What Are the Top Activities to Keep My Labradoodle Physically Fit?

Labradoodles aren’t your average lounging-on-the-couch dogs. These friendly, playful pups are a mix of two high-energy breeds—Labrador Retrievers and Poodles. That means they need more than just a backyard to stay happy and healthy. If you want your Labradoodle to burn off that energy, avoid behavior problems, and stay fit for years to come, regular activity is key. But not all exercise is created equal. Let’s talk about the best ways to keep your Labradoodle moving, engaged, and thriving.

Start With the Basics: Daily Walks

You might think a walk around the block is just a warm-up, but for Labradoodles, a solid daily walk is essential. These walks don’t just help with physical health—they give your dog a chance to explore the world, sniff around, and reset their brain. Most adult Labradoodles benefit from at least 30 to 60 minutes of walking a day. You can split that up into two sessions if your schedule allows. If your dog is still a pup or getting older, adjust the time and pace to suit their needs. A brisk walk in the morning and a slower one in the evening works well for most.

Turn Fetch Into a Workout

If your Labradoodle lights up at the sight of a ball, you’re already halfway there. But instead of just tossing it across the backyard, try mixing things up. Throw uphill. Use a launcher for extra distance. Set a time limit and make it fast-paced. Fetch becomes not only a physical challenge but also a fun game that keeps your dog sharp. Just remember to keep an eye on those joints. Labradoodles are prone to hip and elbow issues, so don’t go overboard with high jumps or too much repetition on hard surfaces.

Swimming Is a Natural Fit

Many Labradoodles inherit a love for water from their Labrador side. Swimming is one of the best full-body exercises for dogs, especially since it’s easy on the joints. If you have access to a dog-friendly lake, a supervised beach, or even a dog pool, make the most of it. Swimming boosts endurance, strengthens muscles, and helps maintain a healthy weight. It's also great for dogs recovering from an injury or dealing with joint stiffness. Just be sure the area is safe and clean, and never force your dog into the water if they’re unsure.

Let Them Roam Off-Leash (Safely)

There’s something freeing about letting your dog run without a leash, and Labradoodles thrive on it. Secure off-leash parks or fenced backyards are perfect for this. Your dog can run at full speed, change direction, chase toys, and interact with other dogs. Free play like this improves agility, coordination, and even social skills. Keep a watchful eye to make sure things stay safe, especially around unfamiliar dogs or new environments. Some Labradoodles may get a little too excited, so having solid recall training helps a lot.

Hit the Trails and Go Hiking

Hiking combines physical exercise with mental stimulation, making it ideal for adventurous dogs. Labradoodles love exploring new smells, sounds, and textures. Trails provide all that and more. Start with shorter, flatter trails to get your dog used to it, then gradually increase the difficulty. Always bring water, a leash, and waste bags. And don’t forget to check your dog’s paws after the hike, especially if the trail has rocky or rough patches. A hike a few times a month keeps things exciting and breaks the routine.

Build an Obstacle Course or Try Agility

You don’t need a fancy agility setup to challenge your Labradoodle. Some cones, tunnels, or simple jumps in the backyard will do. These activities help build coordination and confidence, and they’re a great bonding opportunity. If your dog enjoys the structure, you can even look into local agility classes. The combination of movement and mental focus is perfect for Labradoodles, who thrive when they’re learning something new and staying active.

Play Indoors on Lazy Days

Not every day is perfect for outdoor adventures. That doesn’t mean your dog has to sit around bored. Games like tug-of-war, hide-and-seek with treats, or even a hallway chase game with a soft toy can keep your dog moving. These quick bursts of activity can burn energy and keep muscles engaged, even in a small space. Plus, indoor games are perfect for training new tricks or reinforcing commands.

Add a Scent Challenge for Mental and Physical Engagement

Scent work is fun, low-stress, and surprisingly tiring for dogs. Try hiding treats or toys around the house or yard and let your Labradoodle sniff them out. You can also use puzzle toys that require some movement to solve. These activities don’t feel like workouts, but they use both body and brain, which is just as important for a balanced dog.

Go for a Run or Try Biking (If Trained)

Some Labradoodles make excellent running buddies once they’re fully grown and properly trained. Running alongside you can be a great way to channel their energy, but make sure to ease into it and avoid running on pavement for too long. Biking with a dog is also possible if you use a bike leash and train them slowly. Always prioritize safety and be mindful of temperature and terrain.

Mix It Up and Keep It Consistent

What keeps your Labradoodle fit isn’t one perfect activity—it’s the mix of everything. Walks, play, water time, mental games, and rest days all come together to create a healthy routine. And just like people, dogs can get bored doing the same thing every day. Keep it fresh, stay consistent, and pay attention to what your dog loves most.

At All About Doodles, we believe in keeping Labradoodles happy, healthy, and active through fun, safe routines. Whether it’s your first Doodle or your fifth, staying active is one of the best ways to bond, train, and build a strong relationship with your dog. Keep moving, keep it fun, and your Labradoodle will thank you with years of joyful energy.