Original Article: https://www.dogster.com/dog-breeds/catahoula-australian-shepherd-mix

The Catahoula Australian Shepherd mix, also called the Ausahoula, is a cross between the Catahoula Leopard Dog and the Australian Shepherd. This breed is a new cross with unclear origins. However, despite the exotic-sounding name, they are all-American canines, with both parent breeds originating in the United States. Their histories add to the mystique of the Catahoula Australian Shepherd mix.

Breed Overview

The United Kennel Club (UKC) recognizes the Catahoula Leopard Dog as a breed. In contrast, the American Kennel Club (AKC) lists it on the pathway to full recognition in its Foundation Stock Service (FSS) group. Both organizations have given official status to the Australian Shepherd. Both parent breeds are herding animals, with the intelligence and independence you’d expect from these dogs.

The Catahoula Leopard Dog is the larger of the two breeds, bringing weight and a protective nature to the mix. The Australian Shepherd is a hard-working, dedicated pup with the energy and stamina to back up these traits in the field. Both breeds have the merle color, which can affect the cross’s health and quality of life.

Catahoula Australian Shepherd Mix Characteristics

Catahoula Australian Shepherd Mix Puppies

The status of the parent breeds may affect the availability of puppies. One of the goals of the FSS program is to ensure the integrity of a breed like the Catahoula Leopard Dog. Encouraging crosses won’t align with this aim. We recommend researching the seller before getting a puppy. You should request to see the parents and littermates to get an idea about the size and temperament of the offspring.

A cross doesn’t mean a puppy has a 50-50 mix of their parents’ genes. You should ask about the history of the animals. Multi-generational crosses aren’t unusual, adding more variability to the mix. We also recommend getting a puppy that is over 8 weeks old, as these animals are less likely to develop behavioral issues than those separated from their mother and littermates too early.

Catahoula Australian Shepherd Mix Breed Origin & History

Like many mixed breeds, the history of the Catahoula Australian Shepherd mix is unknown. Breeders can register their dogs with the Dog Registry of America (DRA), but the cross doesn’t have any official status. The trend of selective breeding isn’t new. That’s how many of our current dogs came to be. The designer dog fad took off in the 1980s with the rise of the Labradoodle, with this one likely riding the wave.

The history of the Catahoula Leopard Dog begins in Central Louisiana, where enthusiasts bred dogs and possibly red wolves to herd livestock. The state has embraced this agile and loyal animal, making it the Louisiana state dog. The history of the Australian Shepherd is just as fascinating. The Basque of Europe selectively bred their Pyrenean Shepherd with other herding breeds in Australia.

They brought their canine companions to the United States to pursue ranching here. Locals assumed the dogs were Australian, which accounts for the misleading name. Selective breeding continued stateside to develop the dog we know today as the Australian Shepherd. The similar histories, temperament, and striking appearances undoubtedly inspired enthusiasts to crossbreed the two canines.

Temperament & Intelligence of the Catahoula Australian Shepherd Mix 🧠

The parent breeds’ histories provide valuable clues about the cross’s temperament. Herding, for example, requires intelligence and alertness. These dogs must also be confident and energetic to keep up with their charges. These dogs are protective of their families and are often wary of strangers. All of this points to a pooch that is best suited to experienced pet owners living somewhere where this dog has room to run.

Are These Dogs Good for Families? 🏡

The Australian Shepherd can make an excellent family pet, while the Catahoula Leopard Dog needs a dedicated owner to take charge early with proper socialization and training. Both parent breeds are eager to please. While affectionate with their families, we don’t recommend the Catahoula Australian Shepherd mix in households with small children.

Does This Breed Get Along With Other Pets? 🐶 😽

The ability of the Catahoula Australian Shepherd mix to get along with other pets depends on the age of the animals and the way they are introduced. The Australian Shepherd has a keen prey drive, which can make living with other pets problematic, especially since this dog can also be nippy. Remember that these dogs are also protective, which is another point to consider in multi-pet households.

Things to Know When Owning a Catahoula Australian Shepherd Mix:

Owning a Catahoula Australian Shepherd mix can be challenging on several fronts. We’ve mentioned several instincts of the parent breeds you must consider. This breed must have enrichment and mental stimulation, which is a time commitment. They aren’t likely to tolerate being alone well. They need regular interaction for a good quality of life. Think about how much time you can devote to a pet before bringing one home.

