Dobrador Dog Breed

As a mixed breed, the Dobrador is not an official member of any breed group. Neither does any info exist about these hybrids' exact origin; though the Lab-Doberman mix has probably existed for a long time, the two breeds were likely interbred for commercial purposes during the "designer dog explosion" in North America in the late 20th and early 21st centuries. These big, energetic dogs are best suited for active owners willing to give them the exercise and training they need.

A few Doberman-Lab mix facts: they're large-sized, averaging 25 inches at the shoulders in height and 75 pounds in weight; they have short, smooth, easy-care coats, but they do shed a good bit; and they're very active and athletic, and will need a great deal of exercise.

Some advantages and drawbacks to owning a Doberman-Labrador mix:

The Dobrador is the offspring of two breeds that are similar in some ways (energy level, intelligence, ease of coat care) and markedly different in others (all-around friendliness and protective abilities). Regardless of inherited traits, these hybrids will be incredibly active and whip-smart--but they might be super-affectionate like the Lab, or more reserved like the Doberman. In most cases, Dobradors' tendencies for friendliness are somewhere in between.

For those who ask, "What should I know about Doberman-Lab mixes?" the most important need for these hybrids is extensive exercise. Both parent breeds are strong and athletic, and are used to a lot of physical activity--so their Dobrador offspring will likewise need a ton of exercise, be it walks, jogs, intense games of fetch, or simple romps in the yard. And since these hybrids have lots of intelligence, they're excellent competitors in obedience or agility trials or other competitions. It's safe to say that without daily exercise, your Dobrador is bound to become a hyperactive terror!

That said, a well-exercised Dobrador will make for a peaceful one--and the dog will be an enthusiastic, loving companion.

Intelligent, active, protective, loyal, and sometimes reserved, the Doberman-Lab mix temperament is one of activity and brainpower alike. These hybrids are simultaneously energetic and smart; they'll also be friendly, playful, and loyal to their human family members. They make great playmates for kids, too, and usually get along with other household pets. As with any dog, it's best if your Dobrador grows up alongside any children and other pets. Added to their high energy levels, though, is the potential for excessive protectiveness if the dog inherits that trait from the Doberman. This means your Dobrador will need obedience training and socialization--starting when the dog is a puppy if possible---to teach it calm, respectful behavior.

In regards to training: Dobradors can take very well to it--if you can get them to calm down for a lesson, that is! If you're able to do that, these hybrids can learn tasks, tricks, and commands easily. As with any breed, firm, consistent training methods are best.

These dogs also have good watchdog skills, and if the Dobrador is more "Dobie-esque," it'll be a good guard dog as well. Watchful and alert, Dobradors will probably sound a vocal alarm if they perceive an unknown sight or sound, and they're likely to be able to neutralize potential threats like intruders too.

The Dobrador, due to hybrid vigor (in which a crossbred dog inherits the healthiest traits of its parent breeds), is very healthy. Even so, these hybrids may suffer ailments common to the parent breeds including hip dysplasia, Progressive Atrophy (PRA), epilepsy, hypothyroidism, and gastric torsion (or bloat). Potential owners are advised to ask breeders for health screenings for the dog and/or its parents, or they can have their own veterinarians do the screenings.

Life expectancy for the Dobrador is 10-12 years.