Have you often wondered how many walks your Chihuahua should be getting? Are you content with how much time your chi spends soaking up the sun? Or perhaps you’re an active dog owner who wonders if your canine companion can keep up with you on your regular 2-mile runs. Don’t worry if you’ve experienced these ideas. You’ll hopefully learn more about how much exercise is suitable for your chihuahua after reading this post.
Regular walks are crucial for your dog’s health, but taking them too frequently might put undue stress on their body. Knowing this is helpful. For chihuahuas, exercise is crucial. If you own a chihuahua, you shouldn’t neglect their exercise sessions, but once again, you could wonder how frequently they should be walked.
What is a Chihuahua?
The tiniest breed of dogβpossibly the smallest dog in the entire worldβChihuahuas are a member of the Toy family and are native to Mexico. The Smooth Coat and the Long Coat are the two types. The short and long-haired kinds of chihuahuas can have coats in a variety of hues, from marbling to splashes of black and brown.
It should be noted that a Chihuahua is not a “teacup dog,” a word that has recently emerged to characterize the breeding of small canines. Due to the serious health issues “teacup dog” breeding may bring about, it has drawn criticism and isn’t something we would support.
πTemperament
The temperament of a Chihuahua is distinctive in many ways. First off, the dog will be overjoyed to spend all of its time with you. Chihuahuas are deliberately developed as companion animals, following their owners around everywhere they go. However, this bond can also result in domineering tendencies, and there are several aggression concerns when these dogs are improperly socialized with other dogs and people.
βIf your dog is not properly taught, its larger-than-life behaviorβwhile charming and perhaps even entertainingβcan be rather hazardous.
βIs occasionally wary of strangers
βMay become hostile to canine companions.
βAggressive with children
βVery agitated by outside sounds.
How Often Should You Walk a Chihuahua
It’s crucial to strike the ideal balance between activity and exercise for Chihuahuas. This breed is incongruous; while being the tiniest of the toy-sized dog breeds, he is said to have a level of activity comparable to certain medium- and large-sized dogs. Although the Chihuahua adapts well to almost any living situation, even small apartments because he doesn’t take up much space, he does need regular exercise.
This dog needs to go outside every day to burn off energy because of his propensity to become hyper. Otherwise, a Chihuahua could be inclined to harmful habits like gnawing. So a happy, well-behaved Chihuahua gets plenty of exercises. However, an owner must adhere to some workout limits because of his size.
πChihuahua Puppies
Puppies of chihuahuas need a secure area to run around since they are quite active. Before receiving all of their puppy vaccines, puppies shouldn’t be taken for walks outdoors in public spaces since they are susceptible to canine illness. Any developing puppy should avoid excessive exercise, sometimes known as forced exercise, and the Chihuahua in especially should not be pushed to be active more than he or she is at this young age.
This is due to research suggesting a link between excessive exercise and development hindrances. Additionally, due to a puppy’s immature growth plates, many doctors think that excessive activity might cause elbow dysplasia (whenever the joint slips out of the sockets or the fit get worn).
In light of this, it’s crucial to let a puppy exercise. Activity helps a Chihuahua puppy release pent-up energy, is beneficial for their growing muscles, improves physical health, and lays the groundwork for a lifetime of satisfying their exercise demands, which go hand in hand with a balanced diet. A developing Chihuahua puppy will need to have the stamina for walking as well as for energetic games like fetch or other pursuits that need the Chi to rush about.
Here is an excellent recommendation for the Chihuahua exercise.
2 – 4 Months
Since puppy immunizations are still being administered during this period, walks must be kept to a minimum until a pup is fully protected. Short yard strolls and inside and outdoor toy play might already satisfy the requirement for exercise. If you do not have a secure enclosed space to keep a Chihuahua when you are outside, be sure to keep it on a leash. And a harness is suggested rather than a collar.
4 – 8 Months
The regular workout regimen for a Chihuahua should now include walking. It is advised to take two shorter walks each day rather than one longer one at this age. Every stroll ought to last between 15 and 20 minutes. Following are some helpful tips for walking a Chihuahua:
Verify the terrain for walking. The walkways may become very warm on hot days.
