Jackador! This energetic, intelligent, and loyal hybrid dog is becoming increasingly popular by the day. They’re the offspring of two very different and lovable dog breeds. But is the Jack Russell Lab Mix the right canine companion for you and your family?
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about the Jack Russell Mix Lab including their temperament, physical characteristics, common health issues, exercise and grooming requirements, dietary needs, and more!
You may be surprised to learn that they share many similar traits with the Jack Russell Beagle Mix dog. After reading this, you’ll get a good idea of whether the Jackador is the furry companion for you. Let’s first start with a brief overview.
Table of Contents
Jack Russell Lab Mix: Breed overview
The Jack Russell Mix Lab is a fairly new designer breed that is slowly gaining popularity. Below is a summary of the Jackador dog breed:
| Jack Russell Lab Mix info | |
| Other Names | Jackador, Jackador dog, Jack Russell Mix Lab, Jack Russell Lab |
| Purity | Hybrid |
| Purpose | Companion dog |
| AKC Recognition | No |
| Size | Small to medium |
| Weight | 20-50 pounds |
| Height | 16-20 inches |
| Coat Colors | Brown, cream, black |
| Child Friendliness | Moderate |
| Canine Friendliness | Moderate |
| Training Difficulty | Easy |
| Grooming Upkeep | Moderate |
| Exercise Needs | High |
| Health | Moderate |
| Lifespan | 10-14 years |
| Puppy Costs | $400-$650 |
What is a Jackador?
A Jack Russell Lab is a mix of the Jack Russell Terrier and the Labrador Retriever. Jackador breed is a designer breed that is intelligent and playful that will suit active families.
Jack Russell Lab Mix: Parent breeds
Jackador is a hybrid of two very different breeds making it hard to predict what his physical appearance and temperament will be.
But, by knowing the history of both his parents, we will get a glimpse of how he will turn out.
Jack Russell Terrier history
The Jack Russell Terrier was developed by Reverend John ‘Jack’ Russell in England in the mid-19th century from Bull Terriers and Beagles. His goal was to create a fox-hunting dog that would be predominantly white with black or brown patterns so hunting enthusiasts would not accidentally mistake the dog for their prey which usually share the same color as other dogs.
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Labrador Retriever history
The Labrador descended from the old St. John’s water dogs that were bred by English settlers in Newfoundland during the 1500s.
These water dogs were bred to retrieve ducks and fish and their coats were designed to be short to prevent ice accumulation and weather-resistant to withstand harsh winters.
The Labradors we know today are a refined version of that breed that was standardized by English noblemen in the 19th century.
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Jackador history
The Jackador was believed to have first been bred during the 1970s. It is only in recent years that this mixed dog breed has gained some popularity.
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Jack Russell Mix Lab physical appearance
Jack Russell Lab doesn’t have a standard appearance but they commonly have dense and muscular bodies with deep, rounded chests.
Head: The head is either rounded or flat.
Muzzle: May exhibit a tapered muzzle.
Eyes: The eyes are almond-shaped and alert.
Ears: Could either be floppy like the Labrador or upright like the Jack Russell.
Tail: Medium in length.
Jackador size and height
Jack Russell Lab Mix size varies from one dog to another. The Jack Russell Terrier Lab Mix size falls somewhere between the Jack Russell and the Labrador.
The male Lab Jack Russell Mix size is slightly larger than the female. Here’s how tall the Jackador can get:
| Age | Male | Female |
| 3 months | 10 – 12 inches | 9 – 11 inches |
| 6 months | 12 – 15 inches | 11 – 14 inches |
| 9 months | 15 – 18 inches | 14 – 17 inches |
| 12 months | 16 – 20 inches | 15 – 19 inches |
Jack Russell Lab Mix weight
As with their weight, the male Jack Russell Lab is slightly heavier than the female.
Below is a rough estimate of their weight.
| Age | Male | Female |
| 3 months | 10 – 15 pounds | 9 – 14 pounds |
| 6 months | 15 – 20 pounds | 14 – 18 pounds |
| 9 months | 20 – 30 pounds | 18 – 28 pounds |
| 12 months | 30 – 50 pounds | 25 – 45 pounds |
Full grown Jack Russell Lab Mix
Jack Russell Lab Mix full-grown is between the height and weight of the Jack Russell and the Labrador.
Some may resemble the size and appearance of a Labrador if the genes of the Labrador are more dominant as in the case of a Yellow Lab Jack Russell Mix full grown.
A Lab Jack Russell Mix full grown reaches its maximum height at around one year of age and may continue to fill out in the chest until he reaches 15 months of age.
