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Ratahoula Information & Dog Breed Facts

Collection of all the general dog breed info about Ratahoula so you can get to know the breed more.

Group Designer Dogs
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Ratahoula dog profile picture
OriginUnited States flagUnited States
Breed Classification
What type of dog breed is a Ratahoula? Learn about its genetic classification and breeding category.
Cross Breed Rat Terrier and Catahoula Leopard Dog mix

Ratahoula Size and Weight

Size Classification
What size category is a Ratahoula? Learn how big the Ratahoula breed typically grows.
LargeMedium
Weight Statistics
How much does a Ratahoula weigh? Discover typical weight ranges for adult males and females of the Ratahoula breed.
30-70 pounds (14-32 kg)
Average Weight
What is the average weight of a Ratahoula?
50 pounds (22 kg)
Height
How tall is the Ratahoula? Ratahoula height:
16-22 inches (41-56 cm)
Average Height
What is the average height of a Ratahoula?
19 inches (48.5 cm)

Ratahoula Price and Availability

Price Range
How much does a Ratahoula puppy cost? Find current market prices and factors affecting Ratahoula costs.
$300-$500
If you choose to purchase the Ratahoula, you should know that the mentioned amount of money is an average of the collected data from breeders’ sites and puppy finder places. If you have a Ratahoula for sale, please advertise it on a reliable website to make sure the Ratahoula gets to a happy place.
Availability
How easy is it to get a Ratahoula? How many Ratahoula are there in the world?
Frequent: The Ratahoula is easier than average to get. Maybe there is some risk of overbreeding, as it is a popular breed.

Due to its popularity, inbreeding may occur. A new study shows that inbreeding contributes to the incidence of disease and health problems.

So be careful and seek the help of an experienced person or a professional, in making your decision.

Ratahoula Trainability and Intelligence

Intelligence Rating
How intelligent is a Ratahoula? Discover the Ratahoula's intelligence ranking and learning capabilities.
Smart: The Ratahoula dogs have great intelligence. They understand and memorize new commands in 15-25 repetitions.

The Ratahoula is among the smartest dogs in the intelligence ranking.

Training Difficulty
How easy is it to train a Ratahoula? Learn about the Ratahoula's trainability and response to training methods.
Ratahoula dogs are quite easy to train. Sometimes they can be challenging, but if you're consistent in teaching new commands they will obey for sure.
Watchdog Rating
How good is a Ratahoula as a watchdog? Learn about the Ratahoula's alertness and guarding instincts.
Ratahoula dogs are good watchdogs. Their main job is to observe and they're consistent in their effort. Good vocal cords and a sense of hearing belong to them. Usually, they're territorial and protective about their property, so the Ratahoula dogs will alert you if they sense something different.
Territorial Protection
Is a Ratahoula protective of its territory? Learn about the Ratahoula's guarding instincts and behavior.
Ratahoula dogs are extremely protective guard dogs. This breed doesn't hesitate to protect its territory so the Ratahoula can be a good choice if you want an excellent guard dog. Keep calm and the Ratahoula will take care of unwanted people or animals.

Ratahoula Personality and Temperament

Personality Traits
What personality does a Ratahoula have? Learn about characteristic Ratahoula temperament and behavior traits.
LovingIndependentEnergeticProtectiveAlertCourageousIntelligentAffectionateLoyalLivelyGentleInquisitive
Sensitivity Level
How sensitive are they? Ratahoula sensitivity:
Ratahoula dogs have an average emotional level and are not the most sensitive dog breed. Sometimes it's okay to change the daily routine, have guests and listen to loud music.

Some dogs handle moderate punishment very well, while others crumble apart at a dirty look. This breed is not affected emotionally by moderate punishment.

