Labralas Puppies: The Complete Week-by-Week Growth & Care Guide
Everything you need to raise Labralas puppies: week-by-week milestones, feeding schedules, vaccination timelines, potty training, and first-year costs.
What Is a Labralas Puppy?
A Labralas is a designer cross between a Labrador Retriever and an Alaskan Malamute. These puppies inherit the Lab's eagerness to please and the Malamute's independence and thick double coat. Adult Labralas dogs typically weigh 60–100 lb (27–45 kg) and stand 22–25 inches (56–64 cm) at the shoulder, though individual size varies depending on which parent they favor. Expect a lifespan of 10–14 years.
Because Labralas puppies are a first-generation (F1) cross, their traits can vary even within the same litter. One pup may lean heavily toward the Labrador's short coat and biddable nature, while a littermate might inherit the Malamute's dense undercoat and stubborn streak. This unpredictability is part of the charm — and the challenge — of raising a Labralas puppy.
| Parent Breeds | Labrador Retriever × Alaskan Malamute |
| Adult Weight | 60–100 lb / 27–45 kg |
| Adult Height | 22–25 in / 56–64 cm |
| Lifespan | 10–14 years |
| Coat Type | Medium to long double coat; heavy seasonal shedding |
| Energy Level | High — 60–90 minutes daily exercise (adult) |
| Trainability | Moderate to high; responds to positive reinforcement |
When Should I Bring My Labralas Puppy Home?
The ideal age to bring a Labralas puppy home is 8 to 10 weeks. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) supports keeping puppies with their littermates until at least 8 weeks, as this period is critical for learning bite inhibition, canine communication, and social confidence.
Bringing a puppy home before 8 weeks increases the risk of behavioral problems later, including fear-based aggression, separation anxiety, and poor impulse control. Some responsible breeders of large, independent breeds like the Malamute hold puppies until 10 weeks to allow additional littermate socialization, which can be especially beneficial for Labralas puppies that lean toward the Malamute's more strong-willed temperament.
Labralas Puppy Milestones: Week by Week
Weeks 4–8: The Litter Phase (With Breeder)
- Weight: Puppies typically weigh 5–10 lb (2.3–4.5 kg) by week 6 and 8–14 lb (3.6–6.4 kg) by week 8.
- Senses: Eyes and ears fully functional; puppies respond to human voices and begin exploring beyond the whelping box.
- Socialization: Littermate play teaches bite inhibition. Puppies start learning that hard bites end fun interactions.
- Food: Transitioning from mother's milk to softened puppy kibble (gruel stage, weeks 4–5), then to dry kibble by week 6–7.
- Your role: If visiting, handle the puppy daily for short sessions (5–10 minutes). Introduce varied floor textures, gentle sounds, and novel objects.
Weeks 8–12: Home Adjustment & Bonding
- Weight: Expect 14–22 lb (6.4–10 kg) by week 12. Labralas puppies grow rapidly in this window.
- Sleep: Puppies sleep 18–20 hours per day. Enforce crate naps every 1–2 hours to prevent overtiredness, which triggers biting and whining.
- Training: Begin teaching name recognition, "sit," and crate entry using food lures and positive reinforcement. Keep sessions to 3–5 minutes.
- Chewing: Baby teeth are fully in. Provide frozen washcloths, rubber KONG toys (puppy size), and Nylabone puppy chews.
- Fear periods: A developmental fear period peaks around 8–10 weeks. Avoid overwhelming experiences — loud noises, forced interactions with strangers, or traumatic vet visits can imprint lasting fears.
Weeks 12–16: Expanding the World
- Weight: 22–35 lb (10–16 kg) by week 16.
- Bladder control: Improves noticeably. Puppies can typically hold it for 2–3 hours during the day (age in months + 1 = approximate hold time in hours).
- Training: Add "down," "come," and loose-leash walking foundations. Begin handling exercises — touch paws, ears, mouth, and tail daily to prep for grooming.
- Exercise: Follow the "5 minutes per month of age" rule: a 3-month-old puppy gets roughly 15 minutes of structured exercise, twice daily. Free play in a fenced yard doesn't count against this limit.
- Second fear period: Some puppies show a second fear window around 12–14 weeks. Stay calm, don't force interactions, and reward brave behavior with high-value treats (boiled chicken, small cheese pieces).
Weeks 16–24 (4–6 Months): The Teenage Phase Begins
- Weight: 35–55 lb (16–25 kg) by 6 months. Your Labralas will be roughly 60–70% of adult weight.
- Teething: Adult teeth erupt between 4–6 months (see teething section below).
- Behavior: Independence increases. Recall that was reliable at 12 weeks may suddenly deteriorate — this is normal. Go back to basics with higher-value rewards.
