Staffordshire Terrier Lab Mix Guide: All You Need To Know

The Staffordshire Terrier Lab mix is an iconic blend of two popular breeds. Strength, intelligence, and loyalty set this hybrid apart from other dogs. The fusion of Staffordshire’s courageous spirit and Labrador’s affable nature makes this crossbreed versatile. Whether you seek an adventure companion or a perfect family pet, the Staffordshire Lab mix surpasses all expectations.

American Staffordshire Terrier Lab Mix Breed Overview

Staffordshire Terrier Lab mix, a unique crossbreed between a Labrador Retriever and a Staffordshire Bull Terrier, is immensely popular. This mixed dog breed combines Labrador’s athleticism and  Staffordshire Bull Terriers’ loyalty. 

Physical Characteristics of the Staffy Cross Labrador

The Staffy cross Labrador Retriever, or Labrastaff, is a medium-sized dog that inherits the athletic physique of both parent breeds.

A broad head and strong jaw are character traits indicative of their Staffordshire heritage. They also possess a thick tail that tapers towards the end from their Labrador retriever side.

Their coat type can vary in color, but it’s usually short and dense, similar to their parents. Notably muscular, they carry an array of power despite being medium-sized, between 17-25 inches tall.

This mix has expressive eyes, often ranging from brown to blueish hues. It contributes to their endearing appeal among enthusiasts and families alike.

Grooming a Labrador Cross Staffy

Caring for your Labrastaff starts with maintaining a regular grooming schedule. Include these steps in your routine:

1. Brush their short coat at least once weekly to remove loose hairs, as Labrastaffs shed moderately. GoPets Professional Slicker Brush for Dogs can be used.

2. Bath your furry giant regularly to keep their canine coats clean and healthy-looking. Pet Honesty Allergy Anti-Itch Shampoo for Dogs can be a good shampoo option. 

3. Pay extra attention to cleaning their ears. Ensure the insides are free from any build-up that can lead to ear infections.

4. Monitor their dental health by checking their teeth routinely. Cleaning using a dog toothbrush and paste should be incorporated into your grooming practice. Use Bluestem’s toothpaste and toothbrush combo for an enhanced experience. 

5. Consider professional grooming every few months for a thorough cleanup and health checkup.

The Personality of the Staffy – Labrador Cross

The Staffy Labrador Retriever cross, called Labrastaff or Staffador, is energetic and has a friendly temperament. These dogs inherit a high energy level from their Labrador parents and are up for a game of fetch or a long walk.

Being descendants of Staffordshire Terriers, they possess inherent loyalty towards their human family. It makes them excellent companions.

However, it’s not all play with these gentle giants. They also show a marked intelligence that sets them apart. This trait can be traced back to both parent breeds renowned for their quick learning capabilities.

Consequently, Labrastaffs excel at agility and obedience training programs due to their intellect. They exhibit remarkable patience around children. This, combined with resourcefulness and adaptability, makes this mix breed an ideal choice for families.

Training a Labrastaff

Training a Labrastaff ensures they become well-behaved and obedient furry companions. 

1. Start early: Train your Labrastaff from a young age to establish good behavior and prevent bad habits from forming.

2. Positive reinforcement: Use techniques like treats, praise, and rewards to motivate and encourage your Labrastaff during training sessions.

3. Consistency is key: Consistent training methods will help your Labrastaff understand what is expected of them.

4. Socialization: Expose your Labrastaff to different environments, people, and animals. It will develop good social skills and reduce the likelihood of aggression or fearfulness.

5. Basic commands: Teach your Labrastaff basic commands like sit, stay, come, and leave. These commands will make daily interactions easier and keep them safe in various situations.

6. Leash training: Gradually introduce leash walking to teach your Labrastaff how to walk nicely on a leash without pulling or lunging.

7. Mental stimulation: Engage their intelligent minds by providing mental stimulation through puzzle toys, interactive games, and obedience challenges.

Exercise Requirements of the Staffy Lab Mix

A Staffy Lab mix has high exercise requirements that must be met to keep them happy and healthy. These energetic dogs require exercise daily, including brisk walks and playtime.

Engaging Labrastaffs in a lot of training like jogging, agility training, interactive toys, and obedience training can fulfill their exercise needs. Providing them with physical activity and mental stimulation prevents boredom and destructive behaviors.

Common Health Problems of the Staffador

Staffador mixes, like their parent breeds, may be susceptible to certain health issues. 

1. Bloat: Labradors and Staffordshire Terriers are prone to bloat, where the stomach twists and fills with gas. This can be a life-threatening emergency that requires immediate veterinary attention.