Affection Level
How affectionate are they? Is a Ratahoula a good family dog?
High: Ratahoula dogs are genuinely loyal, soft and gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs toward their handlers. They enjoy quality time with their owners despite the activity and are considered great therapy dogs for those in need. This breed responds strongly to their handler's emotions because they bond closely. Their happiness is your happiness.
Social Needs
How much social interaction does the Ratahoula need? Ratahoula social needs:
Ratahoula dogs are a social breed. They enjoy being around people or other animals. This breed doesn't tolerate being left alone.
Impulse to Wander or Roam
How likely is the Ratahoula to run away? Does this breed explore or wander a lot? Does Ratahoula roam?
The wanderlust potential of the Ratahoula is strong enough to escape from home. They have a strong desire for exploring the world. Safer to walk them on a leash unless you teach them how to get back to you on command.
Prey Drive
Do this canine have a strong prey drive? Does Ratahoula have high prey drive?
Ratahoula dogs have an average prey drive, which means that they don't have a high impulse to chase and catch something like a cat or any other small aminals, but it might happen. Training can help to achieve good behavior.

Ratahoula Activity and Playfulness

Barking Frequency
Does a Ratahoula bark a lot? Learn about typical Ratahoula vocalization patterns and triggers.
Average: The Ratahoula barks occasionally. They can change their barks depending on their emotional level and what they're trying to say. Different barks could mean the same and the same barks could have different meanings.

Top reasons for barking: protection, alarm, fear, boredom, attention-seeking, greeting, separation anxiety, compulsive barking.

Playful Nature
How playful is a Ratahoula? Understand the typical play drive and energy level of the Ratahoula breed.
Average: Ratahoulas, like any other dog breed, like playing. Sometimes they bark in excitement for playing, but they are not the most playful dog breed.
Apartment Adaptability
Can a Ratahoula live in an apartment? Learn about the Ratahoula's suitability for apartment living.
It is not the best choice if you want to keep them indoors, however, with careful exercise and several walks a day, they will tolerate the indoor environment, so it is possible to keep Ratahoula indoors.

Ratahoula Adaptability and Independence

Lifestyle Adaptability
How adaptable is a Ratahoula to lifestyle changes? Learn about the Ratahoula's flexibility to new situations.
Ratahoula dogs adapt well to lifestyle changes and different living environments. They don't mind moving from one place to another with their owner.
Alone Time Tolerance
Can a Ratahoula be left alone? Learn about the Ratahoula's tolerance to solitude.
Ratahoula dogs do best when a family member is at home during the day or if their workplace is dog-friendly so they can take the dog at work.

Ratahoula Bite Characteristics

Bite Risk Assessment
What is a Ratahoula biting potential? Learn about the Ratahoula's bite risk factors.

Low 🔽

The Ratahoula has a low chance of biting somebody. Top reasons for dog bite: protection, pain, excitement, herding instinct, being provoked. (Data based on the available online bite statistics.)
Mouthing Tendency
Is a Ratahoula mouthy? Learn about the Ratahoula's tendency to use mouth during play.
Ratahoula dogs have an average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people. It's a common habit during puppyhood, not aggressive behavior. These "bites" don't hurt, but Ratahoula dogs need to be taught a good attitude.
Bite Strength Rating
How strong is a Ratahoula bite? Learn about the Ratahoula's bite force measured in PSI.

Between 200 and 400 PSI

Ratahoula bite force: Ordinary. Bite force Ratahoula measurements typically fall within the range of 200 to 400 PSI. The bite force of a Ratahoula is considered ordinary when compared to other dog breeds, but it is still quite powerful. This Ratahoula bite force PSI can cause bite wounds. Ratahoula bite PSI is not something that should be feared if the dog is well-trained and managed. To avoid any issues, it's essential to learn how to train a Ratahoula puppy not to bite from an early age.

The Ratahoula, and many others, have a fearsome presence because they have significant jaw strength, so it is important not to anger the dog and have it around strangers until it is fully trained.

However, they are usually quite calm and good companions, they work well in families and are easy to care for.

In conclusion, while the Ratahoula bite force is certainly an interesting aspect of the breed, it is important not to let it overshadow the many other reasons why these dogs are so loved and respected. With proper training and socialization, a Ratahoula can be a loyal and protective companion for your family.

