Catahoula German Shepherd Mix Breed: A Working Dog With Great Affectionate

Feeding Schedules

Here is a general feeding schedule for your dog based on age. But this is not a type of fixed schedule. The amount of food and timing can vary for individual dogs. You should consult a vet.

Common Health Issues Of Catahoula German Shepherd Mix

Having a furry canine is not an easy task. There are some common health issues Catahoula German Shepherd Mix or other dogs experience. If they are not cured timely, it can be severe sometimes.

So, let us see some joint health issues your Catahoula German Shepherd Mix may face. By knowing the symptoms, you can provide early treatment.

Degenerative Myelopathy

This is a serious health problem for dogs because it is almost incurable. This sickness does not cause any pain to dogs. It affects the back part of the body. Over time, it paralyzes the part and makes the dog unable to walk. Rather than young dogs, it affects the older dogs.

Catahoula GSD Mix can experience Degenerative Myelopathy. So make sure he gets enough exercise from an early age. If it is affected by the disease, then be calm and start medication. Doing this can slow the disease, affecting the entire backside.

Bloat

Large dogs like Catahoula German Shepherd Mix tend to be more affected by bloating problems. Sometimes, it can be a life-threatening condition. It is more problematic for big dogs and puppies with deep chests. If the dog bloats, his stomach twists and may prevent average blood circulation. If the dog eats too much or eats too fast, bloating can happen to them. He may whine or cry at night after dinner. In such conditions, try to get to the vet quickly.

Deafness

Catahoula German Shepherd Mix is more prone to deafness because of the parent breed. Both the parent dogs bear merle genes that cause double merle in the puppy dog. Deafness is connected to merle genes. So, it is expected that your dog will become deaf.

Suddenly, he may bark excessively and get tired. Even if you respond, he continuously barks. So, it can be that he can not hear anything. But it is not sure if he got deaf in both ears or one.

Obesity

Obesity can be one of the reasons your dog stays at risk of getting other diseases. Also, extra weight strains the bones and joints, causing arthritis. Even obese dogs more often face heart failure or other heart disease.

So, keep a strict eye on your dog's diet. Regularly play with your dog and give him proper exercise.

Hip Dysplasia

Large and heavy breeds often experience hip dysplasia. This is a common condition. Both Catahoulas and German Shepherds are at significant risk of developing this condition. So, your Catahoula GSD Mix is high-risk, too.

Hip dysplasia occurs when the hip sockets do not fully form or become loose. Breeders are mainly responsible for many pedigree German Shepherds suffering from hip dysplasia. So, monitoring your Catahoula German Shepherd mix for any signs of this condition is essential.

PRA Or Blindness

Merle genes also cause blindness. This is also a common health issue for the dogs. It affects the eyes and slowly turns them into blindness. Even if your pup has beautiful eyes like the Catahoula Leopard, there is a chance he will get blind. So, regularly examine the eyes of your dog with a vet.

Heart Diseases

German Shepherds often have certain heart diseases that are pretty common. So, your pups are also vulnerable to these diseases. It's a good idea to consult with a veterinarian. Also, talk to the breeder about the pup's family history before bringing a new pet home.

How to Take Care and Grooming Catahoula German Shepherd Mix

Leopard dogs do not need much maintenance. But German Shepherds need proper grooming. So, it depends on your pup's inherited genes. If the leopard dog's gene dominates your pup's nature, then you really do not need to worry much.

Here are some basic grooming needs that every dog needs for a healthy life.

1. The dog's parents both shed quite a bit. So, their pups may also have this trait. You do not want the fur to stick to your furniture, right? Then be ready with a vacuum cleaner when it is offspring.

However, the coat's shedding, length, and thickness don't affect the grooming methods. Whether it is heavy or moderate, coats require grooming every week. During shedding season, groom your dog at least three times a week.

You can think of grooming as a bonding time for you and your furry friend. Regular brushing will keep your dog's coat healthy and help minimize shedding.

2. Dogs do not need daily bathing; they only bathe a few times a month. You can use good shampoo for cleaning dirt. There are many pet shampoos available. If you want a healthy coating for your dog, then use good quality shampoo. Also, be careful in the summer season. They may need more baths to stay calm.

