Bulgarian Shepherd vs Catahoula Leopard - Breed Comparison

Bulgarian Shepherd vs Catahoula Leopard - Breed ComparisonBulgarian Shepherd is originated from Bulgaria but Catahoula Leopard is originated from United States. Bulgarian Shepherd may grow 7 cm / 3 inches higher than Catahoula Leopard. Bulgarian Shepherd may weigh 9 kg / 20 pounds more than Catahoula Leopard. Bulgarian Shepherd may live 43 years more than Catahoula Leopard. Both Bulgarian Shepherd and Catahoula Leopard has almost same litter size. Bulgarian Shepherd requires Moderate maintenance. But Catahoula Leopard requires Low maintenance

History

bulgarian shepherd - historyThe Bulgarian Shepard Dog comes from the ancient line of Molossers of Central Asia and Tibet, and the shepherds of the Balkans, Turkey and Caucasus. Among the oldest and most valued of the working dogs of Europe, the Bulgarian Shepherd breed was created by mixing the Balkan breeds with the dogs from Central Asia by the proto-Bulgarians around the 7th century. The Karakachanskoto Kuche was introduced to Bulgaria and accepted by the sheep herders. Mixing this breed in with the Balkan and Central Asian mix developed the Bulgarian Shepherd we know today. In the long run the original Karakachanskoto Kuche became extinct, replaced entirely by the Bulgarian Shepherd even in places where the new breed is still called by the Kuche name. Although the breeds are not the same, most of the dog world does not know the difference.

In Bulgaria however the Karakachan is a national treasure and the history of the breed runs deep. One Kuche could run up to 1200 animals and hundreds were used by the herdsmen in the mountains of Bulgaria. There were many regional types of Bulgarian Shepherds with very little difference between those types. These dogs were so prized by the shepherds that the dogs ate first before the people. The dogs however ate a vegetarian diet of milk, wheat, water and oats. The Bulgarian Shepherd lives a long life of often over 20 years. The Bulgarian Army made good use of these dogs early in the 20th century.

Following World War II, the wolves were close to extinction and property in Bulgaria was nationalized. There was no longer a need for a large force of working dogs. The Communist government exterminated large numbers of sheep dogs including the Bulgarian Shepherd. Only those species on government owned farms and in remote regions survived. When the government farms were disbanded in the early 20th century, these dogs were exterminated as well. Only those in the mountains survived. Commercial breeding of the Bulgarian Shepherd in the end of the century has resulted in controversy as other breeds came into the breeding program.

Use of breeds such as Sarplaninacs, Caucasian Ovcharkas, St. Bernards, Central Asian Ovcharkas and Bosnian Tornjaks in these programs resulted in Bulgarian Shepherd or Karakachans that were a lot different from the original breed. There is therefore some concern about the future of the breed in Bulgaria, yet they received official Bulgarian national recognition in 2000. Today’s Bulgarian Shepherd is a guard dog for both property and livestock.

The official standard for the breed came about in 1991 and in 2005 it was recognized by the Bulgarian State Commission for Animal Breeds. Only those dogs that meet this standard are considered “true” Karakachans. The Bulgarian Shepherds are willing to fight bears and wolves in defense of its family and flock. The dog is brave and loyal, dignified and powerful. They are recognized by both the Dog Registry of America, Inc. (DRA) and the Bulgarian Republican Federation of Cynology (BRFC) a member of the FCI.

catahoula leopard - historyThis working dog breed originates from America’s Deep South. In fact it was originally named after a small village in the state of Louisiana and was made the state’s official dog in 1979. The dog is believed to have come from the Mastiff and Greyhound.

Known as war dogs they were left with local tribes who crossed them with wolves, and French Beauceron blood was also included.

A number of Catahoula dog Associations were started and the Louisiana Catahoula Cur Association was formed in 1976, followed by others. These Associations work to promote the breed. In 1995 the United Kennel Club was the first national dog registry to recognize the Catahoula.

Basic Information

Group:
Working dog
Working dog
Origin:
Bulgaria
United States
Height Male:
65 - 75 cm
25 - 30 inches
56 - 68 cm
22 - 27 inches
Height Female:
63 - 72 cm
24 - 29 inches
53 - 68 cm
20 - 27 inches
Weight Male:
45 - 57 kg
99 - 126 pounds
20 - 48 kg
44 - 106 pounds
Weight Female:
40 - 52 kg
88 - 115 pounds
18 - 48 kg
39 - 106 pounds
Life Span:
45 - 57 Years
10 - 14 Years
Litter Size:
5 - 10
8 - 12
Size:
Large dog
Medium dog
Other Names:
Karakachan Shepherd Dog, Karakachan
Louisiana Catahoula, Catahoula Hound, Leopard Dog
Colors Available:
BlackWhiteTricolor
Brindle, blend of several colors - blue merle, red merle, black and tan
Coat:
Single
Short and smooth
Shedding:
Moderate
Minimal, Seasonal
Temperament:
Alert, Courageous, Independent, Intelligent, Loyal, Protective, Territorial
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social, Territorial
Grooming:
Moderate maintenance
Low maintenance
Trainability:
Moderate
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

