Plott Hound Lab Mix: Energetic Dog With Strong Hunting Instincts (2023)

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You’re clearly someone who values an active lifestyle with your canine companion. I bet a Plott Hound Lab mix would be the perfect pooch for you. As progeny of two high-energy, working breeds, this hybrid needs plenty of exercise and mental stimulation.

But he’ll repay your efforts with unwavering loyalty and affection. Let’s delve into the details on this rare but remarkable mix. You’ll soon see why his energetic spirit and loving heart are an unbeatable combination.

What is a Plott Hound Lab Mix?

You’ll love the devoted, energetic nature of this unique crossbreed! The Plott Hound Lab Mix brings together two powerhouse breeds and strikes the perfect balance of affection, energy, focus, and loyalty.

They have a sturdy yet athletic build, with the weather-resistant coat and legendary nose of the Plott, combined with the cheerful trainability of the Lab. These high-octane dogs need ample daily exercise and room to roam, so they are better suited to active owners with houses and yards, rather than apartments.

Obedience training is a must to channel that Lab exuberance and Plott independence into civility. Early socialization is important to prevent any unwanted guarding tendencies from the Plott side. When properly stimulated and socialized, the Plott Hound Lab Mix makes a vigilant and lively companion who will spice up your life with fun and affection.

Plott Hound Lab Mix Origin and History

Let’s explore the mysterious plott ‘n lab stew that beckons our taste buds, though its recipe remains elusive.

The plott hound lab mix brings together two historic working breeds with very different backgrounds. The lab hails from Newfoundland, bred as a water retriever, while the plott comes from Germany, used for hunting bears and boars.

1. The lab’s friendly, outgoing nature.
2. The plott’s rugged athleticism and stamina.
3. The lab’s love of water and retrieving.
4. The plott’s powerful sense of smell.

Expect a medium-sized dog with a muscular build and short, thick coat in varied colors. They are moderate shedders and need weekly brushing. This blend needs ample exercise – at least an hour a day.

Plott Hound Lab Mix Appearance

A striking blend of colors and an impressive stature make your Plott Hound and Lab mix a head turner. Your dog has a thick double coat that is a stunning combination of the short, dense Labrador coat and the longer, shaggier Plott Hound fur.

The soft undercoat and coarse protective topcoat create a striking mix of textures in shades of black, brown, yellow, and white.

Their moderate shedding means that weekly grooming and occasional brushing will keep their fabulous coat looking its best. With their energetic and adventuresome spirit, be prepared for their luxurious coat to carry the evidence of their exploits.

Simple regular coat maintenance, such as brushing and bathing when needed, will keep their fabulous fur from matting or smelling. Remember to reward their patience with praise and treats during grooming for the best results.

Your mix’s impressive presence comes not just from their unique coat but also from the sturdy build and energetic spirit that these working dogs are known for.

Plott Hound Lab Mix Size and Weight

Pulling from the rich knowledge I’ve absorbed, I reckon their sturdy frames stand about knee-high to a mule, tippin’ the scales around a half-hundredweight. These hybrid hounds make for mighty fine companions, with their medium to large size and moderate to high energy levels suitable for active families.

Their frames pack power like their Plott Hound heritage, yet gait as graceful as their Labrador kin. Expect a hefty sheddin’ that’ll keep your brushes busy, but that slick short coat still shines with some weekly groomin’.

Their minds run as free as their noses, so stay patient and consistent when trainin’ these independent-minded pups.

Keep reinforcin’ wanted behaviors and socializin’ early – soon they’ll be happy heels at your side. With time and training, their affectionate spirits will have you thick as thieves. So if you’ve got the grit to raise this hybrid right, their hearts will give back double.

Plott Hound Lab Mix Temperament and Personality

You’ve already learned that the Plott Hound Lab mix is a medium-sized crossbreed with a muscular build and a thick coat.

This hybrid inherits the best traits from both parent breeds. Like Labs, Plott Hound mixes are famously friendly. Their eagerness to please and loyal devotion make them delightful companions. Expect a playful pooch that adores being around people.

