Pitbull Lab Mix: Loyal Like A Pitbull, Athletic Like A Labrador
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The Pitbull Lab mix is a cross between the Labrador Retriever and the loyal Pitbull Terrier. He is an athletic and energetic dog with a courageous and affectionate temperament.
He can weigh up to 41 kilos and has a short, dense coat that can be of different colors.
This enigmatic mongrel is sometimes called Bullador or Labradorrabull. Whatever name you give them, these designer dogs are taking flight.
But before you find your perfect dog, find out more about this exciting mix.
The Origin Of The Pitbull Lab Mix
This is the first breed registered in Spain. Designer dog breeds are bred by mixing popular breeds to form a new hybrid. The most popular breed is the Labrador, of which there are several mixed breeds, such as the Labrador Pitbull.
To learn more about the Labrador Pitbull mix, let's take a look at the origins of the two parent breeds.
The Origin Of The Labrador Retriever
The ever-popular Labrador has never met a stranger, his friendly and outgoing personality welcomes all newcomers.The Labrador is one of the most popular breeds in the world. His ancestors originated in Canada and were bred there in the 18th century to help fishermen who needed a reliable and trustworthy service dog.
On the other hand, this hardworking and tough dog also has a gentle personality. This earned him a place as a family dog in the fields after the day's work.
Today, the Labrador is a loyal, intelligent, and loving dog. The Labrador can coexist with different age groups and other types of animals. They are easy to train and make the Labrador a popular choice as a police, guide, and therapy dog.
The natural exuberance of the Labrador Retriever requires regular physical outings and significant mental stimulation to stay healthy and happy.
The Origin Of The Pitbull
The Pitbull was born from a cross between Bulldogs and Terriers in the 19th century. The two most common types of Pitbull are the American Pitbull Terrier and the American Staffordshire Terrier. Pitbulls have long been associated with aggression and fighting, and this is, unfortunately, the primary motivation for the Bulldog Terrier mix.
Bulldogs were used in the United Kingdom (UK) for cruel entertainment, such as baiting and catching bulls, where the bulldog was primarily handled to annoy or kill bulls and rats for sport.
These blood sports evolved into dog fighting, and the desire to see a more athletic dog, with agility and speed, was born. Then the Bulldog was crossed with the Terrier to create a better fighting dog.
However, despite a rocky start, the Pitbull is an affectionate breed that is fiercely loyal to his masters. Once brought to America from the United Kingdom, Pitbulls were commonly used as farm dogs to guard herds of cows and sheep. They were known for their docile temperament with people and children and were not only working dogs but also pets.
Pitbulls are strong, athletic, and courageous dogs, but deep down, they are often large, gentle dogs that need the same love and care as any pet.
What can you expect from a Labrador Pitbull mix?
Being a mixed breed, it is simply impossible to predict the temperament of a Pitbull Lab mix with certainty, as they can inherit traits from either parent. A mixed-breed dog has too many variables in his genetic makeup to be able to predict his personality.
Since it is impossible to predict the outcome when two purebred dogs are mixed, the offspring can be said to be genuinely "mixed". We know very little about what to expect from the Pitbull Lab mix in general temperament, adaptability, etc.
This is why it is essential to understand the profiles of the Labrador and the Pitbull to get an idea of what to expect from the puppies of the Labrador and Pitbull mix before making an ownership decision.
Appearance
The Pitbull Lab mix is a large, powerful dog that can reach 60 centimeters in height and weigh between 22 and 41 kilograms when fully grown. Like his parents, the Pitbull Lab mix has a short coat that is easy to brush. In addition, the coat is smooth and shiny and is not difficult to maintain.
Depending on whether you get a black, chocolate, or yellow Pitbull Lab mix, you can expect the coat to be a solid color, black, white, yellow, or silver. However, the Labrador Pitbull mix can come in different colors, like the Pitbull; a Labrador Tiger Pit Bull mix is perfectly possible! Often a Pitbull Lab mix inherits a broad head with Labrador ears.
Personality
You can never be sure what traits your dog will inherit from one parent or another, so you can't predict the exact temperament of a Pitbull Lab puppy. He is likely to be an energetic and loyal dog that enjoys receiving attention from his guardian. If he has a more pronounced Pitbull temperament, the dog may be more reserved and docile. Thorough socialization will be essential for this pup. If he inherits a more Labrador personality, he will likely be very social and rambunctious.
Socialization
Early socialization is key to honing the Pitbull Lab mixes affinity with other animals, including humans! With socialization and good breeding practices, you can expect them to get along well with children and possibly other dogs and make great family pets.
When it comes to other pets, the Pitbull Lab mix is more likely to get along with them than the Pitbull. As we've said, there's no way to predict which side of his family tree this mix will lean on the most. You should be wary of strangers and other dogs until you know how your pet typically reacts in such situations.
Although a dog whose Pitbull parent is very friendly, that is, well socialized, can be a very friendly and affectionate companion.
Training
Thanks to his Labrador parent, a Pitbull Lab mix, he will be highly intelligent and trainable more easily. It is advisable to start training the young between 8 and 12 weeks. The longer you wait, the stronger your dog can become. He can be an excellent and well-behaved companion with consistent training methods and positive reinforcement.
It should be noted that punishment-based training is not recommended as a modern training method and may mask potential problems.
Exercise
A Pitbull Lab mix will require a lot of exercise due to his size and the fact that both parent breeds are active dogs. It is, therefore, essential to have access to things like an exercise yard to catch the dog with his handler and to have space and time to run. You will need a variety of dog toys to calm this energetic dog.
Guardians should be aware of health issues (which we'll discuss later), such as hip and elbow dysplasia and exercise-induced collapse (EIC), and adjust their dog's exercise program in consultation with a veterinarian.
Best Products for Pitbull Lab Mix
Health And Care
Labrador Health
The Labrador has more common hereditary health issues than the Pitbull. Both have in common a high prevalence of hip dysplasia, as most large breeds are prone to it.
Skin allergies and ear infections are minor health issues common to Labradors. Some of Labrador's most serious health problems include:
- Hip and Elbow Dysplasia: Labradors have a high prevalence of hip and elbow dysplasia. These conditions are caused by structural problems in the joint that cause pain and affect mobility. Elbow dysplasia can occur when a piece of bone or cartilage from the elbow joint breaks loose and floats in the joint capsule. This usually results in osteoarthritis and can affect dogs 4-6 months old. Treatment may include anti-inflammatory drugs, weight control, specific exercises, surgery, and physical therapy, but the disease is not curable.
- Gastric expansion (bloating): This condition occurs when the stomach expands up to three times its size, along with gas and food. It then rotates in such a way that the contents of the stomach become clogged, and the blood supply is cut off. This situation is not only painful but also fatal. A dog can die within hours without medical intervention. Signs of bloating may include kicking or inability to lie down, distended stomach, inability to vomit, foamy saliva, and wheezing. If you notice any of these signs, contact your veterinarian immediately.
- Progressive retinal atrophy: Labradors are genetically predisposed to an eye disease called progressive retinal atrophy. This disease is degenerative and leads to total blindness. It usually begins between the ages of 3 and 9 and leads to blindness within 1 or 2 years. However, since it is not a painful disease, it can be difficult to detect at an early stage. Night vision is affected first and causes night blindness.
- Cataract: Labradors are a breed more prone to cataracts, which occur when the lens of the eye is covered. It is a genetic disease of Labradors. The cataract is usually removed by surgery. Signs of cataracts include a cloudy film in the eye and are also visible if your dog has a habit of bumping into objects or stepping on furniture.
- Exercise Induced Collapse (EIC): BMI is a condition in which, after 5-15 minutes of intense exercise, the dog experiences extreme weakness in the hind legs. He could collapse and not be able to move. The dog generally recovers after about 10 to 20 minutes of rest. This condition can take up to 5 years to manifest and can show up in dogs that look healthy and fit. Dogs with this condition can exercise at light to moderate intensity without symptoms. It is a recessive genetic condition that is only passed on when both parents are carriers, as determined by research. However, about 30% of Retrievers are Carriers.
Responsible breeders must test for this genetic mutation in parent dogs.
Most of these conditions can be detected by DNA testing.
- Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA).
- Exercise Induced Collapse (EIC)
- Hereditary cataracts (HC)
- Hereditary nasal paraceratosis (HNKP)
- Centronuclear myopathy (CN)
- Centronuclear myopathy (CN)
Pitbull Health
The Pitbull does not have a long list of inherited health issues and is generally a healthy dog. Like all breeds, they have a few minor health issues to consider, such as skin issues and allergies.
Since they have short hair, they are more susceptible to skin problems and allergens.
Pitbulls are more prone to demodectic mange, especially when they are puppies. This skin condition is caused by parasitic mites living in the dog's coat and usually only becomes a problem in dogs with immature immune systems, such as puppies. Treatment can range from topical ointments to special shampoos and oral medications.
It is also common for Pitbulls to suffer from seasonal environmental allergies. Signs include excessive licking, baldness, or bumps on the skin.
There are more serious health issues that Pitbulls are prone to that potential owners should be aware of:
- Hypothyroidism: This condition occurs when the production of hormones by the thyroid gland is insufficient. The thyroid regulates several bodily processes and symptoms including weight gain, lethargy, skin problems, rough hair texture, irregular heartbeats, and difficulty keeping warm. You can diagnose hypothyroidism with a blood test and treat it with daily medication.
- Hip dysplasia: Hip dysplasia is a structural problem of the hip joint where the joint does not fit properly. This leads to squeaking and excessive wear and tear on the joints, which leads to gradual deterioration. Signs of this condition may include laxity or limping in the joints, decreased range of motion, stiffness, pain, and difficulty climbing stairs, running, and jumping. It is a genetic condition, but obesity, growth rate, and types of exercise can play a role in joint deterioration. Monitoring your dog's weight and following a proper diet and exercise program for growing puppies can help improve the situation. In addition, good breeders should track this condition and be able to provide proof that the parents have healthy hip joints.
Pitbull Lab Mix Health
Due to their ancestry, Labrador Pitbull crosses can inherit joint problems. Large dogs tend to have greater hip and elbow dysplasia issues, and both parent breeds are prone to hip dysplasia.
Also, stomach bloat and hypothyroidism can be potential issues for your pup.
You should consult your breeder for heart, eye, skin, and ear problems.
By purchasing a Labrador Pitbull mix from a reputable breeder, you reduce the chances of getting a dog with unexpected and surprising health issues. Both parents should be screened for health issues that commonly affect their breed.
Life Expectancy of Pitbull Labrador Mixes
The average lifespan of a Labrador Retriever is 10 to 12 years, and that of a Pitbull is 10 to 15 years.
The Labrador Pitbull cross can reasonably be expected to have a life expectancy similar to that of the parents, i.e. between 10 and 15 years.
Pitbull Lab Mix Moult
Labrador Pitbull mix guardians report that their animals tend to shed on the low or middle end of the spectrum. However, a Labrador Pitbull mix may resemble his Labrador parent in shedding and be more of a heavy-shedding dog.
Pitbull Lab Mix Care
What are the minimum grooming needs of the Pitbull Lab mix?
A Labrador pit bull mix has a silky, short, dense coat that benefits from daily brushing to keep it shiny. The Labrador's undercoat is not common in this particular mix breed. You can keep your pup's coat neat by paying regular attention to his claws and ears.
Use a dog toothbrush and toothpaste to keep his teeth clean. At the same time, make sure there are no signs of infection. In general, Labrador Pitbull parents report that their pets' grooming needs range from low to moderate. So it's safe to say that a Labrador Pitbull mix is about average when it comes to grooming.
Compatibility
The Labrador is one of the most popular family dogs. He is friendly and loving.
On the other hand, Pitbulls have been criticized because they are often associated with dogfights and aggression. But historically, they are known to be excellent and loyal family dogs with children.
This Pitbull Lab mix breed would make a great family pet if raised and socialized correctly like any other dog. If you decide to purchase a Pitbull mix, observe the temperament of the Pitbull parent and socialize your pup early on to increase the chances of having a friendly and gentle companion.
Unlike Labradors, Pitbulls do not get along with other animals. So your Pitbull Lab mix might be best suited as the sole furry pet. Another option would be to get a purebred Labrador or another type of mix.
- Boxer and Labrador mix
- Pitbull and a German Shepherd mix
- Chihuahua and Labrador mix
- Husky and Labrador mix
- Labrador Hand Mix
Rescue a Labrador Pit Bull Mix
Often, designer dogs end up being abandoned by their owners, who ultimately cannot take care of their needs.
You can find many rescue groups and resources online for rescuing a Labrador Pitbull mix.
Keep in mind that these organizations likely don't have detailed information about your pup's history or the health of the breed's parents.
Finding a Pitbull Labrador Mix Puppy
With the growing popularity of mixed-breed puppies, it's essential to find a responsible breeder who follows recommended guidelines for all health testing. In addition, make sure they provide a clean and loving environment for your dogs.
Working with a good breeder is the best way to increase your chances of having a healthy and happy Labrador Pitbull puppy.
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