This breed is a cross between a Labrador Retriever and a Great Dane, resulting in a large and energetic dog.
They can grow up to 32 inches in height and weigh between 90-140 pounds.
Their short coat requires minimal grooming, but they do shed heavily, especially during shedding season.
Their friendly and outgoing personalities make them great family pets.
Size and Appearance
Labradanes can weigh anywhere from 100 to 180 pounds, with some individuals reaching up to 150 pounds or more.
Their height typically ranges from 24 to 30 inches, making them a large breed of dog.
The mother Great Dane's size tends to influence the Labradane's size, with smaller Labrador fathers resulting in smaller Labradanes.
Labradanes often have a slender build, broad heads, and long floppy ears, inherited from their Great Dane parent.
Their eyes are round and expressive, ranging in color from blue to brown.
Labradanes are not stout, but rather athletic and muscular, with a tall profile and a long, slender tail.
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They can be a bit heavier than they look, especially since Great Danes are already large and Labradors have a stocky build.
Their coats are usually solid colors, such as black, brown, golden, or white, and can have a high gloss finish, although they may shed moderately.
Labradanes tend to have gorgeous floppy ears, which need regular cleanings to prevent bacterial buildup.
Their coats can be oily, so it's essential to choose a shampoo that suits their needs.
Coat Color and Grooming
The chocolate lab great dane mix has a beautiful coat, but it sheds a lot, so be prepared for regular grooming.
Labradanes can come in a wide range of colors, including brown, black, and fawn. Their coats are usually the same color all over, although small markings might be present in some cases.
Weekly brushing of your Labradane's coat will help reduce overall shedding, but it won't stop it completely. You'll need to invest in a good vacuum cleaner, lint roller, and de-shedding tool to keep up with their shedding.
Their short hair should be brushed twice a week as part of a regular grooming routine, although in spring months you may notice slightly heavier than usual shedding. Bathing your Labradane once a month is recommended.
Personality and Temperament
The chocolate lab Great Dane mix is a gentle giant with a heart of gold. They're known for being loyal and friendly companions, always eager to hang out with their humans.
Their size is a bit intimidating, but they're generally gentle and good with children. However, it's essential to teach kids how to behave around dogs and respect their space.
One of the most endearing qualities of the chocolate lab Great Dane mix is their affectionate nature. They love to give hugs and snuggles, and they're often described as "velcro dogs" because they love to be close to their family members.
They're also highly intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train. But, they do require plenty of mental stimulation and exercise to keep them happy and healthy.
Here are some key personality traits to expect from your chocolate lab Great Dane mix:
Keep in mind that every dog is an individual, and your chocolate lab Great Dane mix may have their own unique personality quirks. But overall, they're a loving and loyal companion that will bring joy and happiness into your life.
Health and Care
The chocolate lab Great Dane mix is a unique and loving breed, but like any large dog, it requires special care. They are generally considered to be healthy dogs, but they can be prone to digestive issues and bloat due to their deep chest.
Regular veterinary checkups are essential to detect any health concerns early. Your vet can help you develop a care routine that will keep your dog healthy.
Labradanes can become obese due to overeating, so it's crucial to monitor their food intake and provide a balanced diet. They need to eat smaller, spaced-out meals throughout the day rather than free-feeding.
Here are some common health issues that Labradanes may face:
- Bloat
- Hip dysplasia
- Panosteitis
Labradanes also need regular exercise to stay toned and avoid mobility issues. Twice daily walks are standard, and they love to jog with their owners. Mental stimulation is also essential, so provide interactive toys and variety in play sessions and walking routes.
The breed's floppy ears need to be wiped with a damp cloth at least once a week to prevent infection. Brushing their teeth a few times a week is also important, although consult your vet for advice on how to do this properly.
Can You Afford Their Care?
Labradanes are a significant financial investment, especially when it comes to food. They eat a lot, so maintaining their upkeep is a huge financial commitment.
Their large size also means they need bigger crates, which can be pricey.
Generally, bigger dogs are more expensive to care for than smaller pups.
