Metis labrador and shepherd
Crossbreeding of large dogs is carried out by breeders in order to obtain a combination of the best qualities and characteristics. If we talk about a mixture of a shepherd and a labrador, it can be called one of the most successful examples. It combines the best watchdog characteristics and a good-natured disposition. We will tell you more about such mestizos in our article.
Description and characteristics
This cross is most often referred to as Labronemen. It is characterized by impressive dimensions, the height of the dogs is from 55 to 65 centimeters, and the weight is from 25 to 40 kilograms. The physique is strong, it can resemble a square. The most common color of the coat is black, and white spots may be present. There are also mestizos with zonal, fawn, black-backed and brown colors.
Usually, the appearance of the dog is more like a Labrador, but some traits are transferred from shepherd dogs. The ears are mostly hanging, but they can stand. It is almost impossible to predict exactly what the dog's appearance will be. You can only build on the main features and characteristics.
Crossbreeds
Crossbreeding of these breeds interested dog breeders all over the world. A cross can be with a German, East European, Central Asian, Australian Shepherd. The most common types are discussed below.
From german
A Labrador, crossed with a German Shepherd, produces amazing offspring that combine the best qualities of both parents. Dogs are very friendly and playful, but their guarding qualities are not well developed.This is a sensitive watchdog, but absolutely not aggressive and not very vigilant.
Appearance can be different and takes elements from each breed. Most often it is distinguished by hanging ears, a saber-shaped tail and a medium-length coat.
From Eastern European
In general, not too different from the previous version. Such mestizos are larger in size, their body is more powerful. They are distinguished by obedience, make good contact with a person and are very loyal to the owner. These animals are calmer than a cross with the "Germans", and perform well the duties assigned to them.
From the Caucasian
Most often, these dogs are large and have a powerful physique. They can have a thick and long coat, which saves from frost at low temperatures. The ears are usually drooping, but some owners prefer to stop them.
Variations in color can be varied, the presence of white spots or a dark mask on the muzzle is often noted.
The temperament of mestizos can be very difficult. Aggressiveness is possible, the dog does not make contact with strangers, it can be stubborn and self-willed. These nuances can be smoothed out using competent education, regular training... In addition, the mestizo Labrador and Caucasian Shepherd Dog should be socialized as early as possible.
The complex of the above measures will make it possible to grow from a dog an excellent guard, intelligent and courageous.
What did the dog take from the Labrador?
As for the appearance, it is possible to note the drooping ears and color, which is most often fawn, chocolate and black. In addition, Labradors are friendly in nature, very playful, quick-witted and obedient to their masters. Due to this, mestizos are much softer, in comparison with the German shepherd, character, love children very much, get along well with other pets... They are sociable and calmly relate to strangers.
What traits did she adopt from a shepherd dog?
As for the "Germans", they have always been famous for their balanced temperament. In addition, mestizo are easy to train and have tremendous stamina. They are keenly interested in their work, are loyal to their masters, obedient and are excellent guards. Can be transmitted to dogs moderate malice, which is why they are used to serve in law enforcement agencies.
Character
As for the parents of the German breed and the East European Shepherd Dog, they have one very important quality, namely the ability to obey the owner unquestioningly. They are very smart and fearless. Labradors, on the other hand, are affectionate, friendly, practically do not show aggression, but they are a little cowardly and not too decisive, so using such dogs as defenders is problematic.
Mestizos are adorable puppies. They absorb the best qualities of parents, this is reflected in both appearance and character. Labronemen are very playful, friendly to people, active and loyal to their master. However, the dog chooses the head of the family, the one to whom he will obey and obey. At the same time, he loves the rest of the owners very much and is devoted to them.
Labronemen are easy to train, problems with their upbringing are rare. They are very smart and obedient. However, in order to achieve maximum results, it must be borne in mind that the pet cannot be beaten and scolded: this will lead to anger and irritability of the animal. Educate him better affection and love. Living in the same area with other pets will not create problems.
Labronemen are brave and always ready to defend their master. They make good guards.... At the same time, the doggies need affection and communication, they will not be able to be alone for a long time. This point must be taken into account when purchasing such a dog.
Advantages and disadvantages
Advantages and disadvantages follow from the assessment of the dog's qualities and character.In general, it can be noted that Labronemen are smart and quick-witted, rarely behave aggressively, are quite balanced and very active. They make good contact with children and other pets. They are excellent at executing commands and amenable to training.
Such dogs can be kept both in a city apartment and in a private house or on the street. They are very strong and have tremendous stamina. Also dogs have strong immunity and overall good health.
However, the disadvantages of mestizos cannot be ignored. Some of them may be stubborn and willful.
In addition, the owners should take into account that no one can issue documents confirming their belonging to the breed.
Respectively, one cannot be sure that it is the Labroner that is being acquired. Accordingly, the dog will not be able to participate in exhibitions and is not allowed to breed. It is also impossible to predict in advance the appearance of the future pet - it will be known only when the dog grows up.
Life expectancy and health
Dog breeders state that Labronemans live on average between 10 and 12 years. Their health is at a fairly high level. There are practically no hereditary diseases in mestizos, but there are troubles that can arise if the rules of maintenance and care are violated. This is primarily obesity, as well as diabetes, ear and eye problems, allergic reactions, osteoarthritis and problems with the hip joints.
Features of maintenance and care
Due to their endurance and the presence of thick hair, such dogs will feel comfortable not only in a city apartment, but also on the street. In this case, nevertheless, in the second case, it is worth taking care of the presence of a warm booth. Don't keep the mestizos on a chain as a last resort it can be used for a short time if necessary.
The apartment needs to provide a place for the dog to rest. It is necessary to provide regular walking at least 2 times a day. From time to time it is necessary to comb out the coat, check the eyes and ears of the dog and brush them when necessary. Water procedures should not be carried out more often than once every 3 months.
Useful for Labronemans are special toys and treats that can be purchased at the pet store. They help keep your teeth in order.
If necessary, you need to cut the claws of your pets with an ordinary nail clipper.
How and what to feed correctly?
Feeding is another important point in helping to raise a healthy and strong pet. For Labronemans, both specialized dry food and natural food are suitable. In the second case at least a third should be meat and offal. Also, the doggie will need cereals, vegetables, sour milk. Human food is not the best feeding option due to the presence of spices and seasonings. Also follows control portion size, for advice on this issue, you should contact your veterinarian.
Conclusion
Breeders believe that crossing shepherd dogs and labradors is a real godsend. Many are very fond of these dogs, which have absorbed the best qualities of these breeds. Future owners need to take into account that predictions about the nature and appearance of such a pet are impossible, however, there is every chance that a faithful friend, a reliable protector and an excellent companion will appear in the house.
You will learn how to choose a mestizo Labrodor and a shepherd dog from the video below.