Dogo Guatemalteco vs Catalan Sheepdog - Breed Comparison

Dogo Guatemalteco vs Catalan Sheepdog - Breed ComparisonDogo Guatemalteco is originated from Guatemala but Catalan Sheepdog is originated from Spain. Both Dogo Guatemalteco and Catalan Sheepdog are having almost same height. Dogo Guatemalteco may weigh 20 kg / 45 pounds more than Catalan Sheepdog. Both Dogo Guatemalteco and Catalan Sheepdog has almost same life span. Both Dogo Guatemalteco and Catalan Sheepdog has almost same litter size. Both Dogo Guatemalteco and Catalan Sheepdog requires Moderate maintenance.

History

dogo guatemalteco - historyKnown as the Guatemalteco Bull Terrier or Guatemalan Molosser, the Dogo Guatemalteco is also known as the Bull Terrier Guatemalteco, Guatemalan Bull Terrier, and Guatemalan Molosser.

This big Molosser-type dog originates in Guatemala. In the 20th century, it was known as the Bullterrier Guatemalteco, but at the end of the century, it was changed to Dogo Guatemalteco.

Today, while the dog is kept as a companion dog, most are working guard dogs. The Dogo Guatemalteco isn’t recognized by any major international kennel clubs. However, the Kennel Club of Guatemala has given full recognition to this dog and it was in 1981 that the Guatemalan government named the dog as their national dog breed.

catalan sheepdog - historyThe Catalan Sheepdog, known also as the Gos d’Atura, hails from Catalonia, Spain. It is believed that the dog is related to the Portuguese- and Pyrenean Sheepdogs.

The standard for this breed was formulated in 1929. The sheepdog developed during Roman Empire times between 200 and 100 BC already, being used as livestock guard dogs. With the breed dwindling in the 1970s, Catalonian Sheepdog lovers started promoting it, but it remains a rare breed.

Description

dogo guatemalteco puppy - descriptionThe Guatemalteco is a medium to large dog standing at 54 – 60cm and weighing between 40-45kg. He has a short, smooth coat and is essentially white with some black markings on the head.

This breed was created from a crossing between a bull terrier, boxer and dalmatian. Some of the dogs are thickly built, while others are more leaner and athletic looking.

The ears of the dog vary quite a bit because while sometimes the ears fold down closely to the head, others are semi-pricked. There are some dog owners who have their dogs ears cropped into fully erect triangular shapes. The eye are small and usually dark brown.

Temperament:

The Dogo Guatemalteco is a fearless, evenly tempered dog. He was bred as a guard dog and he wants to protect his human family, forming a deep bond with them. It makes them difficult to re-home because of this.

It is imperative to have this dog trained and socialized because it might believe its the leader of the pack in your home. He is quite capable of getting along well with children and pets in the home. Because of his dominant nature, he isn’t suited as a pet for the first-time dog owner. He also doesn’t warm easily to strangers.

catalan sheepdog puppy - descriptionThe Catalan is a medium sized dog but gives the impression of being bigger than he actually is. He stands from 45 – 55cm in height and weighs between 20 to 25kg.

This breed also has double dew claws on the hind feet. He has a long coat which is slightly wavy and available in different shades such as fawn to brownish to dark grey to black. He has floppy, feathery ears and a fairly long, feathery tail. He has quite a bit of hair on he face too, so you’ll notice a beard, moustache as well as hair which covers the eyes somewhat.

Temperament

Brave and courageous, the Catalan Sheepdog is also intelligent, active and hardy. He has a round face with a friendly, amicable expression. He is totally pleasant and sweet natured. However, in his role as guardian of sheep he took his role seriously, forming a strong relationship with both shepherd and sheep.

He is wary of strangers. Early socialization and training is always important, and while he makes a wonderful family pet, this training and socialization makes him more relaxed and obedient and he gets on well with children in the home as well as with other pets. While he is a placid, docile and gentle pet, he is also looked upon as a protector, and will defend his family.

Characteristics

dogo guatemalteco dog - characteristicsYour Dogo Guatemalteco is an intelligent dog breed, and because he is strong-willed and stubborn he might give you a hard time during training. It is possible though and it is important as the training will turn him into an obedient, relaxed dog, able to get on with all his family members, including pets.

He is an energetic dog and will require walks and other forms of exercise each day.