With proper socialization, these clever canines also tend to be protective. Early training and exercise are key to preventing any stubbornness. But their energetic and affectionate temperament means you’ll have a faithful, fun-loving four-legged friend.

In short, the Plott Hound Lab mix makes an outgoing, active pet for an individual or family looking for unwavering companionship.

Plott Hound Lab Mix Lifespan and Health Issues

You should be aware that the Plott Hound Lab mix has a typical lifespan of 12-14 years. Some of the common health issues to watch out for are hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, bloat or gastric dilation volvulus, skin allergies, and cancer.

Because this mix is prone to joint issues and bloating, it’s important to have them examined regularly and limit intense exercise and feeding one large meal per day.

Common Health Issues

You might deal with some skin allergies and joint problems down the road. Watch for urinary issues and joint inflammation, and do allergy prevention. Monitor bloat risk factors and get cancer screening. Stay on top of health issues to keep your pup happy.

Hip Dysplasia

You bet a Plott Hound Lab mix is like a dog with arthritis, since they’re naturally prone to getting hip dysplasia from birth just as an old dog is prone to joint issues. Good bone health through nutrition and supplements helps prevent this issue. Managing weight and providing joint supplements can help manage symptoms.

Elbow Dysplasia

Since you mentioned hip dysplasia earlier, elbow dysplasia is another joint issue to watch for in your crossbreed pup. This genetic condition causes cartilage damage in the elbow, leading to joint instability.

Both non-surgical treatments like anti-inflammatories and surgical options like arthroscopy or osteotomy are used for managing elbow dysplasia.

Bloat Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus (GDV)

The Plott Hound Lab mix is especially prone to bloat, with over 40% of large breed dogs being affected by this life-threatening condition at some point during their lifetime, according to the AKC. As your trusted vet, I recommend having a gastropexy procedure done, feeding an advanced bloat-proof diet, and keeping emergency vet info on file.

Know bloat’s causes, signs, and care needed post-surgery. With proper prevention and vigilance, your pup can avoid this dangerous condition.

Skin Issues

Itchy skin can drive you nuts with this crossbreed. Allergy testing, food trial, Cytopoint shot, Apoquel meds, allergy shots – you have options if your pup’s scratching. We’ll find the cause and get your buddy feeling fine again. It just takes some trial and error – but we’ll figure it out together.

Life Expectancy

Y’all’s Plott Hound Lab mix might live 10 to 14 years if properly cared for, my friend. Though their time is short, make the most of it by showering them with love each day. As their watchful guardian and lively playmate, establish a good exercise routine to keep their independent streak satisfied.

Despite their occasional barking tendencies, they’ll be your faithful companion until the end.

How to Take Care of Your Plott Hound Lab Mix

Good nutrition, grooming, and training are all important for ensuring your Plott Hound Lab mix stays happy and healthy. This athletic crossbreed does best on high-quality dry kibble formulated for medium to large breeds and will need weekly brushing as well as regular baths to keep their coat and skin in good condition.

With their high energy and sometimes stubborn personality, be sure to start training and socializing them early using positive reinforcement techniques to shape good behaviors.

Food and Diet

Make sure you’re feeding your pup quality kibble for medium breeds to help avoid bloating.

• Look for about 25% protein, 15% fat kibble.
• Choose no grain or low grain options.
• Pick brands with sustainable sourcing of ingredients.
• Supplement with probiotics, fish oil.

Raw food diets work too if you prepare them right. Just don’t overdo the organ meats.

Cleaning and Grooming

You’ll want to brush your pal’s coat once a week, lest their shedding drives you bonkers. Use a de-shedding tool to help remove loose hair and distribute skin oils. Bathe monthly or as needed using a gentle shampoo.

Dry thoroughly, especially skin folds, to prevent irritation or infection. Trim nails regularly to avoid overgrowth. Check ears weekly for buildup, cleaning gently as needed. Your pooch will feel fresh and look their best with this simple grooming routine.

