The Canis Panther is a regal dog that you won’t normally bump into on your way to work or while walking in the park. But if you happen to see a Canis Panther, consider yourself lucky as this dog is very rare!

Canis Panther dogs have been around for around 50 years now, but even if you Google it, you won’t find much information about this peculiar breed. 

Fortunately, we have rounded up some of the most common questions people have about the Canis Panther. Read through this guide, and you’ll surely find what you’re looking for.

Breed Overview

What Is a Canis Panther? What Makes a Canis Panther? 

The Canis Panther is a rare breed composed of four different pedigrees — Doberman Pinscher, American Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Labrador Retriever, and Great Dane. Canis Panthers were developed in the United States in the 1970s. It is also known as Panther dog, Black Panther dog, or Panther Canis.

From its names, you can already tell what the Canis Panther is all about. This dog shares a resemblance with the wild predatory cat known as Panther. Needless to say, this is a fierce and intimidating pooch.

Canis Panthers are not for first-time dog owners, and their assertive and strong-willed attitude are only two of the reasons why. 

To learn more about the Canis Panthers, we need to take a closer look at its parent dog breeds. By doing this, we’ll get a better grasp of what traits the Canis Panther adopts from its parents.

Doberman Pinscher

The Doberman Pinscher is a German breed known for its powerful and aggressive personality. Doberman Pinschers are not naturally sociable, so it is critical to train and teach them how to bond with other people.

Because of their extreme intelligence and high energy level, Dobermans are most popular as military or police dogs. These dogs are also excellent guard dogs for large properties and homes.

Similar to Dobermans, Canis Panther has this very intimidating front. Both dogs share a similar gait and an almost indistinguishable posture. 

Even their cropped ears share a resemblance! Both breeds are also loyal to their owners and make fantastic family dogs.

American Staffordshire Terrier

The American Staffordshire Terrier, or AmStaff for short, is another powerful breed that makes up the Canis Panther. AmStaffs first became popular as fighting dogs because of their heavily-built figure. 

However, since dog fighting became illegal, American Staffordshire Terriers are now adopted as family companions. Many experts claim that the Canis Panther gets its beefy chest and strong limbs from the AmStaff.

Labrador Retriever

Labrador Retriever has got to be the least aggressive and powerful breed among Canis Panthers’ parent breeds. These dogs are obedient, sociable, and witty; they find fulfillment in pleasing their owners! 

Its obedience and pleasant personality are most likely why it is included in the mix. The Labrador’s incredible sense of smell and retrieval skills are also some of the traits the Canis Panther benefited from.

Great Dane

The Great Dane is a German dog known as one of the tallest breeds in the world. Great Danes are gentle, courageous, and among the most graceful dogs out there.

Great Danes were originally bred as working dogs that hunt wild boars. However, as years progressed, these giant-sized canines slowly crawled into our homes as family dogs.

If trained properly, a Canis Panther will take on the gentleness of the Great Dane. You’ll also see the resemblance between the Great Dane and the Canis Panther in how they move; these dogs have a graceful gait! 

By now, you probably have a general idea about how Canis Panthers are as pets. Watch this fun video to get a closer look at them!

Canis Panther Breed Origin and History 

Canis Panther is a first of its own — four dogs in one. It was developed during the early days of crossbreeding different pedigrees, specifically sometime in the 1970s.

The original crossbreeding of the Canis Panther took place in a remote area in Chicago, America. According to experts, a group of dog trainers felt it was necessary to make the perfect guard dog.

Mr. Michael Gypsy Stratten, Mr. Lucas Lopez, and Mr. Scorpio Jones were the first breeders to come up with the idea and actually execute it. 

Together, they developed the Canis Panther using the genes of four widely-known protection dogs.

The group believed that these dog breeds possess the traits of an ultimate guard dog — strong, brave, intelligent, and disciplined. 

Unfortunately, breeding Canis Panthers is not a simple process, which is why it never became as popular as other guard dogs. Breeding the Canis Panther requires thorough knowledge of its multi-generation pedigrees. 

That being said, it is undeniable that the Canis Panther is an impressive breed. This fur buddy is an extremely loyal and heavily muscled four-legged beast.

Canis Panther Appearance

Anyone who has seen a Canis Panther in person was probably intimidated or terrified at first. After all, who wouldn’t be? This personal protection dog stands tall, has a well-defined and muscular look, and stealthy jet-black fur. 

The Canis Panther also sports sharp and triangular ears. Usually, owners choose to have their pets’ ears cropped to give them a tidier look, but cropping the ears is not really required. 

