Prepare for unexpected vet bills
The Redbone Coonoodle doesn’t just have a name that’s fun to say -- they’re a joy to own, too! These intelligent, loyal and playful pups are a cross between the driven Redbone Coonhound and the companionable Poodle. Like most hybrid breeds, the characteristics a Redbone Coonoodle inherits from each parent varies -- though generally speaking, the strong prey drive of the hunting hound is softened slightly by the Poodle genes.
All pups of this breed need a good deal of mental stimulation, but those that take after their Coonhound parents will need a lot more exercise. Read on for five activities guaranteed to help keep your Redbone Coonoodle as healthy and happy as can be!
If your Redbone Coonoodle takes after their hound ancestors, they’ll have an almost irresistable urge to use their nose -- and a tendency towards boredom. Why not harness both of those natural instincts and keep them entertained with a super fun scavenger hunt?
All you’ll need for this activity is a little time and a lot of treats (if you’re worried about your doggo’s diet, consider substituting the treats for bits of kibble. As long as the food has a strong scent, you’re good to go). Keep in mind that even though your buddy was literally born for this, it could take them a while to get this task down -- the time estimate above refers to the time spent per training session, not the total. It could take them a few days to pick it up!
As an added bonus, you can hide the treats inside, making this an ideal rainy day activity.
Your doggo may have inherited their poodle parent’s penchant for pampering, and there’s a possibility that they might have picked up the Redbone Coonhound's, uh, distinctive scent. If so, then regular spa days aren’t just an option, they’re a necessity!
Sure, you could make an appointment at your local grooming parlor, but doing doggy self-care at home doesn’t just save you money, it provides a valuable way for you and your buddy to bond. Redbone Coonoodles might not be quite as needy as some other canine companions, but they still need a little love!
Most Redbone Coonoodles love to chase, which can be a bit of a worry for pet parents -- you don’t want them chasing after cats, couriers or (heaven forbid) cars! Fortunately, there’s a way to teach them how to chase safely by using a flirt pole.
A flirt pole at its most basic is a long stick with a toy or other item of interest attached to it by a piece of string. You can make your own, or pick one up from your local pet supply store.
Make no bones about it, it shouldn’t be too hard to keep your Redbone Coonoodle entertained! As long as you work with their natural instincts and keep their brains and their bodies busy, these four-pawed pals can be sweet as pie. The activities above are a pawesome place to start!