Husky Lab Mix (Labsky) Dog Breed – 15 Things to Know

Any dog lover looking for a canine who is energetic, family-friendly, outgoing and intelligent is going to love the Labsky. A cross between the Husky and the Labrador Retriever, the Labsky hybrid brings the best of both worlds to the right family.

But before you choose to invest in one of these unique and clever mixed breeds, it’s important you learn as much as you can about them first

The Husky Lab Mix may be a lovely dog, but that doesn’t mean he’s the best dog for every person. Join us today as we learn more about the Husky Lab Mix and discover if this is the best dog for you.

1. The Husky Lab Mix (The Labsky) Is Considered A Designer Dog

The Labsky is not a purebred but instead a crossbreed dog. 

When we hear the term “designer dog”, many of us immediately think of pocket-sized puppies riding in the purses of celebrities as they strut down red carpets. However, designer dogs go far beyond the doodle mixes we have become so familiar with.

In fact, the Husky Lab Mix is one such dog who falls into this unique category. Neither a purebred nor a mutt, the Labsky is his own unique brand of pooch rising in popularity over the last two decades.

Originally, crossbreeding was designed as a practice for experienced breeders who were working to eventually create a purebred dog, most often for working purposes. But it takes generations of careful breeding and perfecting for a dog to be considered a purebred.

In the last two decades, however, first and second generation crossbreed dogs like the Labsky have made a name for themselves as some of the most sought after dogs in the US.

Unfortunately, there are pros and cons to owning a hybrid like the Husky Lab Mix. While some experts insist that crossbreed dogs are actually healthier than purebreds overall, others point out that crossbreeds are less predictable when it comes to health, appearance, and temperament.

But there is so much more you need to know about the Husky Lab Mix that goes beyond the crossbreed controversy.

Keep reading.

2. The Labsky Is A Mix Between the Siberian Husky and Labrador Retriever

Although the Husky Lab Mix may be less predictable than purebred dogs when it comes to determining temperament, appearance and health, there is a way you can gauge what your Labsky will look and behave like by taking his parent breeds into consideration.

Let’s begin by learning a bit about the Husky.

The Siberain Husky 

The Siberian Husky is an athletic, outgoing dog who loves his family. 

As his name suggests, the Siberan Husky was bred and perfected in the coldest regions of Siberia. This dog got his start as man’s best friend, serving as a devoted and valuable sled dog, hunting dog, and all-around companion dog for the nomadic Chukchi people.

Huskies of today are beloved for their beauty, and many novice dog enthusiasts mistakenly invest in a Husky for this reason alone. Unfortunately, Husky dogs can be some of the most difficult to maintain due to their high level of energy, enthusiasm, intelligence, and mischievous nature.

However, in the right home with the proper owner, Huskies can flourish and make truly incredible companions. They do well with children and other pets, and are highly social and friendly.

Height: 20 – 23.5 inches

Weight: 35 – 60 Pounds

Coat: Thick, dense, weather-proof, double-coated and shedding

Life Span: 12 – 14 years

Personality: Outgoing, Energetic, Ornery, Devoted, Affectionate

The Labrador Retriever

Labs are one of the most popular family dogs to own in the United States. 

The Labrador Retriever currently sits at number 1 on the American Kennel Club’s list of America’s most popular dog breeds. This family-friendly dog is as intelligent as he is adorable, and is often considered one of the most trainable breeds in the canine kingdom.

Originally bred in Canada as a water retrieving dog, the modern-day Lab is a family-favorite for his playful temperament, clever mind, and devoted nature. Labs know no strangers and make excellent service and working dogs throughout not only the United States, but also the world.

Height: 21.5 – 24.5  inches

Weight: 55 – 80 Pounds

Coat: Dense, Double-Coated, Weather-resistant, Shedding

Life Span: 10 – 12 years

Personality: Playful, Energetic, Outgoing, Adoring

3. The Husky Lab Mix Is An Intelligent, Outgoing And Friendly Dog

Labsky dogs are playful and loving. They know no strangers!

Thanks to the famous temperaments of his two purebred parents, it’s no surprise that the Husky Lab Mix is going to be a clever, friendly, outgoing and affectionate dog.  While these are wonderful traits for young, active singles or families, others may find this behavior overwhelming.

For this reason, the Husky Lab Mix is best suited for owners who are willing to take on a more demanding and athletic dog. This is the ideal dog for those who love adventures, outdoor enthusiasts, and people who enjoy company.

One of the great things about the Husky Lab Mix is that he knows no strangers. He will enjoy dog park days, playdates, camping, and large family gatherings.

However, he can become depressed, anxious and subsequently destructive if left to his own devices for too long. Without proper mental and physical stimulation, the Husky Lab Mix can exhibit behaviors like chewing, potty accidents, barking, howling and more.

