Top Activities For Chinese Imperial Dogs

Introduction

The Chinese Imperial Dog is a breed that is often surrounded by controversy. This is because the American Kennel Club does not recognize the Chinese Imperial Dog as a breed unto its own; then there are those who believe that the Chinese Imperial is simply a smaller version of the Shih Tzu. In fact, some even refer to them as a "teacup" Shih Tzu. Regardless of this debate, the Chinese Imperial Dog will be a companion that needs only a modicum of daily activity. In fact, the Chinese Imperial Dog can benefit from indoor activities such as learning tricks, maneuvering an indoor obstacle course, and playing a few simple, interactive games.

Unique Tricks

Popular

0 Votes

Any Day

Cheap

Normal

15 min

Items needed

treats as a reward

Activity description

Certainly, you'll want to teach your Chinese Imperial Dog to sit, stay, and come to you when called. However, this pup is so intelligent that they can learn some more challenging tricks, such as fetching their own toys, saying "please," and even grabbing the leash for a daily stroll about the neighborhood. Because the Chinese Imperial is such a small dog, you may want to plan some activities that you can complete indoors. Harness the pup's natural intelligence and keep them busy so that they don't get into mischief. Spend about fifteen minutes per session working on commands, and, if you notice your furry friend becoming bored during training, it's best to take a break and resume work later.

Step

1

Fetch the toy

Want to impress your friends with a neat trick? Teach your pooch to fetch their toys! The key is making sure that Fido knows the name of their toys. Start with something simple - a ball. Put a ball on the floor and ask your dog to get it. When they do pick up the toy, praise and treat. Now, place the ball on the floor and tell your dog to stay. Back away a few feet and tell them to get the ball. Tell them to bring the toy to you while encouraging them to come to you. Praise and treat when they bring the ball to you.

Step

2

Say please

You may notice your Chinese Imperial Dog rearing on your leg for attention; they may also bark or whine if they want something. However, you can teach them to say "please" by sitting. First, you'll need to ensure that your dog knows the "sit" command. Once your dog is sitting, show them a treat and tell them, "Say please." Pause. As long as Fido remains sitting during the pause, praise and treat. Your focus should be on ensuring your dog sits during the pause.

Step

3

Get the leash

With ample practice, the highly intelligent Chinese Imperial Dog can learn some words. "Walk" is one of them. You can train your buddy to grab the leash before you go for a walk together. Again, make sure Fido knows the name of the object (the leash). You'll train them the same way as you would with getting a ball or another toy. Place the leash in front of the dog and instruct them to take it. Praise and treat. Back away and ask Fido to repeat.

Indoor Obstacle Course

Popular

0 Votes

Any Day

Cheap

Easy

30 min

Items needed

treats

towels and blankets

toys

Activity description

Because the Chinese Imperial Dog is so small, a traditional outdoor obstacle course might not be fun for your pup to traverse. However, you can create your own indoor course which you build to suit your pooch's miniature size in addition to being indoors. This activity is ideal for physical activity for the small dog as well as great mental stimulation. There is little cost to implement this activity as you can utilize items you already have at home. Also, because you are indoors, you can initiate this game anytime. Be creative and have fun with this activity!

Step

1

Have basic commands down

First, you'll need to make sure your furry friend knows the basic commands: sit, lie down, and stay. If Fido is not certain on these obedience commands, then practice for ten to fifteen minutes for a few days before introducing the indoor course. Knowing the commands will pave the way for success on the course!

Step

2

Introduce the game

You'll want to walk Fido through the various stations and show them what each requires of him. Try to set up "obstacles" that incorporate the commands they already know. For instance, place a blanket on the floor and have them lie down on it for about fifteen seconds. Roll up towels and place them so that your Chinese Imperial Dog will appear to "jump" over them. Use your imagination in creating the course in a way they will enjoy it.

Step

3

Change the course

To keep the game mentally stimulating for Fido, after maybe three or four sessions using the same obstacles, change a few things up. Incorporate a little hide and seek into the obstacle course. Bring in a child's stepping stool and have Fido step onto it and stand for ten seconds. You can add their toys and have them "weave" through the toy path. Again, make the course fun for both you and your best buddy.

Water Fun

Popular

0 Votes

Hot Day

Cheap

Easy

30 min

Items needed

sprinklers

water hose

Nerf football or baseball

water gun

Activity description

One game that you might not expect the Chinese Imperial Dog to enjoy involves playing in water. This affection dog loves to play with you, and on very warm days, playing in the pool is a welcome respite from the summer sun. You might also find a fun time in the form of chasing the water as it comes out of the sprinkler. You can also incorporate the kids by giving them a water gun and allowing them to shoot a steady stream to entice your pup. You can also put your dog in a small pool and play with a Nerf-style baseball or football. This game of fetch is bound to cool off the Chinese Imperial Dog!

Step

1

Accustomed to water

Some dogs naturally take to water. Other dogs equate water with taking a bath - not always a high priority on the list of pups. However, show your Chinese Imperial Dog that water can be fun. Run a very shallow bath - or take Fido outdoors and put them in a kiddie pool with a few toys floating in the shallow water. This will show your furry pal that water can be fun and functional.

Step

2

Set up the sprinkler

For some reason, a great number of dogs enjoy chasing water. Begin by taking a water gun and shooting a steady stream (but not in Fido's face). Encourage your pup to play. Make the stream spray intermittently. In other words, imitate the sprinkler. Next, you can set up the real sprinkler and watch as your dog enjoys chasing and biting at the water.

Step

3

Other water fun

Some pet parents will fill balloons and throw them just as you would with children. Be cautious with balloons (this is why the author recommends using the football and the baseball which will soak up water for tossing purposes; even when your dog picks them up and tosses them around, they will not burst in pieces that can lodge in the dog's throat). You can also put a nozzle on the water hose and allow Fido to chase the sprayed water.

More Fun Ideas...

Daily Walking

The Chinese Imperial Dog does not require a great deal of exercise, and, often, the best exercise is taking a daily walk together. Your pup will love to explore the smells and sights on the walk.

Give Your Dog a Massage

Learn how to give your furbaby a relaxing massage. Start at the joints, gently rubbing them. Work the muscles. You can even add some coconut oil on the pup's fur to soften it; if you are unsure if this will suit your pup's skin, check with the vet before trying it.

Conclusion

The Chinese Imperial Dog is proof that fun and excitement often comes small packages! However, this sweet pooch really just wants to spend time playing with you. Teach them tricks, take them for walks, and create opportunities for fun such as playing in water. Keep them busy, and you will see a pup that stays out of mischief and is well-behaved.