Labbe Dog (Labrador Retriever & Beagle Mix): Info, Pictures, Facts

Breed Overview

The Labbe is what you get when you combine two of the most family-friendly dogs on the planet; the Labrador Retriever and the Beagle. This is one extremely sweet canine that will be a joy to have.

While Labbes can get quite large, they do well in small spaces, too. Thanks to their even temperament and laid-back nature, this dog loves lounging while waiting for an opportunity to please you.

Are you interested in this gem of a pet? Here is everything you need to know about the Labbe.

Labbe Puppies

Labbe Characteristics

Labbes are designer dogs. A designer dog is that which results from crossing two pure breeds. For a canine to be considered a pure breed, it must come from generations of pure breeds, with papers to back that claim up. Consequently, purebred puppies usually exhibit traits that are characteristic of their breed.

As a result, one of the main benefits of purchasing a pure breed from a reputable breeder is that you can forecast how the puppy will turn out.

With designer dogs such as Labbes, however, you do not have that luxury. Since its parents are from different breeds, it could inherit traits from either side. Rarely does a designer dog receive a 50/50 share of its parent’s genetics; one parent’s genetic code will be expressed more than the other’s will. This means that even among pups from the same litter, they can vary significantly in looks and behavior.

Fortunately, since Labrador retrievers and beagles are both excellent companion dogs, you should not be too worried about your Labbe pup turning out to be a pain.

Owing to its heritage, the Labbe is a high-energy animal. Sorry if you are looking for a lap dog.  This means that you'll need to stimulate it with enough exercise to keep it satisfied and stimulated. We are talking about an hour of play or walking every single day with no excuses. But there won't be a single dull day because you can jog with your furry friend, run, bike, or play fetch.

It’s a healthy dog that will live for up to 15 years.

Temperament & Intelligence of the Labbe 🧠

Since the temperament and intelligence of a Labbe depends on the parent it takes after more, we must have a brief overview of each parent so you can know what traits to expect.

Labrador Retriever

The lab traces its roots to the 1800's Canada, where it was bred as a multipurpose dog. Labs, however, are especially gifted at hunting and retrieving, and do not mind swimming.

These dogs have an extreme eagerness to please, which is what makes them excellent companions, as well as family dogs. While incredibly strong, their attitude is laid-back, meaning they will only move to accompany you.

As a result, training a Labrador should not be difficult, thanks to their high intelligence and eagerness to please you.

Beagles

Beagles originate from 15th Century England, where they were bred for tracking various games. Thanks to their high intelligence, they pick up new tricks easily. However, they can be stubborn and independent at times, meaning that training and socialization are important from an early age.

Additionally, due to their scent-tracking abilities, beagles are inquisitive, which is what usually results in their stubbornness. Generally, however, beagles are sweet-natured and love pleasing their family. They are also extremely energetic.

If you adopt a Labbe, expect a sweet, intelligent dog that could be a ball of energy.

Things to Know When Owning a Labbe

Food & Diet Requirements

Labbes require a diet that is high in protein and fat. However, considering that it is a designer breed, it is best to have a vet evaluate the dog first before you embark on any type of diet. This is because the nutritional needs of Labbes vary greatly even among pups from the same litter.

Exercise 🐕

Both Labs and Beagles were bred for hunting. As such, a Labbe is a dog that requires vigorous exercise to exercise those instincts. Exercise will also help them avoid becoming overweight. Consider giving your pup about an hour of exercise every day. If you have lots of space outside, you can allow them to do their thing – as long as it is safe.

Grooming

A Labbe will take after one parent more. If they take after their Labrador parent, they could be black, chocolate, or yellow. If they look more like their Beagle parent, they will spot a coat whose color can vary widely, ranging from white and brown to blue and black.

Size also varies significantly between Labbes. Some can be 19 inches tall, weighing 30 pounds. In contrast, some can reach 24 inches of height and up to 80 pounds in weight. When it comes to coat style, most Labbes sport a short, dense coat.

Facially, Labbes tend to take after their Beagle parents, while sporting the torso of a Lab. Consider brushing the doggo’s coat 2 – 3 times per week, while bathing them occasionally.

Training 🦮

While the dog comes with a good dose of intelligence, it has a short concentration span, which can get in the way of training. But this is one dog that lives to please its master. This means that it will be easy to train if you approach it in the right way. For example, using treats as a reward. It scores very well in sociability, but you must socialize it from early on in life.

Health & Conditions ❤️

Fortunately, thanks to being a hybrid, the Labbe is not prone to common health conditions that afflict dogs. However, they can be susceptible to diseases that affect their parents, such as elbow dysplasia, gastric torsion, congenital heart defect, and epilepsy.

The good news is that most Labbes are not affected by those conditions and usually live a happy and healthy life.

Male vs Female

There is no visible or temperamental difference between male and female Labbes unless the female has not been spayed. In which case, she will tend to be heavier than a male.

3 Little-Known Facts about the Labbe

The following are some things that you might not know about this designer breed:

1. The Labbe is also known as the Labbe retriever, Labeagle, or the Beagador.

2. It is recognized by four canine organizations.

3. It can be eager to please like the Labrador or stubborn like the Beagle, depending on who it takes after more.

Conclusion

The Labbe is a mix of two of the most adored dog breeds in the world. This means you will be getting two delightful dogs in one package. Nonetheless, to experience what it is like to have a Labbe as a companion, you must ensure that what you adopt is, in fact, a true Labbe. The first step, therefore, is to find a reputable breeder.

The next step? Share your experience with others!

Featured Image Credit: Mary Swift, Shutterstock