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The Catahoula Leopard dog breed is one that has a unique look! They’re popular hunting dogs that need a job to do!
Are you thinking about adopting a Catahoula Leopard dog? If so, you’ll want to know how much it can cost to adopt these dogs. In addition to the adoption fees, there are other expenses that also need to be considered when you bring home a new fur baby!
We’ve put together some information about the Catahoula Leopard dog, how much it can cost to adopt one, and other expenses you’ll want to consider in your budget after becoming a pet parent. Let’s get started!
What is a Catahoula Leopard Dog?
Catahoula Leopard dogs have a unique look and name! The dog breed’s name comes from the Choctaw Native American word that means “sacred lake.” The dogs originally came from a place in northern Louisiana near Catahoula Lake. It’s thought the dogs were bred with Mastiffs, Bloodhounds, and even Greyhounds. The dogs were bred to track and round up wild hogs found in the forests of Louisiana. This is why the dog breed is also sometimes called “hog dogs.”
Catahoulas have a unique coat that can be brindle, solid, spotted, or patched with many colors. They also have webbed feet that make it easier for the dogs to get through the swampy areas where feral pigs lived. But their uniqueness doesn’t end there! Catahoula Leopard dogs may also have brown, blue, green, or amber eyes. Some have eyes where each is a different color or “cracked” eyes (two colors in the same eye).
These dogs are wary of strangers and are very protective of their families. They have strong opinions about who they accept or not. If someone’s not trustworthy, a Catahoula will spot it right away! Pet parents who have these dogs say they’re excellent at judging a person’s character!
These dogs are highly independent and intelligent. Catahoula Leopard dogs need a job to do and will work hard to accomplish any task they’re given. They’re also highly energetic dogs and need a lot of strenuous daily exercise. Count on spending at least an hour a day exercising your fur baby, though longer is better.
When it comes to training, the dogs are trainable; however, they do best with a pet parent who shows they’re in charge through positive reinforcement training methods. For this reason, Catahoulas are not recommended for inexperienced pet parents.
In addition, these dogs need plenty of socialization from a young age to make them friendlier with other animals. When properly socialized and raised with other dogs and animals, Catahoulas do well. However, some of these dogs never really become socialized with other pets. So, these dogs will have to be in a single-pet home.
When it comes to his family, the Catahoula Leopard dog is quite affectionate and protective. They do make excellent watchdogs and will bark a warning if strangers approach. These dogs need to be handled firmly but with respect and care. They will not take mistreatment or physical abuse.
These dogs can also be great with kids; however, they should never be left unsupervised with kids. This applies to all dogs breeds. It’s also possible for these dogs to get along with other dogs and cats; however, they don’t take well to dogs outside of their immediate family.
Catahoulas are best suited for pet parents that know how to manage and train these dogs. They also need an active pet parent who provides the right level and amount of exercise these dogs require.
Catahoula Leopard dogs usually stand between 20 to 26 inches tall and weigh between 50 to 90 lbs. They have a life expectancy between 10 to 14 years.
How Much Does It Cost to Adopt a Catahoula Leopard Dog?
The adoption price of a Catahoula Leopard dog can vary depending on several factors. For instance, if you choose to adopt your fur baby from a reputable breeder, the adoption fee is much higher than adopting from a shelter. In addition, adopting a dog in a city is usually more expensive than adopting a dog in a small town or rural area.
So, if you adopt from a reputable breeder, a Catahoula Leopard dog can cost between $300 and $500. However, if you choose to adopt from a shelter, the price may be between $100 and $300.
Some people believe shelters charge too much to adopt their pets. However, consider that a shelter is a non-profit organization. Their funds are used to pay for shelter, food, and medical treatment for the pets in their care. So, your adoption fee goes to help other pets in need.
There are other places where it’s possible to find a Catahoula Leopard dog for a lower price. However, these sources are best avoided. The reason is that these are usually dogs offered by puppy mills and backyard breeders. These breeders don’t use best breeding practices are take good care of their dogs. Many dogs that come from these places have health problems and behavioral issues. It’s best to completely avoid getting your fur baby from breeders of this kind.
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Ask a Vet Live NowOther Expenses That Go with Adopting a Catahoula Leopard Dog
In addition to the dog’s adoption fee, you’ll also need to factor in other expenses that go along with being a pet parent. These are items and supplies your dog will need when he comes home that first day!
Here’s our list of the basic supplies and items you’ll need for your Catahoula:
- Food & water bowls: $10 to $30
- Collar: $10 to $20
- Leash: $10 to $30
- Harness: $20 to $40
- Dog food: $80/month (these are large, active dogs that need plenty of food)
- Dog brush: $8 to $20
- Dog shampoo: $5 to $20
- Dog toys: $10 to $50
- Dog bed: $30 to $110
- Dog crate: $40 to $150
In addition, you’ll need to factor in medical costs, which usually include regular vet checkups, vaccinations, medications, and treatments.
Summing It Up
As you can see, there’s more to consider than just the adoption fee when you’d like to adopt a Catahoula Leopard dog!
Even so, we know that when you do adopt a Catahoula, you’ll have an amazing companion for years to come!
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Tom
Tom has always loved to write since he was little - he wanted to be either a writer or a veterinary doctor, but he ended up being a professional writer while most of his works are based on animals. He was born in San Francisco but later moved to Texas to continue his job as a writer. He graduated from the University of San Francisco where he studied biotechnology. He is happily married and a soon to be father!
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