All about German Shorthaired Lab dog breed

All You Need to Know About the "German Shorthaired Lab" Breed

The German Shorthaired Lab weight typically ranges from 50 to 80 pounds for adults, making them a medium to large-sized dog. On average, you can expect a healthy weight for a German Shorthaired Lab to be around 65 pounds. Males generally fall on the higher end of the spectrum, often weighing between 60-80 pounds, while females usually range from 50-70 pounds. This average size provides a good balance of agility and strength, characteristic of both parent breeds.

Here's what you can expect regarding the German Shorthaired Lab height:The average size of a German Shorthaired Lab, a popular crossbreed between a German Shorthaired Pointer and a Labrador Retriever, typically falls within a moderate to large range. When measured at the shoulder, you can generally expect an adult German Shorthaired Lab to stand between 21 to 25 inches tall.To give you a bit more detail on how tall is a German Shorthaired Lab, it's worth noting that there can be some variation. Typically, male German Shorthaired Labs may be on the slightly taller end of this spectrum, often reaching 23 to 25 inches. Female German Shorthaired Labs, while still substantial, might be found more commonly in the 21 to 24-inch range.Individual genetics play a significant role in a puppy's adult size. Factors like the specific height of the parent dogs and which traits are more dominant in the mix can influence whether your German Shorthaired Lab leans towards the smaller or larger end of this average. However, this 21-25 inch height range provides a solid estimate for anyone researching the German Shorthaired Lab's dimensions.

German Shorthaired Lab Colors: A Comprehensive Guide for AdoptersThe German Shorthaired Lab, a popular crossbreed, exhibits a fascinating range of coat colors inherited from its German Shorthaired Pointer and Labrador Retriever parents. Understanding these German Shorthaired Lab colors is crucial for potential adopters, as coat type can sometimes influence availability and pricing.AKC Recognized German Shorthaired Lab Colors (Common & Accepted):Most commonly, German Shorthaired Labs display colors officially recognized by major kennel clubs for their parent breeds. These are typically solid colors or combinations:* Black: A sleek, solid black is very common, inherited from the Labrador Retriever.* Chocolate/Liver: Rich, dark brown tones, often referred to as chocolate, are also frequently seen. This can range from a lighter liver to a deep, dark chocolate.* Yellow/Cream: These shades range from a pale cream to a rich fox red. While "yellow" is the AKC standard for Labradors, "cream" is often used to describe lighter shades.* Liver & White: A classic German Shorthaired Pointer pattern, featuring a white base with liver patches or ticking.* Black & White: Similar to liver and white, but with black markings on a white background.* Roan: A distinctive pattern where individual white hairs are mixed with colored hairs, giving a speckled or mottled appearance. This can be "liver roan" or "black roan."* Solid Liver: A less common but accepted pattern, where the entire coat is a solid liver color.Rare Coat Types and Exotic German Shorthaired Lab Variations:While the above colors are most common, some rare German Shorthaired Lab coat types and exotic German Shorthaired Lab variations can appear due to the genetic diversity of the parent breeds, though they are not typically recognized by major kennel clubs like the AKC for purebred standards. For crossbreeds, these can still be highly sought after.* Silver (Dilute Chocolate): This is a dilute form of chocolate, resulting in a grayish-brown coat.* Charcoal (Dilute Black): A dilute form of black, producing a dark gray coat.* Blue (Dilute Black): A very rare dilute of black, appearing as a softer, slate gray.* Brindle: While not common, a brindle pattern (tiger-striped) could potentially appear in some lines if there's a distant ancestor carrying the gene. This is extremely rare for this cross.* Merle: The merle gene, responsible for mottled patches of color, is not naturally present in either German Shorthaired Pointers or Labrador Retrievers. Therefore, a merle German Shorthaired Lab would strongly suggest an outcross with another breed carrying the merle gene and is not a true representation of the crossbreed.* Isabella/Lilac (Dilute Chocolate & Blue): This extremely rare color results from the combination of both blue and chocolate dilution genes, producing a very pale, grayish-tan or pinkish-brown hue.When considering a German Shorthaired Lab, always inquire about the parent dogs' lineage and genetic health. While German Shorthaired Lab colors can be a strong draw, prioritizing health and temperament is paramount. Rare and exotic colors may sometimes command higher prices due to their unique appearance.

