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| Catahoula bulldog | |
|---|---|
 A male 75/25-type Catahoula bulldog | |
| Foundation stock | Louisiana Catahoula Leopard Dog, American Bulldog |
| Variety status | Not recognized as a breed by any major kennel club. |
| Dog (domestic dog) | |
The Catahoula bulldog is believed to be a crossbreed created by crossing the Louisiana Catahoula Leopard Dog and the American Bulldog, either as a first generation cross, or subsequent generations with no less than 25% nor more than 75% of each breed. It has been described as a medium- to large-sized dog utilized as a hunting, working and guard dog. It is also used in feral hog hunting and pest control. Catahoula bulldogs are believed to have been in existence for over 100 years, found mainly in the southern United States; however, the breed information was originally provided by a pay-for registry called the American Research Foundation that is no longer in existence. The Catahoula bulldog is not officially recognized by any of the major kennel clubs.
Appearance
The Catahoula bulldog has been described as a medium- to large-sized dog weighing in at 34-45.3 kg (75-100 lb). The height is 55–66 cm (20-26 inches) at the shoulders but there is no breed standard. The American Research Foundation is often cited with regards to the history and breed type but the registry was a questionable pay-for registry that is no longer in existence.
The dog has the American Bulldog's muscular build with tight skin and a very short, smooth coat. Normally it does not have an undercoat, but in seasonal or colder climates one may develop. Catahoula bulldogs come in a wide variety of colors—white, black and white, black, sable brown, brown and white and sometimes even black and brown, with or without merle.
The eyes can be a soft to dark brown, amber, ice blue, emerald green, gold or a combination of these in cases of heterochromia. Ears can be a rose type to button over and are sometimes cropped. The Catahoula bulldog tends to use the ears in a very expressive manner. Their tails are also sometimes docked.
Temperament
Though utilized as a hunting, working and guard dog, Catahoula bulldogs are often companion animals. They are said to be loyal and protective of its people, yet very calm and observant of its environment.They have the ability to be great companions and have a good temperament to children.
Herding and hunting
The result of combining the two breeds was a large, rugged and intelligent dog, with increased utility in both hunting and herding.
In herding, Catahoula bulldogs have the natural abilities of the Louisiana Catahoula Leopard Dog, using intimidation to herd on ranches and farms. In hog-catching, this crossbreed is strong and intelligent for actual catching of hogs. As a bear-hunting dog, Catahoula bulldogs excel at it, having the size and aggressiveness of the American Bulldog as well as the intelligence and hunting ability of the Louisiana Catahoula Leopard Dog. From the American Bulldog, the crossbreed acquired the great jaw strength, heavier torso and more robust legs.