Ratahoula Health and Lifespan

Average Lifespan
How long does a Ratahoula live? Learn about the typical lifespan of the Ratahoula breed.
14-18 years
The average lifespan of Ratahoula: 16 years
Climate Tolerance
How well does a Ratahoula handle different weather? Learn about the Ratahoula's climate adaptability.
Tolerates warm and cold weather
Dogs that tolerate hot and cold weather are typically those that have a double coat of fur. Dogs with a double coat of fur have a layer of fur that insulates their skin and helps protect them from the cold and the heat.
Health Concerns
What health issues are common in a Ratahoula? Discover typical conditions affecting the Ratahoula breed.
The Ratahoula is a healthy breed, but there are certain health issues that you should check with your vet regularly.
Vet Care Frequency
How often does a Ratahoula need vet visits? Learn about the Ratahoula's veterinary care requirements.
Average
The Ratahoula should have a complete physical check-up at least once per year. If your dog shows any symptoms, call your veterinarian.
Health Problems
What genetic/health problems does the Ratahoula breed have? What are the health issues and concerns of the Ratahoula breed? Most common health risks of Ratahoula:
Hip Dysplasia Legg-perthes DiseasePatellar LuxationEye ProblemsBloatHeart ProblemsDeafness

Ratahoula Energy and Activity

Energy Rating
How energetic is a Ratahoula? Understand daily activity needs of the Ratahoula breed.
Ratahoula dogs are high-energy dogs. An active lifestyle makes them happy.
Activity Requirement / Exercise Need
How much exercise does a Ratahoula need? How much exercise do Ratahoula dogs require per day?

Do Ratahoula dogs need a lot of exercises?

Ratahoula dogs need quite a lot of exercise. Daily walks should be on schedule. If you live an active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
Sleeping Need
How much sleep does the Ratahoula breed need?
Ratahoula dogs are quite energetic dogs and they don't spend too much time with sleeping. If you live an active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.

Ratahoula Diet and Weight Management

Obesity Tendency
Is a Ratahoula prone to weight gain? Learn about the Ratahoula's obesity risks.
Average: The Ratahoula has an average risk for obesity. Daily walks should be on schedule. To make your dog happy and fit, feed him with quality dry dog food and live an active life together. Try to find the happy medium between exercise and feeding.

If you notice any weight gain, consult your veterinarian and make a diet plan. Reduce unhealthy food and snacks, and measure the Ratahoula weight regularly.

Food Consumption
How much food does a Ratahoula need daily? Learn about the Ratahoula's feeding requirements.
3 to 4.5 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.

Ratahoula Allergies and Grooming

Allergy Friendliness
Is a Ratahoula hypoallergenic? Learn about the Ratahoula's suitability for allergy sufferers.
No
Ratahoula dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions. Some dog breeds are even considered to higher possibility of an allergic response. Coat type isn't necessarily relevant, because most people are allergic to dander (flakes on the dog's skin) or saliva, not actually to dog hair.
Coat Colors
What colors does a Ratahoula come in? Discover all possible Ratahoula color variations.
BlackGrayTan Red Blue White SilverBrown Brindle Tricolor
Grooming Requirements
How much grooming does a Ratahoula need? Learn about Ratahoula coat maintenance requirements.
Effortless: The Ratahoula requires minimal grooming. Seasonal flea treatment is needed, but cutting the dog's hair by a professional groomer isn't necessary.

Ears and eyes should be cleaned sometimes to avoid infections. Ratahoula is one of the best choices if you don't have the time, skill, or money to take care of a high-maintenance dog.

Highly recommended for beginners.
Drooling Tendency
Does a Ratahoula drool a lot? Learn about the Ratahoula's drooling habits.
The Ratahoula is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency. If you're disgusted by slobber spots on your clothes, the Ratahoula could be a perfect choice for you. Drooling is the unintentional saliva flowing outside of the mouth. It can be completely normal or a sign of a health problem. Certain dog breeds drool minimum compared to others, just like the Ratahoula.

If you notice any change in your dog's drooling habit, you should contact a vet as soon as possible.

Stinkiness Rating
Does a Ratahoula smell bad? Learn about the Ratahoula's natural odor levels.

