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Understanding the Labrador Retriever
It's no secret that Labrador Retrievers are great runners. This is because America's favorite canine was initially bred to be a duck retriever. They are also top-notch swimmers with a double coat that keeps them warm and cozy. Their extra-webbed feet allow them to glide through the water with ease. When brought to England in the 1800s, they were used as hunting companions.
Being a working hunter dog, in and out of the water, leads the Labrador Retriever to have a muscular build. They are also notably incredibly agile with plenty of stamina. With a lean and mean body structure and impressive endurance, it's easy for Labrador Retriever owners to believe their canine can run extensive distances.
But just how far can this favorite breed actually run for?
How Far Can Labrador Retrievers Run?
How far a Labrador Retriever can run depends on four critical factors. These factors include:
- The fitness level of your canine
- The weather outside
- How healthy your Labrador Retriever is
- The age of your dog
These all play a role in how far your Lab will be able to run. Here's why.
Fitness Level is Incredibly Important
The most important factor when it comes to how long a Lab can run is his fitness level. If you are reasonably active with your dog and allow him the recommended 1 to 1 ½ hour of exercise per day, he should have no issue running anywhere between 5 to 10 miles, which should equal around an hour of exercise.
However, a dog that doesn't get as much regular activity won't be able to jolt out of the house and run several miles. Just as a human needs to build stamina, so does a canine. How can you build endurance in your Labrador Retriever? Well, it's relatively simple. Here are some great tips to follow.
- Start off slow. You never want to rush your dog to run long distances. Rushing can be severely damaging to their health, bones, and joints. Always start slow.
- In the beginning, limit it to 1 mile per day. Don't overdo it. Even though your dog will try and keep up with you because they don't want to leave your side, it doesn't mean you should push them. Start with a single mile per day for the first few weeks.
- Allow rest periods. Take a break from running every 3-4 days. Again, you're looking to build up your dog's stamina. Proper rest periods will help them to recover and build muscle and endurance.
- Feed him a healthy diet. You should be feeding your pet Labrador a diet that consists of at least 20% to 30% protein and 10 to 15% fat. You can go up to 20% fat intake when your dog is running long distances regularly. There should always be less than 30% carbohydrates.
Weather impacts on how far Labrador Retrievers can run
The weather is also something to consider when it comes to running long distances. You should avoid running during times of too high temperatures. Your Lab can overheat, so we want to be mindful of outside temps. They can also burn their paws.
- On the other hand, temperatures that are too low can also be risky. Although your Labrador Retriever is designed with a double coat, it doesn't mean that he can't get cold.
So how can you keep your dog safe while running outside?
- Never run during the hottest part of the day. During the summer months, consider running during the early morning hours or later at night.
- Consider purchasing dog booties. Dog booties, such as these AOFITEE Waterproof Dog Boots, are made to protect your dog's feet from the heat. They can be used in the snow, too, to give them a better grip. Wearing dog booties protects the feet from rocks, cracks, and other rough terrains that could lead to hurt paws.
- Consider purchasing a jacket, too. For colder weather, you might consider a Labrador jacket like the MIGOHI Dog Jackets for Winter. These jackets will work wonders at keeping your dog nice and warm and the trip.
- Make sure you bring plenty of water. If you're thirsty, your dog likely is, too. Don't forget to get yourself and your pup some water for the adventure.
- Allow plenty of stops along the way. A dog isn't like a human when it comes to running. They want to stop and smell the roses, so let them! This will give them a much-needed break and also allow them to indulge in the smells around them, which is a doggy must.
Health impacts on Labrador Retriever running
A young dog that exercises regularly eats well, and is in good health should have no issues running for at least an hour at a time. This should equate to around 5 miles or a bit more. It's best to have your dog checked out by a veterinarian to ensure he is in good enough health to run long distances.
However, you must also consider the fact that Labradors are known for a few severe health problems. These health issues include:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Arthritis
- Elbow Dysplasia
Running too far for too often can expedite the occurrence of these health problems. That is why it is recommended to limit your Labrador's exercise to 1 to ½ hours per day. This ensures that he is getting the right amount of activity without going overboard, leading to an issue with the hips, joints, and elbows. Taking this into consideration will increase the longevity, as well as how far a Labrador Retriever can run.
The Age of Your Dog
Long distances should be reserved for healthy young Labrador Retrievers. This is because an older dog will not have the same stamina as when they were younger. They are also more likely to be dealing with the common Labrador Retriever health issues listed above.
But what about puppies? Labrador Puppies should only do 5 minutes of walking per month of age, starting after three months. For example, a 4-month old Lab should only walk for 20 minutes per day. Over-exercising a young Lab can cause their joints and muscles to form incorrectly.
When a puppy reaches about 11 months old, you can start taking them for a short run. These runs should begin with only 5-minute jaunts. From there, you can build their stamina slowly.
Final Thoughts
A Labrador Retriever can easily be your new favorite running partner, but it's important not to overwork them. How far Labrador Retrievers can run really depends on your individual dog. A young and healthy Lab shouldn't run more than 5 to 10 miles at a time, which should be around an hour to an hour and a half. Always start off slow and have your canine regularly checked by a veterinarian to ensure he's healthy enough for long excursions.
