Although not as popular as some “branded” designer dogs, such as the Cavapoo or the Pug, the Labrador Cross Shepherd is starting to get the attention it deserves. Rightly so, this very smart, high-energy, and active crossbreed will make the best pet for the right owners who like to engage in outdoor activities and provide plenty of exercise. This hybrid mixes the best traits of both parent breeds, resulting in a versatile and loyal companion.
The Sheprador is an amazing family pet who gets along with children and other pets. Although it is difficult to define the temperament of a crossbreed, as you can never know what traits the mixed breed will inherit from both its parents, Shepradors tend to be even-tempered dogs. They are large, friendly, and intelligent, which makes them excellent companions for active families who need a dog with good energy levels and a desire to help.
Origins of the Labrador cross Shepherd
The German Shepherd cross Labrador, also known as the Sheprador, is considered a designer dog. This term appeared in 1980 and describes matings between two different breeds. Designer breeders started to create this mixed breed around 1990 in North America. Breeders wanted to mix the German Shepherd and the Labrador to minimise health problems that could affect both breeds and create an extraordinary family companion and watchdog. It's important to note that when mixing two breeds, you can't predict which personality traits the puppies will inherit. To better understand this crossbreed, let’s look at their parent breeds.
The German Shepherd
The Labrador Retriever
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Labrador Retrievers were first bred in Canada and used to retrieve fish and game. Today’s Labs are not only popular pets but also serve as guide and service dogs. Known for their friendly temperament, they love food, exercise, water, and human interaction. They need plenty of time for physical activity, and like their German Shepherd counterparts, they thrive on mental stimulation. Labradors make some of the best pets, whether black, yellow, or chocolate, due to their high energy levels and sociable nature. Parents of Labrador Retriever mixes should be prepared for an active and friendly dog that loves family life.
German Shepherd Labrador cross: name
The German Shepherd cross Labrador has many names: the Sheprador, German Sheprador, Labrashepherd, and Labrashep.
Physical characteristics of the Sheprador: size and weight
The German Shepherd is generally described as a large dog, reaching up to 25 inches at the shoulder and weighing up to 88 lbs. Labs, while slightly smaller, are still considered large dogs, standing up to 24 inches and weighing up to 80 lbs.
Shepradors tend to fall within this range, usually standing between 21-25 inches and weighing 48-88 lbs. This mixed breed often has a mid-length coat, which is easy to groom and helps maintain a healthy, shiny appearance. However, be prepared for a lot of shedding, as both parent breeds have double coats. The weights of individual dogs may vary based on factors like diet, exercise, and genetics.
Personality and temperament of the German Shepherd Lab mix
Shepradors can inherit traits from both their parent breeds. Labrador Retrievers are known for their friendly, gentle nature, making them great family pets, especially for families with children. German Shepherds, on the other hand, are confident, loyal, and protective, which makes them excellent watchdogs. This combination results in a balanced, intelligent dog that thrives on interaction and activity.
These dogs require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. They love games, training, and being part of an active family. They may become bored without enough exercise, leading to undesirable behaviours. Proper care and time spent with this mixed breed are key to maintaining a healthy and well-behaved pet. Their needs include regular physical activity, mental challenges, and positive reinforcement training.
Are Shepradors aggressive?
No, Shepradors are not typically aggressive. They are friendly, loyal, and intelligent dogs. While the German Shepherd side might make them wary of strangers, the Labrador side balances this out with its cheerful and friendly nature. Like all dogs, however, Shepradors need training, socialization, and care to ensure they grow into well-adjusted pets. Consistent, positive reinforcement and fun exercises are the best methods for training a Sheprador puppy.
Exercise requirements of the German Shepherd - Labrador mix
Both German Shepherds and Labradors are working dogs with high energy needs. Shepradors require a lot of daily exercise, at least a 90-minute walk, ideally with off-lead time to run. This level of exercise helps them maintain a healthy weight, keeps their mind stimulated, and prevents behavioural problems. Owners should be prepared to provide ample opportunities for exercise and mental engagement to keep their dog healthy and happy.
Potential health risks for the German Shepherd Retriever mix
While crossbreeds tend to have fewer health issues than purebreds, they can still inherit genetic conditions. Shepradors may be prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, which can lead to joint issues later in life. Other potential concerns include obesity, especially with the Labrador Retriever side’s love for food, and conditions like retinal atrophy and gastric issues. Ensuring your dog gets plenty of exercise, the right food, and regular vet checkups can help keep them healthy.
German Shepherds can suffer from any of the following:
- Elbow and hip dysplasia
- Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus – a twisting of the stomach caused by gas and overeating.
- Chronic Degenerative Radiculomyopathy – this attacks the nerve fibres in the back legs. It can lead to lameness
- Panosteitis – a bone disease which causes inflammation
Grooming a Sheprador
A Sheprador’s coat is typically mid-length and requires weekly brushing to maintain its shine and health. While easy to groom, due to their double coat, these dogs are heavy shedders, so regular grooming and a good vacuum cleaner are essential to help manage shedding.
Training a German Shepherd Labrador cross
Training a Sheprador requires consistency and commitment, but the breed’s intelligence and eagerness to please make them quick learners. Starting training at a young age is important, especially since these dogs can grow large and energetic. Proper training and care help Sheprador puppies grow into well-behaved, healthy adult dogs. Owners should like the idea of training and spending time with their dogs to help them become well-rounded pets.
German Shepherd cross Labrador puppy
Raising a Sheprador puppy can be a lot of fun but comes with responsibility. Puppies of this breed need proper socialisation, mental stimulation, and care. Be mindful of not over-exercising puppies, as both parent breeds can suffer from joint issues. Provide the right amount of exercise, food, and time for your Sheprador puppy to ensure they grow up happy and healthy.
Is the German Shepherd cross Lab a good family dog?
Absolutely! Despite the German Shepherd’s reputation as a police dog, Shepradors make wonderful family pets when trained properly. With their friendly and loyal temperament, these dogs are the best fit for families who can meet their needs for exercise, attention, and care.
Is a Lab x German Shepherd mix a good dog?
Yes, the Sheprador is an excellent dog. Its even-tempered personality, intelligence, and loyalty make it one of the best family pets. As long as you provide proper care, exercise, and love, you’ll have a pet and a lifelong friend. Whether you like spending time outdoors or need a loyal companion, this mix offers the best of both worlds for dog owners. With proper attention to their needs and a commitment to their well-being, Shepradors can become cherished members of the family.