4. The Husky Lab Mix Is A Heavy Shedder And May Not Be Best For Those Who Suffer From Allergies

These hybrid dogs are heavy shedders and are not best for allergy sufferers. 

Though his coat is one of the characteristics that makes the Husky Lab Mix so attractive, it can also be problematic for those who suffer from allergies. The Husky Lab Mix is a heavy shedder who sheds year-round, and sheds heaviest during shedding season.

Shedding season happens twice a year during spring and fall, and during this time your Husky Lab Mix will need more extensive brushing and care to ensure loose hair does not cause problems for you or for him.

It is also important to note that the Labsky is a double-coated dog breed who can be more susceptible to overheating. That said, it’s very important to never shave a double-coated dog in an attempt to help keep him cooler.

Doing so can have adverse effects like increased risk of sunburn and heat stroke. In fact, a dog’s double coat is actually helpful in both warmer and colder climates. It helps dogs like the  Husky Lab Mix regulate their body temperature by acting as insulation against harsher weather.

And while the Husky Lab Mix does have quite a dense coat, he is actually rather low maintenance when it comes to upkeep, (aside from brushing). This dog will not need routine bathing or haircuts, but we will talk more about that further down when we discuss grooming.

For now, let’s take a look at your Husky Lab Mix dog’s potential appearance.

5. The Husky Lab Mix Dog’s Appearance May Vary

Your Husky Lab mix could look more like a husky or more like a lab. Or, he could look like a mix. It all depends! 

While both the Lab and the Husky can be similar in some ways when it comes to physical characteristics, they also differ.

For example, the Husky is a thick, plush-coated dog breed who has erect ears and often has blue, green or brown eyes. Sometimes, he can even have two different eye colors.

The Labrador Retriever comes in only three standard colors including chocolate, black and yellow. His coat is sleek, and his ears are floppy. His eyes are characteristically brown.

So, what will a Husky Lab Mix hybrid look like? It all depends on genetics. However, we can give you a range of traits he may inherit. Take a look.

Labsky Height: 20 – 24 inches

Labsky Weight: 34 – 80  Pounds

Labsky Coat Color: Black, brown, yellow, white, black and tan, silver-grey, and black and white.

Labsky Coat Type: Double-coated, dense, weather-resistant, shedding

Labsky Eye Color: Brown, blue, grey, green, or even one blue eye and one brown eye.

6. The Husky Lab Mix Is A Larger Dog Who Is Not Ideal For Apartment Living

The Labsky is a very high-energy dog who may not be best suited for apartment living.

The Husky Lab Mix is generally not recommended for those who live in apartments. While some larger dogs can pull off apartment living so long as their exercise needs are met, for the most part a Husky Lab mix will do best in homes that are larger, with more space for them to run and play.

They will thrive with a yard as well, where they can spend time exploring and playing on their own. Remember, your Husky Lab mix will likely have much more energy than you. Along with plenty of exercise and mental stimulation, he will need some time outdoors to himself and both of you will be grateful for it.

That said, the Husky Lab Mix is an ideal dog for crate training. Because he is so high-energy, he will do well in a crate while his owners are gone during the day. When done properly, crate training can help reduce anxiety and stress, and help your high-energy dog relax and get much needed rest.

Remember, when crate training a dog, the crate should never be used as a tool for punishment. Your dog’s crate should be a place where he feels safe, happy and comfortable. Of course, your Husky Lab Mix should not be left in his crate longer than 5 hours at a time without the opportunity to get out for a good walk or backyard playtime. 

If you do have an apartment but would still like to invest in a Husky Lab Mix, we suggest also investing in a quality dog walking company or doggy day care for while you are away at work. Otherwise, if you work from home, your Husky Lab Mix should be taken out two to three times a day for routine exercise and play time.

7. The Labsky Does Best In Homes With Owners Who Can Devote A Lot Of Time And Attention To Them

Labsky dogs do best with owners who are devoted and patient.

As you may have gathered by now, the Husky Lab Mix is a beautiful hybrid who requires a lot of work, time and attention.

He becomes very bonded with his family and, while he enjoys outdoor play time, he is an indoor dog who will do best living alongside his human pack. The Husky Lab Mix can quickly come depressed if left alone too long, and will do best with owners who have flexible schedules.

The ideal Husky lab Mix owner will be able to devote plenty of time and attention to their Labsky when it comes to training, playtime, exercise and adventure.

8. Like All Dogs, The Husky Lab Mix Can Suffer From Genetic Health Issues

Like all dogs, the Labsky is prone to suffering from some genetic health issues. 