This is certainly not the kind of dog that you buy to protect your property and provide little else for him except food and water. Frustration on the dog’s part can lead to destructive behavior and aggression.

Treat him well and he can make an excellent family companion.

catalan sheepdog dog - characteristicsThe Catalan Sheepdog is such an amicable character – he is going to make an awesome pet. He is an intelligent and obedient dog and is easily trained.

He has been used for guarding- and herding work and as a family pet makes a excellent guard dog as well. Capable of being gentle too, he is everything his human family wants him to be and just becomes a regular member of the family.

Health Problems

dogo guatemalteco puppies - health problemsThis dog can be susceptible to skin allergies. The skin is sensitive and prone to rashes.

Another health concern with this dog because of his white coat, is congenital deafness. The deafness could be in one- or both ears.

The dog could also experience lameness, of which the most common problem is hip dysplasia. Because skeletal problems occur in this breed, it is advisable for owners to have their pet tested by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals.

catalan sheepdog puppies - health problemsThe Catalan Sheepdog is a fairly healthy breed and has a life expectancy of 12, 13 or 14 years. Nonetheless you will still need to watch out with common dog ailments with him, particularly hip dysplasia.

Hyp Dysplasia:

This is a joint and hip disease which can start with symptoms from 6 months of age already. Your dog will be hesitant to play and jump, doesn’t like to go upstairs, tires easily during a walk and develops a hop-like way to walk. You’ll notice that when he lies down, he battles to- or is reluctant to get up again.

X-rays may be required to confirm the diagnosis of hip dysplasia. There are different treatment options, all with the wellbeing of your pet in mind. You don’t want him to have a life of pain and lameness.

Caring The Pet

dogo guatemalteco dogs - caringThe coat of the dog is short and harsh and it sheds throughout the year. While he is still looked upon as a low maintenance dog, regular brushing will be required twice a week.

Because he is a dog breed that is susceptible to skin allergies, bathing isn't necessary as it removes the dog’s natural oils.

Other areas of grooming for this dog are brushing his teeth twice a week, trimming his nails and checking his ears.

Diet:

Always choose a high quality dog food for your Dogo Guatemalteco and look at the feeding recommendations on the packaging.

When you feed your pet kibble, you can also mix in some cooked brown rice, vegetable and chicken for variety and contentment.

Raw meat is also advised from time to time. Don’t just go on and on through the years feeding your dog the same amount of food, as there are factors to take into account when deciding on food quantity. The age of your dog, it’s stage of life and its activity levels will mean regulating your pet’s food to match his needs.

Exercise:

catalan sheepdog dogs - caringThe Catalan Sheepdog is a working breed, so he is going to need plenty of exercise. While he adapts easily to city- or country life, it will be to his benefit to have a garden to romp in. You will still need to take him for walks and play ball- and rope games with him. This will prevent boredom and destructive behavior from him.

Grooming:

The Catalan Sheepdog has long hair so he will need to be brushed twice a week to avoid matting. This will help to remove loose hair too, but also distribute natural oils through his coat, keeping his hair and skin healthy and free from skin rashes and itchiness.

This brushing ensures other benefits as you can simultaneously check him for parasites such as fleas and ticks.

Diet:

If you feed him commercial dog food, make sure its a high quality one. He is an active breed so will require high protein. Give him some homemade rice, vegetables and meat, and include raw meat in his food from time to time too. Always ensure that there is fresh, cool water constantly within reach.