If a Chi leaps up or bolts while on a leash, use a harness to help avoid neck injury.
A Chihuahua may be kept secure and close by using a 6-foot leash.
It’s time to start teaching the “Heel” command. Teaching this before any harmful habits form is much simpler.
Try to go for a walk on days with high temperatures when it is not the warmest time of the day, such as early in the morning or later in the evening.
Bring water and a foldable travel bowl so that you may stop for a rest and rehydration break in the shade.
8 Months – 1 Year
Now that walks can go longer, around 20 to 30 minutes remember to still schedule at least one stop for relaxation and rehydration.
πAdult Chihuahua
1 – 6 Years
An adult Chihuahua needs at least one nice walk each day that lasts at least 30 minutes while they are in excellent health. As long as the trips are separated from one another, going out twice is OK. Swimming, outside supervised play with the owner and/or other dogs judged safe, and indoor games like hide and seek are further options for activities.
Exercise and social engagement will be more crucial than ever for Chihuahua dogs that are left alone at home during the day since they need to let off pent-up energy, which will encourage good behavior. Chihuahua owners are urged to take their pets to as many dog-friendly locations as they can. This enables a Chi to be socially adept and active in the outside world.
9 Years and Above
A dog is considered senior by a vet when it is between 8 & 9 years old. There isn’t a specific age for this since the vet will decide based on the dog’s age and general health. Older Chihuahuas may need to have a little less activity as they age since dogs gradually slow down.
Take your senior chihuahua for exams to ensure that they are healthy and do not have any underlying medical concerns. Chihuahuas older than 9 years would benefit from a healthy diet and regular exercise. You cannot compromise with these factors when you are older since they will eventually harm your dog’s health.
Exercise Tips for Healthy Chihuahuas
Keep a Chihuahua inspired. Some owners claim that their dog just isn’t interested in going on walks or playing fetch. However, a dog frequently imitates the excitement of its owner. A dog will get excited and want to accompany its owner on walks the more the person appreciates taking walks.
Be alert for any warning signs during or following exercise, such as limping, and alert the veterinarian to any worries.
Avoid allowing inactivity since it contributes to canine obesity, which affects around 50% of all dogs in the United States, including Chihuahuas.
To still be able to go outdoors and give a Chihuahua the exercise it needs, folks who live in locations with harsh, snowy winters may need to take a few extra measures. The owner may need to dress their dog in a coat, sweater, or other protective clothing depending on the weather.
Always utilize your regular walks as a chance to practice appropriate heeling.
Starting in a dog park with no traffic will help a Chihuahua who is anxious around it develop a tolerance. After a few weeks, pick a route with less traffic, and only advance to busier places when the dog demonstrates that he or she is progressing well.
Avoid any grassy locations where you suspect that toxins from lawn care products may have been used, as these toxins are a major trigger for allergies.
Make time for some indoor workout if snow or rain are keeping you inside. A dog may stay active by playing games. Here is a little game that you can play with your Chihuahua inside which will help him or her get the daily activity they require.
πWays to Play
Find a convenient location to bury a special toy. Encourage your Chihuahua to discover it, if necessary guiding him there. When he does, shower him with enthusiastic praise. Then, conceal the toy in a place that is a little more difficult to discover. Once more, be enthusiastic when your dog goes seeking it. Give lots of motivating compliments. Your Chihuahua can discover the toy in a reasonable length of time, and the end reward can be a nutritious dog treat. You can continually make this game more challenging to that point.
How Much Physical Activity Is Too Much For A Chihuahua
The maximum amount of activity your Chihuahua can tolerate depends mostly on three things:
π¦΄Chihuahua Age
Depending on his age, your Chihuahua will require varied lengths of exercise. You can refer to the information in the aforementioned section and choose your Chihuahua’s exercise schedule based on his age. Similar to people, dogs slow down once they reach a certain age. Similar to kids, pups too require some exercise to develop their strength.