This dog has a confident grin, a wide chest and jaw, and an overall fierce look.

Because they were bred to be a protector, Canis Panthers were purposely made to look menacing. Their huge stature, firm muscles, powerful limbs, and thick necks all constitute their daunting appearance.

Canis Panthers have a shallow wedge-shaped head. Their eyes are almond-shaped and can range in color from shades of blue and brown to amber. Their light eye colors counterbalance their overall brawny guise. 

In terms of coat color, the Canis Panther only comes in jet black. This coat color makes this dog look stealthy and bold. The coat on the Canis Panther is similar in color to the black Labrador Retriever.

Despite their seemingly thick coats, the Canis Panther actually has a thin layer of fur. 

This coat makes them susceptible to chilling temperatures similar to the Great Dane. This is also the reason why they should stay indoors despite their tough appearance.

The tail of this personal protection dog is naturally low-hanging, making them appear tame and gentle. 

However, most owners opt to have their Canis Panther tail-docked because it increases their agility and perceived dominance.

Canis Panther Size and Weight

Carrying the genes of four large protection dogs, it is no surprise that the Canis Panther is a large-sized breed. Typically, male Canis Panthers weigh 120 to 140 pounds and measure 27 to 30 inches tall at the shoulder. 

On the other hand, female Canis Panthers are slightly smaller. They weigh about 85 to 105 pounds and are 24 to 27 inches tall.

Because of their gigantic stature, Canis Panthers are recommended for pet enthusiasts with plenty of indoor and outdoor space. 

These dogs are not ideal for apartment living, but they can thrive in small spaces from time to time. 

The best environment for a Canis Panther is a home with a fenced backyard. As these dogs are active, fencing should be at least six feet in height.

As a large dog, the Canis Panther is also an excellent guard dog for farm or beach properties. With its innate guarding abilities, this big guard can steer intruders away even from afar!

Canis Panther Kennel Club Recognition

As of now, no kennel club has officially recognized the Canis Panther. That said, if you are looking for a breed that you can register with a kennel club, unfortunately, the Canis Panther is not it.

However, Canis Panther fanatics from all over the world are continuously pushing kennel club recognition for the breed. Of course, it might take a few more years before they succeed, but it will only be a matter of time.

It is also important to realize that the Canis Panther is a relatively new dog breed. 

Technically speaking, this breed is more of a mixed breed than a purebred one. Sadly, this will only make kennel club recognition a bit more challenging. 

In the meantime, you can try registering your Canis Panther with the designer dog registry clubs, such as Designer Dogs Kennel Club (DDKC), Designer Breed Registry (DBR), and International Designer Canine Registry (IDCR). 

These kennel clubs cater to hybrid dogs. That being said, there’s a pretty good chance that you’ll be able to register the Canis Panther with any of these organizations.

Canis Panther Temperament and Personality

Though often perceived as intimidating creatures, Canis Panthers have the potential to be good family dogs and companions. 

When appropriately trained and socialized at a young age, these dogs can become friendly and affectionate adult dogs. 

Like their parent breeds, Canis Panthers love spending time with their family members. They also tend to be super playful around them. 

That said, you should be cautious about letting young children and small pets play with your Canis Panther.

If you have other pets around the house, the Canis Panther may not be an ideal addition to the pack. These dogs can sometimes be super territorial, making them hard to get along with other animals.

On the flip side, this characteristic of the Canis Panther makes it an ideal personal protection dog and property guard dog. 

In the event of an attack or intrusion, these dogs will not hesitate to put their lives on the line to protect their families. 

This only shows their dedication and protective nature when it comes to their family pack. This is also why the Canis Panther is known as the “Ultimate Protector.” 

These panther dogs are always suspicious of strangers when they go outdoors. This is why it is common to see them observing everyone in the park.

As with most dogs, same-sex aggression is also pretty common in Canis Panthers. You’ll often find these pups quarreling or growling at other dogs of the same sex. 

All things considered, the Canis Panther is an excellent dog. However, it is not a dog for everyone. This special breed requires a special home and a special kind of patience and care.

Canis Panther Lifespan and Health Issues

Usually, a healthy Canis Panther will live between 10 and 11 years. This is a pretty average lifespan when it comes to large-breed dogs. 

In terms of health, the Canis Panther is a relatively new breed, so we have yet to come up with a definitive set of health issues common to them. However, they are likely prone to health issues common to large breeds.

