Pitahoula (Catahoula & Pitbull Mix) Breed Info: Pictures, Traits, & Facts

Affectionately known as a Pitahoula to those who love ‘em, the Catahoula and Pitbull mix is a relatively new and rare hybrid dog breed that is finally finding much-deserved popularity in the United States.

An intense and striking breed, the Catahoula and Pitbull designer dog breed is not for the inexperienced owner. The ultimate combination of beauty, brawn, and brains, the Pitahoula is bound to keep you on your toes.

If you’re seeking a unique designer breed to add to your family, keep on reading this in-depth article that’s all about the Catahoula and Pitbull mix.

Catahoula Pit Mix Puppy

Unfortunately, with the increased popularity and demand for designer dogs comes an increase in the number of bad backyard breeders. These people are simply seeking to make a quick buck off of puppy sales and have no regard for the health or happiness of the dogs they are breeding or selling.

One red flag to be aware of is a puppy being sold for less than it is worth. Often, there will be no contract involved which should immediately make you cautious. Backyard breeders will also not have the correct papers or vet records for their puppies and will often sell them before they reach 8 weeks old. The point is, do your research and ask lots and lots of questions. A reputable breeder would have the answers or do their best to find out the relevant information for you.

To guarantee that you’re bringing a happy and healthy puppy home, you must buy one from a good breeder.

3 Little-Known Facts About the Catahoula & Pitbull Mix

1. Their Parent Breed Was a U.S. Army Mascot

That’s right! During both World War I and World War II, Pitbulls were incorporated into Army recruitment posters because they perfectly embodied courage, strength, and determination.

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2. They Can Have Blue Eyes

Most dog breeds have brown or hazel eyes. Thanks to their Catahoula parent dog breed, Catahoula and Pitbull mixes can come with icy blue eyes!

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3. Catahoula Dogs Have Webbed Paws

Due to their lineage as swamp and bog hog hunters, the Catahoula breed has webbed feet to help them navigate the watery and marshy terrain effortlessly.

Temperament & Intelligence of the Pitahoula🧠

Just like how it’s critical to know how much raising a puppy will cost you, it’s also important to understand your new dog’s temperament and if they will mesh well with your family.

To fully understand a hybrid dog, you need to educate yourself about the parent breeds. Your Catahoula and Pitbull mix puppy can inherit any combination of personality traits, genes, and physical characteristics, so you need to ensure that you like them all.

The Pitbull, despite his unfair reputation of being a fierce fighting breed, is actually a loving, loyal dog. Originally developed to bait bulls, today’s Pitbull is a versatile, athletic, and highly intelligent type of dog that is gentle with children and a devoted family guardian. Though sometimes wary at first of strangers, a properly trained and socialized Pitbull can make a fantastic addition to any household.

The official state dog of Louisiana, the Catahoula Leopard is believed to have been brought to the south-eastern United States by 16^th-century Spanish travelers. Their top task was to hunt hogs in the area. This independent, hard-working pooch always wants a job to do. While extremely trainable, they thrive under a firm and consistent owner who fully understands the pack mentality.

Your Catahoula and Pitbull mix puppy will be a combination of any, or all, of the parent breed traits.

Are Pitahoulas Good for Families?🏡

Yes! Catahoula and Pitbull mixes are great for active families, even ones with young children. However, it’s always best to keep a watchful eye on your tots when they play with your pooch.

Do Pitahoulas Get Along with Other Pets?🐶 😽

If properly socialized from a young age, the Catahoula and Pitbull mix will get along with all of the other four-legged members of the household. However, due to the Catahoula’s intrinsic need to herd, they may feel a deep desire to chase the family cat.

Things to Know When Owning a Catahoula and Pitbull Mix

Now that you have a better understanding of a Catahoula and Pitbull mix’s personality, let’s explore everything else you’ll need to know before buying this one-of-a-kind dog.

Food & Diet Requirements🦴

Your Catahoula and Pitbull mix needs a high-quality, high-protein, grain-free kibble that is specially formulated for medium-sized dogs. On average, this hybrid breed will need about 2½ to 3½ cups per day. However, this amount may vary depending upon your Catahoula and Pitbull mix’s activity level. Since Catahoula and Pitbull mixes are prone to skin allergies, it is always important to ask your vet before changing your dog’s diet.

Exercise🐕

Your Catahoula and Pitbull mix comes from two working parent breeds, so they will need a lot of exercise to keep them engaged and entertained. A simple walk around the neighborhood once a day simply won’t cut it. This hybrid breed needs continuous exercise throughout the day. Whether that’s multiple brisk walks, a romp in the backyard, or a game of tug indoors, your Catahoula and Pitbull mix flourishes on both physical and mental stimulation. If you work long hours or aren’t home for large chunks of the day, this breed may not be for you.

Training🦮

If you only read one section of this article, be sure it’s this one, as training your Catahoula and Pitbull mix will either make or break them. First off, socializing your Catahoula and Pitbull mix from the start is critical. As soon as your puppy arrives home, start introducing them to as many new dogs and other critters as possible, in addition to humans.

A puppy obedience class is an excellent choice for your Catahoula and Pitbull mix. This will get them acclimated to other puppies but also enable you to lay down the laws from day one. The Catahoula and Pitbull mix can be a strong-willed dog, so consistent, strict training from the get-go is key.

We also recommend positive reinforcement training for your Catahoula and Pitbull mix. Plenty of physical and verbal praise, as well as tasty treats, will keep them motivated and eager to please.

Grooming ✂️

This type of dog has a short, smooth double coat and sheds less than many other breeds. Your Catahoula and Pitbull mix needs brushing once per week to keep the coat sleek and shiny. Clean their ears and clip their nails as needed, and bathe them every other month, unless they take a romp or roll through the mud!

Health Conditions ❤️

The Catahoula and Pitbull mix is generally an extremely healthy hybrid dog and can live up to 15 years of age. However, as with all mixed breeds, they are prone to some of the canine health concerns that the parent breeds may suffer from.

If your Catahoula and Pitbull mix is merle, they may become deaf due to the merle gene, including unilateral and bilateral. Even if your Catahoula and Pitbull mix is not merle colored, they could still carry this particular gene.

Another common concern among Catahoula and Pitbull mixes is hip dysplasia. This is caused by an abnormal formation of the hips and, over time, can lead to painful arthritis. Because of this, it’s important to feed your pooch kibble that contains high levels of phosphorous and calcium to promote proper bone growth.

Male vs. Female

A boy Catahoula and Pitbull mix may be larger than his female counterpart. Other than these physical differences, both genders generally have the same disposition and personality.

Final Thoughts: Pitahoula

The Catahoula Pitbull mix is a colorful, classy hybrid breed that excels in households with active families. They need consistent, firm training and socialization from the start and prefer being kept busy by regular exercise and mental stimulation.

If you’re seeking an intelligent, loving, and protective dog, the Catahoula and Pitbull mix may be the perfect pup for you!

Related Reads:

• Rhodesian Ridgeback Pitbull Mix: Info, Pictures, Characteristics & Facts
• 13 Types of Pitbull Dog Breeds & Their Differences (With Pictures)

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Featured Image Credit: Mary Swift, Adobe Stock