When it comes to human years, your dog’s first birthday corresponds to roughly 15, and its second birthday to about 24. In about 6β7 years, your chi will graduate as a senior. What does this imply for their capacity to cover great distances on foot?
π¦΄Exercise Level
The amount of exercise required also depends on how regularly your Chihuahua walks or whether his regular walks have recently begun. Your gorgeous Chihuahuas could be walked for 20 to 30 minutes at a time. According to Dr. Wailani Sung, DVM, people just need to be active for 30 minutes a day to burn the required number of calories and accomplish it through exercise.
You may give your Chihuahuas additional time to interact with the outside world during a single stroll if you give them a total of 20 to 30 minutes.
Your Chihuahua’s degree of fitness will determine whether he has:
a 20β30 minute stroll on a single occasion
Walk for 15 minutes twice a day
three daily walks of ten to fifteen minutes each
π¦΄General Health
If your Chihuahua is healthy and fit, you may choose the length of walks by using the guidelines in the preceding section. However, it is important to see a veterinarian and discuss with him the optimal amount of exercise your pet requires if he has any mobility, joint, or disorders such as patellar luxation.
Benefits of Chihuahua Exercise
We are aware that exercise benefits our pets, but how much? Some of the numerous advantages your Chihuahua will experience from regular exercise are listed below:
βοΈMaintain Weight
Exercise-loving Chihuahuas are less likely to grow overweight as they age and have health issues.
βοΈReduce Stress
Dogs who exercise can reduce their tension and anxiety. When you finally take your Chihuahua for a stroll after having kept them indoors all day, they will be considerably more animated.
βοΈJoints Mobile
By keeping their joints flexible, walking a chihuahua helps them avoid joint issues as they age. This is important because patellar luxation, a knee disease common in Chihuahuas, is a problem.
βοΈStrengthen Bones and Muscles
Exercise also helps strengthen your Chihuahuaβs bones and muscles. Additionally, it maintains a healthy cardiovascular system. This might keep them engaged and lively far into the old life.
βοΈEnhance Your Connection
Together, you may exercise to build your relationship with your dog. Your dog will value and love you more if you spend time exercising together.
βοΈExplore and Socialize
Your Chihuahua will experience fresh sights and smells if you take it for walks in different places. This will maintain their curiosity and keep their minds active. Along the journey, they will encounter different canines, enhancing their socializing abilities.
βοΈBoost Physical Activity
Walking your dog is a fantastic kind of exercise for both of you! According to this study, dog owners tend to be more active than non-owners. I am aware that this applies to us. We started taking our dog for 2 walks every day after we acquired him. It’s a great method to increase your heart rate, produce endorphins, and lift both of your spirits.
Results of Not Giving Your Chihuahua Exercise
What happens if your Chihuahua doesn’t receive enough exercise now that we’ve discussed the advantages of doing so?
πDestructive Actions
Destructive habits can result from insufficient exercise. They could begin gnawing on objects in your home, urinating indoors, or knocking their water dish over. Exercise helps your chihuahua control these tendencies and find appropriate ways to let off steam.
πObesity
They could develop obesity and health issues later in life. A dog who is overweight finds it more difficult to exercise because of the additional weight they are carrying. Their joints are burdened by the additional weight.
Β πCrying and Barking
They can begin to excessively bark or howl. This is how they expend the excess energy they have been accumulating. Without adequate exercise, Chihuahuas are more inclined to become loud. They can be attempting to tell you they want to take a stroll because this is another approach to grab your attention.
πHyperactive
They could get bored and antsy, or even unhappy. Your Chihuahua can start napping more and lose interest in playing. On the other side, a Chihuahua may become hyperactive with little to no exercise. This is because they have a lot of energy, and if they aren’t physically active, this might result in zoomies or pulling when you take them on a walk.
πHealth Problems
They could begin to experience health issues including joint pain, breathing difficulties, or heart illness. The best approach to give your Chihuahua a strong heart is via exercise! It’s crucial to maintain their strength and stamina.