The German Shorthaired Lab, often called a Lab-Pointer mix, inherits a wonderful blend of traits from its parent breeds, the German Shorthaired Pointer and the Labrador Retriever. This athletic and intelligent hybrid is known for its friendly and outgoing personality. Expect a loyal and devoted companion that thrives on being an integral part of the family.German Shorthaired Lab temperament is generally highly social, making them excellent family pets. They are typically very good with children, often displaying patience and a playful nature, though supervision is always recommended with any dog and young kids. Their sociability extends to other pets, and they can coexist peacefully with other dogs and even cats, especially if raised together.These dogs are highly adaptable, but due to their energetic nature, apartment living is generally not recommended unless owners are committed to providing substantial daily exercise, including vigorous walks, runs, or play sessions. They need room to move and thrive in homes with yards or access to open spaces where they can burn off energy. The German Shorthaired Lab personality is characterized by a strong desire to please, making them highly trainable. They are intelligent and pick up commands quickly, especially with positive reinforcement. Be prepared for a dog that enjoys mental stimulation as much as physical activity. While generally friendly, early socialization is key to ensuring they grow into well-adjusted adults. Expect an active, affectionate, and intelligent companion ready for adventure and cuddles.

German Shorthaired Lab Temperament & PersonalityThe German Shorthaired Lab temperament is generally a delightful blend of its esteemed parent breeds, the German Shorthaired Pointer and the Labrador Retriever. This crossbreed is known for being a friendly, intelligent, and highly sociable companion dog. They typically exhibit an outgoing and eager-to-please nature, making them wonderful family pets.You can expect a loyal and devoted canine that thrives on human interaction and being part of the family's activities. Their adaptability is commendable; while they possess a good amount of energy, they are generally trainable and eager to learn, making them suitable for various living situations, though apartment living is not ideal without significant daily exercise due to their active nature and need for space.When it comes to children and other pets, German Shorthaired Labs are usually very good-natured. Their patience and playful spirit make them excellent companions for kids, and their sociable disposition often extends to other animals, especially if socialized from a young age.While generally biddable, they can occasionally display a streak of stubbornness, particularly during training if not kept engaged and motivated. They are also known to be quite sensitive to their owner's tone and emotions, responding best to positive reinforcement and gentle guidance. Early socialization and consistent training are key to nurturing their best qualities and preventing any potential behavioral issues. Overall, they are an energetic, affectionate, and intelligent breed perfect for active families seeking a dedicated and loving canine friend.

German Shorthaired Lab Care: Your Daily Maintenance GuideThe German Shorthaired Lab, a blend of German Shorthaired Pointer and Labrador Retriever, is an energetic and intelligent companion. How to care for a German Shorthaired Lab involves understanding their moderate-to-high needs.Grooming: This breed generally has a short, dense coat requiring minimal effort. Weekly brushing helps manage shedding and keeps their coat healthy. Occasional bathing, as needed, is sufficient.Exercise: Expect a highly active dog. They need at least 60-90 minutes of vigorous exercise daily, including walks, runs, fetch, and mental stimulation. This is not a low-energy dog breed. Lack of exercise can lead to destructive behaviors.Dietary Considerations: A high-quality, balanced diet formulated for active, medium-to-large breeds is essential. Monitor their weight closely to prevent obesity, a common issue in both parent breeds. Consult your vet for specific portion sizes and dietary recommendations.Wrinkle and Ear Cleaning: While not brachycephalic, regular ear checks and cleaning are vital due to their floppy ears, which can trap moisture and lead to infections. Gently wipe the outer ear with a vet-approved cleaner. They typically don't have deep wrinkles requiring special cleaning.Climate Sensitivity: Their short coat offers some protection but they are not designed for extreme cold or prolonged exposure to heat. Provide shade and water in warm weather and consider a coat in very cold conditions.Health Tips for German Shorthaired Lab: Regular veterinary check-ups are crucial. Common health concerns include hip and elbow dysplasia, eye conditions (like progressive retinal atrophy), bloat, and epilepsy. Skin issues can occur, so monitor for allergies or infections. Dental care, including regular brushing, is important to prevent periodontal disease. Weight management is paramount for their overall health and longevity. Early socialization and training are also key for a well-adjusted companion.