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Jack Russell Mixed with Lab coat colors and types
The Jack Russel Lab Mix can come in yellow, cream, white, black, or chocolate.
Some of them may also have a mixture of two or three colors with one color dominating the body and another color concentrated only on the face or legs.
The Jackador coat is usually short and water-resistant like most Labradors.
Black Lab Jack Russell Mix
Black Lab Jack Russell Terrier Mix has an all-black coat with no traces of other colors. A Jack Russell Terrier Black Lab Mix inherited its genes mostly from a black Labrador since Jack Russell usually has a white-colored coat with brown or black points.
It is most probable that a Black Lab Jack Russell is a product of a black purebred Labrador and a hybrid Jack Russell mix with more black fur in its body.
Genetically speaking, Black Lab and Jack Russell Mix carry more of the eumelanin gene which is the gene responsible for the black color which can be represented by ‘B.’
It may be hard to distinguish the two since the Black Lab and Jack Russell Terrier Mix and the black Labrador might look almost similar, but the difference between a black Labrador and a Jack Russell and Black Lab Mix is probably their temperament.
Jack Russell Black Lab Mix would have the same well-balanced personality as other Jackadors.
Jack Russell Lab Mix Black and White
Black and white Jack Russell Terrier Lab Mix will usually have a black patch on their backs and white fur around their necks and legs.
A black mask that envelops their eyes and ears is also common with a white patch around their noses and chin.
Yellow Lab Jack Russell Mix
Yellow Lab Jack Russell Terrier Mix would generally have a yellow-coated coat on their entire body.
Yellow is not one of the accepted colors of the Jack Russell, so a Jack Russell Terrier Yellow Lab Mix will most likely inherit the yellow coat color from its Labrador parent.
Yellow Lab and Jack Russell Terrier Mix might also get more of the Labrador’s calmer and gentler temperament.
Chocolate Lab Jack Russell Mix
Jack Russell Chocolate Lab Mix will have a dark brown-reddish color that covers almost all their body. Some tan points may appear on their chest and on their legs.
White Lab Jack Russell Mix
Jack Russell Terrier and Lab Mix could have an all-white color. This could be the result of a yellow Labrador with an extremely pale coat that is almost white in color and a typical Jack Russell.
Jack Russell Lab Mix temperament
Jack Russell Terrier Lab Mix temperament is active, playful, and intelligent with a friendly attitude.
Jack Russell Terrier Lab Mix personality
Jack Russell Terrier mixed with Lab is a product of two working and hunting breeds. It can have the high prey instinct of the Jack Terrier making it pretty energetic and inquisitive.
Do Jack Russell Terrier Lab Mix make great family pets?
Yes, Jack Russell Terrier Lab Mix does make great family pets. Lab and Jack Russell Terrier Mix love being around the company of their family. They just need early exposure to children and other pets to get them used to their presence since their high prey instinct can lead to nipping or playful biting.
Is Jack Russell Terrier Mix with Lab aggressive?
No, Jack Russell Terrier Mix with Lab is generally not an aggressive dog breed.
The Labrador Retriever and Jack Russell Terrier Mix is not considered an aggressive dog and only appears so if they sense danger because of their protective nature.
Unwanted aggressive behaviors are usually a result of poor socialization and boredom. They need to be exposed to different situations and environments at an early age in order to keep their aggression in check.
Do Lab Jack Russell Mix bark a lot?
Yes, the Jack Russell Terrier Labrador Retriever Mix can have the tendency to bark a lot.
They will inherit this from Jack Russells who are trained to alert their master when they caught their prey.
The good news is that barking can be minimized through training and making sure that they are not always left alone for long periods of time.
Labrador Jack Russell Mix training
Jackadors are fairly easy to train because they are intelligent and quick learners.
But some like the Chocolate Jackador may have a reputation for being less obedient than their Jack Russell Yellow Lab Mix cousins.
You just need a little bit of patience sometimes and some may even inherit the independent nature of Jack Russell.
Jack Russell Terrier Lab Mix exercise requirement
Lab Russell Terrier Mix needs at least an hour of daily exercise.
Russell Terrier Lab Mix can be given a variety of exercises, from running to fast walking, and swimming to hiking in the woods.
It is important to keep them active physically and mentally to avoid boredom and anxiety.
If you have a backyard, patio, or deck and allow your canine companions to head outside during the day, then it is a good idea to install an automatic dog door.
Many dog owners (working from home or at the office) love having an electronic dog door because they no longer need to open and close the door every time their pooch needs to head out to the backyard or come back into the house.