Here are some potential health problems in Canis Panthers:

• Obesity: Obesity impacts a pet’s life as much as it does in humans. This health condition has severe consequences and often gives birth to other detrimental health effects. Unfortunately, obesity is harder to spot in large breed dogs such as the Canis Panther.
• Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV): GDV or bloat sounds simple but can be fatal if left untreated. It happens when food, fluid, or gas fills up your dog’s stomach and subsequently twists. To prevent bloat, avoid overfeeding your dog or restrict them from eating too fast.
• Eye Disease: Canines, in general, are vulnerable to eye diseases. The ASPCA Pet Health Insurance has listed hundreds of eye diseases that canines are prone to. As a potential Canis Panther owner, you need to be well-informed about these diseases.
• Ear Infections: Ear infections are probably the most manageable health issue to treat on this list. But they are still not to be taken lightly because they can bring so much discomfort to our pets. According to many owners, ear cropping, when done properly, can help prevent ear infections in Canis Panthers.

The list we have provided above is by no means complete. Aside from these, Canis Panthers may also suffer from dilated cardiomyopathy. 

Moreover, this is not, in any way, meant to supply you with detailed information about Canis Panthers’ health concerns. 

If you want more reliable and timely information, we recommend visiting your local veterinarian. 

Also, if you end up getting a Canis Panther, it is best to schedule a regular vet check-up to help your dog stay in tip-top condition!

How to Take Care of Your Canis Panther

The Canis Panther is a truly special dog. This pup is not your regular Labrador Retriever or Goldendoodle. As expected, these special pooches will need a slightly special kind of care.

There are a couple of things to consider when taking care of a Canis Panther. In this section, we’ll focus on three of the most important areas — nutrition, grooming, and exercise.

Food and Diet

Panther dogs require a high-protein, meat-based diet. They can be fed different kinds of raw meat, such as salmon and chicken. Vegetables and fruits are also beneficial for these dogs.

If you decide to feed your dog dry kibble, remember to buy high-quality food for large-breed dogs. Pick the ones that are good for joint and bone health, muscle tone, and skin health. 

Regarding food portions, Canis Panthers require four to six cups of dry food daily. In total, this is approximately around 2,000 calories, so it is suggested to break down their meals into two to three portions.

Alternatively, some pet owners also recommend raw feeding for the Canis Panther. According to some, this kind of diet is more beneficial for a dog’s overall health.

Cleaning and Grooming

Canis Panthers have a dense and short coat that sheds mildly. The coat on these dogs is relatively low maintenance. In fact, it is not necessary to brush them at all!

However, if you can’t stand loose fur on your furniture, brushing your Canis Panther once or twice a week should keep shedding to a minimum. Just be sure to use the right kind of dog hairbrush. 

The coat of the Canis Panther doesn’t usually get smelly, so only bathe them when needed. Too much bathing can be damaging since it can cause loss of natural oils that keep their coat healthy. 

In terms of oral health, brush your dog’s teeth two to three times a week. Alternatively, you can also give them dental treats to help reach the nooks and crannies. 

Canis Panthers have pretty sharp nails, so trimming them should be done regularly. Sometimes, they can be stubborn when being groomed, so it’s better to start them young.

Training and Exercise 

Training a Canis Panther does not require too much effort since this breed is intelligent and picks up commands quickly. However, it is vital to establish your leadership with your dog early on.

Keep in mind that these dogs are assertive and dominant in nature. In fact, this dog will take command if an owner feels threatened with them. That said, leash training and early socialization are crucial for this dog breed.

If training your Canis Panther is too much for you, we suggest consulting a professional trainer. Surely, your Canis Panther will become a good pet after being trained by a professional. 

On the other hand, if you decide to train the Canis Panther by yourself, we recommend positive reinforcement training. This is the most effective training scheme for this mix.

When it comes to exercise, Canis Panthers need quite a bit. These dogs require intense physical exercises that will boost their minds and bodies. 

Since these are active dogs, they need at least one hour of intense exercise per day.

Alternatively, these dogs will also benefit from hours of long walks or short bursts of energy. Just keep in mind that Canis Panthers have short fur, which means they don’t do well with extreme weather conditions. 

How Much Does a Canis Panther Cost? Puppy Prices & Expenses

Canis Panther puppies from a reputable breeder cost between $500 and $3,500. This is about the same price as their Great Dane, Labrador, Doberman, and American Staffordshire Bull Terrier parents.

The breeder’s reputation, the age and gender of the puppy, and lineage are some factors affecting its price. 

