Friendly, full of energy and easy to train, Labrador retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds in America. Not only do they make wonderful family pets, but Labradors are great for sharing outdoor adventures. The Labrador's muscular frame, dense coat and keen sense of smell also make it a perfect companion for hunters in the field. Both full grown Labradors and Lab pups have lots of energy, and exercising your Lab is important for its health and happiness.
Instructions
Play with your puppy. A game of tag or Frisbee on a sunny day is the perfect exercise. Left on its own, a Labrador retriever puppy that is not exercised may turn to destructive behavior. Also, because Labrador retrievers have a tendency to develop obesity and hip dysplasia as they age, it is important to develop healthy play habits while the Lab is young.
Walk your puppy. Take your Labrador retriever for short walks on the leash until he is approximately six months old. According to Hall Place Veterinary Centre, large breed dogs, such as Labrador retrievers, can develop skeletal disorders as adults due to excessive exercise and/or exertion as puppies. Labrador puppies are especially energetic and tend to jump and pull on the leash, making them even more susceptible to injury. Attending to the young puppy while on the leash and encouraging easy walks will help prevent skeletal disorders in your Lab later in life.
Increase the amount of time your Labrador puppy spends on the leash after it is six months old. Labrador retrievers love the outdoors, and an older Lab pup will especially benefit from a vigorous hike through the woods.
Find a safe, calm body of water and introduce your Labrador pup to swimming. Labrador retrievers are notorious for their love of the water as well as for their innate desire to retrieve. Exercise your puppy by playing a simple game of fetch. Start out by tossing a stick or float toy a few feet from the shore. After the puppy brings it back, throw it a bit further. Repeat until your Labrador puppy is actually swimming to retrieve the object.