Hybrid dog breeds are a very popular trend these days. The basic idea is that just the right mix of two breeds can give you the perfect dog. The Lab-Boxer mix is one of the more popular hybrids, so let's take a look at the characteristics you can expect such a dog to display.
The Boxador
Hey, we just have to give this dog a quality name and the "Boxador" certainly fits the bill. As the name suggests, this mix has a bit of Labrador and a bit of Boxer in it. The dogs are not all that different to begin with, but it is important to make sure you understand which traits are dominant in the puppy you are considering if you prefer the dogs to act more like one of the breeds in particular.
Your average Boxer is what I like to call a mean mug dog. The dog can look very fierce and threatening, particularly the larger versions of the breed. Despite this appearance, Boxers tend to be happy, fun and full of zest for life. They are considered good dogs for kids because they are willing to sit there and get dressed up or be climbed on by little ones. They are also great guard dogs and very intelligent.
If anything, the Labrador is probably an even better family dog than the Boxer. They are easily trained, happy go lucky and good with kids. The average Lab is also very energetic. They do not have the territorial instincts of a Boxer, but will guard kids and family members when they sense danger.
The Mix
So, what do we get when we mix these two fine breeds? The Lab Boxer mix tends to produce a dog that is intelligent and very good with kids. If there is a personality drawback, it is the fact the dog tends to have an absolute ton of energy. If you don't have very active kids or a family member who will take the dog for a run each day, you may end up with a pup that destroys things in the house because they have so much pent up energy. A big yard is also highly advisable so they can play, play, play!
Health
Hybrid dogs tend to have better health than their pure breed relatives. There is something about mixing the genes that helps one avoid the inherent problems seen in pure breeds. For Boxers, these problems can include hypothyroidism, heart issues, digestive diseases and tumors. In the case of Labs, pure bred dogs can suffer from blindness due to atrophy of the retina, hip failure and epilepsy.
As you can see, the breeds do not really have any overlapping health issues. This typically means there is a good chance your mixed pup will not suffer severe versions of any of the health problems typically found with their pure breeds. As with the health of us humans, however, there can be no promises.
Size
If there is one area where you might be surprised with a Lab Boxer mix, it is the size of the dog. To be blunt, the mix can end up towering over pure bred Labs and Boxers. It is not
uncommon for these dogs to get into the 90 to 110 pound range. That's a big dog! There is nothing wrong with this so long as you understand what you are getting into.
A Good Choice?
In a word – yes…if you have the time to exercise the dog. If you and the family are not very active, this mix might be a bit much for you so be honest when making the assessment.
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