Labrala Basics
The Labrala melds the gentle nature of the Labrador Retriever with the active disposition of the Vizsla hunting dog to produce a wonderful family pet. His playful energy and affectionate personality make him a great fit with kids and other animals while a protective side makes for an effective yet non-aggressive watchdog.
The Labrala melds the gentle nature of the Labrador Retriever with the active disposition of the Vizsla.
Origin
The Labrala is part of the growing popularity of designer dogs that first appeared back in the 1980’s.In spite of his youthful history, the Labrala has some pretty ancient lineage that includes the Labrador retriever who dates back to 19th century Newfoundland where he was used as a working dog on fishing boats as well as the Vizsla who comes from Hungary and dates back almost a thousand years where he was used for hunting in Central Europe.
Pedigree
As a hybrid, the Labrala does not qualify to join the American Kennel Club’s (AKC) elite listing of purebred dogs. His parents however, have both achieved AKC status; the Labrador retriever was admitted to the club’s “sporting” group back in 1917 and is described as active, friendly and outgoing. The Vizsla became a member of the “sporting” group in 1960 and is identified as affectionate, energetic and gentle.
Food / Diet
The Labrala is a large-sized dog that will consume between 3 – 4 cups of dry food each day. To prevent him from gobbling down his food, kibble should be large-size and geared specifically to his age and activity level. Always opt for quality ingredients that indicate “meat” as a first ingredient and because he may be prone to hip dysplasia and joint issues, foods that include glucosamine are a good option. Labradors are known binge eaters, so don’t plan to free-feed your dog; space his meals over two or more feedings each day. And avoid fillers such as carbs and grains that will further induce him to overeat in order to feel full.
The Labrala is a good-natured companion dog who is affectionately described as a “velcro” dog.
Training
While the Labrala is the product of two very intelligent breeds that are quick to learn, he can have a mind of his own and will require more patience and perseverance. Because of his tendency to become a little hyper when excited, new owners may feel the need to bring in the expertise of a professional trainer to help address this side of his personality. Results will be gradual and come only with a positive, rewards-based approach. Firm, consistent instructions accompanied by lots of praise and your choice of treat will bring out the best in this dog.
Weight
The Labrala is considered a large sized breed and when fully grown, will weight 50-80 pounds depending on whether you have a male or a female.
Temperament / Behavior
The Labrala is a good-natured companion dog who is affectionately described as a “velcro” dog because he loves to snuggle up close and spend time with his family. As a result, he can suffer from separation anxiety when left alone for too long. While he loves active play he can become overly-excited and therefore hyper if not properly trained from an early age. He does well with children and other pets and while not aggressive, his tendency to be protective means he can be trained to be an ideal watchdog.
Common Health Problems
Designer dogs are often bred to cancel out many of the genetic deficiencies that can plague their purebred parents. As a result they are often – but not always – physically healthier than the breeds that contributed the DNA. But genetics can be difficult to predict so his important prospective owners are aware of health concerns that may be passed down to their dog from the parent breeds. Both Vizslas and Labrador retrievers can suffer from hip and elbow dysplasia but Vizslas are also particularly prone to epilepsy, heart disease and certain cancers.
Life Expectancy
The Labrala has a life expectancy of 10 to 14 years.
Exercise Requirements
Labrala are fairly energetic dogs that excel in activities ranging from agility to retrieving to running or jogging alongside their human. Regular, daily walks will keep him fit but he also needs to be mentally stimulated and this will come from active playtime such as chasing a ball in the yard, romping with the kids or playing with other dogs at a dog park. Note that he can become overly-excited around other dogs so keep a leash handy and be ready to rein him in as necessary.
Labrala are fairly energetic dogs that excel in activities ranging from agility to retrieving.
Recognized Clubs
Also known as Labrala, Labla and Vizslador, the Labrala comes from pure-bred stock but is in fact a designer dog so is not recognized by the AKC. He is however a member of the International Designer Canine Registry (IDCR), the American Canine Hybrid Club (ACH), the Designer Breed Registry (DBR), the Designer Dogs Kennel Club (DDKC) and the Dog Registry of America, Inc. (DRA).
Coat
The Labrala is typically black or rust-brown in color and has a short, dense coat that sheds minimally but will require regular weekly brushing to keep it looking its best. Professional grooming is not necessary and bathing can be done on an “as needed” basis or by simply rubbing him down with a damp cloth or dry shampoo. As a floppy-eared dog, he will be prone to ear infections if dirt or wax is allowed to build up, so inspection and cleaning should be part of his grooming regimen.
Puppies
The Vizsla DNA in your puppy may cause him to experience separation anxiety when you leave the house. This can present as crying, barking, piddling or destructive behaviors. Plan ahead and find puzzle-type toys with hard to reach treats that can keep him busy and distracted after you leave, take him for a nice long walk just before heading out or spend some time desensitizing him to your departures. Don’t forget that your Labrala puppy comes from dog breeds with a propensity for joint and bone issues so be careful not to overexert him during walks. Don’t let him overeat; feed him over several meal periods and ensure he has plenty of toys to keep him mentally stimulated and out of trouble.
Photo credit: chalabala/Bigstock; Teresa Levite/Bigstock;Viorel Sima/Bigstock