Training and Exercise

You’d benefit from being patient and consistent when training your independent-minded mixed breed pup. Focus on positive reinforcement and provide mental stimulation through a variety of activities – walks, runs, swimming, and fetch.

Use healthy rewards for good behavior, and remember that early socialization is key. Expose your puppy to new people, dogs, and places during this formative period to ensure a friendly, well-adjusted companion.

Plott Hound Lab Mix Puppy Prices & Expenses

When considering a Plott Hound Lab mix puppy, you’ll want to research pricing and availability. A Plott Hound Lab mix puppy typically costs $300 to $2000, depending on the breeder. Since it’s a rarer crossbreed, you may have trouble finding reputable breeders with available litters.

Your best bet is to check with local Labrador and Plott Hound breeders to see if they have or know of any current or planned litters. You can also contact Plott Hound and Labrador rescues to see if they have any Plott Hound Lab mixes available for adoption.

Shelters sometimes take in Plott Hound Lab mixes, so frequently checking adoption sites can help you find this mix from a shelter.

With some persistence, you should be able to find a Plott Hound Lab mix puppy from a responsible source.

Cost of a Plott Hound Lab Mix

You’re barking up the wrong tree if you think a Plott Hound Lab mix pup will come cheap. These designer hybrid pups are in high demand, so expect to pay a premium. Prices typically range from $500 to $1000, sometimes even higher from show breeders.

Adopting from a rescue can save hundreds, but may lack healthy breeding. Budget for these expenses too:

• Food and treats: $50/month
• Supplies: $200+ for crate, bed, bowls
• Vet: $400 to $800 for checkups, shots
• Training: $100+ for puppy classes

Raising any pup isn’t cheap, but the rewards of a loving Plottador are priceless.

Places to Find Plott Hound Lab Mix Puppies for Sale and Adoption

Try checking local shelters and rescues first for a Plott Hound Lab mix pup in need of a forever home before searching breed-specific online marketplaces. A mixed breed puppy like a Plott Hound Lab is going to have an unpredictable temperament and exercise needs, so be sure to socialize and train them thoroughly.

Find an experienced vet to establish their health baseline. Mixes can have a blend of issues from each parent breed, like skin allergies or joint dysplasia, so proper care is key. Research all costs before getting any puppy – food, supplies, medical, training – a dog is a long commitment.

Pros and Cons of Owning a Plott Hound Lab Mix

Have you ever wondered if those friendly smiles and wagging tails might just outweigh the shedding and stubbornness of owning one of these rare pups?

Owning a Plott Hound Lab mix can be incredibly rewarding, but it’s not without its challenges. On the plus side, these pups tend to be very friendly and affectionate. They make great family dogs and do well with children.

However, their high exercise needs, tendency to wander, and stubborn streak require an experienced owner willing to put in plenty of training time.

The ideal Plott Lab home has a securely fenced yard, access to swimming, and owners who can provide consistent, positive training. Proper socialization and training from an early age will prevent problem behaviors from developing.

With proper care, these uncommon mixed breeds make for delightful, fun-loving companions.

Popular Names for a Plott Hound Lab Mix

Baxter and Buddy make catchy names for your energetic Plott Hound Lab mix. As veterinarians and dog trainers, we know it’s important to choose a name that fits your dog’s personality.

Plott Hounds were bred to hunt, so an active name like Blaze or Hunter could suit this mixed breed’s energetic nature. Or pick a name connected to the dog’s lineage – Mack pays homage to the Labrador’s origins in Newfoundland, while Fritz nods to the Plott Hound’s German heritage.

Whatever you choose, make it short and snappy for effective training. Two syllables is ideal. Your crossbreed may be stubborn thanks to the tenacity of Plott Hounds, which can make training challenging.

Socialization is also key for these sociable dogs. Once your puppy masters basic obedience skills, let the adventures begin! Regular walks, runs, swims, and games will satisfy this blend of working breeds.

Name Ideas	Origin/Meaning
Duke	Nobility, strength
Scout	Reconnaissance, loyalty
Murphy	Sea warrior
Miles	Soldier, merciful
Bear	Strength, bravery

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