Top Activities For Labraheelers

Introduction

Two breeds that have been developed particularly for working with their humans are the Australian Cattle Dog and the Labrador Retriever. These tireless canines are particularly suited to outdoor activities; the Australian Cattle Dog parent breed was used to herd cows and sheep while the Labrador Retriever is a talented hunting companion. The Labraheeler, resulting from combining these two driven canines, is likely to be highly intelligent but may exhibit a bit of an independent streak; the Australian Cattle Dog parent is often cited as being somewhat headstrong. Begin training your Labraheeler at a young age so that your pooch understands expected behavior. As your Labraheeler ages, provide them with at least forty-five minutes of activity per day.

Retrieving Drills

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Sunny Day

Cheap

Normal

30 min

Items needed

whistle

retrieving dummy

sliplead

Activity description

Because the Labraheeler is a working dog, you should plan activities which utilize the natural talents of your dog. Retrieving is one such talent. Even if you don't intend to train your dog to hunt, you can still work with them utilizing retrieving drills. You'll need to procure a place to do this; many experts also advise using a partner to work with you and your clever canine. Spend roughly 30 minutes to an hour on this activity; you might want to take breaks every fifteen to thirty minutes. Purchase a retrieving dummy or make one yourself (instructions can be found online).

Step

1

Seek out and prep land

First, you'll need to find a place to set up your training area. Depending on where you live, you can rent a small lot. Some experts recommend land that is partially cleared or might be overgrown, but, unless you intend to train Fido to hunt, this is not necessary. If you are lucky enough to know someone who trains gun dogs, they might allow you to practice on their land when not in use.

Step

2

Introduce the dummy

Some experts recommend introducing the retrieving dummy to your pup at about six months and while they are indoors. The most popular dummies are a teal color. Shape is not so important, unless you intend to make your Labraheeler a gun dog. Once you take the activity outside, simply throw the dummy and have your dog bring it back to you.

Step

3

Teach "give"

With the Labraheeler, retrieving isn't so much an issue as releasing the dummy or other retrieved items to you. To alleviate this issue, teach them to give the item to you. Show them a treat and make a game of exchanging the retrieving item for the treat. Be sure to avoid a game of tug. Only give the treat when the dog freely releases the item in your hand.

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Nose Work

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Sunny Day

Cheap

Normal

45 min

Items needed

essential oils

sturdy cloth

Activity description

Nose work comes naturally to the Labraheeler. In addition, you can do nose work on the privacy of your own land, or you can train your Labraheeler to compete among other dogs. You will utilize the strong nose of the Labrador Retriever parent breed. Gather some essential oils that are safe for dogs and have a rather strong smell - anise, valerian, or lavender. Some pet owners check the suitability of oils in direct relation to their pet; consult your veterinarian to see if these oils are okay for your pup to work with. Take some time to familiarize your pal with these smells. You can begin doing this indoors, but most of the nose work activity should take place outdoors. You'll want to take them to places where the scent cloth can be hidden from sight.

Step

1

Introduce the scent

Use the aforementioned essential oils for this activity. They are safe for dogs. (Never use tea tree oil. It is toxic to dogs.) Also, be careful of cheap oils - they often aren't pure and can actually be harmful. Again, check with your vet to be sure. You will place just a few drops on a cloth and allow your dog to identify the smell. Then hide the cloth for your pal to find. You may have to put the cloth in plain view at first. Praise and treat Fido for finding the cloth.

Step

2

Change up the scenery

Begin the introduction of the scent indoors or in an enclosed area. Once your dog has caught on to what you expect of them, then begin moving the cloth to different places, out of sight, all over your property. This will make your little tracker really depend upon their nose to find the scent item. Always praise and treat a successful "hunt."

Step

3

Competition decision

This is definitely a personal decision. In order to make that choice, begin by attending a competition to observe. You might want to bring your Labraheeler along. Watch their behavior. If they seem eager to join in, you might work toward that. If you believe the noise and excitement of a contest are too much for your dog, then you can always practice on your own property.

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Outdoor Fun

Popular

0 Votes

Sunny Day

Cheap

Normal

1 hr

Items needed

bottled water

first aid kit

Leash

Activity description

The Labraheeler is a canine that is built for work. This means that a short walk around the block won't be sufficient exercise for this high-energy dog. Furthermore, they can live indoors, but they relish time spent in the great outdoors. Many Heelers (Australian Cattle Dogs) in the United States live on farmland, and for good reason. They need to roam and run to expel that energy. The same can be said for the Labrador Retriever. So, if you have access to acreage, then take advantage of this and go on a long walk. If not, take your Labraheeler to a place where the two of you can go on a hike together.

Step

1

Roam freely on your property

Do you have access to acreage that touts a few ponds or is connected to a body of water? Do you have areas that house cattle? Do you yourself enjoy walking the perimeter of your property? Then take your Labraheeler along with you! Sometimes allowing your energetic Labraheeler to get out and simply explore is enough to expend any nervous energy.

Step

2

Fenced-in backyard

Perhaps you do not have an extensive property that would allow for long walks, but you do have a fenced-in yard. Get out and invite your Labraheeler to run and play with you. You might utilize a flirt pole to entice them to chase you. You can play fetch or throw a doggy disc (they DO love to retrieve, you know). At least an hour of this activity daily keeps the Labraheeler from getting into mischief.

Step

3

Go hiking

The Labraheeler is built for the long haul. They can run and play for much longer than other breeds. They also love to get out and explore. If you live near a national park (or another suitable area), take your dog on a hike. Be sure to take along extra water for both of you and a first aid kit that includes items the both of you might need such as tweezers and ointment.

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More Fun Ideas...

Swimming

The Labraheeler is a natural swimmer. However, you'll still want to ensure they are wearing a swim vest, and you'll also want to supervise them as they paddle along.

Dock Diving

Do you have access to a body of water? Strap your pup's swim vest on and go dock diving. Many Labraheelers naturally take to this activity and will swim back to the dock and climb back up without much training.

Conclusion

The Labraheeler is a dog that loves to hunt, swim, and generally run and play outdoors. Choosing activities for this breed are simple; this working dog looks for activity, and you just need to be ready to join in! Retrieving drills allow the Labraheeler to run and play; swimming and dock diving are also natural activities for the designer dog. If you love the outdoors, the Labraheeler is just right for you.