πJoint and Bone Conditions
As people age, their joints could not remain flexible, which might cause joint issues. As they mature, their bones and muscles may deteriorate, causing them to become less fun and energetic. By giving your chihuahua regular exercise, you may avoid all of these problems! If your Chihuahua isn’t accustomed to exercising, don’t be scared to start slowly as long as you start to make it a habit.
Over-Exercising Your Chihuahua
πΉGrowth Barriers
According to Dr. Sarah Wooten, DVM, excessive activity might result in improper bone development in Chi dogs. At an older age, this may potentially result in serious joint problems. This is because excessive exercise harms the long bones’ development plates. The following signs might exist if your chihuahua has a development disorder:
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Reduced appetite
Hyperactivity
dermatological conditions
Movement challenges
Seizures
πΉElbow Dysplasia
One of the negative side effects of performing too many or the wrong workouts on your Chi is elbow dysplasia. Giant canines like Golden Retrievers sometimes suffer from elbow dysplasia. That does not preclude the possibility that your chihuahua could have this issue, though. Elbow dysplasia is a condition that affects how the elbow joint develops. If no action is done to address it, it might get worse and cause lasting harm.
As early as 4 months of age, elbow dysplasia clinical indications can be noticed. It may also result in arthritis. Additionally, it’s conceivable that you won’t be able to see the pet’s issue. It might not be detected. To control the impacts of this developmental issue, the veterinarian must examine the animal carefully.
As a result, overexerting your Chihuahua puts him in danger of some negative and undesirable outcomes, thus it must always be avoided.
Things to Watch Out for When Walking Your Chihuahua
π¨βπ¦―Keep them Inspired
Chihuahuas are fun and energetic, but just like any dog, they can lose the desire to exercise. The health of your chihuahua might suffer if the activity needs weren’t met. So, make an effort to maintain your chihuahuas’ motivation. Try this mentally challenging puzzle workout.
π¨βπ¦―Avoid overtraining
Anything present in excess might lead to unsettling circumstances. In the same way, overexertion may exhaust your chihuahua. Yes, exercise is important, but going overboard with it might lead to other issues. Here are a few warning signals if you are overusing your Chihuahua:
They may appear to be worn out to you.
Their body may hurt and ache.
They might not have the strength to do anything else if they are fatigued.
Therefore, pay attention to these indicators. Your chihuahua may have severe problems from over-exercising. This can occasionally result in some serious illnesses as well.
π¨βπ¦―Keep them Warm when Cold
Your dogs require clothing for more reasons than merely to appear extra cute and stylish. Chihuahuas, however, require their attire for more reasons than just these. When it’s cold, make your chihuahuas wear sweaters. Because Chihuahuas are prone to chilly spells, they should always wear sweaters.
Don’t forget to have your Chihuahua wears a sweater if you’re taking it on a walk during the chilly fall and winter months. Give this knitwear a try on your amazing chihuahua. Of course, it is essential to protect your Chihuahua by requiring him to wear a raincoat in the event of snowfall or heavy rain.
π¨βπ¦―Your Insights Are Essential
These recommendations are just common sense. The greatest people to know your dogs are you and your veterinarian. Furthermore, getting input from your dog will be helpful as you research the ideal amount of walking for your dog. For instance, it might be advisable to cut the stroll short if your chihuahua wants to be picked up in the middle of it.
How to Handle Chihuahua
Always being gentle with Chihuahuas is the number one guideline while handling them. Keep in mind that a Chihuahua’s neck might easily be injured if a choke collar is used on them. To protect its trachea, using a flat buckle collar or harness is a wise choice. Exercise needs to be prioritized, and if at all feasible, it ought to be done every day. Although this dog is already active by nature, running around in an apartment is typically enough activity for the dog, so it may not require extensive walks.
Toy breed dogs are often particularly sensitive to cold temperatures, therefore if you want to take your little dog for a walk during the cold weather, make sure to let them wear a sweater. Take your Chihuahua indoors if it’s below 35 degrees outside. Never let your Chihuahua jump from a height since the impact of the landing might harm his joints. This breed frequently has joint problems and fractures, necessitating careful treatment.
