I am looking to get a dog. I am an active person looking for a lab type of dog. I know a few people that have lab mixes and they have been great for them. They are usually free (besides the labradoodle) or very cheap. I am almost looking to this before an expensive purebred dog. My understanding is that a mixed breed will take some characteristics from each parent. I would like a dog that may be able to hunt. If it wouldn't work out no big deal. I just know that some labs are instinctively hunters. Ideally I would like a dog that would be able to run, mountain bike, and hike with me and also be able to hunt. There would of course be training involved also, I know that. I just think I would have a better chance with a certain mix.

Does anyone have one of these lab crosses? Any idea about what crosses are good for what activities? Some that I've seen are: lab/border collie, lab/german shepard, lab/beagle. Just looking for any information anyone has about these mixed breeds.

Thanks in advance.