Labradane

Characteristics

Health & Longevity

Average Life Span: 8-12 years
The Labradane is a cross between the Labrador Retriever and the Great Dane. Like all mixed breeds, the Labradane tends to be less susceptible to hereditary health problems than his purebred counterparts. However, he may inherit any health issue that is common to either parent breed.

Hip and elbow dysplasia may impact the Labradane. Both are degenerative joint problems that stem from malformed joints causing issues such as discomfort, pain, and limping. In more severe cases, arthritis or even lameness may result, often necessitating surgery. Dogs with hip dysplasia, in particular, should not breed, so ensure that your prospective puppy’s parents have no history of the condition. Although it is hereditary, hip dysplasia may be triggered by rapid weight gain and injury. While your pup’s joints are still developing, do not allow him to jump excessively or run on slippery floors, and be sure that he is not over exercised.

A potentially fatal condition called bloat is also possible for the Labradane. Bloat occurs when the stomach becomes overly full of gas, food, or fluid, expanding dangerously and applying excess pressure to surrounding organs. In some cases, the stomach flips in what is known as gastric torsion, trapping blood in the stomach and preventing it from flowing to the heart and other vital areas. If left untreated, bloat can be deadly within hours, so take your Labradane to the veterinarian immediately if you notice symptoms such as pale gums, excessive drooling, failed attempts to vomit, or a swollen stomach. The veterinarian will remove excess air from your dog’s stomach with a stomach tube or hollow needle. If your dog’s stomach has flipped, the veterinarian will need to relocate it surgically.

Other potential issues for the Labradane include epilepsy, bone cancer, eye problems, and ear infections. He may also be prone to obesity.

The average lifespan for the Labradane is 8-12 years, which is on the shorter side for most hybrids.

Temperament & Train-ability

Like all hybrid breeds, the Labradane’s temperament will vary, as he can exhibit any combination of characteristics known to his parent breeds. However, the average Labradane is an incredibly loving family companion with an entertaining sense of humor.

The Labradane is too large to be kept in an apartment and needs a securely fenced yard for exercise and play. He is a boisterous dog with plenty of energy to burn, so take him for long, brisk walks, play games with him, and allow him to run freely as often as possible. He can also be a good running or jogging companion, but not until he has reached maturity. As a puppy, his joints are too fragile for prolonged vigorous activity. The intelligent Labradane needs mental stimulation as well, and this can be achieved through continuous training and puzzle toys. Attention and companionship are also a must for the Labradane, who becomes extremely attached to his people and can develop separation anxiety if left alone for long periods of time.

The Labradane is an excellent companion for children, but he should be supervised around younger children merely because his size and exuberance make accidental injury a possibility. He also gets along well with pets and other dogs, and he is generally friendly with strangers. However, he is very protective of his family and can be a good guard dog. He barks only occasionally, at least in most cases.

Training the Labradane is essential to help ensure that he is calm and not overly hyper. This task should not be too challenging due to his intelligence and eagerness to please. Do not be overly harsh with the Labradane, but instead motivate him with positive reinforcement such as treats (in moderation), extra playtime, and verbal praise when earned. Be consistent in enforcing your rules and expectations, and training the Labradane should be an overall pleasant experience.

Grooming

The Labradane’s coat will vary, but he sheds lightly. Generally, he will need brushing once or twice per week to keep his coat looking its best. During seasonal periods of heavy shed, daily brushing may be required to help minimize shedding as much as possible. Bathe the Labradane as needed.

Trim his nails when they grow long enough to tap the floor to prevent overgrowth and cracking. Check his ears regularly for any indication of infection such as redness, tenderness, and odor. Ensure that wax, dirt, and debris does not build up excessively. Because the Labradane can be prone to ear infection, it is advisable to clean his ears with a veterinarian recommended cleanser. Brush his teeth 2-3 times weekly to avoid bad breath and maintain good health.

Diet

The average Labradane should consume 4.5-6 cups of high-quality dry dog food daily, preferably split into two smaller meals. He may be prone to obesity, so ensure that you do not overfeed him. Remember that the ideal type and amount of food for your individual dog depends on variables such as weight, metabolism, age, and activity level.

Take preventative measures against bloat by ensuring that your Labradane does not eat too rapidly or drink excessive amounts of water right before or right after eating. Impose a one hour waiting period between eating and physical exercise, and do not allow him to eat from a raised bowl unless your veterinarian says otherwise.
 

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Cost

The average cost for a Labradane is $250-$550. This excludes the additional expenses you will face, including food, grooming, toys, supplies, and veterinarian visits.

If you decide to adopt a Labradane, expect adoption fees to cost up to $175, depending on your location.

Paws ‘N’ Pups Ranking

Paws ‘N’ Pups ranks every breed out of 4 with 1 being easiest to integrate into your life and 4 being the toughest – The lower the ranking the better.

Ranking takes into account a few basic factors including cost, skill level needed, high vs low maintenance and how critical regular training is to success. The Labradane ranks a 2. He gets along well with pretty much everyone he meets, his coat is not too high maintenance, and he is a loving, loyal, and protective companion. However, he does need plenty of physical and mental stimulation, as well as time and attention. He can suffer from separation anxiety if he is left alone for too long, and his large size must also be considered when thinking of purchasing this breed.

 

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Great Dane

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