2. Cataracts: Both Labs and Staffies can develop an eye disease like cataracts. It causes cloudiness in the eye lens, leading to vision impairment or blindness.

3. Hip Dysplasia: Labradors and Staffies experience inherited hip joint disorders or hip dysplasia. The hip socket does not form correctly and causes pain, lameness, and arthritis.

4. Obesity: Labrador Retrievers are prone to obesity, which can also affect their mixed breeds. Maintaining a healthy weight keeps these dogs healthy.

5. Heart Diseases: Some Labradors and Staffordshire Terriers may have genetic health concerns resulting in heart diseases like dilated cardiomyopathy or mitral valve disease.

6. Patellar Luxation: This condition in dogs affects the kneecap’s positioning. It is common in small dog breeds but also in a staffy lab mix.

Feeding a Staffador

Feeding a Staffador requires a balanced diet to support their active lifestyle and overall health. 

Provide High-Quality Dog Food: 

Choose premium dog food specifically formulated for medium-sized, active breeds. Look for options that contain real meat as the first ingredient. To maintain a healthy breed, incorporate a diet with fish oils and avoid fillers or artificial additives. Purina Pro Plan High Protein, Grain Free Wet Dog Food is a good option. 

Consider Their Age And Weight: 

Adjust the portion sizes according to your Staffador’s age and weight. Puppies require more frequent meals with smaller portions, while adult dogs can be fed twice daily.

Monitor Their Calorie Intake: 

Labrastaffs can be prone to weight gain, so monitor their calorie intake, and avoid overfeeding. Consult a veterinarian to determine the food for your furry giant based on its activity level and condition.

Offer A Balanced Diet: 

Include protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats in your Staffador’s diet. Protein sources like chicken, turkey, or fish provide essential nutrients for muscle development. Complex carbohydrates like brown rice or sweet potatoes provide energy.

Avoid Table Scraps: 

While sharing leftovers with your furry friend may be tempting, human food can harm dogs. Avoid feeding them table scraps, which can lead to digestive issues and obesity.

Provide Fresh Water: 

Ensure your Staffador always has access to fresh water throughout the day. Hydration is vital for their overall health and helps prevent dehydration during exercise.

How Long Do Staffy Cross Labradors Live?

Staffy lab mix lives between 10-16 years. While this is the average lifespan for these mixed breed dogs, individual dogs may live shorter or longer. It depends on various factors like genetic condition and overall health.

Benefits and Challenges of Owning a Staffador

Owning a Staffador has benefits and challenges.

Pros of American Staffordshire Terrier Lab Mix

The American Staffordshire Terrier Lab mix offers unique physical traits and more. It is a great pet choice for many families. Here are some pros of owning this mixed breed:

Well-rounded And Versatile: 

The Staffador combines the Staffordshire Bull Terriers’ athleticism and energy with Labrador’s intelligence and trainability. This makes them suitable for obedience training, agility, and even therapy work.

Loyal And Protective: 

The Staffador is loyal to its family and will go to great lengths to protect them. Their protective nature makes them excellent guard dogs, providing a sense of security to their owners.

Playful And Energetic: 

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier and the Labrador have playful personalities, meaning the Staffador is no exception. They enjoy engaging in interactive playtime with their owners and thrive on regular exercise.

Gentle Temperament: 

Despite their muscular appearance, Staffadors can be surprisingly gentle and patient. This makes them suitable for families with children or other pets.

Intelligent And Trainable: 

Labrador retriever is considered one of the most intelligent breed, while a Staffordshire Bull Terrier for high trainability. Staffador quickly learns commands and tricks, making training sessions enjoyable for both owner and dog.

Cons of American Staffordshire Terrier Lab mix

The American Staffordshire Terrier Lab mix does have some challenges that assertive owners should be aware of. These include

Potential Aggression: 

The Staffador can be protective. It may lead to aggression towards other animals or strangers if not properly trained and socialized.

Exercise Needs: 

This hybrid breed has a high energy level and requires plenty of exercise and brain exercise. The Staffador can become bored and exhibit destructive behavior without regular physical activity.

Grooming Requirements: 

The Labrador Retriever’s double coats and the American Staffordshire Terriers’ short canine coats require regular brushing to prevent matting and shedding.

Size and Strength: 

Both parent breeds are medium-large dogs. Consider whether you have enough space for a larger four-legged friend and can handle its strength during daily walks or playtime.

Potential Health Concerns: 

Like all mixed breeds, the Staffador is prone to inheriting certain medical conditions from its parent breeds. Hip dysplasia, obesity, and allergic reactions are a few.

