Activities For New Labralounds

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Introduction

The New Labralound is a lovingly large hybrid pooch that combines the sought-after traits of the Newfoundland with those of the Labrador Retriever. A friendly demeanor characterizes the breed, making for the "pawfect" family pet.

The Labrador Retriever is a popular breed because of their calm temperament and loyal nature. The Labrador Retriever is easily trainable and quick to master obedience because they're an intelligent breed who is eager to please. Likewise, the Newfoundland is a large bundle of joy with lots of energy but less intensive exercise requirements than the Labrador Retriever. This breed is friendly towards strangers, both humans and animals.

Combined, the New Labralound is a large dog who requires extensive exercise daily in the form of physical activities and brain games to stimulate the whole body!

Swimming

Popular
0 Votes
Hot Day
Cheap
Easy
1 - 2 hrs
Items needed
Towels
Toys
Leash
Waste Bags
Activity description

New Labralounds typically inherit a medium to long coat from their Newfoundland parent. As a result, they don’t tolerate the heat well, which is why going for a swim on a hot day is a “woofderful” way to beat the heat! The Newfoundland is also no stranger to the water, as historically they've been used as fishing and search-and-rescue dogs.

This activity is one that requires limited materials and is cheap. You may decide to make a whole day of your swimming adventure, so pack a picnic lunch, lots of fresh drinking water, a leash, toys and some form of shade! Fortunately, there’s an abundance of dog-friendly beaches across America for you to choose from. Depending on your location, you may have local dog-friendly beaches, lakes, or rivers nearby. After determining where you’re going and packing for your excursion, grab your pooch and head out for a refreshing dip! 

Step
1
Finding a location
The first step for this activity is finding a place to take a swim. Explore nearby lakes, rivers, and dog-friendly beaches. If possible, pick a swimming zone that's within walking distance so you can work up a sweat before cooling off in the water. Most dog-friendly beaches require leashes, except for designated off-leash dog beaches. Some beaches have no entrance fees for pups, while others do. Consider all these factors before making your selection.
Step
2
Prepping for the beach
If you plan to take a short dip or wade the water, you may not need to pack many supplies for your swim. If you're spending the day at the beach, be sure to pack all the necessities to ensure your trip isn’t cut short. Bring along food for both you and your New Labralound, as well as lots of fresh drinking water. Also, use a large umbrella or tent to keep your New Labralound cool. Towels and a blanket will make for comfy accommodations on the beach.
Step
3
Exploring the water together
If it’s a hot day, set up your space for you and your pup and jump in the water right away. If it’s your Labralound's first day at the beach, keep them on a leash and walk them to the water. Let them take their time entering the water and getting comfortable — which shouldn’t take long because this breed loves to swim! Begin by wading the water before heading into the deep end.
Step
4
Playing water games
Depending on your New Labralound, they’ll either hop in without hesitation or take their time getting used to the water. If they are hesitant, try finding an entry point that’s not crowded with other swimmers. You can also use toys to help them adjust. Fetch is one way to encourage them to explore deeper water. Using a stick or ball, toss the object and prompt your pooch to retrieve it. Go with them for their comfort. If they’re avid swimmers, use games to make the most of your swim!
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Cart Training

Popular
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Any Day
Moderate
Normal
1 hr
Items needed
Cart
Harness
Treats
Cardboard Box
String
Activity description

Cart training is a fantastic way to work your New Labrahound's mind and body as this activity is physically challenging, though it also incorporates elements of obedience. It's also a convenient tool to have at your "paw" tips as you can utilize your pup's ability to pull a load in a variety of circumstances.

This activity does require you to purchase equipment, including a harness and a cart that's used specifically for dogs. Carts range in size, but it's easy to find one that meets the needs of your New Labralound. You can train your pooch how to pull a cart on your own, or you can involve an outside training facility for further training or a chance to compete. Have fun and be sure to use lots of treats to encourage your New Labralound throughout the training!

