The Lab Pointer mix is a cross between the friendly and outgoing Labrador Retriever and the athletic, keen-nosed Pointer. This energetic hybrid is known for its intelligence, strong work ethic, and affectionate nature, making it an excellent choice for active families, hunters, and outdoor enthusiasts.
With a high energy level and strong prey drive, the Lab Pointer mix thrives in homes where it gets plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. Whether as a hunting companion, a running partner, or a loving family pet, this mix is sure to bring enthusiasm and devotion into your life.
Breed Overview
| Trait | Details |
| Breed Purpose | Hunting dog, companion dog |
| Size | Medium to large |
| Height | 22 to 28 inches (56 to 71 cm) |
| Weight | 50 to 85 pounds (23 to 39 kg) |
| Lifespan | 10-14 years |
| Coat Type | Short, dense, water-resistant |
| Colors | Black, chocolate, yellow, white, brown, or mixed patterns |
| Temperament | Intelligent, energetic, affectionate, loyal |
| Energy Level | High |
| Exercise Needs | At least 60-90 minutes daily |
| Shedding | Moderate |
| Trainability | Highly trainable but requires consistency |
| Average Price | $500 to $1,200 |
| Best For | Active families, hunters, experienced dog owners |
Where Did the Lab Pointer Mix Come From?
While hybrid dogs have gained popularity in recent years, both the Labrador Retriever and Pointer have long histories as working and hunting dogs. Labradors were bred in Newfoundland as retrieving dogs for fishermen, while Pointers have been used for centuries to locate and point at game birds.
By combining these two breeds, the Lab Pointer mix inherits strong hunting instincts, high intelligence, and a desire to work alongside humans. They excel in agility, fieldwork, and active family life, making them an ideal choice for people who love the outdoors.
Meet the Parent Breeds
Labrador Retriever
Labrador Retrievers are one of the most popular breeds in the world, known for their friendly, outgoing, and intelligent nature. Originally bred for retrieving game and fish, Labs are highly trainable and love being part of an active household.
Their short, dense coats are easy to maintain, and they are excellent swimmers due to their webbed feet and water-resistant fur.
Pointer
Pointers are athletic and agile hunting dogs that have been used for centuries to locate and “point” at game birds. They are known for their stamina, intelligence, and strong prey drive, making them exceptional field dogs.
Unlike Labs, Pointers have a leaner build and require a high level of physical and mental exercise to stay content.
Appearance
The Lab Pointer mix inherits traits from both parent breeds, resulting in a sleek, muscular build with long legs and an athletic stance. Their ears are often floppy, and they have expressive almond-shaped eyes that give them an alert yet friendly expression.
Their coat is short, smooth, and dense, usually in shades of black, chocolate, yellow, white, brown, or mixed patterns. Their tails can be long and slightly curved, often wagging with excitement.
Temperament and Personality
Lab Pointer mixes are affectionate, intelligent, and eager to please, making them fantastic family pets and working dogs. They thrive on human interaction and bond deeply with their owners.
However, due to their high energy and intelligence, they need consistent training and exercise to prevent boredom-related behaviors.
This mix is also alert and protective, making them excellent watchdogs. While not typically aggressive, they may be cautious around strangers and will alert their owners to anything unusual.
Are Lab Pointers Good with Kids and Other Pets?
Yes! Lab Pointer mixes are generally great with kids, as they are playful and gentle. However, their high energy level means they should be supervised around young children to prevent accidental knocks or jumps.
They can also get along well with other dogs, especially if socialized early. However, due to their hunting background, they may have a strong prey drive, making them prone to chasing small animals like cats or rabbits.
Training and Exercise Needs
The Lab Pointer mix is highly intelligent and trainable but requires consistent, positive reinforcement training to stay engaged. They excel in obedience, agility, and fieldwork, making them a great choice for active owners who enjoy dog sports.
Their exercise needs are high, requiring at least 60-90 minutes of activity per day. Activities they enjoy include:
- Running or jogging
- Playing fetch
- Swimming
- Hiking
- Agility or obedience training
Without enough physical and mental stimulation, they can become destructive or develop unwanted behaviors like excessive barking or digging. To understand and address some of these habits, check out this guide on Common Dog Behavior.
Grooming and Shedding
The Lab Pointer mix is low-maintenance in terms of grooming. Their short, dense coat requires weekly brushing to remove loose hair and keep their coat healthy.
Other grooming needs include:
- Bathing every 4-6 weeks or as needed
- Nail trimming every few weeks
- Ear cleaning to prevent infections (especially since they have floppy ears)
- Dental care to maintain good oral hygiene
Common Health Issues
This mix is generally healthy but may inherit some genetic conditions from its parent breeds. Common concerns include:
- Elbow and hip dysplasia
- Ear infections (common in floppy-eared breeds)
- Obesity (Labs love food, so portion control is essential)
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) (an eye condition that can lead to vision loss)
How Much Should You Feed a Lab Pointer Mix?
Lab Pointer mixes require a high-protein, nutrient-rich diet to support their active lifestyle. They typically need 2.5 to 3.5 cups of high-quality dry kibble per day, divided into two meals.
To prevent obesity, it’s important to monitor portion sizes and avoid overfeeding, especially if they inherit the Labrador’s love for food.
How Much Does a Lab Pointer Mix Cost?
Lab Pointer puppies usually cost between $500-$1,200, depending on breeder reputation, location, and lineage. Adoption from a shelter or rescue may be a more affordable option.
Is a Lab Pointer Mix Right for You?
The Lab Pointer mix is an energetic, intelligent, and affectionate dog that thrives in an active home. They are best suited for owners who can provide plenty of exercise, training, and attention.
If you love hiking, running, or outdoor adventures, the Lab Pointer mix could be your perfect companion!
Interested in other Labrador mixes? You might also like the Husky Lab Mix or the Corgi Lab Mix, each with their own unique traits and personalities.