How active are German Shorthaired Labs?The German Shorthaired Lab activity level is high, inheriting an energetic drive from both parent breeds, the German Shorthaired Pointer and Labrador Retriever. These intelligent dogs require significant daily physical and mental stimulation to thrive. They are best suited for active families who can provide ample opportunity for exercise.

I'd rate the "Size" trait of the "German Shorthaired Lab" a 7 out of 10.This hybrid is firmly in the medium-to-large category. Both parent breeds are substantial dogs; German Shorthaired Pointers typically stand 21-25 inches tall and weigh 45-70 pounds, while Labradors are usually 21.5-24.5 inches tall and weigh 55-80 pounds. A German Shorthaired Lab will inherit this build, resulting in a dog that is sturdy, athletic, and notably larger than many common companion breeds like Beagles or Corgis. They have a muscular body structure built for activity and endurance. Due to their size and energetic nature, they are generally not ideal for apartment living and would be better suited for households with a yard and ample space, or those who can provide extensive outdoor exercise. Travel might be manageable in a larger vehicle, but their size makes them less convenient for air travel or small car trips compared to smaller breeds.

Rating: 3The German Shorthaired Lab generally has low-to-moderate grooming requirements, leaning more towards the low end. Their short, dense, and often water-repellent coat, inherited from both parent breeds, is relatively easy to care for. While they do shed year-round, particularly in spring and fall, weekly brushing with a rubber curry comb or a slicker brush is usually sufficient to manage loose hair and keep their coat healthy. They don't have long hair that mats or tangles easily, nor do they typically possess numerous skin folds requiring special attention. Ear cleaning should be done regularly, perhaps weekly or bi-weekly, to prevent infections due to their floppy ears, a common trait in both Pointers and Labradors. Nail trimming is needed every few weeks, or as necessary, to prevent overgrowth. Bathing is only required when they're truly dirty, perhaps every 1-3 months, as excessive bathing can strip their natural oils. While they can inherit allergies or skin sensitivities from either parent, they are not inherently prone to more skin issues than other large breeds with similar coats. Overall, they are an easy-care breed regarding grooming, not requiring frequent, specialized attention compared to long-haired or heavily-coated dogs.

I'd rate the "Exercise Requirements" of the German Shorthaired Lab as an 8 out of 10.This rating reflects the exceptionally high energy levels inherited from both parent breeds. German Shorthaired Pointers are renowned for their boundless stamina, drive, and need for significant physical and mental exertion, often bred for hunting and fieldwork. Labradors, while perhaps more adaptable to a wider range of activities, are still working dogs with a strong retrieve drive and a history of requiring ample exercise to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors. The German Shorthaired Lab will be a powerhouse, needing much more than just a daily walk. They will thrive on structured routines that include vigorous activities like running, fetching, swimming, hiking, and potentially dog sports such as agility, flyball, or advanced obedience. Their endurance allows for sustained movement, and they will likely become restless, bored, and potentially destructive if their considerable physical and mental needs are not met through consistent, challenging exercise. There are no respiratory limitations due to brachycephalic anatomy to consider, allowing them to engage in prolonged strenuous activity. These dogs are not suited for minimal activity and require owners dedicated to providing several hours of vigorous exercise daily to maintain their health and mental well-being.

I would rate the German Shorthaired Lab's watchdog ability as a 6 out of 10.While not a breed primarily developed for guarding, the German Shorthaired Lab possesses a good level of alertness and a moderate territorial instinct inherited from both parent breeds. They are generally attentive to their surroundings and will likely bark to alert their owners to unfamiliar sounds, people approaching the house, or unusual activity. This makes them capable of providing meaningful early warnings. However, their Labrador side often brings a friendly disposition, meaning they might be more inclined to greet an unknown person with a wagging tail once the initial alert is given, rather than exhibiting the strong deterrent behavior of a true guard dog. They aren't typically aggressive or highly protective in a confrontational way, but their initial alarm barking serves a valuable purpose in a home environment. They are more of an alert and vocal companion than a formidable deterrent.

