Activities For Mountain Bulldogs
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Introduction
If you're interested in handling a strong, intelligent and muscular dog breed, check out all a Mountain Bulldog has to "offur." Mountain Bulldogs are a cross between a Bernese Mountain Dog and an American Bulldog, resulting in a hardworking and playful pup. Because of their American Bulldog parent, this breed can exhibit aggressive behaviors if they're not trained or socialized correctly. That's why it's vital to ensure you fill your Mountain Bulldog's schedule with activities that work their mind and body both indoors and out.
American Bulldogs are comical, mellow and aim to please their owner. Their calmer personality makes exercise requirements minimal. They should not take long or strenuous walks, and they don't tolerate the heat well. Bernese Mountain Dogs have entirely different physical needs. They require moderate exercise in the form of various physical activities, including pulling tasks, running and playing in the cold outdoors. They, too, are calm, gentle and easygoing, all traits that can be found in the Mountain Bulldog making them easy to train. If you're interested in owning or already do own a Mountain Bulldog, be sure to diversify their exercise schedule with activities to get them moving and thinking!
Running Exercises and Games
Mountain Bulldogs are playful and energetic, which is why you can use running games to keep them satisfied. Running has undeniable benefits including increasing one's endurance, working muscles, improving strength and overall heart health. It's easy to include a short running game throughout the day.
For starters, get your pooch moving by playing fetch. Once they master chasing and returning an object, add in the elements of catching and jumping by using a Frisbee. Keep away is another useful activity for a quick workout, as long as you have another player to pass the ball to. Regardless of how you make your Mountain Bulldog run, be sure to include ample opportunities for this activity throughout your week.
Playing a Game of Soccer
Another strategy to get your pup moving and thinking is to play a game of soccer. This activity requires minimal equipment, just yourself and a ball. You can play soccer in your backyard, basement or a nearby park. Any large open area will do, but green space is preferable. You can kick around the ball for a quick 15 minutes or wear out your Mountain Bulldog with a long, strenuous game full of running.
Soccer is fun and can be the foundation for other activities to explore together. If you decide, you can build upon your Mountain Bulldog's acquired skills by teaching them how to play Treibball, a herding game that requires more thinking than soccer.
Hiking the Great Outdoors
Hiking is beneficial for both dogs and humans for a variety of reasons. For starters, hiking exposes you to the natural atmosphere, void of the everyday distractions found in the city. This will give you the chance to make the most of the time you spend with your Mountain Bulldog, attending to the sights and sounds they notice.
Hiking will also build endurance in all participants, improving health and encouraging weight loss. It's proven to mellow out and calm aggressive or anxious behaviors in pups when done regularly. Not to mention the activity is free for the most part, unless there's a small trail usage fee, and it requires minimal equipment -- only a leash, waste bags and some refreshments! Grab your Mountain Bulldog and gear and set out for a trail near you!
More Fun Ideas...
Socialization Time
Obedience Training
Obedience training is recommended for Mountain Bulldogs and goes “paw in paw” with socialization to prevent the development of aggressive or anxious behaviors in your pooch. Begin obedience training from a young age. Establishing basic commands gives you the ability to build upon them in other activities, such as agility training. Be prepared to use treats and praise as positive reinforcement to encourage wanted behaviors!
Conclusion
Mountain Bulldogs are intelligent, eager to please and playful, requiring moderate exercise daily. Keep your pup busy by introducing activities that challenge them physically and mentally. Obedience lessons and socialization activities are both "impawtant" to begin at a young age, to encourage the healthy development of your pooch. Visit the dog park, arrange a playdate or look for chances to mingle with other pups during your daily walks or hikes.
Keep your Mountain Bulldog fit and content by playing various running games. Both fetch and Frisbee require your pooch to chase an object, which can last for hours! Teach your dog how to play soccer and then use the ball in a game of keep away with another player. Help your pup maintain a happy and healthy lifestyle by attending to their needs through daily stimulation!