Labrador Mix

Any mixed dog takes the best and worst from both of its parents. Labrador mixes are generally thought to be sound, healthy dogs that fit in well with most families. If you only know that your dog is a Labrador mix, it’s important to at least know all that you can about the Labrador. The modern Labrador has a rich ancestry. The first Labs were the result of a breeding between a fishing and retrieving dog from Newfoundland and a Labrador from Canada. Originally, the Labrador and larger water dog from Newfoundland were listed under the same classification. Eventually, the smaller Labrador and larger water dog were separated into two classifications.

Labrador mixes tend to be medium to large dogs but they are built with strong muscles that makes them adept at a variety of activities. Many Lab mixes have tell-tale webbed toes, thick tails and thick ear flaps. The coat color of these mixes can vary from a solid black to any combination of colors.

Personality

Most Lab mixes are happy-go-lucky dogs. The Labrador is a pleasant dog to have as a member of the family. These dogs tend to get along with every human that they meet, and the breed typically gets along with other animals in the house. Labradors are hunting and retrieving dogs. This breed is born to work. You can expect your Labrador mix to get into trouble if it is not kept mentally and physically stimulated. Although Labradors can be hyper puppies, they are easily trained and eager to please their owners.

Breed Characteristics

Labrador Mix Build Information

Labrador mixes tend to be medium to large dogs but they are built with strong muscles that makes them adept at a variety of activities. Many Lab mixes have tell-tale webbed toes, thick tails and thick ear flaps. The coat color of these mixes can vary from a solid black to any combination of colors.

Behaviour and Personality

Most Lab mixes are happy-go-lucky dogs. The Labrador is a pleasant dog to have as a member of the family. These dogs tend to get along with every human that they meet, and the breed typically gets along with other animals in the house. Labradors are hunting and retrieving dogs. This breed is born to work. You can expect your Labrador mix to get into trouble if it is not kept mentally and physically stimulated. Although Labradors can be hyper puppies, they are easily trained and eager to please their owners.

Appearance

Labradors and Labrador mixes tend to shed heavily twice a year and minimally the rest of the year. These dogs are not normally good for humans that suffer with asthma or allergies. Grooming a Labrador is not intensive but must be done regularly. Daily brushings are a must with this breed in order to remove loose hair from the coat. Weekly ear cleanings, monthly toenail trimmings, and daily teeth brushing are recommended.

Labrador Mix Common Health Conditions

Labrador retrievers suffer with joint problems. Hip dysplasia is common in the breed. It is rare for the Labrador parent of a mix to have been certified against hip dysplasia. Owners should watch for awkward gaits or apparent discomfort. Hip dysplasia can be diagnosed through radiographs. Labs are also prone to ear infections, eye infections, diabetes, obesity, entropian, and various types of cancer. Routine veterinary examinations can alert owners to issues with their specific pet.

Labrador Mix Pet Insurance

When adding a dog or cat to your family you want to make sure your pet is happy, healthy and protected. During its lifetime your pet is exposed to many illnesses and diseases and some breeds are affected by a congenital disease which is a condition existing at birth. At these moments when your pet is ill or maybe needs surgery, you want to be protected for the unexpected and high veterinarian costs.

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Breed Talents and Facts

The average life span of a Lab mix is 10 to 15 years. Labrador mixes are some of the most common crossbreeds. These mixes are typically fantastic family pets. These dogs tend to hold onto their weight. Owners must maintain a healthy diet for their Lab mixes. The most widely recognized name for one specific Lab mix is Labradoodle, a mix between the Labrador and Standard Poodle. Mixes of Labradors and other breeds are not normally labeled. Some of the many Labrador mixes are the Labradoodle, American Bullador, Pitador Retriever, Labraheeler, Sheprador, Labeagle, and the Labloodhound.