Health Needs
Labradanes are generally healthy dogs, but they can be prone to certain health issues. Bloat is a serious concern for deep-chested breeds like Labradanes, so it's essential to monitor their eating habits and prevent overeating.
Regular veterinary checkups are crucial to detect any health concerns early on. Your vet can help you develop a care routine that will keep your dog healthy.
Labradanes can become obese due to overeating, so consider serving smaller, monitored meals throughout the day. Free-feeding should be avoided to prevent this issue.
Hip and elbow dysplasia are common health problems in Labradanes, as well as panosteitis. These conditions can be painful and may require surgery.
Here are some common health issues Labradanes suffer from:
- Hip dysplasia
- Elbow dysplasia
- Panosteitis
- Bloat
Labradanes need a controlled diet to prevent overeating and weight issues. A high-quality crunchy kibble with lots of protein and nutrients is the best bet, so look for dry dog food recipes geared towards large breed dogs.
To prevent bloat, it's essential to use a slow-feeder type of bowl. This will help your dog eat at a slower pace and reduce the risk of digestive issues.
Health
Labradanes are generally considered to be healthy dogs, but like any breed, they can be prone to certain health issues. Regular veterinary checkups are essential to detect any health concerns early.
Their deep chest can lead to digestive issues and bloat, so it's crucial to feed them smaller, spaced-out meals more often rather than letting them engorge themselves in a single meal.
Labradanes can be prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, as well as panosteitis. Bloat is another common health issue that can be life-threatening if left untreated.
To prevent joint problems, it's essential to feed your Labradane a large or giant breed-specific dog food formula and to monitor their food intake carefully. This will help prevent obesity, which can put extra strain on their joints.
Labradanes need to keep up a structured exercise regime through their life, including twice daily walks, to stay toned and avoid mobility issues.
Here are some common health issues Labradanes may face:
- Bloat
- Hip dysplasia
- Panosteitis
- Elbow dysplasia
- Seizures
- Cancer
- Hypothyroidism
- Eye problems
Keep in mind that every dog is different, and your Labradane may be more prone to certain health issues than others. Regular veterinary checkups and a healthy lifestyle can go a long way in preventing or managing these issues.
Training and Exercise
Labradane training requires a firm hand, especially when they're young. They can be boisterous and playful, so it's essential to establish clear boundaries and commands.
Both Labradors and Great Danes are highly intelligent, which means they can learn commands quickly. They're also good at picking up on what's wanted from them, but they might not always want to learn.
Crate training is a great way to help them understand what's expected, and it's especially helpful for large breeds like Labradanes. They should also be kept on a leash or in a fenced-in area when off-leash training is challenging.
Labradanes don't require extremely high energy levels, but they do need regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. A few long walks and some time off-leash in a fenced area can be just what they need.
Do You Have Experience with Dogs?
If you're new to dog ownership, it's worth considering whether you're confident enough to handle a Great Dane Lab mix. They're intelligent dogs, which means they're relatively easy to train, but they do require a firm hand.
They're big, boisterous dogs that need an owner or trainer with the confidence to keep them under control. Getting professional training for your pup at a young age can be of great assistance if you're not familiar with dog training.
Exercise
Labradanes don't need miles of walking and hours of exercise, despite their large size. They have relatively low energy levels compared to other large breeds.
A few long walks around the block can be enough to keep them happy and healthy. In fact, some Labradanes even enjoy playing fetch-based games.
Investing in a ball launcher or large rope toys can be a great way to engage your Labradane's strong retrieval instincts. This can be a fun way to get them to exercise and bond with you.
Labradanes can benefit from having a fenced-in area where they can gallop around off-leash. This will give them the freedom to run and play without the risk of bolting.
Remember, every dog is different, so it's essential to observe your Labradane's individual needs and preferences when it comes to exercise.
Living with a Large Breed Dog
Living with a Large Breed Dog can be a joy, but it's essential to consider the extra costs and responsibilities that come with it. You'll need to budget for more food, as these giant pups require a lot more to eat.
They need space to move around, so make sure you have a big enough home or yard for them to stretch out. These dogs are much needier than one might think, so be prepared to give them lots of love and attention.
