6 Tips on Stimulating Your Chihuahua’s Mind

September 1, 2011

All people need mental stimulation.

Chihuahuas are no different. We think, therefore we are.

Did you know Chihuahuas (and most dogs) have the mental capacity of a 2-3 year old child? Freaky, huh. That’s why it is very important to keep your Chihuahua thinking. Just like humans, if Chihuahuas are allowed to vegetate all day, every day, their minds will turn to mush. At the very least, their senior years may not be too pretty.

6 Tips on Stimulating Your Chihuahua’s Mind

Exercise – Lots of Walkies with your human companion. It’s a bonding experience and healthy too. There’s a lot of sniffing to do.
Crossword Puzzles – Or else toys like Kong* that challenge your Chi. I enjoy my Kong, but only when there’s a treat to eat. I still have a hard time writing without thumbs, so crosswords are out for now.
Meeting and Greeting – A large social network of friends is helpful to keep your Chi entertained. This can be part of the walking routine. Or just take your Chi on play dates.
Working for a Treat – Make your Chi work for their treat. Don’t just give him/her one. (I wouldn’t mind getting more treats). This could be as simple as asking your Chihuahua to sit first.
Don’t leave your Chi home alone every day – Chihuahuas are portable. Take them wherever you go, even to work. Who doesn’t love a Chihuahua?!
Get your Chihuahua a pet. Another dog makes a great companion for your Chi.

Give Your Chi a Mini Kong

Show you really care. I love my Kong and play with it daily. Especially when daddy puts a treat inside.

*The Small Classic Kong Toy is

Perfect for typical chewers.
Small: Up to 20 lbs.
Perfect for stuffing with Kong treats.
All natural, puncture resistant rubber.
Super bouncy and chewer friendly.
Cleans teeth, conditions gums.
Recommended by Veterinarians, Trainers & Dog Professionals.
Made in USA.

Features

Cleans teeth and gums
Hollow center can be filled with food and treats
Keep your dogs busy and out of trouble for long periods of time
The world’s best dog toys!™

Another source of information about stimulating your Chi’s mind:

Mental Stimulation for Your Dog

2 thoughts on “6 Tips on Stimulating Your Chihuahua’s Mind”

Paul hoggett says:

June 28, 2012 at 3:05 am

I have a 2 year old chi called bo bo every time I go to take him out for walkies he runs away and shakes is this normal also because he is an only dog I think he may be lonely what can I do to keep him stimulated and happy hes my life and I adore him I just want to make him as happy as possible thanks
admin says:

July 2, 2012 at 10:29 am

My experience with Chihuahuas is that they don’t like to take walks. This is only based on having had two Chihuahuas. Lucy prefers to sleep during the day.

But my vet recommends daily walks for exercise and to stimulate their brains. This helps prevents dementia in old age. I find that if I carry Lucy part of the way she will decide it’s okay to walk. Especially when she realizes we’re heading home.

You can also give your Chi toys that help them think, like Kong, where you hide a treat inside.