Have you ever heard of a Catahoula Leopard Dog German Shepherd mix? Well, they’re adorable! Check out this guide to find out more about this mixed breed, and if it’s the right breed for you.

Catahoula German Shepherd Mix

These two dogs may look very different, but they actually have a lot in common! They are both very loyal and are great watchdogs. The Catahoula German shepherd mix is very trainable, with high energy, and needs lots of mental stimulation. The Catahoula leopard dogs do vary quite a bit in their look, so this will make for a decent variety in the appearance of your Catahoula German shepherd mix.

About the Catahoula Leopard Dog

The Catahoula leopard dog is a part of the herding group. This dog breed takes their work very seriously, but is able to be playful with their family when the work is done. They are very protective, loyal, and independent. But can be good family dogs if well-trained and socialized at a young age.

They need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation, and they need to learn their “spot” in the family. Once they do, they will be very affectionate and gentle. The Catahoulas are 22-24 inches tall, weigh 50-95 pounds, and live about 10-14 years. They are pretty good with children and other dogs. But always remember their high energy and protectiveness.

This breed comes in a variety of colors and looks. They can have blue or brown eyes, and are usually multi-colored with spots and speckles. The American Kennel Club tells us that Catahoula leopard dogs actually originated from wild dogs in Louisiana “who looked like a wolf but barked like a dog. These native dogs were crossed with the ‘bloodhounds, mastiffs, and greyhounds’ brought by the Spanish explorers [in 1539]. In Northern Louisiana, the Native Americans called these new dogs ‘Wolf Dogs.’ Once the French arrived with their hounds, they were crossbred again, resulting in today’s Catahoula Leopard Dog.”

These dogs have had many jobs throughout the years, but they are most known for their herding wild animals like hogs and cows, and creating a “canine fence” around them. No matter what combination of fur colors, spots, or eye color these dogs end up with, the main trait that is required of them to be considered a Catahoula leopard dog is that they must have the natural working instincts of one.

About the German Shepherd

German shepherds are smart, courageous, loyal, and confident. They are great watchdogs, very affectionate with their families—including children—and good with other dogs. Just make sure to give them the intentional training they need, and plenty of socialization starting at a young age.

German shepherds are 22-26 inches tall, 50-90 pounds in weight, and they live about 7-10 years. German shepherds are very high energy, and need lots of mental stimulation, exercise, and some sort of job to accomplish. But they are also very trainable, adaptable, and they like being playful.

This popular breed ranks 2 out of 197 on the American Kennel Club’s popularity ranking scale. “There are many reasons why German Shepherds stand in the front rank of canine royalty, but experts say their defining attribute is character: loyalty, courage, confidence, the ability to learn commands for many tasks, and the willingness to put their life on the line in defense of loved ones.”

All About the Catahoula German Shepherd Mix

The Catahoula German shepherd mix breed is “designer breed.” This means it was intentionally mixed from two other purebreds to try to obtain the best traits of both. Because the two parent breeds are pretty similar in size, you can expect your Catahoula German shepherd to be 22-26 inches tall and weigh about 50-90 pounds.

Most Catahoula German shepherds look a bit like a short-haired German shepherd with leopard spots. They may even have the dual eye color that the Catahoula leopard dog often has.

Because of both parent breeds, the Catahoula German shepherds are very high-energy, need lots of mental stimulation and physical exercise, and are very protective watchdogs. But don’t worry… You can always keep track of your dog’s location and daily activity levels with the Fi Smart Dog Collar. They do need a lot of training, though. So this mix breed may not be the best for a first-time dog owner.

The Catahoula German shepherd mix breed would be great to have on a farm as a work dog, watchdog, and herding dog. Or to take with you on a run or hike. They love having a purpose and a job to complete. And they need lots of room to run around and play to get their energy out. If this sounds like your home and lifestyle, this could be the perfect breed for you.

Adopt a Catahoula German Shepherd Today!

These beautiful dogs can be a great addition to your family as a work dog on the farm, or just a protective companion to go on hikes with. But make sure to use a reputable breeder like those found through the American Kennel Club’s website. Or you can adopt a dog through websites like PetFinder.com. They will help you find the breed mix you’re looking for, right near you!

For more articles about breed mixes, fun dog-friendly activities, and helpful pet parenting tips, check out the Blog at TryFi.com.