Chihuahua Exercise Activities
The possibilities are endless when it comes to how you’ll exercise your Chihuahua. Use your creativity and identify your dog’s favorite activities. Some pups will cross their threshold by just following their owners about the home. It could include a few game sessions each day for older Chihuahuas.
βοΈHiding Treats
A fun indoor activity to do with your dog is hiding a toy or treat for them to locate. You might have to direct them to the game until they comprehend it, but they will pick it up soon. By placing the treat in challenging-to-find spots, you may make the game harder and harder. While playing this game may seem like it would make your Chihuahua work harder, canines like it a lot and find it to be cognitively interesting.
βοΈWalking
As easy as going for short strolls in your neighborhood or the park. Your Chihuahua will adore it, and it’s a great way to increase their strength, bone density, and mood. As previously indicated, your Chihuahua puppy has to be fully immunized before going on walks. must ensure that he is adequately shielded from the outer world.
While walking your dog, there are a few factors to think about, such as the climate. During the summer, when it may get rather hot in certain places. You’ll need to plan your walks so that you go outside when it’s coolest. Make sure your Chihuahua’s paws are protected from scorching surfaces when walking. Make sure your chihuahua is warm & protected from the elements throughout the winter.
βοΈGames
Try the “come when called” game if you live with a partner or roommate. As the name implies, you stand off and call yourself Chihuahua, which causes them to keep running from one of you to the other. When they approach you, reward them. To keep them inspired. Continue to stand apart as the game develops. It is best to make your dog run along a landing way or in a designated area of the yard as both exercise and enjoyment are intended.
βοΈFetch
The easiest and most efficient approach to give a dog a good workout is to do it like this. Get some tiny tennis balls and play a daily 15-20 minute game of fetch. It would be much better if you could plan this to occur when your dog is typically energetic and agitated.
βοΈAgility Training
You will learn to guide your dog over, between, and through a variety of obstacles in this thrilling but difficult setting. These classes may be offered by your neighborhood SPCA, as well as by a variety of gyms & dog exercise centers. This is something that dogs of all types, ages, and sizes can accomplish, and you’ll never know how so much fun it is until you give it a try.
βοΈToys
Sometimes the finest things come in little packages, just like Chihuahuas. No matter what age your Chihuahua is, toys may be a great source of entertainment and exercise for them. Just be careful to select the ideal toy for him. There are several activities you may perform with your Chihuahua. Simply choose an activity that you and your Chihuahua like. Remember that a well-trained Chihuahua is a disciplined Chihuahua; it gets the job done and does it well. They can release all of their pent-up energy, which may otherwise manifest in undesirable behaviors.
Sprints up Stairs
If you do have stairs in your home, this is a wonderful energy burner. Have your dog “remain” at the bottom of the stairs while you ascend. “Go!” is yelled after tossing the ball to the top of the steps. “Let your dog sprint as quickly as they can up the steps. To prevent harm, have them descend the stairs more slowly this time.
βοΈJoin Dog Play
Give your Chihuahua the chance to play with the other dogs. This helps kids develop critical social skills as well as being a terrific way to burn off energy and challenge their minds. To assist Chihuahuas to develop their confidence among larger canines, it is important to provide them with as much socialization as you can.
Mental Enrichment and Stimulation
All dogs, including chihuahuas, require a mental outlet. If they are not given the chance to stretch their brains, they will find other methods to do it on their own. Bad behavior, like excessive barking, digging, running away, and other harmful actions are how this often shows up. For information on the six sorts or categories of mental stimulation and mental enrichment, as well as some fantastic suggestions for how to administer it, read “Mental stimulation & mind enrichment for dogs.”
βΌοΈToy Puzzles
As dogs just like Chihuahuas exercise their wits and put their problem-solving abilities to the test, puzzle toys are great. Try to select puzzle toys that are a little difficult since kids tend to solve them very fast due to their sharp intellect. For my top selections, see “Top puzzle toys for dogs.” Kongs for dogs is a fantastic alternative to puzzle toys for getting your Chihuahua to think critically and solve problems.