Some owners also said that the electronic dog door is a lifesaver and a time saver.
Before you install an electronic dog door, make sure your backyard is fully fenced in to keep your dog safe. If your town or county has zoning laws that prohibit physical fences, then it’s a good idea to install a wireless dog fence.
A wireless dog fence can be installed on almost any type of terrain. Whether you live on mountainous, hilly, or open terrain, the wireless dog fence can adapt accordingly. It allows your furry friends to roam freely in your backyard while keeping them safe and sound.
Also, if you love your backyard view and don’t want to install physical fences, a wireless dog fence can help. It will not visually interfere with your beautiful green grass spaces or scenic views.
Most dog owners love the protection that wireless dog fences provide. Intruders with bad intentions may be deterred from your property when they see a dog in your yard. They will not want to get close to your property for fear that your pooch may reach them. However, they’re not aware that your dog won’t be able to reach them because of the wireless dog fence.
Jack Russell Lab Mix living conditions
Jack Russell Labrador Mix is well-suited to any environment as long as its energy needs are met. Jackadors, who are on the smaller side, may need extra care when temperatures get too cold or too hot especially if they have thin coats.
Jack Russell Mix Lab grooming and cleaning
Jackador dog is not a high-maintenance dog. Because of their short coats, dirt does not accumulate that much. But if they’re out playing or rolling in the dirt, a bath is definitely necessary.
When you bathe your Jack Russell Mix Lab, be sure to use a dog shampoo that will keep their skin and coat clean, healthy, and moisturized.
Also, all they need is regular brushing with a slicker brush to remove any excess hair and let the natural oils in their skin naturally moisturize their fur.
You’ll also want to invest in a de-shedding tool like the one below that is proven effective in reducing shedding.
Just like other dogs, they need their teeth brushed several times a week to prevent tartar buildup. The best type of dog toothpaste for your canine companion is one that contains an enzymatic formula with a non-foaming agent.
The enzymatic formula in the doggy toothpaste will help to effectively remove plaque buildup, control tartar, clean your dog’s teeth, and freshen his breath. The non-foaming agent allows your pooch to swallow so there’s no need to rinse.
If your dog is anxious about nail trimming, your next best option is to use a dog nail grinder that is quiet. Overgrown nails can cause soreness, moving difficulty, and can affect your dog’s gait.
Additionally, don’t forget to clean your pup’s ears using dog ear cleaner wipes to prevent bacterial infection.
| Grooming Needs | Grooming Frequency |
| Bathing | 1 to 2x a month. |
| Brushing | 2 to 3x weekly. |
| Nail Trimming | As needed. |
| Teeth Brushing | 2 to 3x weekly. |
Is Jack Russell Mixed with Labrador hypoallergenic?
No, the Labrador Retriever Jack Russell Terrier Mix is not hypoallergenic. Both of their parents shed a lot, especially the Labrador Retriever.
This means that you will see fur all throughout your house and even on your clothes.
To control the shedding, you’ll want to invest in a powerful vacuum cleaner. A good vacuum cleaner, especially if you have pets, is one that is quiet, durable, and can do a great job on both hardwood floors and carpets.
We highly recommend the Miele vacuum cleaner as this is the one we use with two furry family members who shed a lot! We love this one because it has 6 different suction power settings specific to whichever surface needs vacuuming or cleaning.
Jack Russell and Lab Mix food and diet
A well-balanced nutritious diet of protein, carbohydrates, and fat is what a Jack Russell and Lab Mix needs. You can give her 1 to 1 ½ cups of dry dog food divided into 2 portions.
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When choosing dog food, be sure to read the nutrition label. What you want to see is that the food has the AAFCO-approved seal. AAFCO is the Association of American Feed Control Officials.
This guarantees you that the dog food has the right balance of all the vitamins and minerals.
If you share your food with your canine friends, make sure they aren’t toxic or dangerous to dogs. Food that contains seasoning like garlic, onion, and salt is usually unsafe for doggy consumption.
There are fruits like nectarines and vegetables like artichokes that are safe to share with your canine friends. In fact, they are healthy occasional treats for your fur baby.
If you do share them with your pups, make sure it is in moderation.
Jack Russell Lab Mix common health issues
Jack Russell Lab Mix is a healthy dog breed but that does not mean she is not prone to the diseases that are common to her parents.
This is the main reason why genetic or DNA testing is done by responsible breeders before breeding two purebred dogs together, in this case, a Labrador Retriever and a Jack Russell.
Through DNA testing, potential health problems can be detected early on. One of the best dog DNA test you can do at home is the Embark Dog DNA test. It provides both breed identification and health detection and you’ll get the results within 2-3 weeks.
