Chabrador
The Chabrador is a cross between the Chow Chow and the Labrador Retriever. Because each hybrid inherits a unique combination of traits from both parents, we recommend thoroughly researching both breeds before choosing a Chabrador. Pay special attention to temperament, health issues, and care requirements, as your dog may express characteristics from either parent breed.
Chow Chow
The Chow Chow is a medium-sized, powerfully built dog that presents a distinctive and impressive appearance unlike any other breed. The breed typically stands between 17 and 20 inches at the shoulder, with males generally being larger and more substantial than females. Weight ranges from approximately 45 to 70 pounds, with considerable variation depending on size, bone structure, and coat type. The Chow Chow possesses a sturdy, square-proportioned body with heavy bone structure throughout, creating an impression of massiveness and substance. One of the breed's most unique characteristics is its straight rear legs, which lack the angulation seen in most other breeds, producing the distinctive stilted gait that sets the Chow apart in movement. The head of the Chow Chow is large and broad with a flat skull, short muzzle, and well-defined stop, giving the face a somewhat blunt, scowling appearance. Perhaps the most famous physical characteristic of the breed is its blue-black tongue and the blue-black pigmentation of the lips, gums, and mouth, a trait shared by very few other breeds in the world. The eyes are deep-set, almond-shaped, and relatively small, positioned to give a distinctive scowling or dignified expression. The ears are small, triangular, slightly rounded at the tips, and carried stiffly erect, tilting slightly forward over the eyes in the characteristic manner that adds to the breed's leonine appearance. The Chow Chow's abundant double coat comes in two varieties: rough and smooth. The rough coat is dense, straight, and stands off from the body, with a particularly pronounced ruff around the head and neck that creates the breed's signature lion-like mane appearance. The smooth coat variety is shorter and lies closer to the body without the prominent ruff. Both coat types feature a dense, woolly undercoat that provides insulation. Acceptable colors include red (ranging from light golden to deep mahogany), black, blue, cinnamon, and cream, all in solid colors. The tail is set high and carried well up over the back, heavily plumed and adding to the breed's dignified and noble bearing.
Key Characteristics
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament This breed is generally not recommended for first-time dog owners or families with young children due to their complex temperament requirements. Chows have relatively low tolerance for rough handling and may not appreciate the unpredictable behavior of small children. They may also display aggression toward other dogs, particularly those of the same sex, if not properly socialized. For experienced owners who understand and appreciate their unique character, Chow Chows can be devoted, dignified companions who provide quiet but unwavering loyalty.
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Additional health concerns in Chow Chows include hypothyroidism, a common endocrine disorder that can cause weight gain, lethargy, and skin problems; gastric torsion or bloat, a life-threatening emergency; autoimmune diseases including pemphigus and uveodermatological syndrome; diabetes; and various skin conditions. The breed's dense coat makes them susceptible to overheating, and owners must take precautions during hot weather. Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency and patellar luxation also occur in the breed. Regular veterinary care, appropriate health screening, and responsible breeding practices are essential for maintaining the health of Chow Chows.
Labrador Retriever
The Labrador Retriever is a strongly built, medium to large-sized dog that combines athleticism with a friendly, approachable appearance that has made it the world's most popular breed. Males typically stand 22.5 to 24.5 inches at the withers and weigh between 65 and 80 pounds, while females are slightly smaller at 21.5 to 23.5 inches and 55 to 70 pounds. The breed presents a well-balanced, powerful appearance without being overly heavy or coarse, with substance and bone proportionate to the overall frame. The body is short-coupled, meaning the distance from the shoulder to the hindquarters is roughly equal to the height at the withers, creating a compact and athletic silhouette well-suited to the breed's role as a versatile working retriever capable of long hours in the field. The head of the Labrador is one of its defining features, characterized by a broad skull, moderate stop, and strong, clean-cut jaws capable of carrying game with a soft mouth without damage. The eyes are medium-sized, set well apart, and express the kindly, intelligent disposition that is a hallmark of the breed. Eye color is brown in black and yellow Labs or brown to hazel in chocolate Labs. The ears are relatively small, hang close to the head, and are set rather far back and low on the skull. Perhaps the most distinctive physical characteristic is the famous otter tail, which is thick at the base, gradually tapering, and covered all around with the breed's characteristic dense coat. This powerful tail serves as a rudder when the dog is swimming. The Labrador's double coat is another essential breed characteristic, providing crucial protection in harsh weather and cold water conditions. The outer coat is short, straight, and very dense, giving a somewhat hard feel to the touch that repels water effectively. The soft, weather-resistant undercoat provides insulation. The coat comes in three recognized colors: solid black, yellow ranging from light cream to fox red, and chocolate in shades from light to dark brown. A small white spot on the chest is permissible but not desirable. The overall impression of the Labrador Retriever is of a sturdy, athletic dog built for endurance, versatility, and eager willingness to work in any conditions.
Key Characteristics
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Labrador Retrievers are energetic dogs with significant exercise requirements that owners must be prepared to meet. Originally bred to work alongside fishermen and hunters, they retain strong retrieving instincts and an enthusiasm for outdoor activities, particularly swimming. Without adequate physical and mental exercise, Labs may become restless and develop behavioral issues such as excessive chewing, digging, or barking. They can also be prone to overeating and weight gain, so portion control and regular exercise are essential. For active families or individuals seeking a loyal, versatile, and endlessly good-natured companion, the Labrador Retriever is an outstanding choice.
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Additional health concerns in Labrador Retrievers include progressive retinal atrophy and other eye conditions such as cataracts and retinal dysplasia, which can lead to vision impairment or blindness. Exercise-induced collapse is a genetic condition that causes affected dogs to experience weakness and collapse after intense exercise. Bloat, or gastric dilatation-volvulus, is a life-threatening emergency that can affect Labs due to their deep chest conformation. The breed may also be prone to ear infections due to their floppy ears, heart conditions including tricuspid valve dysplasia, and certain cancers including hemangiosarcoma and lymphoma. Regular veterinary care and health screening of breeding dogs are important for maintaining breed health.
Important to Remember
Each hybrid dog is unique and may inherit any combination of traits from either parent breed. The information above represents the characteristics of the purebred parent breeds. Your Chabrador may favor one parent over the other or display a blend of both. We strongly encourage you to read the complete breed profiles for both the Chow Chow and Labrador Retriever to fully understand the range of possible temperaments, health concerns, and care requirements.