3. Clean your dog's ears and teeth regularly. Check for any dirt or infections. So you can treat them early.

4. Dogs' nails grow fast. So, periodically use nail clipping. This will also protect your furniture from scratching.

5. Keep a good eye on their diet, too.

6. Check their health regularly, as well as their sleeping position or other habits. If you see anything unusual, consult a vet.

7. Spend enough time with your dog. Otherwise, they may experience separation anxiety and depression. Give him love and care.

What to Consider Before Adoption and Breeder Considerations

We know you are excited about having a Catahoula GSD Mix pup. But you need to be a bit careful before you bring your furry dog so you do not get deceived.

Make sure to find reputable breeders before purchasing a Catahoula German Shepherd puppy. Reputed and ethical breeders can provide you with a Catahoula GSD mix puppy. Another option is to check your local shelters. Or, you can consider rescuing a Catahoula German Shepherd Mix dog.

Also, avoid purchasing puppies from unauthorized sources or online. You may end up with more expensive puppies than buying from a reputable breeder. Don't fall for the attractive language or tempting low prices. These stores often mistreat the parents, and the puppies will likely have significant health issues.

Do a good inquiry about the parent dogs. If you get the chance, visit the dogs. Also, check the medical records of the parent dogs. Their upbringing and health issues will affect the puppies.

Once you are done with breeder consideration, it is time to consider your personal matters. Ask a few questions to yourself.

• Are you a first-time dog owner?

• Do you have enough space in your home for an energetic dog?

• Are you active enough to play with your dog regularly?

• Are you capable of handling a stubborn dog?

• Do you have newborns or children in your home?

• Is there any family member who is allergic to dogs?

It might be a bit challenging for you if you're not an experienced dog owner. Owning a Catahoula German Shepherd especially means you need to be a strong pack leader. 

Also, it is important to provide a spacious environment for the dog. So, he can roam around and burn off extra energy. If you prefer staying indoors or don't have the time to exercise your pet, this particular breed may not be the best fit for you.

Also, having these big dogs can be concerning with newborns or children. However, with proper training, they behave well. Still, it would be destructive if something triggered the big Catahoula German Shepherd.

So, before deciding, be precise about the points we discuss to lead a happy life with your beloved pet.

Some Key Factors About Catahoula German Shepherd Mix

• The Catahoula German Shepherd Mix is a one-of-a-kind crossbreed. These dogs have a unique appearance and adaptable personality.

• This mix inherits physical traits from both parent breeds. The body structure is athletic and muscular. They are usually medium or large size.

• Regular mental and physical stimulation is a must for the dog breed. Otherwise, they can be destructive.

• Proper training and socialization are also vital in helping them become well-behaved around people and other animals.

• They are intelligent, loyal, and protective like their parent breed, the German Shepherd. This makes it an ideal companion for a working dog.

• To ensure their overall well-being and longevity, it's important to understand their common health issues and grooming needs.

• The Catahoula German Shepherd Mix can adapt to different living arrangements. It can be apartments or houses. As long as their exercise and space requirements are met, they will be okay.

FAQ About Catahoula German Shepherd Mix

How Big Will a German Shepherd Catahoula Mix Get?

German Shepherd Catahoula are big dog breeds that can be 2 feet. They possess a big muscular body with strong muscles like their parent dogs.

Is a Catahoula German Shepherd Mix The Right Breed For Me?

If you are not a new dog owner and have experience with active dogs. The German Shepherd Catahoula can be your daily companion. This is because these dogs need regular physical exercise. Without proper technique, you will not be able to handle them.

Is a Catahoula Mix A Good Family Dog?

Not only Catahoula Mix but any dog with proper socialization can be a good family pet. These innocent creatures do not know how to behave. So they need adequate training from an early age. Over time, they can be more loyal and affectionate than any other pet.

Conclusion

Catahoula German Shepherd Mix is a very friendly dog. They have a strong appearance and muscular body structure. These dogs often inherit the beautiful eyes from the Leopard parent dog.

Besides the beautiful build, these dogs are very intelligent. They can work as many rescue missions or working dogs. This is because of the German Shepherd's dog.

However, like other dogs, they need proper training, too. An early age training can make these stubborn dogs well-behaved. Also, the low maintenance makes them ideal for families.