Listed below are the 5 health problems that your Jack Russell Lab Mix dog may be susceptible to:
1. Patellar Luxation
This is an orthopedic problem wherein the kneecap or the patella is dislocated. The only way to correct this problem is through a surgical procedure.
2. Legg-Calve Perthes Disease
Another orthopedic condition that affects the hip joints due to a lack of blood supply to the femoral head.
Reduced blood supply causes the femora head to crumble, thereby, causing limpness and arthritis. Surgery is the only way to address this problem.
3. Epilepsy
A neurological disorder that causes the dog to suffer from seizures lasting from one minute or longer. Apart from genetics, the other causes are liver disease and brain cancer.
The anti-epileptic drug is the treatment for epilepsy.
4. Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is when the dog has either an overactive or an underactive thyroid. Signs include cold intolerance and weight gain. Lifetime oral medication is the only treatment.
5. Elbow Dysplasia
An inherited orthopedic condition where the three bones in the elbow joint fail to fit properly. Surgery is the only treatment for this condition.
Jack Russell Lab Mix lifespan
Give a Lab Jack Russell Terrier Mix the appropriate care she needs and you can enjoy her company for at least 10 to 14 years.
When we say appropriate care, it means you should feed her with a balanced diet, allow her to have her much-needed daily exercise, and bring her to the vet for a regular check-up.
Want more information? Check out Jack Russell Lifespan (How Long Do Jack Russells Live?)
Jackador breeders
Some dog lovers are tempted to buy puppies from pet stores because of the convenience and lower prices.
But that may not be a good idea because, for all you know, those cute pooches displayed in the pet stores may come from puppy mills.
If that’s the case, though not all the time, there is a big chance that those puppies are unhealthy both physically and emotionally. Hence, we always promote getting puppies from responsible breeders.
In this section, we’ll give you tips on how to choose a responsible Jack Russel and Lab Mix breeder.
First, you’ll want to look for the breeder’s license which is usually displayed on the website or in their advertisements.
Second, ask the Jack Russel and Lab Mix breeders if you can do an on-site kennel visit. Any reputable breeder will allow you to come and visit their kennel in person.
Third, inquire about DNA screenings and the health clearances of the parents. It is also a good idea if the breeder’s website has references of their previous clients whom you can contact.
Lastly, responsible breeders usually do their share in helping and supporting activities of animal rescue and adoption centers.
Lab Jack Russell Mix puppy
Bringing home a Jack Russell Lab Mix puppy is one of the exciting events for new fur parents. Responsible breeders normally release the Lab Jack Russell Mix puppies at around 2 months old.
At that stage, the Jackador puppies are ready to learn potty training. Since puppies at this stage are still unable to hold their urine for long, it is best to potty train them every hour.
If your Jack Russell Terrier Lab Mix puppy poops or pees at the right place, don’t forget to praise her by giving her doggie treats or a loving pat on the head.
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At 3 months of age, the Jack Russell Lab Mix puppies may be ready to undergo spaying or neutering, provided that the Jack Russell and Lab Mix puppies weigh more than 2 pounds.
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At 4 months of age, the personalities of the Jack Russell Terrier Lab Mixes will already begin to show. You would already know if your Black Lab Jack Russell Mix puppy is bossy, quiet, or the shy type.
At 5 months of age, the Black Lab Jack Russell Mix puppies may begin to establish their roles in the hierarchy. If your pup tries to dominate you, be firm in showing your pooch that you are the leader or the alpha of the pack.
If not, you will have a challenging time disciplining your puppy later on.
By the time the Jack Russell Terrier and Lab Mix puppies reach 6 months of age, your puppy is considered to have entered the adolescent stage and in a few more months, she is already considered an adult.
Lab and Jack Russell Mix price
The price tag for a Jack Russell and Lab Mix dog is between $400 and $650. Once you bring home your puppy, there are other expenses you need to consider and include in your budget.
These expenses can be divided into 3 categories namely:
- Veterinary expenses.
- One-time expenses.
- Daily essential expenses.
For the veterinary expenses, your Jack Russell and Lab Mix dog has most likely received two core vaccinations from the breeder. This means that your puppy will still needs two more additional core vaccinations within a 2-week interval.
On average, you’d can expect to spend around $20 to $30 per shot. After the fourth core vaccine, the next shot should be given once a year.
Here is a list of the other veterinary services that your fur baby needs:
Anti rabies: $15 to $25 annually.
Flea & tick prevention: $40 – $200 per year.
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Heartworm prevention: $36 – $132 peryear.