- Spay/neuter: Most veterinarians recommend spaying or neutering large-breed crosses between 6–12 months. Discuss timing with your vet, as early sterilization in large breeds has been linked to increased joint disorder risk in some studies referenced by the Merck Veterinary Manual.
- Exercise: Increase structured walks to 25–30 minutes, twice daily. Introduce low-impact activities like swimming if available.
Months 6–12: Adolescence & Maturation
- Weight: 55–85 lb (25–39 kg) by 12 months. Males typically outweigh females by 15–20 lb. Full adult weight is usually reached by 15–18 months.
- Coat: The puppy coat sheds out and the adult double coat comes in. Expect a dramatic "blow coat" shedding event, especially if the Malamute coat genes dominate.
- Training: Enroll in intermediate obedience or a canine sport foundation class (rally, nose work). Labralas dogs need mental stimulation as much as physical exercise.
- Social maturity: Some Labralas puppies begin showing dog-selectiveness or same-sex aggression around 10–12 months, a trait inherited from the Malamute side. Continue positive socialization but don't force dog park interactions.
Feeding Schedule for Labralas Puppies
Feed a large-breed puppy formula that meets AAFCO nutritional standards for growth. Large-breed puppy foods contain controlled calcium and phosphorus levels (calcium: 1.0–1.5% on a dry matter basis) to support proper bone development and reduce the risk of hip and elbow dysplasia.
| Age | Meals/Day | Portion Per Meal | Daily Total (approx.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8–12 weeks (14–22 lb) |
3–4 | ¾ – 1 cup | 2¼ – 4 cups | Soften kibble with warm water if puppy struggles to chew |
| 3–6 months (22–55 lb) |
3 | 1 – 1¾ cups | 3 – 5¼ cups | Increase portions gradually as puppy gains weight; adjust based on body condition score |
| 6–12 months (55–85 lb) |
2 | 2 – 3 cups | 4 – 6 cups | Transition to 2 meals/day at 6 months; switch to adult food at 12–15 months |
Portion guidance is approximate. Caloric density varies by brand. A good large-breed puppy food provides roughly 350–400 kcal per cup. Monitor your puppy's body condition score (BCS) — you should be able to feel ribs without pressing hard, and see a visible waist when viewed from above. Adjust portions up or down by 10–15% based on condition.
Recommended food brands with large-breed puppy formulas that meet WSAVA guidelines: Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Puppy, Royal Canin Giant Puppy, Hill's Science Diet Large Breed Puppy. Expect to spend $55–$85 per 30-lb bag, which lasts 2–4 weeks depending on puppy age.
Potty Training Timeline & Realistic Expectations
Labralas puppies are intelligent but can inherit the Malamute's independent streak, which sometimes translates to slower potty training compared to a purebred Labrador. Here's what to realistically expect:
Potty Training Milestones
- 8–10 weeks: Accidents every 1–2 hours. Take puppy out after every nap, meal, play session, and crate release. Expect 8–12 trips outside per day.
- 10–14 weeks: Accidents decrease to 1–3 per week if you maintain a consistent schedule. Puppy begins going to the door or whining to signal need.
- 4–6 months: Mostly reliable during the day with 0–2 accidents per week. Nighttime control improves to 5–6 hours.
- 6–9 months: Daytime reliability for most puppies. Occasional regression possible during adolescence or environmental changes (moving, new family member).
- 9–12 months: Fully potty trained for the majority of Labralas puppies. Some males may lift leg and mark indoors if not neutered — manage with supervision and enzymatic cleaner.
Troubleshooting common issues:
- Puppy won't go outside: Malamute-influenced puppies sometimes refuse to potty in rain or cold. Use a covered area or a large umbrella. Reward heavily (3–5 small treats) immediately after elimination.
- Submissive urination: Common in young Labralas puppies when greeting. Don't scold — it's involuntary. Greet calmly outdoors or ignore the puppy for the first 2 minutes after arriving home.
- Crate accidents: If your puppy soils the crate, the crate may be too large. Use a divider to limit space to just enough room to stand, turn, and lie down. Also rule out a urinary tract infection with your vet if accidents are sudden and frequent.
Socialization Window: Weeks 3–14
The primary socialization window closes around 14 weeks of age. Research published in veterinary behavior journals shows that puppies deprived of varied experiences during this period are significantly more likely to develop fear-based behavioral problems. The AKC's socialization guidelines emphasize that exposure should be positive and voluntary — never force a fearful puppy into a situation.