βΌοΈLearning
Teaching new techniques and instructions is a fantastic way to expand one’s mind. Teach children the names of their toys as one popular educational activity. Dogs can pick up hundreds of names and words.
βΌοΈToys
Give your Chihuahua chew toys that are durable and excellent. The best approach to occupy them is to chew. Additionally, chewing causes the release of endorphins, which calms the dog. Many dogs have tension in their jaws. Additionally, provide a wide variety of different toys.
βΌοΈFood Enrichment
Make mealtimes a chance for your Chihuahua to get mental stimulation and challenges. Give them tasks that make them earn their food rather than just spoon-feeding it to them.
βΌοΈChew Toys
Chewing is just a natural inclination for dogs, and it serves several purposes, such as keeping them occupied and mentally engaging them.
βΌοΈEnrich Environment
Making a dog’s home more engaging and intriguing is called environmental enrichment.
When Does a Long Walk Get Too Far
Your Chihuahua may slow down and begin to pant if you exert it excessively. These are the initial indications you’ll see. Although it is said that a weary dog is a good dog, pushing your dog over his physical limitations might have long-term detrimental repercussions on him. The panting, slowing down, lack of interest in the action, and stopping while walking are all indications that a dog is over-exhausted. Your pet may occasionally, especially in the worst-case situations, suffer from joint issues as well as paw pad wear and tear.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Chihuahuas Like Walking?
Chihuahuas like to stroll. As a result, the owner would never worry about whether their chihuahua will enjoy the walks. Divide your walks into 30-minute halves and do it only once. For 15-20 minutes each time, or three times for 10-15 minutes. With these walks, your chihuahua not only stays healthy but also happy.
Do Chihuahuas require daily walks?
Even while they may not require as much activity as certain types of larger dogs, it’s still crucial to keep your Chihuahua active. To keep happy and healthy, your Chihuahua needs to exercise for at least 30 minutes each day. This should be divided into two shorter walks so they may sniff and investigate.
What kind of exercise is best for Chihuahuas?
The Kennel Club states that these little dogs only require up to 30 minutes of exercise each day. Chihuahuas may get the exercise their little legs require to keep happy and healthy by taking a stroll around the park. She is surprisingly fit and nimble for a dog her size. Two quick strolls every day may be plenty.
Can I go for an hour’s walk with my Chihuahua?
Most dogs, provided they are in reasonably excellent physical condition, may withstand regular 20β30 minute dog walks. Some dogs in excellent physical condition can go on walks lasting up to two hours or go trekking for extended periods.
Can a little dog go for a daily walk?
Smaller dogs may do well with just one daily walk, while larger, more energetic canine breeds could benefit from many daily walks. We’ve got you covered if your dog falls into one of these categories or if you’re an active person who likes outdoor activities alongside your dog but is still unclear how much exercise your pet requires.
Can I skip my dog’s daily walk?
The majority of dogs adore them, and they may be a great addition to our day. Having said that, going for a stroll each day is not required. Many dog owners believe that skipping their pets’ regular walks is a sign of failure. In actuality, your dog typically has nothing to worry about, yet occasionally, they need it the most.
Final Thoughts
Now that you are aware of how much walking a Chihuahua needs, it is critical to establish a program. A healthy dog is content and active. However, depending on your vet’s recommendations, web research, and the instructions from this article, you’ll likely want to reduce that quantity if your chihuahua is extremely young or elderly, or has medical concerns. This article should have provided some clarification on how long you should walk your Chihuahua. Do you want to know why does my chihuahua smell like corn chips? Click Here!
Here at ILoveChihuahua, we share our personal experiences as owners of this feisty breed. We talk about recommended methods, dog supplies picks, and advice on common Chihuahua problems. Our goal is to promote responsible dog ownership, so there would be fewer Chihuahuas in shelters.