For the most part, the Husky Lab Mix is a healthy and long-lived dog. With a lifespan of between 10 to 14 years, the Husky Lab Mix can be susceptible to any of the same genetic health issues of his purebred parent breeds.

These health issues include:

• Progressive Retinal Atrophy
• Cataracts
• Corneal Dystrophy
• Hip Dysplasia
• Elbow dysplasia
• Uveodermatologic Syndrome
• Follicular Dysplasia
• Hypothyroidism
• Zinc Deficiency
• Laryngeal Paralysis
• Arthritis
• Seizures
• And Cancer

While all dogs can be susceptible to health issues, you can combat or prepare for these potential problems early on by having your Husky Lab Mix health screened. You can also combat these issues by ensuring you get your Husky Lab Mix puppy from a reputable source.

Diet will also play a major role in your Labsky’s health, as will proper exercise, mental stimulation, and proper grooming habits.

9. The Husky Lab Mix Is Best Suited For Experienced Dog Owners

Labsky dogs can be quite a lot of dog for the inexperienced dog owner. 

Many owners get dogs based on their appearance or other aspects that they find attractive without fully researching or understanding the breed or mix. Unfortunately, this is one of the leading causes of dogs like the Husky Lab Mix being turned into shelters.

While this is a beautiful and affectionate dog, it is also high-maintenance when it comes to time and attention. For these reasons, the Husky Lab Mix is best suited for experienced dog owners who understand the time and patience it will take to raise a happy and healthy Labsky.

That said, dedicated owners who are willing to take the time to research and work with their Labsky mix can evolve into fabulous owners as well. It is all about understanding, preparation, and patience.

10. The Husky Lab Mix Needs To Be Consistently Trained And Socialized At An Early Age

Like all dogs, the Labsky should be trained and socialized at an early age. 

Like all dogs, the Husky Lab Mix needs to be properly socialized and trained at an early age to ensure he grows up happy, healthy and well rounded.

Socializing your Husky Lab Mix involves introducing him to as many new and unique experiences early on. It is also important to ensure these first impressions are positive on your Husky Lab Mix.

With that said, never try and force your dog into a situation that is frightening for him. Introduce him to strangers, children, other animals like dogs and cats, and experiences like cars, trains, motorcycles, etc.

Make sure to use lots of treats and praise during these introductions, and allow your dog to explore these experiences at his own pace.

And speaking of treats and praise, your Husky Lab Mix will do best with training using positive reinforcement. This is a sensitive dog who is highly trainable and eager to please, and will respond more positively to treats and praise over punishments and scolding.

11. The Labsky Dogs Need To Eat A Quality Dog Food Specified For Their Age, Weight and Activity Level

A quality diet will help maintain your Labsky’s health and wellbeing.

The Husky Lab Mix is a larger dog breed who is highly athletic and energetic. As such, he will need to maintain a healthy diet rich in protein, healthy carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, fatty acids and water.

Your Labsky should also eat a dog food that is specified for his age, weight and activity level. Steer clear of dog foods that contain fillers, additives, byproducts, artificial flavors, colors, soy, wheat and corn.

We highly suggest a dog food for your Husky Lab Mix that is especially rich in healthy fatty acids like Omega 6. This will help increase coat health and reduce excessive shedding, which is always a plus.

Remember, you have options when it comes to what you feed your Husky Lab Mix. This includes wet food, dry food, and even raw food. If you choose to make your dog’s food at home, it’s important to discuss your dog’s dietary needs with your veterinarian first to ensure he does not miss any essential nutrients that can help him live his longest, happiest life.

12. The Husky Lab Mix Is Extremely Energetic and Needs Plenty Of Exercise and Mental Stimulation

Exercise is imperative to your Labsky’s health and happiness.

Yes, we have said it a number of times – the Husky Lab Mix is highly energetic and very intelligent. Exercise and mental stimulation are imperative to your Husky Lab Mix’s overall health and happiness.

As an athletic dog, the Labsky should have at least two good walks a day along with plenty of outdoor freetime. This includes backyard play or dog park adventures where he can run freely.

The Husky Lab Mix will also do well with lots of training beginning at an early age. This will include learning basic cues like sit, stay, and lie down, along with more advanced training that could include teaching him basic home chores or even tricks.

Dogs who are highly intelligent like the Husky Lab Mix can be more prone to anxiety, so you can help combat this using puzzle toys and other products that can keep your Labsky’s clever mind active and busy.

13. Husky Lab Mix Dogs Make Excellent Additions To Families With Children and Other Pets

Labsky dogs make fabulous additions to homes with children. 

If you’re looking for a wonderful family dog, look no further than the Husky Lab Mix. His high energy, clever mind and loving nature make him a wonderful companion for families with children and other pets. He is sweet-natured and playful, and will enjoy having young human siblings.