Remember, large breed dogs are more expensive to care for overall than smaller dogs, so it's crucial to make sure everyone in your household is ready to take on the added responsibilities and expenses.
Am I Ready for a Large Breed Dog?
Before bringing a large breed dog into your life, consider the space needed to accommodate their size - they can grow up to 30 inches tall and 120 pounds heavy.
You'll also need to think about the extra exercise and care requirements, as these dogs need regular, longer walks and more frequent grooming sessions.
Large breed dogs are more expensive to care for overall than smaller dogs, with a potential extra feeding budget of several hundred dollars per month.
They're also much needier than one might think, requiring a lot of love and attention from their owners.
It's essential to discuss your decision with your family members to ensure everyone is ready to take on the responsibilities and challenges that come with caring for a large breed dog.
Owning a Large Breed Dog
Large breed dogs require regular exercise to stay healthy, with a minimum of 30 minutes of moderate exercise per day recommended.
Their joints need extra care, with many breeds prone to hip dysplasia and other joint issues. Regular veterinary check-ups can help identify any potential problems early on.
A large breed dog's diet is crucial, with some breeds requiring up to 2,000 calories per day. Feeding them a high-quality, nutrient-rich food can help support their growth and overall health.
Their short coats require regular grooming, with some breeds needing to be brushed daily. A weekly bath can also help keep their coat clean and healthy.
Many large breed dogs are prone to bloat, which can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. Knowing the symptoms and seeking veterinary help quickly can make all the difference.
Some large breed dogs can live up to 10-12 years or more with proper care, making them a long-term companion. Regular veterinary check-ups and a healthy lifestyle can help them live a happy and healthy life.
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Labradane Rescue
If you're considering adopting a Chocolate Lab Great Dane mix, you may be wondering about rescue options. Labradane Rescue Groups can be a bit tricky to find, but there are a few resources you can try.
One option is to contact Labrador Retriever or Great Dane breed-specific rescues, as they often care for mixes as well. Gentle Giants, Great Dane Rescue, and Lab Rescue LRCP are a few organizations you can reach out to.
If you're thinking of adopting a Lab Great Dane mix, it's essential to ask yourself some questions first. This will help you determine whether these amazing dogs are a good fit for you and your lifestyle.
If you're still unsure, you can try contacting rescues that cater to large or giant breeds. They may be able to help you find a suitable Lab Great Dane mix for adoption.
Here are some rescues you can try:
- Gentle Giants
- Great Dane Rescue
- Lab Rescue LRCP
Great Dane Information
If you're considering getting a Great Dane, you should know that they can grow to be quite large, but their temperament is often described as gentle and friendly.
You can expect to pay between $500 to $700 or more for a Labradane puppy, though the prices can vary depending on your area, the time of year, and the puppy's pedigree.
Great Danes are social dogs that thrive on company, humans, and dogs, so they make great companions for active families.
It's essential to find a responsible breeder who will allow you to meet mom and her puppies in a stable and nurturing home environment.
Great Danes are large dogs, but they are also sensitive to their environment and need early and appropriate socialization to become well-adjusted adult dogs.
Don't forget that there are so many deserving mixed-breed dogs, including Great Dane Lab Mixes, looking for homes in shelters across the country.
Additional reading: Are Great Danes Mastiffs
Frequently Asked Questions
How big will a Labradane get?
A Labradane typically reaches 30 inches in height and weighs up to 180 pounds. They have a slender build despite their large size, with a strong and muscular physique.
What is a lab and Great Dane mix called?
A Lab and Great Dane mix is commonly known as a Labradane. This unique breed combines the friendly nature of Labradors with the gentle giant characteristics of Great Danes.
Sources
- desire to chase (hillspet.com)
- short and dense coats (wagwalking.com)
- Great Dane Rescue (greatdanerescueinc.com)
- Gentle Giants (gentlegiantsrescue.com)
- Great Dane Labrador Retriever Mix: Labradane Breed ... (caninejournal.com)
- The Labradane: A Labrador Great Dane Mix (k9ofmine.com)
- Great Danes (akc.org)
- Labradane (Labrador Retriever & Great Dane Mix) (hepper.com)
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