Socialization Checklist for Labralas Puppies
| Category | Exposures (Aim for 3+ Each) | Target Window |
|---|---|---|
| People | Children, elderly, people in hats/uniforms/wheelchairs, tall men, people with deep voices | 8–14 weeks |
| Surfaces | Gravel, metal grates, wet grass, slippery tile, carpet, stairs (carried down until 12 weeks) | 8–12 weeks |
| Sounds | Vacuum, thunderstorm recordings (low volume), traffic, doorbells, clapping, hair dryer | 8–14 weeks |
| Handling | Paw touching, ear inspection, mouth opening, nail clipping practice, being held on side | 8–16 weeks |
| Other Animals | Fully vaccinated adult dogs (calm, known temperament), cats (supervised), livestock if rural | After 2nd vaccine (10–12 weeks) |
| Environments | Car rides, outdoor café (carried), friend's house, groomer visit (happy visit only), vet lobby | 8–14 weeks |
| Objects | Umbrellas opening, plastic bags rustling, bicycles, skateboards, trash cans, garden hoses | 8–14 weeks |
Pro tip for Labralas puppies: Because the Malamute side can produce a dog with high prey drive, prioritize positive exposure to cats, small dogs, and other small animals during the socialization window. Pair sightings with high-value treats to build positive associations.
Vaccination Schedule for Labralas Puppies
Your veterinarian will tailor the vaccination protocol to your area's disease risk, but the core schedule follows AVMA-recommended guidelines for puppies:
| Age | Vaccines | What It Protects Against | Cost Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6–8 weeks | DHPP (1st dose) Bordetella (optional) |
Distemper, Hepatitis (Adenovirus), Parainfluenza, Parvovirus Kennel cough |
$25–$50 |
| 10–12 weeks | DHPP (2nd dose) Leptospirosis (1st dose, risk-dependent) Lyme (1st dose, risk-dependent) |
Booster for core diseases Bacterial kidney/liver disease Tick-borne illness |
$40–$75 |
| 14–16 weeks | DHPP (3rd dose) Rabies Leptospirosis (2nd dose) Lyme (2nd dose) |
Final core booster Required by law; fatal viral disease Booster Booster |
$60–$120 |
When can my puppy go outside and meet other dogs? After the final DHPP booster at 14–16 weeks, your puppy is considered fully protected against core diseases. Wait 5–7 days after that last vaccine before visiting dog parks or group play areas. Before full vaccination, stick to controlled environments — your fenced yard, homes of friends with fully vaccinated dogs, and carried outings in public spaces.
Teething Timeline & Relief Strategies (3–6 Months)
Labralas puppies begin losing baby teeth around 12–16 weeks, with the process completing by 6–7 months. During this period, expect increased chewing, drooling, mild gum bleeding, and temporary appetite fluctuations.
Safe Teething Relief Options
- Frozen KONG Classic (puppy rubber, blue or pink): Fill with plain yogurt and mashed banana, freeze 4+ hours. The cold numbs gums while the rubber is gentle on emerging teeth. Cost: $12–$16.
- Benebone Wishbone (puppy formula): Softer than adult versions, infused with bacon flavor. Size appropriately — medium for puppies 25–50 lb. Cost: $13–$18.
- Frozen carrots: A cheap, edible option. Use whole large carrots (never baby carrots, which are a choking hazard). Supervise and discard when small enough to swallow. Cost: $2/bag.
- Wet washcloth twist: Soak a clean washcloth in low-sodium chicken broth, twist into a rope, and freeze. Supervise use and discard if threads come loose. Cost: essentially free.
- Nylabone Puppy Chew (Power Chew ring): Designed for aggressive chewers. Choose the puppy-specific version, which is softer. Cost: $8–$14.
Avoid: Ice cubes (can crack teeth), hard antlers or hooves (too dense for puppy teeth), cooked bones (splintering risk), and any toy small enough to swallow whole.
Crate Training Progression
Labralas puppies generally adapt well to crates, especially when introduced positively. The crate should be a safe retreat, never a punishment. Use a 42-inch wire crate with a divider panel for a growing Labralas — this size accommodates the adult dog.
| Puppy Age | Max Daytime Crate Time | Max Nighttime Crate Time | Training Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8–10 weeks | 30–60 minutes | 2–3 hours (then potty break) | Build positive association: meals in crate, treats for entry, door open initially |
| 10–14 weeks | 1–2 hours | 3–4 hours | Close door for naps; practice short departures (leave room for 5–10 min) |
| 4–6 months | 2–3 hours | 5–6 hours | Extend alone time gradually; add a stuffed KONG for enrichment |
| 6–12 months | 3–4 hours | 7–8 hours | Transition to crate-optional if puppy is house-trained and non-destructive |
Whining in the crate: If your puppy whines after being settled for 20+ minutes, they likely need a potty break. Take them out on leash, stand quietly for 3–5 minutes, then return to the crate. If they don't eliminate, they were seeking attention — return to crate without reward. Consistency is critical; one rewarded whine can set training back weeks.
Common Labralas Puppy Problems & Solutions
Puppy Biting and Nipping
Labralas puppies are mouthy — the Labrador's retrieving instinct and the Malamute's tendency to "talk" with their mouth combine to produce a puppy that grabs hands, sleeves, and ankles. This is normal developmental behavior, not aggression.
