German Shepherd Lab Mix: Pros & Cons

German Shepherd Lab Mix

What Is a German Shepherd Lab Mix?

Owning a purebred German Shepherd can be very rewarding, but mixed breed dogs often make excellent pets as well. 

One breed that is becoming increasingly popular is the German Shepherd Lab Mix, sometimes known as a Labrador Shepherd, German Retriever or Labrashepherd. 

These dogs make excellent pets for many families, as they allow families to enjoy the benefits of both the beautiful breeds.

Qualities of Labrador Retrievers

Labrador Retrievers are some of America’s most loved dogs. They're well-known for being excellent family dogs, and they are also highly trainable. 

Running, playing, and swimming; they're talented in a wide variety of canine sports, making them an excellent choice for hunting and outdoor sports.

How German Shepherd Lab Mixes Are Different From Purebred German Shepherds

Since German Shepherds and Labrador Retrievers are both well-loved dogs around the world, it is easy to understand why a German Shepherd and Lab Mix make an excellent pet for individuals and families alike. Bred from two of the most loyal breeds, they're incredibly loyal to their families, and they can also be very protective. 

A dog that is a mix of will have some of the physical traits of both breeds so its appearance will be a bit different from the appearance of a purebred German Shepherd. However, German Shepherd Lab Mixes are usually very handsome dogs.

What Does a German Shepherd Lab Mix Look Like?

As with any mixed breed, it can sometimes be difficult to guess what the cross will look like, but you can typically make an educated guess by looking at the features of both breeds.

Since German Shepherds and Labrador Retrievers are both relatively large dogs, a mix of the two will also grow up to be a rather large dog as well.

You can expect for your German Shepherd Lab Mix to weigh between 50 and 80 pounds and to stand at between 22 and 26 inches tall at the shoulder, but some dogs may be slightly smaller or larger than this estimate. Since the body types of German Shepherds and Labrador Retrievers are quite different, it is possible to get a mix of both worlds when you own a German Shepherd Lab Mix.

Your new puppy might grow up to have a long body and a muscular chest like a German Shepherd, or he might be more square and athletic like his Labrador Retriever parent. Many puppies will display characteristics from both breeds.

Qualities of a German Shepherd Lab Mix

Crossing two lovable breeds can often produce spectacular results, and a German Shepherd Lab Mix puppy is usually very easily trainable. Working with your puppy from an early age can make him a well-behaved and well-trained dog later in life, and German Shepherd Lab Mixes are typically not as stubborn as some other breeds.

This mix is also an excellent dog for families with children. When first introducing the dog to children, it is essential to supervise both the child and the dog. However, once your new German Shepherd Lab Mix has become accustomed to your child, they will quickly become best friends.

Because of its size and stature, a German Shepherd Lab Mix is often an intimidating dog. When trained and handled correctly, it can be an excellent protector for your home and your family, at the same time, still be a loving member of your family.

Disadvantages of Owning a German Shepherd Lab Mix

You’ll find some critics that disagree with the breeding and ownership of mixed breeds. These critics state that it can be difficult to determine the outcome of a dog that is not purebred, but you can typically estimate a dog’s appearance and personality based off of the qualities of the breeds that he is mixed with.

German Shepherd Lab Mixes are active dogs, so it is essential that your dog gets plenty of exercise. Those who live in apartments or small homes and those who do not have a lot of outdoor space may find that their pup becomes easily bored and can chew or damage items around the house. For those who do not have time to give their dog plenty of exercise, it is probably wise to choose a different breed.