Let's Keep Your Tiny Dog Physically and Mentally Healthy,

So, you’ve opted for a smaller, compact breed of dog that you can tuck under your arm or into a handbag when circumstances dictate.

Now, even though you can indulge this little buddy with the very best foods and coddle them with designer duds, this furry little critter is still a dog. And as such, they need regular exercise and mental stimulation to keep them healthy and happy as they move into adulthood and their senior years. Just like the big dogs do.

But unlike the big dogs, a mini mutt needs a more intentional, dare we say curated, style of engagement.

Why Your Tiny Dog Needs to Work Out

Tipping the scales somewhere south of 10 pounds may make you wonder why this tiny little dog needs outdoor exercise at all. Isn’t following you around the house or up and down stairs enough? The short answer is no, it’s not.

Taking them outdoors helps them become comfortable with new sights, sounds, and faces. It allows them to socialize, tamp down a fear of anything unfamiliar, and thereby alleviate aggression when faced with the unknown.

It also augments their daily indoor activity, helping to keep weight in check and avoid joint issues down the line. Yes, even small dog breeds can struggle with joint pain as they age.

How Much Exercise Does a Tiny Dog Need?

Unlike larger or highly active breeds, these small dogs (we’re talking Chihuahuas, Yorkshire Terriers, Maltese… essentially the under-10-pound crowd) don’t need multiple lengthy walks throughout the day. Nor do they require rigorous playtime that will see them bounding and leaping to snatch a frisbee out of the air.

What they do need is for you to be cognizant of their limitations and craft activities and walking routes they can keep up with. And that means slower paces, shorter routes, and lots of pauses to sniff and explore.

Plan to break these walks into short, 15-minute outings that you can repeat twice a day. Find a route that’s not intimidating – meaning away from heavy car or foot traffic - and that includes a little nature (grassy medians or parks) where they can sniff and explore.

Now, my local leash-free park is a substantial 19 acres of forest, trails, and sandy zones. But it also has a smaller, fenced area for small or older dogs. That said, I continually run into owners with their pint-sized pooches in the main area of the park. Their rationale is that their little guy likes to interact with the big dogs. This shouldn’t be your dog’s decision. Dog parks are filled with exuberant pooches that may be running at full tilt to burn off energy. Small dogs don’t stand a chance if they get in the way. Your goal is to keep your pet exercised yet safe. So, choose wisely and never assume you can pull them out of harm’s way when the boisterous ones come charging along.

If they tend to wander with little adherence to recall, invest in a leash that allows them the freedom to explore and you the ability to gather them up quickly when situations dictate.

When to Choose Indoor Versus Outdoor Activity

Regardless of how cute your pooch looks in that new rain slicker and boots, weather conditions will always dictate when it’s time to forego the walk and opt for a little indoor active time.

Because small dogs are vulnerable to cold and heat, you need to have a backup plan in place for when the weather isn’t cooperating. That includes plenty of pee pads as well as plush or squeaky dog toys you can toss around indoors to get your pet moving.

For brachycephalic breeds such as Pekingese or Shih Tzu that will immediately have trouble breathing in hot weather, plan your walks for early morning, late evening, or not at all.

Quick Tips for Walking a Tiny Dog

• Choose a dog leash that is ultra-slim so it doesn’t sit heavily on their back or neck. Similarly, you’re looking for a lightweight dog harness that holds them securely, yet doesn’t hinder their ability to walk and explore.
• Engage in those walkies either before mealtimes or no sooner than one hour after meals to avoid digestive issues. Unlike larger breeds, bloat is not an issue with tiny dogs; vomiting up their dinner, however, can mean losing much-needed nutrients.
• Watch for signs of fatigue. Some small dogs are like the Energizer Bunny; they just keep on going. But not all minis have that level of stamina. The moment your pet starts to slow down or lag, it’s time to go home. And if home is a few blocks away, it may be time to pick up and carry that precious cargo. Tote bag optional!