6 Facts about German Shepherd Dog – Labrador Retriever Mix

German Shepherds and Labradors are both smart and lovable dogs.

They are also some of the most popular family dogs around the world.

So, imagine having all of the best characteristics and physical traits of both breeds in one dog. 

A Lab dog mixed with a German Shepherd is commonly known as “Sheprador”.

If you’ve ever considered adopting a dog mix such as this one, here’s all you need to know.

6 Facts about German Shepherd Dog – Labrador Retriever Mix

• Appearance
• Character
• Exercise
• Grooming
• Diet
• Health Problems

Appearance

It is not surprising that a GSD-Labrador hybrid would be rather huge as both of them are big canines.

It has a thick, dense coat akin to a GSD’s, yet the face frequently resembles Labradors.

A Sheprador’s genetic configuration has a significant impact on the size it grows to.

They typically weigh between 75 and 85 pounds and stand between 20 and 27 inches tall at the shoulder.

There is a lot of variation, so if you get a puppy, be aware that you can never be certain of how big it will become. ^[1]

This mix’s fur is dense and medium-length.

They own a waterproof double coat, and it sheds a lot.

But not as much as that in Doodle dogs or Husky mixed dogs.

For this reason, allergy patients might choose to select a different dog breed.

The fur of this pet is straight and simple to brush.

So frequent brushing is advised to keep the coat in good condition.

The majority of GSD – Lab dogs will possess either brown or blue eyes.

Almost all of them have black noses.

Shepradors often have floppy ears rather than the distinctively sharp ears of a GSD.

This occurs as a result of the dominant floppy-ear genes in Labs. ^[2]

How big will a German Shepherd Lab mix get?

A German Shepherd – Lab mix will get around 22-25 inches tall.

They usually weigh 50-80 pounds.

This is not a surprise, since both its ancestors are large dog breeds.

They require a big home and a yard, where they can exercise every day.

Character

Shepradors are devoted canines that enjoy interacting with people.

Although they dislike being left alone, they won’t wail or growl excessively if you are gone for a few hours.

They are not suited for apartment dwellers due to their size.

They require a sizable garden where they may run around.

These hybrids are sociable and affectionate, and they do well around young children.

They get along well with other dogs as well, making it simple to take them to the dog park.

Shepradors should not be owned by novice dog owners.

This mixed breed has strong activity needs and should exercise daily for at least an hour.

GSD – Lab hybrids require frequent walks.

So buying one is a big commitment for first-time dog owners. ^[3]

Are German Shepherd Lab Mix Aggressive?

No, German Shepherd – Lab mix are not aggressive.

These mixed dogs are highly sociable and affectionate.

They do well around young children and babies. 

They get along well with other dogs as well, making it simple to take them to the dog park.

Exercise

Because of their intellect, they also easily become bored.

When they do, they have a propensity for engaging in destructive activities.

They might start gnawing and digging at the surrounding objects.

Shepard shouldn’t be left alone at home for a long time.

They thrive with physically active owners who can take them on walks, hikes, and runs.

It’s a coin flip as to whether these canines will enjoy swimming.

GSD is a little more hesitant around the water than Labradors, who adore it.

However, due to their size and intrepid attitude, they can be taught to like the water.

They need to exercise for 60 minutes each day.

You should at least have a sizable backyard where it can run around if you don’t have time to take it on lengthy walks. ^[4]

If you live in an apartment, GSD – Labrador Mixes are not a suitable choice.

But as long as you take your Sheprador for daily walks and own a backyard, everything should be OK.

Shepradors are renowned for being fairly simple to teach.

It’s because they frequently want to please their owners.

Most owners demonstrate their authority and provide some positive reinforcement.

By using commands and reward techniques, they can be taught to obey instructions.

Their ancestors – German Shepherds were famous duck-hunting dogs in the past.

GSDs are pastoral dogs, but they are known as famous duck hunters.

Pastoral dog breeds are used for herding livestock.

Besides herding other animals, these dogs enjoy herding people.

And they extremely enjoy pleasing humans. ^[5]

Even though GSD are not good hunters as Labrador Retrievers, they are famous bird hunters. ^[6]

These mixes quickly figure out that responding to and paying attention is rewarding.

They respond well to boundaries being established, as long as it’s done by a young age. ^[7]

During training, these dogs will respond better to consistency, so if you say “no” – stick to your word.

Grooming

Labradors and GSD both shed, so you can be sure that their Sheprador offspring will do the same.

In the shedding seasons, they may need to be brushed up to once a day and at least twice a week (fall and spring).

These dogs might also take pleasure in snuggling up on the couch and taking a nap.

Three times a week, owners must brush or use dental treats to clean their teeth.

Additionally, it’s crucial to constantly clean their ears, once a week.

Bacteria, yeast, and parasites often reside inside of their ears.

Lastly, owners should give them a trim every three months.

Your general health is at risk since their infected nails could ruin your floors.

It may be a good idea to have their nails clipped by a professional. ^[8]

Diet

Labrador German Shepherd Mixes are large, energetic dogs.

Because of their propensity for obesity, they should acquire energy from healthy sources.

This includes choosing healthy fats and proteins over carbohydrates.

They should obtain around 22% of their daily calories from protein and about 5-8% from fat.

This refers to meals cooked from meats as opposed to mass-produced meals.

Due to their susceptibility to allergies, Lab-GSD Mixes benefit from consuming novel proteins.