Food & Diet Requirements 🦴

The Catahoula Australian Shepherd mix is on the cusp of being a medium or large dog. That makes seeing the parents helpful in gauging how big your pet will get. You should get a commercial diet for your pet’s size and life stage. These products provide complete and balanced nutrition to support your puppy’s growth and development.

You should feed puppies three to four times daily, with fresh water always available. We suggest putting your pet on a schedule to monitor their intake. You can go to a twice-a-day routine once your dog becomes an adult. The Catahoula Australian Shepherd mix has a moderate tendency for weight gain. Nevertheless, we recommend reserving treats as training aids.

Exercise 🐕

The Catahoula Australian Shepherd mix is a high-energy dog. This pooch needs to run to be happy. Plan on roughly 1.5 hours of daily activity. If properly socialized, you can take your pet to the dog park. We recommend keeping your dog with other canids of their size. Daily walks are an excellent way to provide mental stimulation and reinforcement of their leash manners.

Training 🦮

Early training is necessary because of the temperament of the Catahoula Australian Shepherd mix and their need for enrichment. It will also nurture the owner-dog bond and strengthen your relationship with your pet. Positive reinforcement is the best approach for sensitive pups like this one. Treats are also a potent motivator. Don’t be afraid to challenge your pet with tricks and commands, as these dogs are up for the challenge.

Grooming ✂️

The coat of the Catahoula Australian Shepherd mix can vary from the smooth, short hair of the Catahoula to the double coat fur of the Aussie. That will dictate your pet’s grooming routine and how often you bathe them. We recommend weekly brushing and cleaning their ears and trimming their nails regularly. Handling your dog’s ears and feet frequently will make these tasks more manageable, as they’ll get used to being touched in these areas.

Health and Conditions 🏥

Both parent breeds are relatively healthy, with the typical joint concerns of large dogs. The Australian Shepherd is part of the Canine Health Information Center (CHIC) program of the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA). The Catahoula Leopard Dog is not. The advantage is the development of recommended pre-breeding health screenings.

The other concern rests with the merle trait, which both parent breeds have. Reputable sellers will not breed two pups with any of the merle variants. Doing so increases the risk of several congenital defects, including skeletal abnormalities, deafness, and eye problems. Genetic tests are available to reduce the possibility of passing them on to the offspring. We recommend asking the seller about testing.

Male vs. Female

The size differences between males and females are noticeable with both parent breeds. That can affect the ease of handling your pet, particularly for a pup with a large Catahoula influence. Other than size, however, there aren’t many differences.

3 Little-Known Facts About the Catahoula Australian Shepherd Mix

1. The Official Breeding Standard for the Australian Shepherd Recognizes Four Accepted Colors

When speaking about the Australian Shepherd Parent, there are only four official colors for the breed standard. The permitted colors include red merle, red, blue merle, and black.

2. “Catahoula” Comes From the Choctaw Word for “Sacred Lake”

The name of the Catahoula parent comes from a Choctaw word. In fact, the 25,00-acre Catahoula National Wildlife Refuge is a wintering area for hundreds of migratory birds, with fantastic opportunities for wildlife watching.

3. The Catahoula Leopard Dog Has Another Official Title

The breed is the official school mascot of the Centenary College of Louisiana, receiving the honor in December 2007.

Does the Catahoula Australian Shepherd Mix Make a Good Pet?

The Catahoula Australian Shepherd mix is a handful. The pup’s intelligence, energy, and independence make them challenging pets. This dog needs an owner who is up to the task of diligent training and socialization. They aren’t the best choice for everyone. Nevertheless, they can make delightful pets for someone who understands their unique needs.

We recommend researching the parent breeds’ histories and traits before getting a puppy. Ensure you and your family understand your commitment and whether this dog will fit your lifestyle.

Conclusion

You couldn’t ask for a more devoted canine companion than the Catahoula Australian Shepherd mix. They are affectionate and protective animals that are loyal to their families. You may have a hard time finding one. However, if you have the time and energy to commit to a pet, you’ll be amply rewarded by inviting a Catahoula Australian Shepherd mix into your home.

Featured Image Credit: (L) Aneta Jungerova, Shutterstock | (R) Simone Centi, Shutterstock

Source: Dogster