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Siberian Retriever (Siberian Husky & Labrador Retriever Mix) Info, Pictures, Facts

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By Nicole Cosgrove

siberian husky labrador mix huskador

Height: 19–28 inches
Weight: 45–70 pounds
Lifespan: 10–13 years
Colors: Black, black with white markings, grey, multicolor, tan, yellow, grey and white
Suitable for: Active families, outdoor enthusiasts, families with younger children, competitive dog trainers
Temperament: Intelligent, active, energetic, alert, outgoing, gentle, bold

Siberian Retrievers, also known as “Labskys” and “Huskadors,” are some of the best designer breeds for families and are often found running and playing with anyone around them. They’re active and energetic dogs that come from two working breeds, so they are a great mix for hikers and people who spend long hours outdoors.

As the result of crossing a Labrador Retriever with a Siberian Husky, Siberian Retrievers are highly intelligent and can be a breeze to train. Let’s take a look at this high-energy hybrid to see if it’s the right mix for you:

hepper-dog-paw-divider 3Siberian Retriever Puppies

Energy
Trainability
Health
Lifespan
Sociability

A purebred Siberian Husky puppy can be somewhat expensive, depending on their lineage. When you’re looking for a Siberian Lab, take your time to find an ethical and reputable breeder. Signs of a quality breeder are that they will be willing to show you the breeding facilities, introduce the puppy’s parents or siblings to you, and provide information on the puppy’s health so you can be sure you’re taking home a healthy puppy.

When you bring a Siberian Labrador home, be ready to have an alert and outgoing dog by your side. They’re an excellent option for active families who love the outdoors. These active dogs need plenty of space to run around and burn off their energy.

3 Little-Known Facts About the Siberian Labrador

1. Siberian Labradors Are Usually First-Generation Hybrids

Although quite popular, Siberian Labradors are usually first-generation hybrids, which are a cross between a purebred Labrador Retriever and a purebred Siberian Husky. It’s rare to see this hybrid as a second or third-generation mix.


2. Some Siberian Labradors Have Light Markings

Depending on the mix, some Siberian Labradors have light husky markings. They’re sometimes so faded that they blend in with the rest of their coats. They’re usually more expensive when they have “ghost” markings.


3. Siberian Labradors Are Powerhouses

Siberian Labradors are serious powerhouses; they can run, pull, and tug for hours. Because of that, they require more exercise than the average dog.

Parent breeds of the Siberian Retriever
Image Credit: Left – Julissa Helmuth, Pexels | Right – fsHH, Pixabay

Temperament & Intelligence of the Siberian Labradors 🧠

Siberian Retrievers are not purebred dogs, so it can be difficult to gauge their temperaments. One way to know is to look at the parents, but that’s not always possible. Alternatively, researching the temperaments of Labrador Retrievers and Siberian Huskies can help prepare you for your “Labsky” puppy.

Siberian Huskies are outgoing dogs that love nothing more than to burn off their energy, whether it’s through running or pulling. These arctic canines are highly intelligent and extremely athletic, so it’s important to exercise them daily to keep them from destroying the house. Since they’re known for their determination and “Husky smiles,” Siberian Huskies can be great pets for families with active children.

As long as their needs are met, Huskies can be quite loving and will form close bonds with their families. Labrador Retrievers are known for their gentleness and mild-mannered temperaments, but they’re also intelligent dogs always eager to please. Originally bred for hunting and retrieving, these dogs still have strong instincts without the stubbornness that other hunting dogs usually possess.

Labs are pretty easygoing compared to other working dogs, which makes them one of the most popular dog breeds for service work. Labs are also affectionate and make great companion dogs as long as they’re exercised daily. Since Siberian Huskies and Labrador Retrievers are quite different when taking a closer look, it may be hard to know what traits your puppy will have.

Regardless, there’s no doubt that your Siberian Retriever will be an energetic and intelligent dog. While there’s no guarantee of how your puppy will behave, it’s best to prepare for a highly energetic dog with moderate exercise needs.

Are These Dogs Good for Families? 🏡

Yes! Siberian Retrievers are great for families, especially for families with active children. Although Siberian Huskies can be somewhat temperamental and unsuitable for younger children, Siberian Retrievers are usually balanced out by the Lab’s docile demeanor. That means that these dogs will be more patient with smaller children, yet they can easily keep up with older children as well.

Does This Breed Get Along with Other Pets? 🐶 😽

Generally, yes, Siberian Retrievers get along with other household pets. However, smaller animals and cats may be too tempting for their instincts. It’s best to raise your Siberian Retriever alongside the other pets or to bring them into a home already established with pets.

