How much exercise do Chihuahuas need? They are small dogs, so it is easy to assume that they don’t need much exercise. It turns out that to keep your Chihuahua fit and healthy, they need around 30 minutes of exercise per day.
These tiny dogs have big needs when it comes to fitness and will thrive with a good amount of running, playing, and walking every day!
How Much Exercise Does a Chihuahua Need Daily?
Like most dogs, Chihuahuas need around 30 minutes of exercise per day, and this can be achieved with a combination of running, playing, and walking.
It is important to ensure they get enough exercise to keep them healthy both physically and mentally. A Chihuahua that isn’t getting enough exercise can become overweight.
Do Chihuahuas Need Walking Every Day?
Yes! Chihuahuas need exercise just like any other dog, and lack of exercise can lead to obesity and a whole host of other health problems for your Chihuahua. A good 30 minute walk every day is a great way to get them the exercise they need.
But what if it’s raining or too cold outside?
There are plenty of exercises you can do indoors to keep your Chihuahua entertained and active. we go over some below
What Kind of Exercises Can I Do With My Chihuahua?
There are lots of different ways to exercise your Chihuahua. You can take them for a walk, play fetch with them, or even let them run around in the backyard. Chihuahuas love to play and will get a lot of exercise from just playing with their family.
Some good exercises for Chihuahuas include running, playing fetch or tug-of-war, and long walks. It is important to vary the types of exercise your Chihuahua does to keep them interested and challenged.
Different Ways to Exercise a Chihuahua
Walking – is a great way to exercise your Chihuahua. A 30-minute walk around the neighborhood is a good start. If you have a fenced-in yard, let your Chihuahua run around in there for a while. Just be sure to keep an eye on them, so they don’t get into trouble.
Playing Fetch – Can Chihuahuas play fetch? Yes, Chihuahuas can definitely play fetch! This is a great way to get them some exercise. Try throwing a ball or toy for your Chihuahua and see how much fun they have!
Selfplay toys – Chihuahuas LOVE to play with toys but don’t always have someone around to play with them. That’s why it’s a good idea to get them some self play toys. There are lots of different types available, so find one your Chihuahua will love and watch them have a blast!
Tug of War – Tug of war is a great way to get your Chihuahua some exercise but get gentle with them; they only have tiny teeth. Try to use something soft my chi loves an old sock; let them win!
Running – If you want to take your Chihuahua for a run, be sure to start slow and work up to longer distances, don’t push them too hard a minute or two at a time is plenty, and at that point, they will want a rest, those tiny legs have to do a lot of work!
Playing with other dogs – If you have another dog in your home, let them play together. This is an excellent way for both dogs to get some exercise. Just be sure to keep an eye on them and make sure they’re playing nicely!
Can I Let My Chihuahua Run Around Off-leash?
Before you go any further with letting your chi off the leash, be sure they are good with recall. If you have to shout at your dog 20 times to get them to return to you, that is not ideal, so be sure you have that down first. If not, don’t take the chance would be my advice.
It is not always safe to let your Chihuahua run loose in an unenclosed area. They are small dogs and can easily be injured by a larger dog even if they are only playing; a larger dog’s idea of play can be too rough at times for a chi.
If the location is not nearby any busy roads and you are sure there are no other larger dogs around, and you have that recall down, then yes, you can go ahead and let them loose!
Are There Any Health Risks Associated With Chihuahuas Not Getting Enough Exercise?
Yes! Obesity is one of the most common health risks associated with chihuahuas that don’t get enough exercise. Like people, obesity can lead to health problems such as joint pain, heart disease, and diabetes.
So it’s important for both you and your pup that you both get out there and keep fit!
Conclusion
There are many different ways to exercise your Chihuahua my Chihuahua loves to play fetch with an old sock! If I threw it for him for 3 hours, he would play fetch for 3 hours. That is how much he loves it!
See what works with your chi; your dog may like a ball more than a stick or vice versa, a bit of trial and error to see what your dog likes best. Just get out there and have some fun with your pup!
