Top Activities For Doguedoodles

Introduction

Doguedoodles are a cross between the standard Poodle and the Dogue de Bordeaux. The history of Dogue de Bordeaux isn’t exactly known, but it’s believed they originated in France. It’s also believed the large dogs are ancestors to the Bullmastiff breed. As a reference, if you grew up in the 1980s, the dog in the movie Turner and Hooch was a Dogue de Bordeaux.

Poodles, on the other hand, can be traced back to ancient times. Originally bred as duck hunters, Poodles have been elevated to royal status and are one of the most popular breeds in the world.

Mixed together, a Doguedoodle is a large, intelligent breed that makes a great family watchdog. However, they can be stubborn, so obedience classes are important to teach the pup to obey commands.

Hiking

Popular

0 Votes

Any Day

Free

Easy

1 hr

Items needed

Leash

Map

Dog Backpack

Activity description

Doguedoodles love being outdoors exploring. It takes them back to their ancestors who hunted for ducks (Poodles) or fought bulls. It’s best to keep your pup on the leash because their sense of smell is as strong as their prey drive. You can use a harness for more control, too.

When hiking with your pup, be sure to bring water. You can give your pup a job by filling a doggie backpack with the water bottle and bowl. This breed has a long history as a working dog and that’s when they are happiest.

Before you start hiking, be sure the area is pet-friendly and allows dogs. Many state parks allow dogs on hiking trails.

Step

1

Find a dog-friendly hike

Before you can start your trek with Fido, you need to make sure the hiking area allows dogs. Many do, as long as the owner cleans up after their animals and keep them on a leash. Some parks require an additional fee to bring dogs. If you can’t find a friendly hiking area, perhaps you know someone who owns property in the woods where you can hike or can drive a little extra distance to get to a dog-friendly area.

Step

2

Get a leash and harness

Big dogs like Doguedoodles should be on a leash and harness for their own protection and to ease the anxiety of people who are afraid of large dogs. Chances are, Fido is going to be quite massive. Some people find that intimidating, even if you insist that your pup is a total sweetheart. Big dogs are easier to handle using a harness, but it’s important to find one that fits properly.

Step

3

Pack a backpack

Your dog’s history and DNA are embedded into them as a working dog and they love being given a job to do. Many dogs feel comforted by the weight of a dog backpack or other outerwear. Having your dog carry the water and other essentials in the backpack leaves your hands free to control the leash and lets them feel useful, too.

Add your dog's photo

Fetch

Popular

0 Votes

Any Day

Cheap

Easy

1 hr

Items needed

Ball

Ball Thrower

Treats

Activity description

Fetch is a beloved game for many dog breeds. A Doguedoodle would be no exception to this. Poodles were bred to hunt ducks, which is somewhat similar to fetch, especially if you do it in the water. But given the large size of your dog, you have to take a few precautions with the normal game of fetch.

Fetch can be played in any weather if you have a big enough house. But if you've ever heard the phrase "a bull in a china shop," you understand that fetch in a house with a Doguedoodle is not quite the same as fetch with a smaller pup. Take safety measures for any and all breakable items.

An hour of fetch should be enough for your pup, at least for a few hours! Your dog will probably want a drink after and then slobber all over you.

Step

1

Teach Fido to fetch a ball

The first step to fetch is to teach your dog to run after the ball or another toy. This can be done by using your voice as encouragement -- the higher your voice is, the more excited your pup will get. Given your dog’s size, you will need a lot of room to play fetch. A fenced-in backyard is preferred, but off-leash dog parks can work, too. If you are 100% confident in your pup’s recall training, you can also try regular dog parks if they allow dogs off-leash.

Step

2

Drop it

Many dogs do not willingly give up the ball after they’ve fetched it. They like to play their own game called “keep away.” This is where obedience training will be effective. Along with the other basic commands, “drop it" or “leave it” commands are taught in the beginner class. It can be useful in play or if your dog has something they aren’t supposed to that could pose danger.

Step

3

Treats/Praise

When teaching your dog anything -- playing or obedience -- treats and verbal praise are everything. Treats and verbal praise reinforce positive behaviors so your pup will know they are doing the right thing. While dogs don’t speak English, they can be taught certain words or phrases. Don’t give too many treats, though, or you will risk your dog not eating their real food and getting sick.

Add your dog's photo

Obedience Training

Popular

0 Votes

Any Day

Moderate

Easy

1 hr

Items needed

Leash

Harness

Clicker

Activity description

Doguedoodles are highly intelligent but also very stubborn. While they are friendly around kids and other animals, they still need to be trained in obedience. They simply don’t know their own size sometimes! A basic obedience class will teach you and your pup commands such as “sit,” “down,” “drop it” and “come.” An obedience class makes it easier to let your pup off-leash in areas with fences.

Obedience classes can be pricey, but they are very important to have a well-behaved dog, especially when your dog may end up bigger than you and many other people.

Most classes are held indoors, so they can be done in any weather. They average about an hour or so, and it’s a good idea to exercise your pup a little beforehand so they can focus.

Step

1

Find a local class

Local pet stores often hold training classes, as well as local animal shelters. If you can’t find a local class, there is also the option of one-on-one training, but it’s a bit more expensive. Doguedoogles are friendly dogs, but if your pup doesn’t like other dogs, you should look for individual training. The younger your pup is, the better they will do to learn training early. You can teach old dogs new tricks, but puppies are easier to train.

Step

2

Learn how to clicker train

One of the most effective ways to train is with a clicker. They can be purchased just about anywhere for a few dollars. Clicker training can help you get your dog’s attention or teach them their name. When you click the clicker and your pup looks at you, you give them a treat. Eventually, you can stop giving out so many treats. Once you have their attention, it’s easier to work on commands and other things.

Step

3

Practice at home

Experts say that dogs live in the moment. That’s why it’s important to practice the commands between classes to help your dog retain the obedience they learned. Most training classes are only held once a week and that is a long time for your dog to remember commands without practice. Practice makes perfect!

Add your dog's photo

More Fun Ideas...

Dog Park

Your gorgeous Doguedoodle will be the hit of the dog park! Some people might be intimidated at first, but they will soon realize your pup is a friendly ball of slobber. Your pup should pass through any breed restriction lists, but double-check with your town before taking Fido to the park.

Once you’re at the park, be sure to release your pup from the leash once inside the secured fencing, as leashed dogs can feel threatened by off-leash dogs. Doguedoodles are friendly dogs who shouldn’t have any problems finding other dogs to romp with at the dog park.

Jogging

You can jog with your Doguedoodle if your pup has had beginner obedience training so they know how to heel and walk on the leash. To jog with your dog, you’ll need a harness and special jogging leash to tie the two of you together. Once you’ve trained your dog to mind the leash, you can jog in unison. It’s a great way to tire your pup out (and you, if Fido's legs are longer than yours).

Conclusion

Doguedoodles are highly energetic dogs that need at least an hour of exercise per day. If not properly exercised, your pup can exhibit destructive behaviors and nuisance barking. They definitely prefer outdoor activities, such as hikes, jogging, and off-leash dog parks.

Obedience training is a must for a Doguedoogle, given their size and stubborn nature. The good news is they would visually intimidate anyone who tried to break in, but they’d also probably lick the intruder instead of growling.

Routine grooming is important to maintain the dog’s coat if they inherit the Poodle’s curls. If your pup is a swimmer, you should brush their fur before and after swimming to prevent matted hair and tangles.

As long as you can handle the work that goes into having a behemoth dog, your Doguedoodle will be a great addition to any famil!