I would rate the "Good with Other Dogs" trait of the German Shorthaired Lab as an 8.This rating reflects the generally sociable and friendly nature inherited from both parent breeds. Labrador Retrievers are famously affable and typically get along well with other dogs, often enjoying canine company immensely. German Shorthaired Pointers, while possessing a strong prey drive, are also generally good-natured and can be very compatible with other dogs, especially when properly socialized.The German Shorthaired Lab is likely to be a dog that thrives in canine company, enjoying play and interaction. They are usually adaptable in multi-dog households, often integrating smoothly with established pets. Their energetic nature means they can typically keep up with dogs of similar energy levels, and their good temperament often allows them to interact safely with dogs of different sizes, though supervision is always wise, particularly with very small dogs given their size and boisterous play style.While naturally friendly, socialization is still key to ensure this trait fully develops. Early positive experiences with a variety of dogs will help solidify their sociable nature and prevent any potential for shyness or reactivity. Without proper introductions and training, any dog can exhibit less desirable behaviors, but the inherent disposition of the German Shorthaired Lab leans heavily towards peaceful coexistence and genuine enjoyment of other dogs. They usually require careful introductions rather than extensive, specialized training to coexist, as their default setting is often "friend."

I'd rate the "Energetic" trait of a German Shorthaired Lab a 9 out of 10.This breed is a powerhouse of energy, inheriting a strong drive from both the German Shorthaired Pointer and the Labrador Retriever. They are naturally active, not laid-back in the slightest, and require a significant amount of physical stimulation to be content. Their endurance is exceptional, allowing them to participate enthusiastically in long walks, runs, hikes, and various dog sports for extended periods. Playfulness is a core part of their personality, manifesting in an almost constant desire for engagement and activity. They thrive on outdoor adventures and excel in athletic activities like agility, dock diving, and field work. It's crucial to note that neither parent breed is brachycephalic, and therefore, the German Shorthaired Lab would not inherit any brachycephalic anatomy that would affect its stamina or exercise tolerance; they are built for sustained activity.

I would rate the "Training Requirements" of the "German Shorthaired Lab" at a 7. While both parent breeds are intelligent, they also bring a strong will and high energy to the table, which can translate into a demanding training experience.The German Shorthaired Pointer contributes a keen intelligence but also a high prey drive and a tendency towards independent thought, which can sometimes manifest as stubbornness if not properly channeled. Labradors are known for their eagerness to please and trainability, but they can also be easily distracted, especially during their boisterous puppy and adolescent phases, and require consistent reinforcement to avoid developing unwanted habits.A German Shorthaired Lab will likely be very intelligent and capable of learning a wide range of commands, but their attention span, especially as puppies and young adults, might be shorter than some other breeds due to their high energy and natural curiosity. Responsiveness to commands will be good with consistent, positive reinforcement, but they will likely test boundaries and require a firm, fair, and patient handler. Consistency is absolutely crucial; any slack in training will likely be exploited. Positive reinforcement, particularly with high-value treats and praise, will be highly effective, but owners must be prepared to make training a regular, ongoing part of their dog's life.This breed is not particularly beginner-friendly and will likely require an experienced handler who understands the needs of working dog breeds. While an enthusiastic beginner with ample time and a willingness to commit to professional training could succeed, they will need to be prepared for the significant commitment. German Shorthaired Labs thrive on structured routines, mental stimulation, and plenty of physical exercise to keep them engaged and prevent boredom-related behavioral issues. Without consistent training and an active lifestyle, they can become unruly and difficult to manage.

The German Shorthaired Lab would likely rate an 8 for playfulness. This hybrid combines two breeds renowned for their high energy and love of activity. German Shorthaired Pointers are exceptionally spirited and thrive on vigorous exercise and interactive games, often having a "go-go-go" mentality. Labrador Retrievers, while sometimes appearing more laid-back when mature, are inherently playful, especially in their younger years, with a strong retrieve drive and a love for water and toys. Therefore, a German Shorthaired Lab would naturally be a highly spirited dog, eager for games of fetch, swimming, and any activity that involves their human companions. They would display significant enthusiasm for toys, respond readily to playtime invitations, and likely exhibit attention-seeking behavior when they desire interaction. While they might settle for a nap after a good play session, their default mode would be ready for fun, making them significantly more energetic and fun-loving than many other companion breeds.

I would rate the "Affectionate" trait of the German Shorthaired Lab as a 9. This hybrid breed inherits the best of both parent breeds, resulting in a dog that is exceptionally loving and people-oriented. They possess a strong desire for human companionship, often thriving on being a central part of the family's activities. You can expect a German Shorthaired Lab to seek out physical closeness, whether it's a gentle lean against your leg, a full-body cuddle on the couch, or even an attempt at lap-sitting (regardless of their size). Their loyalty is unwavering, and they are quite sensitive to their owner's emotions, often offering comfort when sensing distress. This breed has a pronounced tendency to follow family members around, wanting to be involved in whatever is happening. They are not independent dogs in the slightest and truly thrive on constant affection and interaction, making them incredibly devoted and emotionally expressive companions.

