Beagle Lab Mix: All You Need to Know About Beagador

Last Updated on April 25, 2023

What happens when you mix a Labrador Retriever’s lovable personality with the hunting skills of a Beagle?

You get a friendly, easy-to-train hybrid known as the Beagle Lab Mix, also called the Labbeagle, Labbe, or Beagador. These crossbreeds are loyal and gentle and they make for great family pets.

Let’s find out why the Beagle-Lab cross is one of the most popular designer dogs today.

What is a Beagle Lab mix?

The Beagle and Lab mix is the first-generation offspring of a Labrador Retriever (Lab) and Beagle.

Labbes are generally friendly, energetic, and multi-talented dogs, but their behavior and appearance can be unpredictable, depending on the traits they inherit from their purebred parents.

To learn more about the Beagador, it helps to know about his parentage first.

The people-pleasing Labrador Retriever

The Lab was initially bred in Newfoundland, Canada and was commonly used for hunting waterfowl. Thanks to their nature as working dogs, these Retrievers are intelligent, obedient, and eager to please their owners.

These dogs continue to be excellent canine companions today. Their gentle personality makes them excellent guide dogs for the blind and service animals to people in need.

Due to their friendly nature, Labs were the most popular breed of 2018, according to the AKC.

The playful Beagle

The history of the Beagle remains a little hazy. The modern breed can be traced back to small hounds used to track hares in England in the 1500s.

These dogs were popular among hunters of the time; due to their compact size, Beagles could be used even on foot.

After making their way to the US after the Civil War, these pint-sized dogs were a hit among American rabbit hunters, who loved the breed’s keen sense of smell and tracking skills.

What does a Beagle Lab mix look like?

Beagadors usually inherit the Beagle’s compact build. Most of these hybrids have a long, narrow muzzle and ears that dangle down the side of their face.

Beagle Lab mixes have a smooth, dense coat of short fur, which may come in colors such as white, tan, black, yellow, chocolate, orange, and red. Some of them may even have tri-color or brindle coats.

How big can these dogs get?

Beagle Lab mixes are a medium-sized crossbreed.

Full-grown, a Beagador can stand 19 to 24 inches (48 to 60 cm) tall and have an average weight of 25 to 40 lbs (11 to 18 kg).

With its size, this hybrid can be a good fit for smaller living spaces like apartments.

However, he’ll need a lot of space to run and explore. You’ll want to take him to the dog park at least once a day to give him fresh air and sunlight.

He will be happiest in a home with a spacious yard where he can move freely. Just make sure to have a fence installed around your property to keep your dog safe when he’s out playing.

Are they hypoallergenic?

Unfortunately, the Beagle Lab cross is not hypoallergenic.

If you suffer from allergies to dander, then this crossbreed might not be the best pet for you. They may have a short coat, but Labbeagles will experience heavy shedding when the seasons change.

If you really have your heart set on the Beagle Lab, be prepared to use the vacuum cleaner frequently. You can also keep the shedding under control through regular brushing sessions and baths, which will help remove dead hair from your dog’s coat.

An affectionate, energetic crossbreed

Beagles and Labrador Retrievers share many of the same traits, so the Beagle Lab mix will have a similar personality.

The Beagador is curious and alert, always looking to explore his surroundings.

He’ll love spending time outdoors and following the scents he discovers.

Like the Beagle, these crossbreeds are alert and may become hyperactive. But, as they grow older, they can become more patient and relaxed.

Most Labbes have a playful yet easygoing personality, which makes them ideal companions for children of all ages.

Their bodies are a bit more sturdy compared to dogs their size, so children hurting them during playtime is not as much of a problem.

And though they have plenty of energy to spare, Beagle Lab mixes also love to cuddle up with their owners. They’re loyal and affectionate, and they’ll want to stick to your side all day.

They’ll love spending time with you so much that they’ll experience separation anxiety when left alone for long periods.

Potential behavioral problems in Beagadors

Like all dogs, the Beagle Lab mix comes with its own set of problematic behaviors.

First off, most of these hybrids love to bark. This is something they inherit from the Beagle, which was bred to bay or vocalize when hunting.

In addition to barking, expect to hear plenty of howling and whining from the Labbeagle. All that noise could be a problem if you need peace and quiet at home or if you live close to your neighbors.

Check out this Beagle Lab howling along to a siren:

Another problem you could encounter with this crossbreed is its high prey drive. As the offspring of two hunting breeds, the Beagle and Lab mix will have a strong instinct to chase smaller animals like cats, rabbits, and hamsters.

Socialization will help teach your dog that these smaller mammals are not prey to chase or hunt. This is crucial if you have other pets in the household.

You should also know that Labbes have a habit of chewing when they feel bored. You can prevent your dog from chewing up your beloved shoes or your expensive rug by getting him some chew toys and making sure he gets sufficient physical and mental stimulation.