Deworming: $20 – $50 every 3 months.
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Wellness exams: $45 – $55 per year.
Dog supplements: $200 – $400.
Microchipping: $50.
Spaying/neutering: $75 – $250.
A Jack Russell Lab Mix dog is an active breed that needs to be physically and mentally stimulated. Therefore, you’ll need to purchase a high-quality dog collar and leash so both of you can confidently enjoy the outdoor.
When it comes to leashes, you can choose either a retractable dog leash or a rope dog leash, whichever one that is best for you and your furry family member.
And, when no one’s home to be with your dog, interactive mind games like puzzles can keep the mind busy and prevent any destructive behaviors.
Here is a list of the things your dog needs to stay happy and healthy:
Dog collar: $10 – $25
Retractable leash: $25
Food & water bowls: $10 – $20
Dog bed: $25 – $80
Grooming kit: $30
Dog car seat cover: $35
Dog puzzles: $15
Dog toys: $10 – $20
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For the expenses on your dog’s daily needs, these refer to the following:
Dog food: $250 – $700 per year
Dog treats: $200 per year
Dog shampoo: $300 per year
Places to find Jackador puppies for sale
We want to reiterate that the only place to find Black Lab Jack Russell Mix puppies for sale are from ethical breeders.
We will share with you two breeders that offers healthy Jack Russell Lab Mix puppies for sale.
Also, in case you are open to the idea of adoption, we’ve included a rescue center where there may be Jack Russell Terrier Lab Mix puppies for sale.
AA Ridgewood Kennels (ridgewoodpuppies.com) have Jack Russell Mix puppies for sale. In case they do not have Jack Russell Lab Mix for sale, you can contact them and let them know which of the upcoming litter you prefer to get.
Another place to search for Lab Jack Russell Mix for sale is at Greenfield Puppies (greenfieldpuppies.com). All of the puppies that are sold come with a 30-day health guarantee.
This means if your puppy gets sick within the guarantee period, you can either get another puppy or the breeder will shoulder all the vet expenses.
If you’re interested in rescuing a Jackador pup, you can get a healthy Jackador pup from a rescue center such as Russell Rescue, Inc (russellrescue.com/adopt).
Fill out the adoption form and if they find you fit to own a Jackador, they will get in touch with you.
Jack Russell Terrier Labrador Mix: Pros and Cons
Here’s what you can expect from a Lab mixed with Jack Russell if you choose to buy one:
| Pros | Cons |
| Intelligent. | Can get aggressive toward strangers. |
| Responds well to training. | Stubborn tendency. |
| Tolerates boisterous kids. | Needs a lot of exercise. |
| Good guard dogs. | Has a high prey drive. |
| Loyal. | Prone to excessive barking. |
| Affordable. | Can get destructive if not enough mental stimulation is given. |
Is the Jack Russell Lab Mix right for me?
If you are looking for a compact-sized dog that you can take with you on your various adventures, then yes, a Jack Labrador is the right canine companion for you.
A Jack Russell Lab Mix is best cared for by an owner who can keep his mind active, lest, it can lead to destructive behaviors.
But if you are an allergy sufferer, sad to say, a Jackador is not a good choice for you because of his shedding issues.
Related Questions
A Jack Russell Lab Mix can get reach a height of 16 to 20 inches and weigh 20 to 50 pounds. The size of a male Jackador is usually slightly larger than the female Jackador.
Yes, Jackadors are good dogs because they are not known to act aggressively toward their human families and other animals. Though they inherited the high-prey drive of their parents, with proper socialization and training, Jackadors can co-exist peacefully with smaller household pets. They are also loving, loyal, and affectionate companion dogs.
Jackadors can cost between $400 and $650. This is just the initial costs. There are other expenses to consider once you bring your Jackador puppy home. We’ve included these other expenses near the end of this guide.
A West Highland Terrier is a good mix with a Jack Russell. The resulting offspring is called Westie Jack. The combination of agility and intelligence of a Jack Russell and the playfulness and affectionate temperament of a West Highland produces a smart, active, and fun-loving family pet.
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The information, including but not limited to, text, graphics, images and other material contained on this website are for informational purposes only. No material on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your veterinarian or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
Resources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jack_Russell_Terrier
https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/labrador-retriever/
With over five years of specialized experience as an animal writer, my expertise lies in dog nutrition, health, behavior, grooming, and training. I am dedicated to delivering helpful and informative content that caters to the well-being of our furry friends. My primary goal is to empower pet owners with knowledge and ensure our canine companions thrive in health and happiness. In my free time, I love volunteering at local dog rescue centers.
