The Catahoula Curr, or Catahoula Leopard Dog, is beloved in Louisiana.
This state dog is perfect for the climate and the work involved in running the ranches and farms.
Some people would question why anyone would want to cross breed it with another dog?
There are some breeders that look to enhance this animal with the genes of other working dogs, or dogs that are more desirable in other ways.
The Husky is undeniably charming and appealing with dog owners, but should we really turn to a Catahoula Husky mix?
[thrive_text_block color=”blue” headline=””]In this guide we will look at important Catahoula Husky mix info on their personality, size, training and health. [/thrive_text_block]
Table of Contents
What does this Catahoula Leopard Husky mix look like?
Both parent dogs are quite similar in size. They tend to measure around 21-24 inches tall, so these mix breed pups should reach the same height.
The Curr is heavier, between 35 and 82 pounds, while the Husky is 45 to 60 pounds. Therefore, the offspring will be somewhere in the middle.
[thrive_text_block color=”note” headline=””]They should be quite a lean, athletic dog that is able to keep up with the most demanding owners. [/thrive_text_block]
This also means a high energy level and need for plenty of exercise. This is one of the reasons why they have great potential on the ranch.
However, there are still behavioral traits to watch out for.
Further Reading: A Guide To Choosing The Best Multivitamin For Dogs
What do new owners need to be aware of with the Husky Catahoula mix temperament?
There is the hope with this cross breed that it could help to tone down some of the negative behavioral traits in the Husky.
The Catahoula Leopard Dog doesn’t share all the same issues. It is much more good natured dog with a much lower prey-drive – despite its herding background – and a calmer personality.
Therefore there is a good chance that the Catahoula Curr’s genes might calm the Husky gene and create a more manageable dog.
A great example of this is the ability to use this cross as working dog on ranches and farms.
The idea here is that you have the obedient, hard-working Curr with the additional intelligence and stamina of the Husky.
[thrive_text_block color=”blue” headline=””]This should mean a loyal, reliable working dog that helps with the upkeep of the farm. [/thrive_text_block]There is a desire in some Huskies and other, more primitive breeds to chase livestock, cats and other small animals. The Curr genes should help to combat this.
Further Reading: The Top Ten Best Chew Toys For Destructive Dogs
However, there will be some Catahoula Leopard dog owners that wonder why you would go for a Husky and Catahoula mix here, when there are other alternatives.
There are lots of breeds where the gene could potentially enhance the potential of the Curr. Many are better suited to the hotter climates of Southern states and ranch life.
For example, there is the potential here that this dog will have a thicker, denser coat than its Curr parents because of the Husky genes.
This could lead to a beautiful look, with that merle, mottled pattern and blue colors on a fluffier dog.
Further Reading: How To Choose The Best Automatic Dog Feeder
You don’t want to be stripping hair with a furminator and vacuuming dead fur when there is work to do.
Further Reading: What Is The Best Brush For Shedding Dogs? (Top 15)
Training this Catahoula Curr Siberian Husky mix
Of course none of these great behavioural traits and long shifts on the farm are possible without the right training regimen.
Obedience training is essential from an early age so that these Catahoula Leopard Dog husky mix puppies know who is in charge.
They have the intelligence to learn commands quickly, but that stubborn streak means you will need a little patience.
They will also require strong socialization and leash training around people and animals, to prepare them for their role.
There are a number of tools that you can use to improve this training process and get the best out of these dogs.
Both Doggy Dan the Online Dog Trainer and Secrets to Dog Training are popular options. They offer helpful step-by-step guidance on everything from housebreaking to barking.
It also helps to invest in some interactive dog toys and brain training for dogs because of the energy and intellect of the cross.
This will help you both with your relationship from an early age.
Further Reading: A Guide To Some Of Best Dog Training Books Available Today (Top 24)
Finding Catahoula Husky mix puppies for sale or adoption
It could be difficult to find a Catahoula Husky mix for sale in your local area.
It all depends where you are and the popularity of the Curr in your area.
[thrive_text_block color=”note” headline=””]When you find breeders with these animals for sale, always visit them to see the litter and parents. [/thrive_text_block]don’t give your money to anyone that seems irresponsible, even if they are your only shot at getting one of these pups.
The alternative is to search in local shelters to rescue an adult Catahoula Husky. Again, availability may be minimal.
Is your new dog really a Catahoula Husky puppy?
The problem with some mixed breed dogs, especially from shelters, is that the parentage is sometimes uncertain.
It is possible that shelter mis-label the dogs based on their physical features. Also, some breeders may mis-sell puppies in an attempt to get more money.
This is where DNA testing can help. A kit like the Embark Breed Identification Dog DNA Test will uncover the breed heritage, as well as some possible genetic health issues.
[thrive_text_block color=”note” headline=””]A true Catahoula Husky dog should have a lifespan of 11-13 years, but this may shorten if there are hidden genetic risk factors. [/thrive_text_block]Further Reading: The Best Dog Water Dispenser To Keep Your Dogs Hydrated (Top 15)
Those that struggle with the health care of these dogs should try The Ultimate Guide to Dog Health from Kingdom of Pets.
This online guide offers great insight in exercise, diet and general care. This is perfect for choosing the right dry dog food and regimens for such an active breed.
Should you really search for a Catahoula Curr Husky Puppy?
There are pros and cons here.
[thrive_text_block color=”blue” headline=””]There is a great chance of a well-behaved, hard-working animal with this genetic mix. They are also attractive, athletic animals. [/thrive_text_block]But, they also require a lot of hard work and training, and availability can be an issue.
If you happen to find a Catahoula Husky mix in a shelter, you now know what to expect. Otherwise, there are pure Catahoula Currs and other Curr crosses with similar traits.
Featured Image Credit: Source