Activities For Doxie-Chins
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Introduction
The Doxie-Chin is a one-of-a-kind dog with an outstanding personality and a particularly happy-go-lucky disposition. The Doxie-Chin is relatively small, and, depending upon the physical traits this designer dog inherits, you may need to tailor their exercise program to accommodate a possibly elongated spine. You'll want to plan for both indoor and outdoor activities for the Doxie-Chin, but you might plan on thirty-minute sessions followed by a short break. When indoors, you can engage the Doxie-Chin in a number of fun games that stimulate the mental capacity of this highly intelligent pooch. This moderately active pup will generally enjoy being a part of any activity that involves spending time with you.
Earthdog Competition
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Sunny Day
Moderate
Normal
1 hr
Items needed
leash
treats
Activity description
The Dachshund was originally developed to be a hunting companion. There is a reason for the elongated spine of the Doxie; the earliest Dachshunds were long enough yet also small enough to burrow down in holes that might contain a mole, rabbit, or other small animals that lived primarily underground. In fact, the dog's tail was often the only thing left above ground! The hunter supposedly pulled the dog out of the hole by the tail. One can see that the Dachshund parent breed is particularly adept to an event known as earthdogging. Earthdogging simulates the hunt described above. However, the dog must rely upon their sense of smell to find the (protected) rats hidden from sight.
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What is earthdogging?
In an earthdogging competition, the dog is presented with a covered tunnel. There are two levels of achievement in earthdogging competitions. The first involves taking the dog off-leash and letting them find a group of rats (which are always protected by a screen between them and any participants). The second level involves multiple turns in the tunnel (the first only involves one turn). Again, the dog must rely on their sense of smell to find the target.
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To start
First, you'll want to observe a competition, so when you are training Fido to participate, you will know what they are expected to do. Next, do a little nose work with your Doxie-chin. Hide kibble around the house for your furry pal to find, and praise them for each found treasure. You may also place a small amount of anise or valerian essential oil on a cloth and encourage your pup to find the cloth outdoors.
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Participate
For the Doxie-chin, participating in an Earthdog competition can be very exciting! Check with your local dog club for possible competitions. You can enter your clever companion as often as you wish. Between competitions, complete scent work at home to keep your dog's nose sharp.
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Free Play
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Sunny Day
Cheap
Easy
1 hr
Items needed
flirt pole
tennis ball
Activity description
If competing in nose work competitions aren't quite your cup of tea, then consider organizing activities that you and your pup can do together right in your backyard (or your living room, should the weather prove uncooperative). The Doxie-Chin loves activities that involve spending time with you, and free play provides this. Take Fido outdoors and pick up a tennis ball to play a game of fetch. (Remember to play in ten-to-fifteen minute sessions and allow for water breaks.) Grab a flirt pole and engage your furry friend in a game of chase. Finally, during warmer months you can set up a swimming area for your pooch, complete with fun toys.
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1
Fetch
Before playing this game, you'll want to teach your dog how to "give." Place a treat in one hand and the ball you'll be using in another. Make it a game of exchanging the ball for the treat. Give your pal the ball, but make sure they see that the treat is available. When they release the ball back to you, say "give," and reward the good behavior with a treat.
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Flirt pole
The flirt pole provides a means of engaging your dog in a game of chase as well as stoking those natural hunter instincts. A flirt pole generally has a feathery toy at the end of a long string. Because the Doxie-Chin's relatives were hunters, they will want to go after the "prey." You can place the "prey" on the ground and coyly pull it away from your pup. Conversely, you can also coerce Fido to chase you while you run with the pole and the just-out-of-reach toy.
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Let's swim
The Doxie-Chin will enjoy a little pool time, particularly during very hot weather. Simply purchase a kiddie pool and fill it about half-way - remember, the Doxie-chin won't be very tall. Always wear a swim vest no matter the depth of the water. Smaller pools allow for the Doxie-Chin to play freely. You can also put your hands under Fido's tummy and allow them to dog paddle a bit.
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Indoor Fun
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Cold Day
Cheap
Normal
30 min
Items needed
interactive toys
Activity description
The Doxie-Chin might enjoy being outdoors, but there will be times that you won't be able to play outside. In addition, the Doxie-Chin can't be allowed to get overheated or face health issues, so planning activities that you can perform together year-round will keep your dog happy and healthy. One of the best ways to work off nervous energy indoors is to play with an interactive toy. These keep the dog's mind alert, which is a great alternative when physical exercise just isn't possible. Furthermore, indoor activities promote a bond between you and your canine companion, which benefits both of you.
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Hide and seek
The Doxie-Chin has a naturally keen, sharp nose, and setting up a game of hide and seek will help them to keep this trait honed. Some pet parents start with smelly treats and they place them out in the open for their dog to find. As your dog locates the prize, say, "find it." As they catch on, then switch to kibble. As that level is mastered, place kibble in less visible areas such as just under the edge of the couch or in a corner of the kitchen.
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Interactive Toys
One of the most popular toys that not only provides mental stimulation for Fido as well as a food reward is the interactive food toy. There are many variations on the market, so choose the one you feel your pup will enjoy the most. Then simply put it within your dog's reach, and let them play as they wish. The rattle of kibble inside the toy encourages your dog to shake, toss, and turn the toy over and over just to release the food.
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Make an indoor digging station
The Doxie-Chin loves to burrow down after their prey, and an indoor digging station provides just that. The breed loves to dig, so grab some old pillows and blankets and make them into a pile in the floor. Hide a treat underneath so your dog will be encouraged to dig. Praise them for making a good kind of mess!
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More Fun Ideas...
Scent Trials
Because the Doxie-Chin's ancestors were scent hounds, your furry pal just might enjoy being a part of a scent trail competition. You should attend a local competition with your dog to see if this is the right activity for both of you.
Fun Tricks
The Doxie-Chin loves to interact with you, so why not spend some time learning a few fun tricks? Teach your eager pup how to shake or sit by simply utilizing treats as a reward.
Conclusion
The Doxie-Chin is a delightful companion. While not overly active, providing your dog with ample physical activity prevents obesity. In addition, practicing obedience training or learning tricks will keep your pup from becoming bored and getting into mischief. There are a wide variety of indoor and outdoor fun and games to engage in virtually any time of the year.