local Animal Shelters and Rescues
Shelters have a lot of mixed-breed dogs. Make sure to ask what shelter you are at if they have any German Shepherd or Catahoula mixes. Seek breed-specific rescues, such as German Shepherd or Catahoula Leopard Dog rescues. Several of these groups also accept mixes and may have Catahoula Shepherd puppies or young adults.
Online Adoption Websites
The site enables you to search for mixes based on breed and where you live. You can create alerts to be alerted when a German Shepherd Catahoula mix becomes available for purchase. Just like Petfinder this site will allow you to filter by breed mix and location. Many cities have online groups or networks for breed-specific adoptions/adopters.
Contact Reputable Breeders
If you keen on a puppy from a reputable dog breeder, seek out German Shepherd or Catahoula breeders and inquire whether they has planned crosses or know of other breeders that do. Be sure to do your research and make sure the breeder performs health testing and ethical breeding practices.
Community Groups and Social Media
There are tons of dog breed groups on social media and some even feature mixes only. Search for German Shepherds, Catahoulas, or mixed-breed groups–members will post puppies up for adoption. Pet forumsSome pet forums, like the dog subreddits on Reddit, also have announcements of pets available for adoption or tips for where to find certain breeds and mixes.
Reach out to local vets and trainers
Vets and trainers will likely have contacts and may be aware of litters or people trying to give away pups. They can also assist in finding quality breeders or avoiding puppy mills.
Avoid Puppy Mills and Unethical Breeders
Stay away from breeders that do not allow you to visit their premises, refuse to provide a health guarantee, or do not conduct any testing for common health concerns. People who breed can tell the potential buyers that they should consider their dogs rather than place all the emphasis on profit.
If you give yourself the proper time and do your research, you should be able to locate a German Shepherd-Catahoula mix that is responsible because this will help ensure your bring home a puppy that is healthy and properly socialized.
How much does a German Shepherd Catahoula mix puppy cost?
The price of a German Shepherd-Catahoula mix puppy depends on things like location, quality breeder and popularity of the breed.
Here is a general idea of what you can look out for:
However, if the breeder is responsible and does health testing for their adults, expect it to be on the more expensive end of this spectrum. That said German Shepherd Catahoula mixes are not a majorly bred designer hybrid, so prices tend to be lower than for more fashionable cross prints. Price range: $300–$800.
Shelters or breed-specific rescues usually require an adoption fee to help offset vaccinations, spaying or neutering and sometimes basic training. Searching for a unique blend like this may mean visiting different shelters or breed-specific rescues looking for German Shepherds and Catahoulas mixes. Price range: $100–$400.
Is the German Shepherd Catahoula mix the right breed for you?
For the right person or family, the German Shepherd Catahoula mix (Catahoula Shepherd) can be quite a refinement of companionship. But you must assess whether the personalities and requirements of these dogs match your lifestyle. Need and action know how with plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. This breed will do well if you like to run, hike or have time for interactive play and training, If you love outdoor things than its is one of the best choice.
Is a Catahoula Leopard Dog good family dog?
There is no easy answer when it comes to whether or not a Catahoula Leopard Dog is a good family pet. While this breed has the potential to be loving, loyal, and protective of their family. They are high-energy animals that require plenty of space for exercise.
If you are able to provide your Catahoula with the proper care and attention, then they can make great additions to any family. However, if you are not able to commit to taking care of this breed it may be best to look for another option.
Catahoulas are known for being very active dogs and love spending time outdoors. They need plenty of exercises each day in order to stay healthy and happy. Without regular exercise these dogs can become destructive and may start to chew on furniture or other belongings.
If you have young children in your home it is important to be aware that Catahoulas may be too energetic for them and could unintentionally knock them over. On the plus side, Catahoulas are very intelligent dogs and are easy to train. They are also typically very friendly with people and other animals making them great companions for families with kids or other pets.
With the right amount of exercise and training, a Catahoula can be a great addition to any family. Just make sure you are prepared for the high energy level they can have!