Description

bulgarian shepherd puppy - descriptionA massive, powerful and muscular Molosser, the Bulgarian Shepherd is strong, agile, powerful and fast. They are intelligent and reliable. They have a long, thick, harsh coat in white with patches of black. Their skull is massive and broad with a furrowed forehead. The muzzle is massive as well while the nose has wide nostrils and is fairly large. It has close fitting, thick lips with strong, scissor bite jaws. The Bulgarian Shepherd’s eyes are deep, oblique and small. They are either hazel or dark. They have an intelligent and confident, yet firm almost grim expression.

Their ears are low set, small and v-shaped. They sit close to the head which sits on a powerful but short neck. They have a broad back, well-muscled body with a deep chest and long, rough tail. Their gait is a trot with a spring in their step. There are two types of coats – longhaired and shorthaired with no undercoats.

catahoula leopard puppy - descriptionKnown as the Leopard dog because of the distinctive spotted patches on his short to medium length coat, this interesting looking spotted dog can have a coat of many colors such as solid colors, brindle and a blend of several colors including blue merle and red merle, black and tan.

He is a muscular and athletic dog of medium to large size with sturdy legs and deep chest. He stands at 56 – 68cm and weighs 20 – 50kg. Many of these dogs have webbing between the toes which gives them an advantage when running through marshy areas or when swimming.

With his floppy ears, the tail is long or bobtailed. An unusual aspect with the dog is his eyes – having what is known as marbled glass eyes which are blue or blueish-white in color.

Temperament:

The Catahoula Leopard Dog can be stubborn and he is also energetic, fearless and highly intelligent. You’ll want to have him trained and socialized early as then he becomes a more relaxed, obedient dog. He is an assertive dog but not aggressive by nature.

Catahoulas in general are even tempered and they are willing to share their space with children in the home as well as other pets. They are protective of children and of their entire human family, making good watchdogs.

Characteristics

bulgarian shepherd dog - characteristicsThis is a working dog, intelligent and independent guard dog. Reserved around strangers but loyal and devoted with his family. Tolerant of children in their family if they were raised with them. Not only will she defend human family members, she will guard and defend household pets as well. He is quite capable of making her own independent decisions. These are very intense guard dogs that will respond aggressively if they think their people are being attacked.

catahoula leopard dog - characteristicsThe Catahoula makes a fine family pet but he is a dog which shouldn’t be left outside day after day. He is a companion dog and won’t thrive without the companionship of his human family.

He is highly intelligent and also energetic, and if you want him to be relaxed and amicable around other humans and pets in the home he will require training and socialization. For training and ownership, the Catahoula Leopard will require a strong, firm, confident personality and he’ll be an obedient, loving and loyal companion.

Health Problems

bulgarian shepherd puppies - health problemsThe breed itself is known to be healthy but they do face some of the usual health issues of the massive, giant breeds. This includes knee and elbow dislocation; hip dysplasia; bloat; entropion and osteosarcoma. All of these conditions require medical intervention, but bloat and osteosarcoma are the deadliest. Bloat needs immediate attention and osteosarcoma is a deadly bone cancer.

catahoula leopard puppies - health problemsYour Catahoula Leopard is a healthy dog breed and with good care he can live to be 10 to 14 years of age. However, there are a number of reasons why some of the healthiest dogs can become ill.

Knowing about these illnesses means you can take action and minimize the pain and suffering your pet might have to otherwise endure.

Ear Infections:

You’ll notice your pet shaking his head and maybe even scratching his ears. Ear infections are more evident in dogs with floppy ears and there can be an ear discharge. When left untreated, the ears can become painful and then it is time to get him to the vet.

Urinary Tract Infection:

This is a common illness in dogs and can be terribly uncomfortable and debilitating for your pet as he tries to urinate all the time with no success. Signs of UTI can include this excessive urination with little urine coming out, lethargy and discomfort. Take your pet immediately to the vet to be checked over.

Caring The Pet

Feeding

bulgarian shepherd dogs - caringThese are large dogs with large appetites, but you want to keep them lean and active. Feed them at least twice a day with a high quality large or giant dog dry food. Four to five cups of food per day is the maximum.

