How much exercise does a Chihuahua need?
The Chihuahua is the smallest dog breed in the world. Most people think that dogs also need a little exercise because of their small size. But is this true at all? How much exercise does a Chihuahua need?
The Chihuahua is often underestimated in exercise and is considered a lap dog. He needs less exercise and exercise than many other small breeds, such as the Jack Russell, but contrary to belief, he is not a couch potato. Overall, however, it is about average. The Chihuahua needs about 1 to 2 hours of daily exercise and activity. This gives you a good value. You can plan to do justice to the little Mexican.
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How often do you have to walk a Chihuahua?
The number of walks for a Chihuahua is no different than most other dog breeds. On average, you should be able to offer your dog 2 to 3 walks a day.
If there are days when it is less, there are often days when it is more. It is not necessary to tear off your workload every day if it is not possible.
No dog becomes conspicuous if it gets times only one walk over 20 minutes or only a tiny pee round. It is a matter of offering his dog species-appropriate a good run over several days or weeks.
Of course, it would be ideal if you could offer your dog 2 to 3 walks spread over the day, but this is not always feasible. If it is freezing in winter and your Chihuahua starts to shiver, put him on a coat.
For example, if you walk your dog for 30 to 45 minutes each morning and evening and challenge him mentally, you have a good base.
A Chihuahua needs mental occupation and exercise where you train commands, play search games, or otherwise challenge him. Just as much or maybe even more than purely physical activities like walks.
This gives you a good starting point to determine whether your dog needs more or less exercise. When your Chihuahua sleeps a lot, he is content and happy.
Can you run with a Chihuahua?
Even though most would think that you can’t jog with a Chihuahua, it is still possible. But with a Chihuahua, it is like with all other breeds. It would help if you did not start running too early, but only when he is fully grown.
The Chihuahua is fully grown at about nine months. With small breeds, it is earlier than with big ones. After a short consultation with your veterinarian, nothing should stand in the way of a running round.
It is important to note that a jogging session is not a substitute for a walk, sniffing, etc. Your Chihuahua still needs enough exercise in the form of walks.
If your Chihuahua is in good health and your vet gives the OK, you can start slowly and get your Chihuahua used to run.
If you’ve never been running before, you won’t be able to run 3miles (5km) at a stretch right away. You mustn’t start from 0 to 100 right away. It is the same with a dog.
You might start by speeding up your walks a bit.
Build a faster running interval for a few 100 meters now and then. When you notice that your dog is doing great and maybe even wants to run faster and more, you can increase the running interval from time to time.
Adapt to the speed of your dog. If you have to pull him too much, you are too fast.
Pay attention to breaks, especially in the beginning. Also, dogs can get sore muscles if they are not used to this load.
Long walks or intense exercise may be the reason why your Chihuahua is panting heavily. But this is normal and no reason to worry.
Exercises for a Chihuahua
Besides the daily exercise through walks or running sessions, your dog also needs mental stimulation.
This is also true for the Chihuahua. The Chihuahua is brilliant and learns various tricks quickly. Training basic commands like sit, down, stay, etc., and rehearsing tricks will keep the little dogs busy and alive.
Also, on your walks, you should include small games like nose work or search games to make it more varied.
The small Chihuahua is usually underestimated because of its size and held like a lap dog. However, this can quickly backfire.
The Chihuahua, just like most other breeds, needs some daily activity. Physically as well as mentally. If they do not get that, they are quickly frustrated, and the excess energy discharges through excessive barking, nervousness, and destructiveness, or your Chihuahua becomes aggressive.
How long can a Chihuahua puppy be walked?
How long your Chihuahua puppy is allowed to go for a walk cannot be generalized. As a general guideline, a puppy can generally go for a walk for about 5 minutes per month of life.
So if you get your Chihuahua puppy at two months old, you can walk him for about 10 minutes. However, the time is not based on your puppy’s inability to walk but on how much he can absorb and process during the walk until he is exhausted.
The little ones also run around in the apartment, and you don’t have to put them in the dog bed after 10 minutes.
The values are only a rough guide; if you notice that your puppy is still having fun and curious about the walk, you can go longer. He may also go crazy after a short time and gets his 5 minutes because he is overwhelmed and overstimulated.
So when your puppy has had enough, you have to judge for yourself in the situation.
Frequently asked questions
How often does a Chihuahua need to be fed?
A Chihuahua should be fed at least two times a day. Chihuahuas often suffer from hypoglycemia when they do not eat for a long time.
Does a dog need a garden?
No, a dog does not need a garden. Whether it is a small breed like the Chihuahua or a large Cane Corso. A garden is a bonus but never replaces a walk.
Conclusion: How much exercise does a Chihuahua need?
Contrary to the common belief that small dogs need a little exercise, this is not true for the Chihuahua. A Chihuahua needs 1 hour of daily exercise and mental activity to be healthy and happy.
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