On top of that, the rarity of this breed is also a reason why they have hefty price tags.

Typically, Panther dogs that come from high-quality bloodlines are more expensive. In fact, their puppy price can reach up to $6,000. 

However, you can save a lot of money if you choose to adopt since the adoption fees only cost $150 to $600. 

As a pet parent, you should also consider the cost of some essential goods for your Canis Panther. These are things like food bowls, grooming kits, toys, and more.

Here is a breakdown of the initial expenses needed for your Canis Panther puppy:

As you can see, you need an extra $620 to $3,150 on top of the price of the Canis Panther puppy. 

Remember that this is just an estimated cost of the necessities for a Panther dog. There can still be other supplies needed depending on your dog’s condition. 

Places to Find Canis Panther Puppies for Sale and Adoption

Because of the rarity of the Canis Panther, it can be challenging to find them in the pet market. If you wish to own one of these rare pooches, extra efforts on your end will definitely be needed. 

That said, we have rounded up some reputable breeders and rescues that may have Canis Panthers. The sources listed below have been in the business for many years now, and they are some of the most trusted. 

As always, it is recommended to get your dog from reputable sources only. Buying or adopting a dog from puppy mills or backyard breeders is never a good idea.

Here is a list of breeders where you may find Canis Panther puppies for sale: 

• Rock of Ages Kennel – The Rock of Ages Kennel sells Canis Panther puppies and offers breeding and training services. They are a wife-and-husband tandem with a professional background in training and breeding dogs. More information is available on their website. 
• War Ready K9 – War Ready K9 also sells Canis Panthers and offers breeding and training services. Unfortunately, their website is not up to date, so you may need to contact them to have more information about their available Canis Panther puppies.
• NorCa Canis Panthers – NorCa Canis Panthers is a small business that breeds, trains, and sells Canis Panther puppies. Visit their Facebook page if you want to see adorable photos of their Canis Panthers!

If the sources mentioned above don’t work out for you, try adopting a Canis Panther instead. Adoption will not only save you a ton of cash, but it could potentially save a dog’s life as well!

Here is a list of rescues and services where you may find Canis Panthers for adoption: 

• Best Friends Animal Society – Best Friends Animal Society is a non-profit organization that adopts and rehomes unwanted animals. From time to time, this organization fosters and cares for rare dog breeds such as the Canis Panther. 
• Petfinder – Petfinder is an online service that aims to make pet adoption accessible to all. Using this service, you’ll gain access to thousands of pets that are up for adoption. Check out their listings from time to time to see if they have Canis Panthers!
• Adopt-a-Pet – Adopt-a-Pet is another service that aims to make adoption accessible. This service is backed by a non-profit organization whose goal is to connect aspiring pet owners to thousands of shelters and rescues all over the country. 

Unfortunately, there are not a lot of sources dedicated to the Canis Panther breed. 

For now, this is understandable, given the rarity of the breed. However, in the near future, there will certainly be more Canis Panther breeders and rescues that will offer this breed for free.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Canis Panthers Hypoallergenic?

No. While Canis Panthers have short coats that shed minimally, they are still not considered hypoallergenic. In fact, no dog is truly hypoallergenic. 

A dog is only considered hypoallergenic if it secretes considerably minimal amounts of dander. Dander is composed of dead skin cells that are shed off by animals. 

Do Canis Panthers Shed a Lot?

No. Canis Panthers have a short coat that sheds moderately at worst. Similar to its Doberman and Great Dane parentage, these dogs do not shed a ton. 

That said, the Canis Panther may still shed a considerable amount during shedding season. Expect to see a few loose hair strands around the house during this time.

Are Canis Panthers Aggressive?

Canis Panthers are known to be aggressive, especially with strangers. After all, this is what they are trained for — to be fierce guard dogs. 

However, once you gain their trust, you will see how affectionate, loyal, and loving these creatures are. 

Final Thoughts

Canis Panthers may be fierce-looking and assertive, but they are loyal and good family dogs once they get comfortable with you. 

The Canis Panther is the type of dog that will not hesitate to guard you with all its life. At the same time, this is the kind of dog that loves to get as much exercise as possible.

Extra care and patience are needed when owning a Canis Panther dog. If you can commit to their needs, then the Canis Panther is probably a fantastic match for you. 

However, if you are a first-time pet owner, it might be best to pick a different dog breed for now.

What are your thoughts about the Canis Panther? Feel free to share them in the comment box below.