Basic Information

Group:
Molosser dogs
Herding dogs
Origin:
Guatemala
Spain
Height Male:
54 - 60 cm
21 - 24 inches
47 - 55 cm
18 - 22 inches
Height Female:
54 - 60 cm
21 - 24 inches
45 - 53 cm
17 - 21 inches
Weight Male:
40 - 45 kg
88 - 100 pounds
16 - 25 kg
35 - 56 pounds
Weight Female:
40 - 45 kg
88 - 100 pounds
15 - 25 kg
33 - 56 pounds
Life Span:
10 - 12 Years
12 - 14 Years
Litter Size:
4 - 8
4 - 6
Size:
Large dog
Medium dog
Other Names:
Guatemalan Molosser, Guatemalteco Bull Terrier
Gos d'Atura Català, Catalan shepherd
Colors Available:
White with black markings
Fawn, brownish, dark grey, black
Coat:
Short and smooth
Long coat - fairly wavy
Shedding:
Moderate, Constant
Moderate
Temperament:
Affectionate, Aggressive, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Territorial
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Docile, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social, Sweet, Territorial
Grooming:
Moderate maintenance
Moderate maintenance
Trainability:
Moderate
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Dogue De Bordeaux vs Dogo Guatemalteco - Breed Comparison
  2. Perro de Presa Canario vs Dogo Guatemalteco - Breed Comparison
  3. Dogo Guatemalteco vs Cane Corso - Breed Comparison
  4. Dogo Guatemalteco vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  5. Dogo Guatemalteco vs Danish Broholmer - Breed Comparison
  6. Dogo Guatemalteco vs Bakharwal Dog - Breed Comparison
  7. Dogo Guatemalteco vs Cabecudo Boiadeiro - Breed Comparison
  8. Dogo Guatemalteco vs Canis Panther - Breed Comparison
  9. Dogo Guatemalteco vs Cao de Castro Laboreiro - Breed Comparison
  10. Dogo Guatemalteco vs Cao de Fila da Terceira - Breed Comparison
  11. Dogo Guatemalteco vs Cordoba Fighting Dog - Breed Comparison
  12. Molossus vs Dogo Guatemalteco - Breed Comparison
  13. Sage Koochee vs Dogo Guatemalteco - Breed Comparison
  14. Perro Cimarron vs Dogo Guatemalteco - Breed Comparison
  15. Perro de Toro vs Dogo Guatemalteco - Breed Comparison
  16. Gran Mastin de Borinquen vs Dogo Guatemalteco - Breed Comparison
  17. Korean Mastiff vs Dogo Guatemalteco - Breed Comparison
  18. Samoyed vs Dogo Guatemalteco - Breed Comparison
  19. Labradoodle vs Dogo Guatemalteco - Breed Comparison
  20. Mixed vs Dogo Guatemalteco - Breed Comparison
  21. German Shorthaired Pointer vs Dogo Guatemalteco - Breed Comparison
  22. Great Pyrenees vs Dogo Guatemalteco - Breed Comparison
  23. Old English Sheepdog vs Dogo Guatemalteco - Breed Comparison
  24. Presa Canario vs Dogo Guatemalteco - Breed Comparison
  25. Pembroke Welsh Corgi vs Catalan Sheepdog - Breed Comparison
  26. Collie vs Catalan Sheepdog - Breed Comparison
  27. Dutch Shepherd vs Catalan Sheepdog - Breed Comparison
  28. English Shepherd vs Catalan Sheepdog - Breed Comparison
  29. Catahoula Cur vs Catalan Sheepdog - Breed Comparison
  30. Catalan Sheepdog vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  31. Catalan Sheepdog vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) - Breed Comparison
  32. Catalan Sheepdog vs Australian Cattle Dog - Breed Comparison
  33. Catalan Sheepdog vs Bearded Collie - Breed Comparison
  34. Catalan Sheepdog vs Austrailian Blue Heeler - Breed Comparison
  35. Catalan Sheepdog vs Blue Healer - Breed Comparison
  36. Catalan Sheepdog vs Australian Collie - Breed Comparison
  37. Catalan Sheepdog vs Australian Red Heeler - Breed Comparison
  38. Catalan Sheepdog vs Bergamasco - Breed Comparison
  39. Catalan Sheepdog vs Berger Picard - Breed Comparison
  40. Catalan Sheepdog vs Bohemian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  41. Catalan Sheepdog vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) - Breed Comparison
  42. Catalan Sheepdog vs Blue Lacy - Breed Comparison
  43. Catalan Sheepdog vs Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog - Breed Comparison
  44. Catalan Sheepdog vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Laekenois) - Breed Comparison
  45. Catalan Sheepdog vs Black Norwegian Elkhound - Breed Comparison
  46. Catalan Sheepdog vs Cao da Serra de Aires - Breed Comparison
  47. Pyrenean Shepherd vs Catalan Sheepdog - Breed Comparison
  48. Appenzell Mountain Dog vs Catalan Sheepdog - Breed Comparison
  49. Queensland Heeler vs Catalan Sheepdog - Breed Comparison

View/Compare Breeds

Popular Dog Breeds