Are they aggressive dogs?

With their hyperactive nature and playful attitude, the Beagle Lab mix’s energy can give people the idea that they are an aggressive crossbreed.

However, these dogs are loving creatures. Given their heritage as hunter’s companions, they’re used to being around people and are not prone to aggression.

As we’ve mentioned, they’ll even get along well with other pets, if they are given enough time for socialization.

Training a Beagle Lab mix

Not only is this crossbreed loyal and protective, but it’s also intelligent.

This dog gets its smarts from the Lab, which has been ranked among the smartest breeds in the world.

Some Beagadors, however, may inherit more of the Beagle’s independence.

The Beagle has been bred to follow its instincts while hunting, so it’s not used to following the commands of its owners.

Whatever parent your Beagle Lab mix takes after, though, you can teach it proper behavior through a consistent training routine.

It will also help to get training started as early as possible, while your dog is still a pup. Puppies tend to be easier to teach and are easier to engage compared to older dogs.

Remember to reward your dog with positive reinforcement such as treats, praise, or even their favorite toy, while at the same time handling them with a firm hand. You have to establish yourself as an alpha so he won’t challenge your authority when you give commands.

And, remember, it is essential to take your time when training your Labbe. Patience and consistency, especially during the early stages, will go a long way in correcting your pet’s behavior.

Socialization is also an important component of training your dog, and it should begin during puppyhood. Take him on walks to public places like the park or around the neighborhood so he can get used to all the different sights, sounds, and smells.

Take the time to introduce your Labbeagle to other members of your household, especially other pets. This ensures that all your four-legged family members get along well.

Caring for a Lab and Beagle mix: what you need to know

The Labbe doesn’t require much time or money when it comes to care; its short coat makes for easy grooming and he won’t eat as much as bigger breeds.

You’ll have to put in some effort when it comes to giving him enough exercise, though. Here’s more info on the care of a Beagle and Lab hybrid.

How to groom your dog

Due to their short coats, the Lab Beagle mix is easy to keep clean. He has a short, weather-resistant coat, something he inherits from his parents.

For a shiny and healthy coat, a Labbe needs to be brushed weekly. Use a grooming mitt or glove so you can easily remove loose hair from his coat.

Make no mistake, though; he experiences seasonal shedding and is not hypoallergenic. He usually sheds heavily when the seasons change, so be prepared to do some serious vacuuming every few months.

Give your dog a bath once or twice every three months. That’s all he needs to keep clean; frequent baths can dry out his skin and coat and cause skin problems.

Beagle Lab mixes are more prone to ear infections because of their floppy ears. Check your dog’s ears at least once every week and clean them with cotton balls and vet-approved cleanser.

What to feed the Labbeagle

The Beagle Lab cross is an active dog and his diet will need to sustain his energy levels. He’ll need kibble with a high protein content, at least 20% to 25%. The nutrient helps strengthen his joints and keeps his muscles healthy.

Animal-based meats like seafood, fresh poultry, and beef are all great protein sources for your pooch. Make sure his kibble lists protein first in its ingredients.

These crossbreeds also need dog food that contains at least 15% fat. The nutrient helps them maintain their energy levels and keeps their skin and coat healthy.

Starchy vegetables like sweet potatoes will also give him slow-burning energy without triggering potential allergies and causing digestion problems.

The Labbe’s parents are prone to overeating, so it’s safe to assume that he will have the same attitude towards food. Measure out his food and make sure he gets only 1 ½ to 2 ½ cups of dry kibble daily, divided into two meals.

This serving size may vary according to your dog’s age, size, and activity level, so it’s best to consult your veterinarian for the best feeding plan for your Labbeagle.

Get ready to work out with the Beagador

Don’t make the mistake of underestimating the Beagle Lab mix’s energy levels. This dog can play in the backyard all day without getting tired.

He’ll need at least one hour of exercise daily to release all their pent-up energy and remain in top shape. Consider getting another breed if you want a dog who’ll chill with you on the couch.

You can enjoy a wide variety of activities with your hybrid – whether it’s a brisk walk around the neighborhood twice a day or a fun swim at the pool.

The Labbe will also be able to keep up with more adventurous activities like hiking and trips to the beach. These dogs love swimming, thanks to their Lab heritage.

The Beagle Lab mix needs mental stimulation, too, so he’ll enjoy canine sports like agility training and tracking. Spending time at the agility course not only gives your pup sufficient exercise but also allows you to enforce obedience to your commands.

If you have a backyard, make sure to give your dog plenty of off-leash playtime.

Are there any health issues Beagle Lab mixes face?

Lab and Beagle hybrids are vulnerable to health issues that commonly affect their parents.