I would rate the "Good with Other Pets" trait of the "German Shorthaired Lab" at a 7 out of 10.This hybrid generally inherits a friendly and eager-to-please nature from both parent breeds, which contributes positively to their potential for coexisting with other animals. Labradors are renowned for their outgoing and social personalities, often enjoying the company of other dogs and even cats with proper introduction. German Shorthaired Pointers, while possessing a stronger prey drive, are also typically amiable and can be quite sociable with other dogs.However, the "7" reflects the blend of these traits. The GSP influence means there's a definite prey drive that needs to be acknowledged, especially concerning smaller, faster-moving pets like cats or rabbits. While they might not be overtly aggressive, their instinct to chase could be strong. Early and consistent socialization from a young age is crucial for mitigating this. Introducing them to various animals in a controlled and positive manner can help them learn appropriate interactions.Resource guarding is generally not a prominent issue with either parent breed, especially if they are well-exercised and have their needs met. However, it's always something to be mindful of and train against, particularly with valuable toys or food.Overall, a German Shorthaired Lab has a strong propensity to be a wonderful multi-pet household member. They are naturally sociable and generally adapt well. However, due to the potential for a GSP-inherited prey drive, they do require dedicated training and supervision, particularly during initial introductions and in environments where smaller pets are present, to ensure peaceful coexistence. They are not a "set it and forget it" breed with other pets, but with effort, they can be extremely pet-friendly.

The German Shorthaired Lab earns a rating of 8/10 for "Good with Children."This hybrid breed generally inherits a wonderful blend of traits from its parent breeds, making it a very good choice for families with children. They are typically known for their friendly and outgoing temperament, often being quite affectionate and eager to be involved in family activities. Their patience is usually moderate to high, especially when properly socialized, meaning they can tolerate the occasional clumsy pet or enthusiastic hug from a child. Both parent breeds contribute to a high level of playfulness, which is a huge plus for active kids. They love to run, fetch, and engage in games, making them fantastic companions for older, more active children.While they are generally tolerant of noise and handling, particularly if introduced to these stimuli from a young age, early socialization is crucial. This helps them become accustomed to the unpredictable nature of children. They are often naturally gentle and eager to please, however, due to their size and energy levels, supervision is always recommended with very young children to prevent accidental bumps or knocks during enthusiastic play. Training is also important to ensure they understand boundaries and good manners, further enhancing their compatibility with a family setting. With proper guidance and socialization, the German Shorthaired Lab can be an exceptionally loyal, playful, and loving addition to a family with children.

Rating: 8The German Shorthaired Lab, a mix of two typically friendly and outgoing breeds, generally exhibits a "good with strangers" trait that leans heavily towards sociable and welcoming. Both parent breeds, the German Shorthaired Pointer and the Labrador Retriever, are known for their amiable dispositions, and this often translates into the hybrid. They are typically eager to greet new people, displaying tail wags and a general eagerness for attention rather than suspicion. While not typically guarding breeds, they may bark to alert their owners to an unfamiliar presence, but this is usually a greeting rather than a warning of aggression. Their adaptable nature makes them comfortable in public settings or with guests, and they generally thrive on social interaction. While early socialization always benefits any dog, the German Shorthaired Lab is naturally predisposed to be outgoing and comfortable with unfamiliar adults, requiring minimal specific training to overcome shyness, if any.