The meats that dogs consume the most, like beef and chicken, tend to cause allergies in them. ^[9]

Health Problems

Hip and elbow dysplasia is one of the main health issues with this combination of breeds.

Dysplasia is a looseness in the joints that results in painful arthritis.

Another illness they’re prone to be progressive retinal atrophy.

This disease causes the retina at the back of their eyes to deteriorate and may lead to blindness.

Make sure the breeder from whom you get your puppy has tested the Lab parent for these genetic issues.

They are extremely greedy and prone to obesity.

Obesity risk is also frequent in the half German Shepherd – half Husky dog.

Ear infections are another less dangerous but frequent problem with them.

Although they are simply cured, they can need regular checkups and veterinarian treatment. ^[10]

Owners should also be considerate of the following illnesses:

• Gastrointestinal diseases
• Anal infections
• Eye diseases
• Allergies
• Epilepsy
• Hypothyroidism

The average lifespan of a Labrador Retriever is 10.6 to 14 years.

While a German Shepherd normally lives to be between 9.2 and 12 years old.

This indicates that you can anticipate having your GSD Lab mix for 11 to 12 years.

How much does a Labrador Shepherd Cost?

Labrador Shepherd costs from $500 to $800.

The final cost is always determined by its pedigree.

It will be less expensive to rescue a Sheprador from a shelter than to purchase a puppy.

They also require a lot of food and grooming, which will cost around 100$ a month.

Newfoundland Dog – German Shepherd Mix

There are many amazing dog mixes available in the last 50 years.

Most commonly created are the Pitbull mix dogs and Boxer mix dogs.

The combination between Newfoundland and GSD is amazing as well.

In the following text, the most important specifications are mentioned.

Appearance

This mixed breed is a combination between the Newfoundland dog and GSD.

The cross is a large, robust, and athletic dog with a thick and strong bone structure.

Both parent dogs typically have strong, straight backs.

The GSD’s back may be slightly slanted while the Newfoundland’s back may be level.

Newfoundland has a broad skull and a deep chest.

When examining the muzzle, a GSD has a longer, more tapered muzzle.

Brown eyes and pointy ears are characteristics shared by both breeds.

This mixed dog has a brown or black nose. ^[11]

Personal Traits

The huge Newfoundland is well known for its kind, gentle disposition.

It has consequently gained a reputation as a “nanny dog” for children.

The difficulty of sheltering and caring for a dog of this size may come with owning one.

However, Newfoundland earns top marks for being so accommodating.

The German Shepherd and Newfoundland have quite distinct temperaments.

Its core characteristics include devotion, intelligence, and bravery. ^[12]

A German Shepherd will be a devoted guardian in the home.

As a result, they frequently show some reserve when meeting new people.

Like the GSD, the mix is more serious and guarding and can serve as a watchdog.

Early socialization promotes positive behavior and also helps to eliminate bad traits.

Despite the dog’s intelligence, training will require some work on your part.

Training

If you’ve ever gotten along with a GSD, you’ll notice a significant difference in the level of activity.

Hybrids take on the less vivacious personality of the Shepherd.

They are more laid-back and need little to moderate exercise.

You should limit its activities during hot summer days.

They have low heat tolerance and thick coats. ^[13]

Your pet probably won’t be concerned about the winter cold.

Shepherd and Newfoundland hybrids will undoubtedly enjoy swimming.

For your mixed dog, some training and walking services recommend 14 miles a week and an hour of exercise per day.

But your dog will probably be content with half that amount.

Grooming

The undercoats of the German Shepherd and Newfoundland are both dense.

They go through two significant molts each year and shed a lot of hair during these periods.

To get rid of odors and stubborn dirt, give them a frequent bath.

While most Newfoundlands enjoy the water, GSDs are not particularly fond of it.

Different varieties of coats can be found in this mix.

A medium to long, somewhat thick, wavy outer coat with dense underfur will be present on the majority of them.

Some dogs have straight hair, but others seem to have loose curls.

For the same reasons as with the parent breeds, brushing is essential. ^[14]

Health Issues

All mixed breed dogs inherit a combination of diseases from both parents.

To reduce their occurrence, it is necessary to train them and offer them healthy food.

The most common inherited diseases in this mix are elbow dysplasia and hip dysplasia.

This disease is very widespread due to its frequency in both parent species.

From the Newfoundland parent, the tendency to gain weight is inherited.

The risk of the development of subaortic stenosis is also inherited from it.

This pathological entity is also common in the Husky mix and Chow Chow mix dogs.

It causes narrowing of the space below the aortic valve and obstruction of blood flow.

Hemophilia – a defect in coagulation factors, is inherited from GSD.

Also, degenerative myelopathy, which is a degenerative neurological disease may occur in puppies.

In dogs with large and deep chests, there is a risk of gastric dilatation and volvulus. ^[15]

This type of build leads to the risk of pancreatic atrophy.

The level of pancreatic enzymes decreases and digestion is disturbed.

Esophageal dilatation requires special feeding techniques.

It also carries the risk of aspiration of food and the development of pneumonia.

Basic orthopedic examinations of the dog’s hip and elbow should be performed.

Are German Shepherd Lab Mix Good Dogs?

Yes, German Shepherd Lab mixes are good dogs.

They can be family dogs and get on well with children, but can also be used as guard dogs.

They require 60 min/day of exercise and can develop certain illnesses – like hip dysplasia.

Before you decide to get one for yourself, you should do detailed research on the topic.