How much exercise does a Chihuahua need?
Daily exercise minutes, the activities a Chihuahua enjoys and signs of too much or too little.
About 30 to 45 minutes of activity a day, split into two or three short walks and some indoor play, keeps most Chihuahuas fit and content. They enjoy chasing small toys down a hallway, learning tricks and exploring new places on a well-fitted harness. A harness is much safer than a collar for a dog with a delicate windpipe.
Cold is the bigger limit than distance. Below about 10 C (50 F) many Chihuahuas start shivering, so a sweater or coat is a practical necessity rather than fashion. Signs that your dog has had enough include lifting a paw, sitting down and refusing to move, or trembling that continues after it warms up.
Chihuahua exercise in numbers
Activity ranges are editorial planning estimates. The five-minutes-per-month puppy rule lacks scientific evidence. Adapt activity to the individual and seek advice for pain or exercise difficulty. PDSA puppy exercise guidance.
Editorial activity estimate
60 to 90 min
Puppy activity
Individual plan
adapt to age, health and development
Senior activity
Individual plan
adapt to comfort and ability
Size
toy
2 to 3 kg
Energy level
Playfulness
Handles heat
Handles cold