Huskador, Labskies, Husky Retriever, and Husky Lab mix — one breed called by so many names! Siberian Huskies and Labrador Retrievers are probably among the most loved breeds of dogs globally.
Imagine how adorable the mix of these two would be. Labradors and Huskies are energetic and active, so if you plan on buying one, understand that the mix would be even more energetic, you will have to walk them around more than you expect.
That said, let’s understand the breed closely to help you make an informed decision.
At a Glance
- Weight: 40-60 pounds
- Height: 22-28 inches tall
- Life Span: 10 to 15 years
- Temperament: Gentle, loyal, outgoing, friendly, protective, intelligent
- Most Suitable For: Families
Origin and History of the Husky Lab Mix
The Husky Lab Mix came into existence somewhere around the 1990s. The country of origin remains unknown, but the history of the original breeds, i.e., Labrador Retrievers and Siberian Huskies, goes way back.
As the name suggests, the Siberian Husky was first seen in Siberia, Alaska, and Canada; their history dates back to over 3000 years.
The Labrador Retrievers, on the other hand, were first bred in Newfoundland and were used as gun dogs somewhere around the 19th century.
Both breeds have always been great companions and service dogs. In fact, the Siberian Huskies were also used as sled dogs. Furthermore, both breeds are recognized as the two most popularly loved breeds globally.
It is about history and origin. Let’s understand the designer breed closely now.
Related: 44 of the Most Beautiful Husky Mix Breeds
Husky Lab Mix: An Overview
First and foremost, understand that the parents should come from original authentic breeds; otherwise, the result of the mix would not be the perfect one. Secondly, it doesn’t matter which parent is which, so you can stop worrying about it.
Having a designer breed is a long shot because you never really know what the canine would be like. It could be most of a Labrador or the most of the Husky, and if you are lucky, you might even get a 50-50 each.
However, there are a few traits that you can be sure about because no matter what, a husky lab mix will have them. For example, your dog would be energetic, intelligent, extremely loyal, pleasant, and affectionate.
Furthermore, a husky lab mix is super easy to train, and they are efficient swimmers!
Husky Lab Mix Temperament
Having a mix is a bit of a gamble, and you never really know what qualities the puppy might inherit from the two entirely different parents.
A puppy could be a fantastic swimmer like the Labrador parent; he could also be a brilliant guard dog, much like the husky parent. So, yes, there are numerous such potential qualities that your little furry friend might have.
Furthermore, one mixed puppy could be a quick learner, an easy-to-train dog, and in contrast, the other could be stubborn and not that obedient of a canine when it comes to training.
Thus, it is said that there is not much that you can identify about the temperament of a husky lab mix because you never know what traits they might inherit!
Husky Lab Mix Personality
Huskadors or Labskies are often described as the most loyal fun-loving dogs ever.
Their energy level is bang on 24/7, and you might have to walk them and entertain them with numerous play sessions throughout the day. If you are not the play-along kind, your little furry friend will entertain himself with some unique made-up games!
Additionally, suppose you have a decent outdoor space or lawn area. In that case, you are in for the most adorable series of canine activities because they are not sitting indoors until they really have to.
A simple toy throwing game is enough for them; just don’t sit idle. All this is possible if your dog has a balanced mix of traits from both parents.
Labradors are not the most out there when it comes to barking; they will only bark when and if necessary. In contrast, the huskies can bark all day, all night on anything and everything!
The same goes with digging and chewing, huskies love digging, and Labradors can chew the soul out of anything. Since you are about to own a mix, your puppy can be either of the two of a balanced blend of the two.
And lastly, you do not have to worry about the aggressive nature or behavioral pattern because none of the parents are aggressive. They can be protective of you but not aggressive.
Size
Since both the parents belong to the medium-large-sized category, it is natural to expect their mix to be a medium-large-sized dog.
Coming to the height and weight, the husky lab mixes are about 22-28 inches tall, and they can weigh around 40-60 pounds.
Husky Lab Mix Possible Health Issues
Health issues can happen to any canine, and the Husky Lab mixes are no super-dogs either. Therefore, a regular visit to the veterinarian could help track down the issues in time before they become life-threatening.
Furthermore, veterinarians can give you health care routines especially crafted and customized based on your dog’s requirements; thus, it is always a safe option.
Now, if you’re wondering what health issues your Husky Lab Mix could inherit from its parents. Well, there are numerous.
When you are getting a mixed breed, you have to accept that your dog might come with the health issues of two breeds. Here’s a list of the major ones:
- Exercise-induced collapse
- Food allergies and seasonal pollen allergies
- Hemophilia
- Hip/elbow dysplasia
- Arthritis
- Thyroid imbalance
- Glaucoma
- PRA
- Ear problems
- Skin allergies
- Acute caudal myopathy
- Keratoconjunctivitis sicca
- Degenerative Myelopathy
- Cataracts
- Epilepsy
- Glaucoma
- Laryngeal paralysis
- High blood pressure
- Obesity
- Cancer
- Dental issues
Husky Lab Mixes can gain weight in no time and are prone to obesity. Additionally, they are super-energetic, and hence it becomes mandatory to give them the required long walks and play sessions.
And lastly, look after their dental health. Siberian Huskies are prone to dental health issues; thus, it is advisable to consult your vet and practice the dental routine they prescribe to maintain proper dental hygiene.
The prescriptions are not limited to medicines; in fact, the veterinarian could teach you efficient ways to brush your canine’s teeth to keep their dental health game up top!
Dietary Routine
Most pet owners overlook this factor, but you must comprehend the dietary routine best suitable for your dog’s breed. Since the Husky Lab mix is a medium-large-sized dog, their diet must suffice their nutritional needs accordingly.
You should also know the feeding habits of your dog as a pet owner. This will help you feed them better. Also, doing this gives you an idea about their requirements. Meaning, a puppy’s diet would be much less than an adult canine’s diet.
And lastly, you can always ask your veterinarian the foods and nutritional requirements for your dog and feed them respectively.
Coat and Grooming
If you have touched a Labrador or a Siberian Husky, you know that both breeds are soft and silky to touch.
Well, the Labskies are no different. Their fur is silky smooth and can come in various colors like white, yellow, chocolate, red, black, and grey. Chocolate labs are exceptionally beautiful, and if you have a chance to get a Husky Chocolate Lab mix, it is beyond amazing because you will notice the most incredibly attractive thick dark brown fur.
Labradors do not come in two colors; huskies do. So, yes, there is a possibility that your Labsky’s coat is a mix of a couple of different colors.
While grooming, keep your dog in the best of his health. Grooming is vital regardless of the breed. However, how often to groom depends on the breed and the fur.
Regular grooming eliminates the risk of ticks and keeps your dog all shiny and clean as no dead fur or debris clinging around.
And lastly, the coat of the Labsky is relatively thicker as huskies have evolved to survive in the harsh climate of Siberia. Consequently, the Labsky would be better off in a cooler environment, and they might even prefer sleeping around in your AC rooms. So, yes, take this into account before signing up to have one around.
Final Thoughts
With that, we come to an end to this comprehensive guide. Regardless of their popularity, most designer breeds end up in adoption centers and shelters, so if you have an option between buying and adopting, choose adoption!
Huskadors are adorable and if you are planning to have one, go through this guide, and you will know everything about the breed and how to take care of them.