The Husky Lab Mix is also naturally friendly, and will get on swimmingly with other furry pets in the home.

However, be sure to monitor your Husky Lab Mix around children to ensure everyone is getting along well. Children should also be taught how to respectfully interact with dogs to ensure they get along harmoniously.

14. Husky Lab Mix Dogs Have A Surprisingly Low Maintenance Grooming Needs

Labsky dogs may be heavy shedders, but they have weather-resistant coats that are easy to maintain.

Yes, your Husky Lab Mix does shed quite a bit, but aside from routine brushing, the Labsky is surprisingly low maintenance when it comes to grooming care.

You will need to invest in quality grooming tools including a deshedding brush and dematting comb. Routine brushing should take place a few times a week, and possibly once a day during shedding season. Other than that, your Husky Lab Mix will not need routine bathing unless he gets especially dirty.

On average, the Labsky only needs to be bathed once every few months. He will also need his ears cleaned and checked routinely for buildup and debris, and his nails should be trimmed often to ensure they don’t crack or break during play.

Like all dogs, the Husky Lab Mix will do best with having his teeth brushed at least once a day to reduce buildup of plaque and tartar using a dog-safe toothpaste and toothbrush.

15. Husky Lab Mix Puppies Are Relatively Affordable

Labsky puppies are relatively affordable. 

Looking for a Husky Lab Mix puppy from a breeder? You’re in luck! When it comes to designer dogs, the Labsky is relatively affordable, costing buyers between $400 and $800. Of course, this price can vary depending on the breeder and the quality of the puppy’s parents.

Still, it’s important not to try and cut corners to find a puppy at a bargain price. Avoid going through backyard breeders or unqualified online sellers promising low-price Labsky puppies. Doing this could make you an unwitting supporter of puppy mills and you may also end up with a very sick puppy, which can cost you much more money in the long run.

Instead, stick with qualified breeders with a background in the Labsky crossbreed. Reputable breeders will be able to offer you certificates of health proving their puppies have been health screened and cleared of any serious health issues. You might also be able to get a look at the parent dogs for a better idea of what your Husky Lab Mix could grow up to look like.

Of course, you also have the option of going through a rescue to adopt your Husky Lab Mix. There are many shelters throughout the United States that specialize in Husky mix or Labrador mix breeds, and they may be able to help unite you with the dog of your dreams.

Rescuing a dog is generally a fraction of the price of going through a breeder. Furthermore, many shelters will be able to provide you with a free initial vet exam, and they also often have their dogs undergo behavioral testing to ensure they match them with the right family.

So everyone wins!

The Top Products Every Husky Lab Mix Dog Owner Needs

The Labsky will thrive with you, and we want to help you prepare. 

The Husky Lab Mix is certainly a treasure in the canine kingdom. Have you decided that this mixed breed is the right dog for you? Along with congratulating you, we want to help you and your new pooch start off on the right foot.

Remember, preparation is key to ensuring you and your Husky Lab Mix thrive together, so we want to provide you with a few of our favorite products every Husky Lab Mix owner should know about.

Take a look.

Outward Hound Invincibles Puzzle Toy

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The Husky Lab Mix is an intelligent dog who will need help keeping his mind busy and distracted in a positive way. One of the best ways to help keep bright dogs busy is to invest in a few good puzzle toys.

One of our favorite puzzle toys for the Husky Lab Mix is a toy by Outward Hound. This brand makes a number of quality puzzle toys for dogs, but we like this one because it is a layered toy that utilizes treats to help keep your Labsky engaged.

PetSafe Easy Walk Dog Harness

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One of our favorite dog harnesses for active, athletic dogs is the PetSafe Easy Walk front clip harness. This harness reduces pulling from strong dogs like the Labsky, and instead redirects them back to you. It is also safer and more comfortable for dogs, as it doesn’t put pressure on their throats or treacheas.

The product is easy to put on and should fit snugly, so make sure you pick the right size for your Husky Lab Mix to ensure you get the best out of this product.

Life Stages Folding Dog Crate

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When it comes to the Husky Lab Mix, investing in a quality dog crate is imperative. Remember, this is an active and intelligent dog who can be prone to destructive behaviors if left on his own to become bored, so crate training at an early age can help both you and your Labsky live together in harmony.

The above crate is ideal for all life stages of your Husky Lab Mix. It includes a divider to assist as your Labsky grows, and also has double doors for easy entry and exit. The crate is also foldable, making it easy to transport and store.

And that’s it! So, what do you think about this dynamic, beautiful and clever dog mix? Would you invest in a Labsky? Why or why not? Tell us what you think in the comment section below.

Thanks for reading!