Health issues

Patellar Luxation – a floating kneecap or dislocated knee. Will cause lameness.

Bloat - distended or twisted stomach. Can cause death.

Osteosarcoma – bone cancer must be treated immediately as it is potentially fatal.

Entropion – eye issues when the eyelid turns inward and damages the eye.

Hip Dysplasia – May cause lameness and arthritis.

Exercise and games

The Bulgarian Shepherd needs a good amount of exercise every day. Remember this is a working breed and they need a job. Long walks every day are essential for his well-being.

catahoula leopard dogs - caringA dog makes such a splendid pet, willing to give loyal and loving friendship to humans, even those who don’t treat him properly. When you think of the unconditional love your Catahoula Leopard dog will give you, surely you want to provide him with good food and shelter.

Love and treasure this 4-legged friend of yours as he is a friend like no other.

Provide identification for Him:

It can be devastating if your dog goes missing, and if he has no identification, to find him might only mean telling people what he looks like. Rather put a collar on him and an ID tag so that your chances of getting him back are just that much better.

You can also have him micro-chipped by your veterinarian and these chips have a unique code which can provide useful information on your pet.

Vaccinations:

Make sure that your pet is vaccinated as a puppy against diseases which could be deadly such as rabies.

Spay or Neuter your Catahoula Leopard:

If you have no intention of allowing your Catahoula Leopard to have puppies, rather have him neutered or spayed if its a female. It is better for them and they can live longer and be free of some ailments that at un-spayed or un-neutered dog may get.

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Samoyed vs Bulgarian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  2. Great Pyrenees vs Bulgarian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  3. Presa Canario vs Bulgarian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  4. Labrador Husky vs Bulgarian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  5. Argentine Dogo vs Bulgarian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  6. Giant Schnauzer vs Bulgarian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  7. Goldador vs Bulgarian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  8. Dogo Cubano vs Bulgarian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  9. Dogo Sardesco vs Bulgarian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  10. Central Asian Shepherd vs Bulgarian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  11. Mackenzie River Husky vs Bulgarian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  12. German Longhaired Pointer vs Bulgarian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  13. Pyredoodle vs Bulgarian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  14. Entlebucher Mountain Dog vs Bulgarian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  15. Lurcher vs Bulgarian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  16. Maremma Sheepdog vs Bulgarian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  17. Sarplaninac vs Bulgarian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  18. Himalayan Mastiff vs Bulgarian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  19. Mountain View Cur vs Bulgarian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  20. Central Anatolian Shepherd vs Bulgarian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  21. Native American Indian Dog vs Bulgarian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  22. Greater Swiss Mountain Dog vs Bulgarian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  23. Greenland Dog vs Bulgarian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  24. Komondor vs Bulgarian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  25. Bulgarian Shepherd vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  26. Sakhalin Husky vs Catahoula Leopard - Breed Comparison
  27. Catahoula Leopard vs American Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  28. Catahoula Leopard vs Border Collie - Breed Comparison
  29. Catahoula Leopard vs Alaskan Husky - Breed Comparison
  30. Catahoula Leopard vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  31. Catahoula Leopard vs Borador - Breed Comparison
  32. Catahoula Leopard vs Canadian Eskimo Dog - Breed Comparison
  33. Catahoula Leopard vs Berger Blanc Suisse - Breed Comparison
  34. Catahoula Leopard vs Australian Kelpie - Breed Comparison
  35. Catahoula Leopard vs Basque Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  36. Catahoula Leopard vs Canaan Dog - Breed Comparison
  37. German Pinscher vs Catahoula Leopard - Breed Comparison
  38. Portuguese Water Dog vs Catahoula Leopard - Breed Comparison
  39. Puli vs Catahoula Leopard - Breed Comparison
  40. Griffon Bleu de Gascogne vs Catahoula Leopard - Breed Comparison
  41. German Spaniel vs Catahoula Leopard - Breed Comparison
  42. McNab vs Catahoula Leopard - Breed Comparison
  43. Porcelaine vs Catahoula Leopard - Breed Comparison
  44. Finnish Lapphund vs Catahoula Leopard - Breed Comparison
  45. Griffon Nivernais vs Catahoula Leopard - Breed Comparison
  46. Hokkaido vs Catahoula Leopard - Breed Comparison
  47. Petit Bleu de Gascogne vs Catahoula Leopard - Breed Comparison
  48. Pumi vs Catahoula Leopard - Breed Comparison
  49. Griffon Fauve de Bretagne vs Catahoula Leopard - Breed Comparison
  50. Istrian Sheepdog vs Catahoula Leopard - Breed Comparison

View/Compare Breeds

Popular Dog Breeds