Where to Adopt or Buy an American Staffordshire Terrier Lab Mix?

One of the best ways to find an American Staffordshire Terrier Lab mix is by adopting one from a shelter. Many rescue organizations have this mixed breed available for adoption. A few centers to get rescue dogs include –

• LOVE-A-BULL
• Lucky Lab Rescue & Adoption

The American Staffordshire Terrier Club of America is a great resource to inquire. If you prefer buying from a breeder, choose a reputable breeder that follows ethical breeding practices.

Whether you adopt or buy, bringing home an American Staffordshire Terrier Lab mix can be a rewarding experience.

What’s the Price of American Staffordshire Terrier Lab Mix?

The average price of an American Staffordshire Terrier Lab mix is around $800. If you want to buy a puppy, prices can range from $800 and up, depending on the responsible breeder and the dog’s pedigree.

Pricing may vary depending on your location and the availability of these mixed breed dogs. Consider that owning a pet involves more than just the initial cost of purchase or adoption.

You’ll also need to budget for food, veterinary care, grooming supplies, and other expenses associated with providing a loving home.

Are The American Staffordshire Terrier Lab Mix Dogs Good for Families?

The American Staffordshire Terrier Lab mix dogs are excellent furry companions for families in the USA. These dogs have strength, athleticism, and intelligence. Despite their muscular appearance, they are gentle and affectionate companion, making them great family dogs.

They form strong bonds with their owners and are loyal to the core. The American Staffordshire Terrier Lab mix is energetic and playful, making them perfect playmates for kids.

FAQ

Does The American Staffordshire Terrier Lab Mix Get Along With Other Pets?

The American Staffordshire Terrier Lab mix gets along well with other pets, including dogs and cats. While they can be protective of their family, proper training and early socialization develop good relationships with other animals.

How Big Do American Staffordshire Lab Mixes Get?

American Staffordshire Lab mix can vary in size, but is a medium-sized dog. Male Labs reach 55-57 cm, while a female adult is usually around 54-56 cm tall.

Is An American Staffordshire Terrier Considered An Aggressive Breed?

Due to its history and reputation, the American Staffordshire Terrier is often considered an aggressive breed. Not all dogs within this breed will exhibit aggressive behaviors. Abuse, neglect, or under-socialization contribute to aggression in any four-legged friend, including the American Staffordshire Terrier. Consistent training, socialization, and responsible ownership prevent aggressive tendencies in this breed.

Is An American Staffordshire Considered A Pit Bull?

The American Staffordshire Terrier is often mistakenly considered a pitbull but is not the same breed. While the American Staffordshire Terrier and the American Pit Bull Terrier fall under the category of “pit bull type dogs” or “bully breeds,” they are distinct.

Do Staffy Lab Shed?

A Staffy Lab shed a lot. These dogs have double coats that shed moderately throughout the year and heavily during shedding season.

How Long Do Lab Staffies Live?

Staffordshire Terrier Lab mixes have 10-16 years of lifespan. On average, these lovable and energetic dogs can be part of your family for a decade or more.

What Is The Best Staffy Cross?

A mix of Staffordshire Bull Terrier and Labrador Retriever is considered the best Staffy cross. This breed combines the loyalty and athleticism of both parent breeds. It makes them an excellent choice for active people or families who enjoy outdoor activities.

Are Lab Terrier Mixes Good Dogs?

Lab terrier mixes like the American Staffordshire Terrier Lab mix are excellent dogs. They are friendly and loyal companions who quickly become a part of your family.

With their energetic nature, they love to play and engage in activities with their loved ones. These dogs can be easily trained, making them ideal for families looking for a trainable and obedient pet.

Are Staffies Good With Toddlers?

Staffies, including the American Staffordshire Terrier Lab mix, are excellent companions for families with toddlers. Their gentle and friendly nature makes them great assistance dogs, highlighting their compatibility with young children.

Is the American Staffordshire Terrier A Bully Breed?

The American Staffordshire Terrier is sometimes considered a bully breed due to its history and reputation. Like any dog, their behavior is influenced by their environment and training. Responsible ownership and proper training help these dogs to be well-behaved and friendly.

What Is A Terrier Lab Mix Called?

A terrier lab mix is commonly called a Labrastaff. This adorable crossbreed combines the American Staffordshire terrier and Labrador retriever breeds. Labrastaffs are friendly, energetic, and loyal.

Are Lab Terriers Easy To Train?

Lab Terrier dogs, or Labrastaffs, are intelligent and easy to train. They are eager to please their owners and learn, making them highly trainable, even for novice owners. With their intelligence and willingness to learn, lab terrier dogs can quickly pick up commands and tricks.