Both the Beagle and the Labrador, for instance, are prone to hip dysplasia.

Other health conditions that the Labbe can face include eye problems, seizures, hypothyroidism, and patellar luxation.

This crossbreed is also prone to bloat or gastric dilatation volvulus, a fatal condition that occurs when excess gas stretches and rotates the stomach.

One way to reduce the risk of your dog getting these conditions is feeding him the proper diet. Here are some tips on the right foods that will keep him healthy:

• Carrots, sweet potatoes, blueberries, salmon, and tuna all contain lutein and zinc, which will help keep your dog’s eyes in good shape.
• Grain-free, fiber-rich kibble will reduce the likelihood of digestive problems.
• Fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants and low-carbohydrate foods will reduce the likelihood of cancer.

Aside from these health issues, the Beagador may also be prone to cold tail or limber tail syndrome. This commonly occurs after a day of heavy activity or after a swim in cold water. Don’t worry; your dog’s tail will return to its wiggly state after a few days.

Where can you find a Labbe puppy?

Looking for a new Beagle Lab mix puppy from a reliable source can become a challenge. Trustworthy breeders can be difficult to find, especially since puppy mills are becoming more commonplace these days.

You may find Beagle Lab mix puppies for sale at as much as $600 each, depending on its parents’ pedigree.

If this price a little too steep for you, you also have the option to adopt an adult Beagador from a shelter.

Reputable Beagle Lab mix breeders

It might be tricky to find breeders focused on producing Labbeagles, as they’re not as popular as other crossbreeds like Maltipoos and Morkies.

What you can do is get in touch with breeders of Labrador Retrievers or Beagles and see if they have any crossbreeds for sale. Here are some breeders you can contact:

Lane Rae Beagles – Based in Florida, this breeder’s Beagle Program has been in place since 2009 and offers Beagles for pet and show purposes. The breeder is an AKC Breeder of Merit and is affiliated with the National Beagle Club of America.

Cedar Ridge Beagles – This Iowa breeder offers a wide variety of Beagle pups, even puppies with rare lilac or silver/blue coats. They charge $650 for each puppy, which will have received its first round of vaccinations before getting released into your care.

Hidden Pond Labradors – This breeder sells black, chocolate, and yellow Lab puppies from New York. Aside from pet-quality Labs, the breeder also has a line of search and rescue dogs and PTSD and service dogs.

Prairie Rose Retrievers – This Missouri breeder focuses on providing Labrador Retrievers that have been pre-screened for hip and elbow conditions and are dilute-free. Each Retriever pup comes with a 26-month health guarantee.

If you plan on getting your new pup from a breeder, always be sure to ask for its parents’ medical history as well. Buying a Labbeagle from a breeder can be costly, so make sure you get your money’s worth.

Finding Beagle Lab mixes through adoption

Aside from a breeder, an alternative way to get this crossbreed is to rescue one from your local shelter. You can give a dog a new home and life through adoption.

Rescuing a Labbe is also less expensive and you may be lucky enough to find an adult dog that’s already been trained and housebroken by its previous owners.

Here are some rescue organizations you can check out:

SOS Beagles – This non-profit organization provides medical procedures such as spaying/neutering, microchipping, and vaccination for the Beagles they have available for adoption. They have chapters located in Alabama, New Jersey, and Tennessee.

BREW Beagles – Founded in 1999, this organization is dedicated to rescuing Beagles that are faced with euthanasia. They rehome beagles to families in Virginia, Maryland, West Virginia, Washington DC, Pennsylvania, Delaware, New York, New Jersey, and Massachusetts.

Peak Lab Rescue – Peak Lab Rescue is focused on reducing the number of unwanted Labs and Lab Mixes in North Carolina. To date, the organization has saved more than 6,000 dogs from abusive environments and high-kill shelters.

Rocky Mountain Lab Rescue – This small group of volunteers finds Labs through shelter volunteers who alert them of the presence of these dogs in high-kill shelters. This Colorado-based organization has adult and senior Labradors available for $225 to $275.

Is this mixed breed the right dog for you?

The Beagle Lab mix’s personality can vary with each dog.

However, most of these crossbreeds inherit the Labrador Retriever’s friendly nature and the Beagle’s curiosity.

Labbes are playful but gentle, which makes them ideal pets for families with kids.

They’re also sociable and affectionate, so they’ll love curling up by your side at the end of day.

However, Beagadors will also need a lot of exercise. This may not be a great dog for a first-time owner, as he’ll take up plenty of your time for exercise and training.

What do you think about the Beagle-Lab hybrid? Share your thoughts in the comments!

Reference

• https://pets.webmd.com/dogs-separation-anxiety
• https://www.acvs.org/small-animal/gastric-dilatation-volvulus
• https://www.aspca.org/barred-from-love/puppy-mills-101