Ways to Help Keep Your Labradoodle Happy

It’s sad that our dogs can’t tell us exactly what they want, so that we know just how to keep them happy. That said, dogs enjoy the simpler pleasures in life, so it’s not too hard to keep them content, as long as you’re willing to put in the time. Make sure that you do all these things for your labradoodle and he’ll be among the happiest dogs in the world.

Exercise

What dog doesn’t get excited when he hears that immortal word “walkies?” Providing your labradoodle with regular exercise will help him be content. The amount of exercise your doodle will need depend on his size, but remember that both poodles and Labradors are working dogs so labradoodles do require a fair amount of walking. Toy doodles can get by with two half-hour walks a day, but larger varieties might need closer to a couple of two-hour walks.

Play Time

Not only is playing fun for your labradoodle, it also helps stimulate his brain and facilitates bonding between the two of you. Get your dog a good range of toys some of which he can play with on his own, such as Kongs or chew toys, and some which are interactive, such as balls to play fetch with or tug toys. Even a short daily play session will help to use up some of his energy and keep him happy and entertained.

Training

Labradoodles are intelligent dogs who enjoy keeping their minds active. Obedience or trick training can be great fun for your dog, providing him with mental stimulation. Dogs who are well trained in obedience are also often happier as they’re more secure and don’t get as easily anxious. You could attend a training class, but you can also do this kind of training at home, as long as your have some good books or other resources. Labradoodles also tend to excel at and enjoy participating in agility classes or competitions.

Good Food

While your dog might not be a gourmand, he will appreciate good food. Try to find a high quality brand with tasty ingredients that your dog will love. There are dogs who are pickier than others, so don’t be put off if he turns his nose up at certain brands. Some brands of food are even deemed suitable for human consumption, which makes them better for your dog’s health. If you are going to switch foods, it’s best to do so gradually.

Grooming

All labradoodles need regular grooming, but those with woolly or curly coats need more frequent brushing than those with shaggy coats. If you don’t brush your doodle, his dead fur won’t be able to shed properly and his coat will become matted, leading to discomfort and even skin problems. Keeping your pup up to date with his grooming regime will help to keep him happy and healthy. Depending on the weather where you are and your dog’s coat, he may also need to be clipped in the summer to help keep him cool.

Love and Attention

Labradoodles are eager to please, so they enjoy getting lots of love and attention from their favorite humans. Set aside some time every day to pet your dog and scratch him in all his best spots. He will revel in the attention and be radiating with happiness. You can even but books on doggy massage, so you can really pamper your pooch. Your pup also loves to simple be close to you, so make sure he gets daily snuggles, either cuddled up with you on the couch or curled up at your feet.

Photo credit: Tom Woodward/Flickr

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