I would rate the "German Shorthaired Lab" breed's winter tolerance at a 7 out of 10.This rating reflects a good level of cold-weather resilience, but not an extreme one. Both parent breeds, the German Shorthaired Pointer and the Labrador Retriever, are active, medium-to-large dogs with relatively dense, water-resistant coats and muscular builds. Labradors, in particular, are known for their double coats and are often used for retrieving in cold water, indicating a high tolerance for chilly conditions. German Shorthaired Pointers also possess a dense, short coat that offers some protection, though they generally have less undercoat than a Labrador. The "German Shorthaired Lab" would likely inherit a coat that is thicker than a pure GSP but possibly not as dense as a pure Lab's double coat, especially if the GSP genes are more dominant in the coat type. Their active nature means they generate body heat during exercise, and their typical body fat provides insulation. They are not brachycephalic, so respiratory issues due to cold air are less of a concern.While they can certainly enjoy outdoor activities in cold climates, they are not impervious to extreme cold or prolonged exposure. Their shorter-haired parentage might mean they feel the cold sooner than, say, a Siberian Husky. Therefore, compared to many other companion dogs, they might require *some* special care during very cold winter months. This could include limiting prolonged outdoor exposure without active play, providing a warm and dry place to rest indoors, and potentially a coat or sweater for walks during extreme temperature drops, especially for older or less active individuals. They are more resilient than many toy breeds or those with very thin coats, but not quite as robust as true Arctic breeds.

Rating: 7/10The "German Shorthaired Lab" generally exhibits good heat tolerance, earning a 7 out of 10. Neither the German Shorthaired Pointer nor the Labrador Retriever are brachycephalic, so this mixed breed will not suffer from the severe breathing difficulties associated with shortened snouts. Both parent breeds are active and possess relatively efficient panting mechanisms to regulate body temperature. However, their active nature and dense, although short, coats mean they are not entirely immune to heat. While they can handle moderate summer temperatures and enjoy outdoor activities, prolonged strenuous exercise in high heat and humidity significantly increases their risk of heatstroke, similar to most other dogs. They will likely need access to shade, plenty of fresh water, and a reduction in the intensity and duration of outdoor exercise during peak heat hours in summer months. Compared to brachycephalic breeds, they require less extreme climate control, but compared to very short-haired or hairless breeds, they still warrant attention during hot weather. Special care involves adjusting activity schedules, ensuring access to cool areas, and being vigilant for signs of overheating, making them slightly more sensitive than the most heat-tolerant companion dogs but far from the most heat-sensitive.

Rating: 8/10The "German Shorthaired Lab" generally exhibits a robust and healthy constitution, benefiting from the genetic diversity of its parent breeds. Both the German Shorthaired Pointer and the Labrador Retriever are active, athletic dogs, and their offspring often inherit a similar vigor. While they are susceptible to some of the same orthopedic issues as their parent breeds, such as hip and elbow dysplasia, responsible breeding practices that include health screenings can significantly mitigate these risks. They generally have good life expectancies for their size (around 10-14 years) and are not typically prone to breathing difficulties or widespread skin conditions. They are considered generally robust compared to many other companion dogs, though their high energy levels mean they are not low-maintenance in terms of exercise. Their health is often excellent when provided with a proper diet, sufficient exercise, and regular veterinary care.

The German Shorthaired Lab, a cross between the German Shorthaired Pointer and the Labrador Retriever, would likely receive a 6/10 for the "Protective" trait. This rating reflects a dog that is generally alert and loyal but not inherently aggressive or suited for serious protection work.Both parent breeds are known for their friendly and outgoing dispositions. They are highly intelligent, eager to please, and typically well-socialized. While a German Shorthaired Lab will undoubtedly be loyal to its owners and may bark at strangers approaching the home, this is more indicative of an alarm system than a true protective instinct. They are likely to be curious and friendly once a stranger is deemed non-threatening, rather than maintaining a defensive stance. Their territorial instincts are present but not typically intense enough to deter a determined intruder. This breed is much more of a companion dog, excelling in activities with their families and offering a loving presence, rather than being capable of offering meaningful physical protection in a household setting.

I would rate the "Life Span" trait of the German Shorthaired Lab as an 8 out of 10.This rating reflects that the breed generally enjoys an average to above-average lifespan compared to other companion dogs. Both parent breeds, the German Shorthaired Pointer and the Labrador Retriever, are known for being robust and typically living into their early to mid-teens. The German Shorthaired Lab benefits from this genetic heritage, with an average life expectancy typically ranging from 10 to 14 years. While they can be predisposed to some health issues common in their parent breeds, such as hip and elbow dysplasia, certain cancers, and bloat, these are often manageable with responsible breeding practices, proper nutrition, and regular veterinary care. Diligent breeders will screen for these conditions, and owners who provide a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise and a balanced diet, can significantly contribute to their dog's longevity. Therefore, with good care, the German Shorthaired Lab can be considered a relatively long-lived breed.