Step
1
Acquiring the right tools
To complete this activity, you'll need to purchase a cart and harness. Visit your local pet store and check online for the different types of carts available. Decide what you want and ensure it meets your New Labralound's size and weight requirements. You'll need a specific harness that can be attached to the cart. Sometimes, the cart and harness come as a set.
Step
2
Getting used to the equipment
Once you have your tools, introduce them to your New Labralound by first letting them check them out. Afterwards, try on the harness, and let them wear it to get used to the way it feels. Wearing the harness can be done well before introducing the activity. Let them wear it around the house and outside, and keep an eye on them during this phase of the training to ensure they don't try to remove it.
Step
3
Learning the basics
Once they're comfortable with the harness, don't leap to the cart just yet. You can get your New Labralound accustomed to pulling by attaching a cardboard box to the harness using string. Practice walking with them pulling just an empty box to prepare them for the cart that's soon to come! As you walk, they'll likely look back at the box while it's pulled, but reassure them to keep their focus on completing the walk.
Step
4
Mastering the cart
After your New Labralound is comfortable with pulling the box and wearing the harness, it's time for the real deal! Have your pup stay while you attach the cart. With the equipment secured, begin your walk together as you did with the box. At this point, use a leash while walking, though, eventually, they should master walking without it. Keep the cart empty while you're introducing and training with it at first — that way, the load is easy to pull. As your pup progresses and pulls without hesitation, begin filling it with objects!
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Backyard Agility Fun

Popular
0 Votes
Any Day
Cheap
Normal
30 - 60 min
Items needed
Jumping Obstacles
Weave Poles
Tunnels
A-Frame
Leash
Treats
Activity description

The well-known and "pawpular" activity of agility training is a fun and easy way to exhaust your New Labralound's body while working their mind. One way to incorporate this activity into your pup's exercise routine is by building your own DIY obstacles in your backyard or basement, depending on the space you have available. 

If you don't have any space to spare, check out local agility courses available in your community. The best option is to use household objects or store-bought obstacles to create an agility course that your New Labralound can access anytime. Depending on the materials you have, you may want to swing by your local pet store or hardware store to pick up some additional supplies. Once you've purchased the materials materials and you've found the right space, get started building your course! 

Step
1
Exploring obstacles for your course
Deciding upon the obstacles you want to use to test your Labralound's agility is the first step to this activity. The most "pawpular" obstacles are jumps, tunnels, A-frames, and weave poles, all of which can be created using furniture and other items lying around your home. If you prefer, you could purchase an agility kit that comes with beginner obstacles ready to use and easy to set up.
Step
2
Using at-home materials
Depending on the obstacle, you may be able to create it using materials you have at home or can easily purchase at a local hardware store. For instance, flexible poles and PVC pipes are ideal for weaving obstacles, but they must be flexible to prevent injury. Stools are perfect for jump obstacles, and so is the goal used in the favorite backyard game ladder ball. Children's play tunnels and specially made pet tunnels are also options for the course.
Step
3
Learning each obstacle
After you've found your materials and set up your course, begin by teaching your New Labralound each obstacle one at a time. Start with more natural tasks, like jumping or running through a tunnel. Decide upon commands for each. Teach each obstacle in steps and use positive reinforcement each time your pooch is successful.
Step
4
Executing a jump
One of the most straightforward agility commands to teach is jumping. Of course, if your pup is elderly or has hip or leg issues, avoid jumping obstacles and consult with your vet before completing your course. When teaching your dog how to jump, keep your pup on their leash and approach the hurdle. Give the command "jump" while gently pulling and guiding them with their leash, directing them over the obstacle. Naturally, they will jump. If this doesn't work right away, repeat and be patient. Be sure to reward all successes immediately with praise and treats.
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More Fun Ideas...

Getaway Adventure

Plan a night or weekend getaway with your New Labralound by booking a stay at a dog-friendly location. A variety of hotels, resorts, and campgrounds welcome dogs. As New Labralounds are friendly and amicable towards others, they'll be welcomed with open paws! Explore your options and pick a location based on the nearby attractions you can explore together, such as beaches and hiking trails.

At-Home Spa Date

Thanks to their long and usually luxurious coat, it's easy to treat your New Labralound to an at-home spa day. Decide on which parts of their body you want to pamper and prep by gathering supplies (such as shampoos, dog-friendly nail polishes, brushes, nail clippers, a radio for relaxing music, and more). Bond together while you pamper your pooch in the comfort of your own home!

Conclusion

New Labralounds are gentle giants graced with intelligence and a playful personality. It's easy to find ways to entertain your pup while also working them mentally and physically. For starters, try building on your New Labralound's obedience by teaching them how to complete a variety of agility obstacles. Create a course in your backyard or basement so you always have a fun way to exercise together. Another way to get their blood flowing is by teaching them how to pull a cart, as both Labrador Retrievers and Newfoundlands live to work and please. 

If you're looking for a more relaxing way to spend the day, create an at-home spa and pamper your pooch. If you want a chance to be spoiled alongside them, you can spend a night away together at an elegant, dog-friendly location. Finally, take a dip at a nearby dog-friendly swimming area on those hot summer days. Without a doubt, New Labralounds are a large yet loving addition to any family. Exercise your pup regularly to keep them happy and healthy!Â