First, we will talk out “how much exercise does a lab need” and what types of exercises are recommended for different ages. Let’s jump right into it.
This breed of dog (Labrador) is known for being energetic by nature. As is the case for human beings as well, in order to maintain good health, labradors need to exercise. It doesn’t matter how old or young, whichever size, color, or pattern, whether it is a field or show dog, a lab needs constant exercise to enjoy a healthy life.
Labrador must exercise regularly to maintain a healthy heart, strong muscles, a stimulated mind, and stay in good condition from a weight standpoint.
Note: Exercising doesn’t have always mean walking your dog.
There is no universal consensus, even in the dog-walking community, concerning the length, distance, and several times people should walk their dogs.
It is believed that labradors only need one hour of exercise per day, however, others claim that they require much more than that.
The task of ensuring that our dog gets plenty of exercise can be challenging for some of us. That is why you should understand how much exercise your lab needs per day. And how to ensure that he does plenty of fun exercises every day.
As I explain here, in addition to how much exercise does a lab need, I also discuss some best exercises a lab should do as well as different ways to accomplish it.
How Much Exercise Does A Lab Need?
In general, it is believed that a physically fit labrador dog should given between 60 and 80 minutes of supervised exercise each day.
Do you think this is a good rule of thumb? Each dog requires a different amount of time – more active dogs will need more time, while more relaxed dogs require less time.
As a reminder, before you begin any exercise program for your lab pooch who has any health problems, be sure to speak to your veterinarian.
Prior to going into depth pertaining to labrador exercising, we need to understand why labs should exercise regularly and how much exercise they need.
Best Exercises For Labradors
The most common reference people use when talking about exercising a labrador is going for a stroll. There are ways, however, for dogs to exercised properly without having to walk them all the time. Exercise is a necessity for labradors so that they can stay healthy.
Let’s have a look at a couple of exercises that exactly meet your labrador exercising requirements.
Fetch Game – A Perfect Exercise For Labradors
Labradors get a significant amount of exercise by playing the game of fetch. These dogs work as retrievers and very energetic when it comes to completing the fetching activities they are given.
Hunting or shooting are not prerequisites for participating in such training programs. What you have to do is just to teach your lab dog to retrieve after fetching, regardless of where you are located. If he can’t retrieve it, how can he be a labrador retriever? The breed is not to blame. I am simply being honest here. It is simply a matter of proper training.
It’s no secret that a labrador’s favorite exercise is retrieving, and there is no better way to enable him to do it than by teaching him to retrieve a ball or dummy.
Additionally, retrieving is a great way for dogs to exercise under the control of a handler. This is particularly important, especially if you do not enjoy walking or jogging, as this will still allow you to provide your dog with exercise daily.
Sprinting – A Perfect Human-Dog Workout
On top of that, it isn’t always easy to find a workout that’s ambitious and fun for both – you and your canine companion. Interestingly enough, the previous game (the fetching game) involved sprinting as well.
Therefore, we have started to experiment with creating workout programs focused on low-intensity, energy-efficient exercises in different ways than standard endurance exercises.
Whenever you sprint as part of an exercise, it is best to increase the distance you cover or increase the duration of your sprints. Exercise of this nature offers the thrill of excitement in a much shorter period. 5 top benefits of sprinting include the following:
- Increases physical capabilities
- Enhance stamina
- Fat burner
- Growth in potential and capabilities
- Reduces time spent on tasks
Recall Drills – Disciplined Fun Exercise Game
Recall drills are another great way to exercise a labrador with the assistance of another person. You will need things for this game.
- Some treats to keep him motivated
- And a whistle to keep him focused
You need to stay close to each other throughout the exercise – while recalling the dog from one person to the other.
Every time your dog approaches the person on the other side, step back a bit so you’re separated a little more. Have the other person do likewise.
Blow whistle when he loses focus and then give him some treats to keep him motivated during the exercise. In addition, you can reward him with a favorite toy he enjoys playing with.
Swimming
Labradors have a natural affinity for swimming – it is their favorite pastime. Any dog can benefit from this exercise.
As a substitute for pools, rivers, lakes, or oceans for your labrador, many cities offer dog swimming pools designed specifically for dogs.
Benefits of swimming for your labrador include the following:
- Energy-draining activity
- The kind of exercise that isn’t strenuous for muscles or joints
- By using water as resistance, muscle strength and tone can achieved
- A perfect healing procedure for any dog that has been injured in any way
Make Games Out Of His Toys
Yes, you can make games out of your pooch toys. There are various games you can play, like tug of war or a game that involves a flirt pole and a toy. Additionally, you can play them in your small backyard or garden.
It is possible to use high-energy games sometimes, such as fetch or chase games, which involve playthings, his favorite toys, a ball, or an inflatable frisbee. Despite what you might think, these games are as good as any exercise drill. If you are unable to walk your labrador outside, try this.
Get His Buddies Involved
My next statement will be obvious to anyone who owns a dog. Involving his buddy during the games brings him a whole new level of power and energy.
Two buddies will get a great workout from playing together for an hour. Playing isn’t for every dog in the world, but many enjoy it.
Let him play with his buddy for 1 hour. Not only will he strengthened, but their bond will also be sturdier in the future.
In summary, if you don’t enjoy walking very much and don’t feel like doing it too frequently, or for long periods, you have many options available to you. And now you have a better idea of how much exercise a lab needs.
Is Exercise Necessary for Labradors?
The short answer is yes it is necessary for labradors to exercise regularly. Why? Because there are 4 reasons you must know about.
- Unlike other dogs, Labs require plenty of exercises.
- When you fail to keep them active, eventually they will become depressed and less active.
- Home is not a good place for labs. Labs don’t like to sit around all day.
- They can become obese and suffer from other health issues due to a lack of exercise.
What Happens If Your Labrador Doesn’t Exercise Enough?
Watch out for these signs of an under-exercised labrador dog that are mentioned below.
- Behavioral issues are likely to develop due to energy buildup and apathy in labradors.
- A Labrador with a lot of pent-up energy is often easy to spot
- More and more running around instead of settling down
- Disregarding commands
- They get fat even if they aren’t fed enough
Try increasing your labrador’s activity level for a couple of days if they are showing any of these signs. Make sure not to overwork them as this may lead to an injury. If done correctly, their behavior might improve quickly!
Exercise Limits For Labradors
It’ll sometimes be necessary for you to watch and limit the amount of exercise you give your lab. There are various possible reasons for this, such as medical conditions or age, whether it’s a puppy or an older dog. Among the other possibilities is pregnancy, following spaying or neutering, as well as sickness, injury, or surgery.
Exercise Limit For A Senior Labrador
It is still recommended that older dogs exercise an average of half-hour per day. Exercise, such as short walks and playtime are recommended. Avoid activities with high impact. The elderly dog needs more relaxation than stimulation at this stage of his life.
