These hybrids are very energetic and lively--but they're also extremely small, so Chorkie exercise requirements aren't too extensive. Chorkies will fulfill some of their daily activity needs just running around being their animated little selves, but they'll do well with a couple of short walks and a brief period of play as well.
The typical adult Chorkie, depending on its age and overall activity level, will only need about 30 minutes of proper exercise per day--which you can accomplish with short walks and a few minutes' playtime. You can start exercising your Chorkie puppy at 10 weeks old by taking it on short (5-minute) walks, then you can increase the walks' length and frequency as the puppy grows. And these short walks are a good opportunity to start teaching the young Chorkie obedience, through leash training: have the dog walk beside or behind you on the leash instead of being allowed to lead or "tug" on it. This, in the puppy's mind, establishes you as the leader, and will make obedience training easier as the dog matures.
A few things to keep in mind when exercising your Chorkie: first, puppies younger than eight months old shouldn't participate in activities that include a lot of jumping, running on hard surfaces, or navigating of stairs, as doing so can injure their still-developing joints and bones. And regardless of age, all Chorkies will need to be leashed when in public. These dogs are curious (and often bold and stubborn as well!), so they may run off to investigate interesting-looking people, animals, and situations if given the chance; at the same time, Chorkies can be seen as actual prey by large dogs and other predators. A leash will help you control and protect your Chorkie in these situations. And when walking your Chorkie on its leash, be mindful of your pace! These tiny dogs will have to trot faster on their little legs to keep up with you than will other, taller breeds, even at your normal walking speed--so you might want to slow up a bit. And finally: though Chorkies are fine in hot weather, they get cold rather easily, so it's best not to exercise them in frigid temperatures.
Precautions aside, it's important to exercise your Chorkie every single day. These little dogs can be quite fussy, and if they're bored or restless they'll become disobedient, destructive, and difficult in general. Consistent exercise will be great for the dog's peace of mind--and for your own sanity as well. A few exercise ideas:
- Walking: Two 15-minute walks per day is a good target
- Fetch: Can be played indoors or out; use the dog's favorite toy
- Hide-and-Seek: Great indoor, rainy-day activity; give the dog a treat when it finds you
- Laser Pointer: Chorkies will go nuts chasing that little red dot
- Dog Park: If properly socialized, these hybrids enjoy the company of other dogs; be sure to use a leash
- Blowing Bubbles: Your Chorkie will love "attacking" the bubbles you blow
When indoors, it's a good idea to give your Chorkie access to one or more balls or toys that will allow the dog to burn excess energy. It's also recommended that you establish a regular exercise schedule for the dog, such as walks after breakfast and dinner and a play period in the afternoon.