Medium

The Ratahoula has an average chance of bad smell. Top reasons for dog stinkiness: infection of bad tooth/ear/skin folds, gas attacks.
Coat Characteristics
What type of coat does a Ratahoula have? Learn about the Ratahoula's fur characteristics.
DenseShinySmooth
Bathing Needs
How often does a Ratahoula need baths? Learn about the Ratahoula's bathing requirements.
4-6 weeks
Average. Experts recommended at least every 4-6 weeks for this family pup. According to a study, 56% of pet parents don’t bathe their dogs as frequently as they should, and 60% use the sniff test when deciding when it’s bath time.

Bathing your dog is beneficial to them in more ways than just one. It’s also a good time to look for unusual scratches, bumps, fleas, and other irregularities. When their hair is wet and flat against their body, these details are more visible.

Shedding Level
How much do Ratahoula dogs shed? How to control, reduce and prevent the shedding of the Ratahoula? Do Ratahoula dogs shed a lot?
Ratahoula dogs shed moderately. It's a natural process of the hair growth cycle. Regular brushing reduces the amount of hair that sheds. It mostly depends on their health status and breed type.

Ratahoula Good With

Child Compatibility
Is a Ratahoula good with children? Learn about the Ratahoula's behavior around kids of different ages.
Ratahoula dogs are very kid-friendly dogs. This breed enjoys being surrounded by children.
Pet Compatibility
How well does a Ratahoula get along with other pets? Discover the Ratahoula's compatibility with other animals.
Ratahoula dogs are usually friendly towards other pets.
Stranger Friendly
Are they aggressive or friendly towards/with strangers? Ratahoula temperament with other people:
Ratahoula dogs are average friendly towards strangers.
Cat Friendly
How well do Ratahoula dogs get along with cats? Are they good with kittens? What is this fido's temperament with cats? Can they be good with cats? Can the Ratahoula breed live with a cat?
Ratahoula dogs are cat-friendly dogs.
Dog Friendly
Is Ratahoula good with other dogs? Are they dog-friendly dogs? How well do Ratahoula dogs get along with other dogs?
Ratahoula dogs are average friendly towards other dogs.
Good For First Time Owners
Is Ratahoula breed good for first-time owners? Do they make a good dog for novice owners? Is Ratahoula breed suitable for first-time owners?
Yes
Ratahoula dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Office Friendly
Are Ratahoula dogs good office canines? Do Ratahoula dogs make good office-friendly pets? Can they be office dogs?
No
Ratahoula is not the best dog breed for office environment.
Senior Citizens Friendly
Are they senior citizens friendly dogs? How well do Ratahoula dogs get along with the elderly people? What is the Ratahoula temperament with senior people? Are Ratahoula dogs good for elderly owners?
Ratahoulas are one of the best breeds for elderly people.

Ratahoula As a Working Dog

Service Dog Capability
Can a Ratahoula be a service dog? Learn about the Ratahoula's service work potential.

Not really

This breed generally not used as a service dog. A service dog is a term used in the USA to refer to any type of assistance dog specifically trained to help people who have disabilities, such as visual impairment, hearing impairments, mental disorders, seizures, mobility impairment, and diabetes. Service dogs are protected under the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).

Ratahoula is not the best breed for service purposes.

Therapy Work Suitability
Is a Ratahoula good as a therapy dog? Learn about the Ratahoula's therapy work aptitude.

Not really

This breed is generally not used as a therapy dog. A therapy dog is a dog that might be trained to provide affection, comfort, and love to people in hospitals, retirement homes, nursing homes, schools, hospices, disaster areas, and people with anxiety disorders or autism.

Ratahoula is not the best breed for therapeutic purposes.

Scent Detection Ability
Is a Ratahoula good at detection work? Learn about the Ratahoula's scenting abilities.

Not really

They are not typically employed for this type of work, but there may be exceptional cases. A detection dog or sniffer dog is a dog that is trained to use its senses (mostly its smell) to detect substances such as explosives, illegal drugs, wildlife scat, currency, blood, and contraband electronics such as illicit mobile phones.

