Canine Conditioning

Canine conditioning is the process of physically and mentally preparing a dog for specific tasks or activities. It is especially important for giant breed dogs, as these breeds tend to have unique physical and health needs that require specialized conditioning in order to thrive. Some advantages for Newfoundlands are: 

Improved physical health: Giant breed dogs are prone to joint problems, such as hip dysplasia, due to their size and weight. Canine conditioning can help these dogs maintain a healthy weight, which can alleviate stress on their joints and reduce the risk of developing these problems. In addition, conditioning can help giant breed dogs build muscle strength, which can improve their overall physical health and reduce the risk of injury.

Enhanced mental health: Canine conditioning can also have a positive impact on a giant breed dog's mental health. It can provide a sense of purpose and structure, as well as a way to burn off excess energy and reduce stress. This can help prevent behaviors such as destructive chewing or excessive barking, which can be common problems in giant breed dogs that do not receive enough mental and physical stimulation.

Increased lifespan: Giant breed dogs have a shorter lifespan compared to smaller breeds, with an average lifespan of 6-10 years. Canine conditioning can help improve a giant breed dog's overall health and well-being, which can lead to a longer and healthier life.

Improved behavior: Canine conditioning can also help improve a giant breed dog's behavior, as it provides a way for them to channel their energy and focus their attention. This can be especially beneficial for giant breed dogs that may have a high prey drive or are prone to chasing smaller animals.

Enhanced bonding: Finally, canine conditioning can be a great way for owners of giant breed dogs to bond with their pets. It allows owners to spend quality time with their dogs and work together towards a common goal. This can strengthen the bond between owner and dog and create a stronger sense of trust and loyalty.

Some examples of good canine conditioning activities include: 

Push-Ups: Have your dog go from stand to sit to down, then back to sit and then stand, repeat 2-3 times. 

Back Bends: Standing behind your dog lure their nose back towards their tail with a treat, repeat on the left and right. Expert level - have your dog stand with their front paws up on a step, table or pilates ball

Figure-Eights: Place two objects about 6 feet apart, walk with your dog in a figure-eight pattern. Expert level - have your dog do clockwise and counter-clockwise spins.

Bowing: Mark a bow behavior when your dog offers a stretch after napping, or lure your dog into a bow with a treat. Repeat 3-5 times. Expert level - have your dog stand with their hind feet on a small (about 6”) platform and bow.

Balancing: Walk across an uneven surface - this could be a thick foam mattress pad, a slightly under inflated air mattress, a rebounder trampoline or a wobble-board. 

Canine conditioning is an important aspect of care for giant breed dogs. It can help improve their physical and mental health, increase their lifespan, improve their behavior, and enhance the bond between owner and pet. By incorporating canine conditioning into their care routine, owners of giant breed dogs can help ensure that their pets live long and healthy lives.

Taking it to the next level: Understanding your dog's communication through body language

While you are building your Newf's skill and stamina through conditioning and training for obedience, draft or rally events this fall, learning more about how your dog is communicating with you is also key to a well rounded and successful team.

Check out this article shares great tips and ways you can improve your communication with your Newf and understand more about what your dog is saying through their body language.  READ MORE