Labradoodles are among the most popular dog breeds in the UK as of late. Perhaps it’s due to their charming smile and curly coat. Maybe it has more to do with their behaviour, which is typically a rare combination of maturity and enthusiasm. Whatever your reason, you’ve made a great choice and are now the proud owner of a Labradoodle.
But as intelligent as they might be, your adorable new bundle of joy is still going to depend on you. That means ensuring their health and happiness at all times. It’s no secret that such an endeavour can be overwhelming, even if you have prior experience with dogs. Every breed is unique and it’s important to know how to care for yours properly.
Following is a guide that will help you help your Labradoodle live their best life and make plenty of great memories with you.
Preparing the House
Your first step should be to ensure that your Labradoodle’s new environment is safe for them and – especially if they’re a puppy – your furniture. Start by removing or concealing any hazards such as electric cords, toxic plants, and small things that they could choke on. The only food they should be able to access is the food they are fed each day.
Chemicals, detergents, and medicines should also be out of reach. It’s often recommended to avoid providing bedding until later on, as your Labradoodle will likely use it as a toilet unless they’re properly trained. This is why owners provide ‘wee pads’ for their puppies, especially if they’re kept in a separate area when guests come over.
Veterinarian Care
If it hasn’t already been done, it’s advisable to get your Labradoodle neutered or spayed for the associated health benefits. No less important is the vaccination regime. Labradoodles are generally easy to care for, but they do seem to have some issues in common (hip problems being one), so it pays to have a vet on speed dial.
Choose wisely when it comes to who you entrust with caring for your pooch. Avoid any vets that are not licenced and always read customer reviews. It goes without saying that vets can be expensive, but sometimes they’re necessary, and the more you care for your dog, the less true that will be.
Diet
Like any canine, your Labradoodle deserves a healthy and balanced diet that is free from the processed junk often found in commercial dog food. Puppies, in particular, require certain vitamins and nutrients that aid in their development. Start with these key Labradoodle health facts detailed by Bella and Duke, a company specialising in raw dog food products.
Their in-depth guide details everything you need to know about helping your Labradoodle thrive by providing them with the right diet. The key takeaway is to avoid the chemical-ridden kibbles and buy quality raw dog food instead, which includes benefits such as increased energy, glossier coats, and optimal body composition.
Physical Activity
One thing that you’ll quickly notice about your Labradoodle is that they’re a powerhouse of energy. Leave that energy to build up and rest assured that they’ll be taking it out on your new sofa. That’s why it’s important to ensure that your Labradoodle gets at least half an hour to an hour of exercise each day.
Whether that involves letting them zoom around the backyard or taking them for a walk in the park, allowing your pooch to participate in physical activity is essential to their well-being. Make it a group effort and tag along more often. Not only will your dog appreciate it but participating can also help you reach your exercise goals at the same time.
Grooming
Labradoodles’ similarity to Poodles is most evident in their cute and curly coat, which is classified as hypoallergenic. This means that there are two parts to their coat, an undercoat, and a top coat. As a result, their dead hair tends to accumulate within the undercoat, unlike most other dogs whose hair sheds.
Brushing on a regular basis is, therefore, important. You can either take them to a groomer or invest in some high-quality clippers in addition to scissors and a stainless-steel comb so that you can do it yourself. Don’t forget about nail care and bathing. Both should be performed approximately on a monthly basis.
Toys
Aside from exercise, toys can help your Labradoodle get the energy release they so often need. Interactive toys, such as those that contain hidden treats, can keep your pooch busy for longer and provide some healthy mental stimulation. Give them a variety of different materials and textures to play with, so that you can identify what they enjoy most.
By taking note of the above information, you’ve already made a major leap in terms of caring for your Labradoodle. All that’s left is to put your knowledge into practice and spend some quality time with your new best friend.