Ratahoula is not the best breed for detection purposes.

Search & Rescue Potential
Can a Ratahoula do search and rescue? Learn about the Ratahoula's SAR capabilities.

Yes

This breed would make an excellent search and rescue dog. The use of dogs in search and rescue (SAR) is a valuable component in wilderness tracking, natural disasters, mass casualty events, and in locating missing people.

The Ratahoula breed is a good choice for SAR purposes.

Maritime Work Ability
Is a Ratahoula good on boats? Learn about the Ratahoula's maritime capabilities.

Not really

Ratahoula breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.

Boat dogs were typically bred for their strength, stamina, and water resistance, as they were often required to perform tasks such as pulling in fishing nets, and jumping into the water to retrieve ropes or lines, or helping to move cargo.

Sailor dog is a type of dog that was bred to accompany sailors on their voyages. They were typically used for three purposes: as a working dog, a watchdog, and as a companion. A boat dog is a term used to describe a type of dog that was traditionally bred and used as a working dog on boats.

Draft Work Capability
Can a Ratahoula pull carts? Learn about the Ratahoula's drafting abilities.

Not really

A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling. Dogs bred for this work have strong builds and qualities that are needed, strength and determination.

Ratahoula is not the best breed for drafting purposes.

Military Service Background
Was a Ratahoula used in military service? Learn about the Ratahoula's military history.

Not really

In history, this breed was not really used for combat dog.

Ratahoula Reproducibility

Puppy Litter Size
How many puppies does a Ratahoula usually have? Learn about typical litter sizes.
8-12 puppies
Pregnancy Duration
How long is a Ratahoula pregnant? Learn about the Ratahoula's gestation period.

60-64 days

Reproductive cycle of the female Ratahoula: The first period called Proestrus lasts for about 9 days.

During this time the females start to attract males. You can notice by swelling vulva and bloody discharge.

The second part is the Estrus when the female is receptive for the male. It lasts for about 3 to 11 days.

The sign of the proestrus part is the soft and enlarged vulva. The discharge decreases and lightens in color.

The third part is the Diestrus. Normally, it occurs around day 14. In this period the female’s discharge changes for vivid red and coming to its end. The vulva returns to average, and she will no longer permit mating.

The fourth part called the Anestrus. The time frame between heat periods normally lasts about six months.

Breeding Frequency
How often can a Ratahoula have puppies? Learn about safe breeding intervals.

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy. It is very important not to buy a dog from a puppy mill, where the needs of the pups and their mothers are ignored. It's an inhumane high-volume dog breeding facility, where puppies born several times a year.

Ratahoula Recognition

AKC Classification
What AKC group is a Ratahoula in? Learn about the Ratahoula's AKC classification.
Not recognized by the American Kennel Club.
FCI Classification
What FCI group is a Ratahoula in? Learn about the Ratahoula's international classification.
Not recognized by FCI.

Ratahoula Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Intelligence Rating: Smart: The Ratahoula dogs have great intelligence.
  • Grooming Requirements: Effortless: The Ratahoula requires minimal grooming.
  • Drooling Tendency: The Ratahoula is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency.
  • Watchdog Rating: Ratahoula dogs are good watchdogs.
  • Lifestyle Adaptability: Ratahoula dogs adapt well to lifestyle changes and different living environments.
  • Child Compatibility: Ratahoula dogs are very kid-friendly dogs.
  • Cat Friendly: Ratahoula dogs are cat-friendly dogs.
  • Senior Citizens Friendly: Ratahoulas are one of the best breeds for elderly people.
  • Good For First Time Owners: Ratahoula dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
  • Search & Rescue Potential: This breed would make an excellent search and rescue dog.
Cons
  • Allergy Friendliness: Ratahoula dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions.
  • Impulse to Wander or Roam: The wanderlust potential of the Ratahoula is strong enough to escape from home.
  • Alone Time Tolerance: Ratahoula dogs do best when a family member is at home during the day or if their workplace is dog-friendly so they can take the dog at work.
  • Office Friendly: Ratahoula is not the best dog breed for office environment.

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