Labrador German Shorthaired Mix – One of the Most Sought-After Breeds

Last Updated on November 11, 2023 by Linda Richard

If you’re looking for an extra special Labrador-type dog, consider the Labrador German shorthaired mix – one of the most sought-after mixed breeds out there! A cross between two excellent sporting dog breeds, the Pointerdor is as great of a family dog as it is a hunter.

Labradors are the most popular dog breed in the US and German shorthaired pointers are at a respectable 11^th place too. So, the Pointerdor mix is a cross of two fantastic breeds. But, to see if this is the right dog for you, check out our breakdown of the breed below.

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What Does A Labrador German Shorthaired Mix Look Like?

With both Labradors and GSPs being stunningly beautiful, so is the Pointerdor mix. After all, Labradors and German shorthairs are pretty similar too. Both are on the large side of the medium-size range, both have athletic physiques, and even their head shapes are pretty similar.

So, the expected size, physique, and coats of most Pointerdors are pretty consistent. Such a crossbreed usually grows up to 50 to 85 lbs (23 to 38 kg) which is only a bit heavier than a standard Labrador. As for height, these dogs tend to get up to 23 inches (58 cm) which is in line with most Labradors. Occasionally you can get an even taller Pointerdor, however, with some getting as high as 28 inches (71 cm).

As for the coat’s colors, things can be quite different here. Standard Labradors are either black, yellow, or brown. Pointers, however, can come n 8 different colors and can be bi-color too. So, a Pointador can come in all of those color variations as well.

The coat itself should be short and dense. The shedding can either be very significant or milder – depending on which parent’s genes are more dominant in the Pointador pup.

What’s The Temperament Of The Lab GSP Mix?

Like both their parent breeds, the Pointador is both highly energetic and hard-working as well as very loving, social, and joyful. These dogs are perfectly balanced to be both very effective working dogs and excellent family pets.

The cross is especially recommended for larger families with children. The reasoning is two-fold. On the one hand, these dogs get along very well with kids (as long as they are properly socialized, of course). On the other hand, Pointadors need lots of exercise and constant human presence and playtime – something kids can happily provide.

As for other dogs and pets – the Labrador German shorthaired mix will get along with most dogs but other pets such as cats can be a problem. The reason is simple – these dogs do have a strong prey drive. Still, they are intelligent enough to be taught to behave with other pets, as long as you train your Pointador well.

Training these dogs is generally easy too as they love to please their people. Proper obedience training is still a must, of course, but it’s easier done than it is with other breeds. That high intelligence comes with a price, however- separation anxiety. As we said, these dogs need near-constant company and don’t tolerate being left alone for too long.

How Much Exercise Does A German Pointer Lab Mix Need?

Both Pointers and Labradors are very highly energetic and that applies to the Pointador as well. These dogs are bred to run, swim, and jump around for hours every day. So, as a rule of thumb, a Labrador German shorthaired mix will need 1-2 hours of active physical playtime outdoors each day, additional few hours of yard time too (in a well-fenced yard), and then as much indoor playtime as the dog needs.

If you don’t have a yard, you’ll need to compensate with extra time in the dog park. It’s also ideal if your home is large and spacious enough for this dog to easily and safely run around. If this sounds like too much, if you’re more of an indoors type person, or if you just want a lap dog – the Pointador is not that. These dogs are gentle and love to snuggle in you and receive pets when they get tired. However – they need to get tired first.

Health Specifics Of The German Shorthaired Lab Mix

Like other crossbreeds, the Pointador can either inherit only the healthy traits of both parent breeds or all their undesirable genetic predispositions. That’s why it’s very important that you only work with reputable breeders. Such breeders will offer health certificates for all pups and their parents, thus guaranteeing healthy dogs.

Shopping from a pet store or a puppy mill instead can result in any of the following health problems:

Of course, chance always plays a role too. But, if you get a healthy puppy, offer it proper exercise, and a good diet, and then don’t skip on the regular vet visits – everything should be ok.

Pros and Cons Of A Labrador German Shorthaired Mix

Pros:

Very social and well-mannered dog breed
Highly intelligent and easy to train
Great with kids

Cons:

Requires lots of attention and exercise
Separation anxiety can be an issue if you work away from home every day

Should You Get A Labrador German Shorthaired Mix?

All in all, there are many great reasons why the Labrador German shorthaired mix is growing in popularity. This crossbreed marries the best parts of two already very similar and very popular breeds. This makes the Pointador an excellent choice for families with kids who love to spend a lot of time outdoors.

Even if you’re not in that category yet but you want a pet that will motivate you to spend more time outside – the Pointador can be a great pick. These dogs make for excellent jogging companions, for example.

It is important to make sure that you’re up to the challenge, however. The many dog shelters and rescues are full of dogs whose former owners thought they’ll start spending more time outdoors but gave up after a few months. If you don’t have the nerve to go jogging and playing in the park every day and if you won’t be around for big parts of most days – it’s best to look for a different breed.

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Labrador German Shorthaired Mix – One Of The Most Sought-After Mixed Breeds