Activities For Peke-A-Pins

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Introduction

Peke-a-Pins are a hybrid breed created by combining the Miniature Pinscher with the Pekingese. Miniature Pinschers have been described as a "perpetual motion machine" as they're one of the most active dogs within the canine world. Though they tend to be stubborn, the Miniature Pinscher is bold, inquisitive, and enjoys a good old romp outdoors. One play session won't suffice for this breed, as they need lots of physical and mental stimulation daily. 

The Pekingese is a little larger than the Miniature Pinscher, weighing no more than 14 pounds, but they're much less active. They enjoy lounging around and taking short walks. Heat can be deadly to these small pups, so staying inside an air-conditioned home during hot summers and playing games is how they prefer to get exercise. They don't do well with children, as Pekingeses will not put up with being "ruffhoused". The Peke-a-Pin takes characteristics from both parents, being energetic yet wary towards strangers. This means they need socialization and obedience training from a young age to help prevent the development of a stubborn and independent personality. 

Socializing

Popular
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Any Day
Free
Easy
30 - 60 min
Items needed
Leash
Treats
Activity description

Early socialization is essential for Peke-a-Pins because without it, they can become aggressive towards unknown strangers and wary of other animals. Socialization can come in a variety of forms and can range from brief interactions to intense play dates organized ahead of time. Depending on your schedule, you may opt for one activity over the other, but it’s recommended you vary the activities weekly to maximize your Peke-a-Pin's exposure to other pups.

Start off with basic walks where you’re bound to cross paths with other four-legged companions walking with their handlers. Dog parks are the next step up as your pup can roam off-leash and interact with dogs at their leisure. Consistent playdates with another dog would be the “ultimutt” way for your pooch to make new furry friends. All three strategies are free and can be done in an hour or less!

Step
1
Walking your pup strategically
You can walk stratgically so that you increase your likelihood of crossing paths with another pup. Head out for busy parks or neighborhoods. Bring along dog treats if your pooch has not yet interacted with many others. You want to encourage positive reactions when they see another dog. If your Peke-a-Pin is anxious and shows signs of aggression, do not reward their behavior. Walks give your pup only a brief opportunity to interact with another dog before passing by, making it a "grrreat" way to introduce them to other dogs.
Step
2
Visiting a dog park
Visit your local dog park for longer interactions with other pups. Do not force them to play with or socialize with dogs who they aren't interested in -- they may be intimidated. Be sure to play in the park for small dogs. Encourage them to socialize using treats and toys, if the park allows them. Reward any positive interactions with either praise or treats.
Step
3
Arranging puppy playdates
Regular playdates are an excellent way to help your pooch develop a meaningful relationship with another dog. Do this by finding a friend who has a dog that's interested in arranging playdates. Offer to host the playdates, or meet at a suitable location, such as a park. Bring along toys and treats to encourage play. As the relationship progresses, consider having sleepovers for longer interactions.
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Yard Games

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Any Day
Cheap
Easy
15 - 60 min
Items needed
Treats
Toys
Activity description

Get outside and get moving with your Peke-a-Pin by playing a variety of yard games throughout the week. Alternate between different games to keep your pooch happy and engaged. You can incorporate a yard game from anywhere to 15 minutes to an hour, depending on what other activities you have in store for your Peke-a-Pin.

The most "pawpular" game to play is fetch. This involves tossing an object for your Peke-a-Pin to retrieve. