German Sheprador Breed Guide

What is the history & origin of the German Sheprador?

The Sheprador, or Labrashepherds as they are sometimes known, are the result of breeding between a German Shepherd dog and a Labrador. These two breeds create a playful, focused, loyal, and intelligent hybrid breed.

The German Shepherd comes from Germany and can be traced back to the 19th century, while the Labrador is believed to have originated in Canada roughly around the same time.

When these two breeds first were crossbred is not known.

Who are German Sheprador dogs best for?

If you have lots of room in your home and a large garden, why not consider a German Shepherd Lab mix as an addition to your family?

They need plenty of space to roam around with lots to do and smell! That's why a large property is advised to give them the chance to be off-leash in the garden.

They fare best in an active family; they love trips to the dog park and local lakes and are also an excellent company on long hikes, on which they can really go the distance.

It's not just physical exercise they crave; they did a lot of mentally stimulating challenges and games to keep them content and happy.

They tend to get a bit, well, destructive if left to their own devices for too long; those who work long hours or are away for extended periods should not consider a German Shepherd Lab mix for this reason.

Like both Labrador Retriever and German Shepherd dogs, the German Shepherd Lab mix is great with kids, so if you have little ones, you can be sure they'll all get on well.

That's not to say they should be left unsupervised, however, until you know the precise temperament of the dog and exactly how well your children interact with the animal. Many placid dogs have been tested to their limits with kids, so it's important to keep this in mind.

How much grooming does a German Sheprador need?

Both breeds of parents are notorious for shedding their coats, with seasonal moulting or 'blowing' occurring twice a year. Thankfully though, a German Shepherd Lab mix will not require a lot of upkeep when it comes to its coat.

While brushing them twice a week is a good starting point, the more you brush them, the more your home will be saved from a barrage of dog hair sticking to everything! Investing in a sturdy vacuum cleaner is highly recommended, and if you suffer from allergies, this breed is not recommended.

Do German Sheprador bark much?

German Shepradors aren't ones for a lot of loud barking, but if they sense a threat, then they'll be quick to let you know about it! They aren't always welcoming of strangers and take a bit of time to get to know extended family and friends, so they can often emit a bark when they see someone they don't know.

This is nothing to worry about; it's simply their way of telling mum or dad that they are a bit wary of who is in front of them. In no time, however, they come around and will be friendly as anything!

Similarly, if they are bored or stressed, they will tend to be vocal, but a happy Labrador German Shepherd mix won't be prone to lots of barking - happy days for you and your neighbours!

Do German Sheprador bite?

A German Shepherd Lab cross is known to be a gentle dog and one that's good with both humans and other animals. As an obedient dog breed, they won't bite if they are well-trained and have had lots of early socialisation.

What is the temperament & personality of a German Sheprador?

The Lab German shepherd mix is friendly, charming, outgoing, loving, and one of the most clever of all dog breeds. They take after their Lab and German Shepherd parent breeds in this way.

As an active dog, the German Shepherd Lab mix needs a lot of exercise to keep it both healthy and happy. If they don't get enough exercise, they are prone to weight gain very easily. They will also bark and feel frustrated if they can't burn off their boundless energy, which is why it's so important to have a large enclosed yard where they can do their thing.

They also love walks and hikes and are great swimmers.

They learn very fast; new games are no match for these guys! These loyal dogs also love to stay connected to their owners, so ideally, someone should be with them throughout the day and night. They can get a bit destructive if left to their own dealings for too long!

What is the weight & size of a German Sheprador?

A healthy German Shepherd Labrador mix will weigh in the region of 38 kg and grow to up to 70 cm in height.

How much training does a German Sheprador need?

Like both the German Shepherd and Labrador, this dog breed is very easy to train. This comes from their love and desire to please their favourite humans, coupled with their high intelligence and drive.

When they are old enough, you can enrol a GSD Lab mix puppy into puppy classes which will teach them the basics that will help them live a good quality of life when they are adults, as well as introduce them to other dogs and get them used to not being centre of attention 24/7!

But it's best to start training them at home first! You'll be glad to know the Lab German Shepherd mix can learn a host of commands from very young!

What are some of the most common health issues for a German Sheprador?

The German Shepherd Lab mix can inherit a range of illnesses. These include:

• Hip Dysplasia

• Elbow Dysplasia

• Ear Infections

• Obesity

Thankfully, both German Shepherds and Labs can be screened before breeding to eliminate the risk of their offspring inheriting hip and elbow dysplasia. Just one more reason why it's so important to look out for a responsible breeder!

What is the lifespan of a German Sheprador?

You can expect a well-treated German Shepherd Labrador Retriever mix on high-quality dog food and at a healthy weight to live between 10 and 12 years of age. Happily, many live a few years beyond that.

How much should you feed a German Sheprador?

As a large dog, the German Shepherd and Labrador Retriever mix will require a lot of feeding, which doesn't always come cheap!

Most vets and other animal experts recommend a diet of dry kibble, which will help keep their teeth not just healthy but clean too.

What is the price of a German Sheprador in Australia?

These large-sized dogs can fetch anywhere up to $1000 for a puppy from a breeder; however, you may be able to pick up a rescue at your local animal shelter.

A rescue dog can make a great dog for all the family, so it's worth thinking about. Plus, it's cheaper too!