11 Fun-Loving Lab Mixes Active Pet Parents Will Adore
Labrador retrievers have long-held the title as America's most popular dog breed, so it's no surprise that the popular dog has also inspired tons of popular Lab mixes! As affectionate and intelligent pets, Labs are the perfect fit for families who can give their pups lots of love and activity. And when you combine these traits with other personalities from popular breeds such as German shepherds, corgis, and huskies, the mixes are sure to melt hearts.
A Bit On Labrador Retriever Mixed Breed Health and Genetics
Before adopting a new puppy, it's important to understand the health and genetics of the breed in order to provide all the loving care you can. When dog breeds mix, traits from both parents present themselves in the breed, creating both adorable physical characteristics and loving personalities as well as various health risks.
Theresa Entriken, DVM, says health risks aren't meant to discourage pet parents from choosing mixes, but it's important to stay alert for as your pet ages. "One condition to be aware of in middle-age and older large breed dogs, especially Labrador retrievers, is geriatric-onset laryngeal paralysis, a degenerative nerve disease that affects a dog's larynx (voice box), esophagus, and limbs," Entriken says. Early signs typically include noisy panting, a raspy bark and tiring easily with exercise, but later signs can include vomiting and muscle weakness.
Before adopting, make sure to research breeders carefully and avoid breeders who aren't putting the puppies' health and safety first. And be sure to consult a veterinarian to learn about the health risks of both parent breeds.
Now, on to these fun-loving mixed dog breeds!
Labradoodle (Lab Poodle Mix)
Possibly one of the most popular mixed dog breeds, Labradoodles are a go-to pick for first-time dog owners. Along with being adorable and easy to train, their curly poodle coat offers minimal shedding for us allergy-suffering dog lovers.
Sheprador (German Shepherd Labrador Retriever Mix)
Labs and German shepherds are both incredibly smart dog breeds, so a sheprador is bound to bright! Whether you're looking for a companion to explore the outdoors or a puppy to train, this mix is sure to deliver the fun.
Borador (Border Collie Lab Mix)
A border collie is one of the most trainable dogs in the world, and combined with a Lab's enthusiasm, a borador is always ready to learn new tricks. These intelligent dogs are full of energy and affection, making them the ideal companion for any active owner.
Goldador (Golden Retriever Labrador Retriever Mix)
These retriever cousins look so similar, at first glance you may not even recognize a Goldador as a mix! The caring and active personalities from a Lab and golden retriever makes this crossbreed a perfect fit for anyone looking for a loving, active dog.
Beagador (Beagle Labrador Retriever Mix)
Labs and beagles are both known to be gentle and patient, making their mix a caring pup for young families. Beagles are natural scent hounds and Labs love to have fun outdoors, so this gentle mix will want long walks to sniff every corner they can.
Boxador (Boxer Lab Mix)
If you're looking for a dog to get you off the couch and give you a laugh, look no further. Boxers are extremely active and love any opportunity to move their muscular bodies, especially running (just not in the heat!). But they're also known for their goofy and cuddly personalities. Combined with the playful Labrador, a boxador knows how to keep their owners happy and moving.
Corgidor (Corgi and Labrador Retriever Mix)
This adorable mix looks like someone took a shrink-ray to a Lab's legs! A corgi Lab mix is bound to be full of affection. However, a corgi body makes it tougher for a corgidor to participate in common Lab activities, such as swimming, so be sure to talk to your vet before attempting strenuous training.
Labsky (Husky Labrador Retriever Mix)
Labrador retrievers are a sporting breed, so a Lab mixed with an energetic husky makes for a perfect companion for active pet parents. Whether it's hiking or swimming, it's important to keep these sporty pups moving with ample exercise and playtime incorporated in their daily routines.
Aussiedor (Australian Shepherd Labrador Retriever Mix)
The retriever genes in this task-focused breed means an Aussiedor makes a perfect sidekick for hunters and campers alike. But sharp minds aren't all this adorable mix has to offer. With the stunning looks of an Australian shepherd in their genes, these pups know how to make working hard look good.
Rottador (Rottweiler Lab Mix)
Those looking for a smart and social pup are sure to love a Rottador. With the high intelligence of both Rottweiler and Lab parents, this mix thrives when they have a task to complete. Rottador parents will need to stock up on puzzle toys and other enrichment activities to keep their big-brained pups smiling.
Labradane (Great Dane Lab Mix)
If you want a little more to love, a Labradane often has the large size of a Great Dane with all the playful traits of a Lab. Both Labradors and Great Danes have an eager-to-please nature, so they respond well to positive reinforcement training, making these gentle giants incredible family pets.