Bringing in additional pets after your Siberian Labrador becomes an adult can be risky as they may see the new pets as a “threat.” Always introduce pets at their pace to prevent fighting or scuffles.

huskydor husky labrador
Image Credit: Montana Isabella, Shutterstock

Divider 4Things to Know When Owning a Siberian Retriever

Food & Diet Requirements 🦴

Siberian Retrievers are high-energy dogs that need a lot of nutrients to keep them in tip-top shape. We recommend feeding them a high-quality dry kibble with a minimum of 25% protein, preferably coming from leaner meats like poultry.

Look for brands specifically formulated for large breeds or working dogs while avoiding low-quality foods with filler ingredients (corn, soy, wheat). When in doubt, consult a veterinarian about your puppy’s dietary options.

Exercise 🐕

Siberian Retrievers live to exercise, so it’s essential for their mental health and well-being that they exercise daily. A few walks a day at around two miles each is the bare minimum; they will demand you to take them out and about. Hiking and long-distance jogs are great ways to exercise your Labsky, especially if the Husky genes are more dominant. It’s also essential to provide them with a fenced-in space to roam off-leash, as long as they can’t hop the fence and take off.

Since Siberian Husky and Labrador Retriever mixed dogs are natural athletes, consider trying a canine sport with your Siberian Retriever. Sports like dock jumping, freestyle frisbee, and agility are a few of the many activities to try with your dog. These dogs are eager to do anything remotely active, so a canine sport is a great way to keep them content.

It’s equally important to exercise their minds, especially because they are quite clever. Puzzle toys are a great way to keep them entertained and happy indoors, but they may figure them out quickly. Another way to mentally exercise your Labsky is to play “hide and seek” with their favorite treats, which encourages them to sniff and forage.

black huskydor labsky
Image Credit: Mike Cerantola, Shutterstock

Training 🦮

Siberian Retrievers are generally eager for training and shouldn’t be too resistant. However, it’s crucial to use positive reinforcement methods with mixed-value treats since harsh training methods can create a resentful dog. This mix relies heavily on leadership and confidence, so it’s essential to keep training your dog well after puppyhood.

However, their energy levels can be hard to handle, so a professional dog trainer may be needed to help understand your dog’s needs. Group obedience classes can be a great way to socialize your new puppy and learn the basics.

Your Siberian Retriever will most likely excel and move on to the next level in obedience training. These hybrids can do well in obedience competitions if given the chance, creating a solid bond between you and your dog.

Grooming ✂️

Siberian Retrievers usually have double coats, consisting of one thick underlayer and a fluffy top layer. Although the fur won’t be too long, it must be brushed out once a week to help reduce shedding.

The occasional monthly bath is also recommended to reduce odors, but it’s crucial not to over-bathe and dry out the skin. In addition to bathing and brushing, your dog’s nails must be trimmed every 3 to 4 weeks or as needed.

Health and Conditions ❤️

Siberian Retrievers come from two relatively healthy breeds, but it’s important to know what to expect for your puppy’s future. While there’s no way to know for sure what your puppy will inherit from its parents, we can take a look at the health conditions of Labrador Retrievers and Siberian Huskies to get a better idea:

Common Health Conditions of the Labrador Retriever
  • Cancer
  • Elbow Dysplasia
  • Epilepsy/Seizures
  • Obesity
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Laryngeal Paralysis
  • Hip Dysplasia
  • Arthritis
Common Health Conditions of the Siberian Husky
  • Corneal Dystrophy
  • Hip Dysplasia
  • Obesity
  • Uveodermatologic Syndrome
  • Progressive Retinal Atrophy
  • Cataracts
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Zinc Deficiency

Male vs Female

Siberian Retriever males and females are generally similar, but the two may have a sizable difference. However, a small percentage of males may mark their territory indoors, which can be hard to break. Aside from the marking or a possible size difference, the choice of female versus male is a personal matter.

Divider 3Final Thoughts

Siberian Retrievers are active and fun hybrids that can be great family pets if properly trained and exercised. While they’re not suitable for everyone’s schedules, these dogs can be great for active individuals. If given the chance, Siberian Retrievers can easily win over anyone they meet. Though they’re hyperactive and can be a handful for new dog owners, Siberian Retrievers have what it takes to be the ultimate pet and canine companion.


Featured Image Credit: Ellice Ford, Shutterstock

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