How to stop puppy biting:
- Redirect: When teeth touch skin, say "oops" calmly and offer a chew toy. Reward chewing the toy with praise.
- Time-out: If biting continues after 2 redirects, stand up and leave the room for 15–30 seconds. Return and resume play. The puppy learns that biting ends fun.
- Enforced naps: Most persistent biting occurs when puppies are overtired. If your puppy is a land shark after 90 minutes awake, they need a crate nap.
- Avoid: Never hold the mouth shut, do alpha rolls, or yell. These methods increase fear and can escalate biting. Use only positive reinforcement and management techniques.
Destructive Chewing
Labralas puppies, especially those leaning toward the Malamute's high energy and boredom sensitivity, will destroy furniture, shoes, and baseboards if under-stimulated. Solutions:
- Provide 4–6 approved chew options rotated weekly to maintain novelty.
- Ensure minimum exercise requirements are met (see milestone sections for age-appropriate amounts).
- Use bitter apple spray on forbidden items as a deterrent — but pair with redirecting to appropriate chews, not as a standalone solution.
- Confine puppy to a puppy-proofed area or crate when unsupervised.
Jumping on People
Labralas puppies are enthusiastic greeters. Teach an incompatible behavior: "sit for greetings." Have all visitors ask the puppy to sit before petting. If the puppy jumps, the person turns away and folds arms until all four paws are on the floor. Reward the sit with calm petting under the chin (not over the head, which excites puppies).
First-Year Cost Breakdown for a Labralas Puppy
| Category | Items | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Puppy Purchase | From responsible breeder (health-tested parents) | $800–$2,000 |
| Veterinary (Year 1) | Vaccines, spay/neuter, microchip, deworming, heartworm test, 2–3 wellness exams | $600–$1,200 |
| Food | Large-breed puppy formula, then adult transition (12 months) | $600–$1,000 |
| Supplies | Crate ($60–$90), bed, leash/harness, bowls, grooming tools, chew toys, enzymatic cleaner, puppy gate | $300–$600 |
| Training | Group puppy class (6–8 weeks) + intermediate class | $200–$500 |
| Preventive Medications | Heartworm, flea/tick prevention (12 months) | $200–$400 |
| Pet Insurance (Optional) | Monthly premium for large-breed puppy | $40–$70/month ($480–$840/year) |
| TOTAL (First Year) | $3,180–$6,540 |
Adoption alternative: Labralas mixes occasionally appear in breed-specific rescues (Labrador and Malamute rescues) and general shelters. Adoption fees typically range from $200–$500 and often include initial vaccinations, spay/neuter, and microchipping, reducing first-year costs significantly.
Frequently Asked Questions About Labralas Puppies
How often should I feed my Labralas puppy at 10 weeks old?
At 10 weeks, feed 3–4 meals per day. Offer ¾ to 1 cup of large-breed puppy kibble per meal, adjusting based on your puppy's body condition. Remove uneaten food after 15–20 minutes to establish a routine and make potty timing more predictable.
When will my Labralas puppy be fully potty trained?
Most Labralas puppies achieve daytime reliability between 5–7 months and full reliability (including overnight) by 9–12 months. Consistency in schedule, supervision, and positive reinforcement for outdoor elimination are the biggest predictors of faster training.
Are Labralas puppies good with children?
Generally yes — both parent breeds are known for being good with families. However, Labralas puppies are large, energetic, and mouthy, which can overwhelm toddlers. Always supervise interactions, teach children not to pull ears or tails, and give the puppy a crate retreat. Wait until children are at least 5–6 years old before bringing home a large-breed puppy.
How much exercise does a 4-month-old Labralas puppy need?
At 4 months, aim for approximately 20 minutes of structured exercise (leashed walks, training sessions) twice daily, plus free play in a secure yard. Avoid forced running, jumping from heights, or repetitive fetch on hard surfaces until growth plates close (around 15–18 months) to protect developing joints.
Do Labralas puppies shed a lot?
Yes. The puppy coat sheds noticeably around 6–9 months as the adult double coat comes in. Adult Labralas dogs shed moderately year-round and "blow" their undercoat 1–2 times annually, producing dramatic tufts of fur. Invest in an undercoat rake (like the Furminator Large Short Hair or the Chris Christensen Big G) and brush 3–4 times per week during shedding season.
What health issues should I watch for in Labralas puppies?
Both parent breeds are predisposed to hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia. The Labrador side adds risk for exercise-induced collapse (EIC), while the Malamute side can carry genes for chondrodysplasia (a form of dwarfism) and polyneuropathy. Ask your breeder for proof of OFA hip/elbow scores and genetic testing for both parent dogs. A responsible breeder will share these results transparently.
Aaron Whyte
All our authors care for dogs every day — read more of their work on the authors page.
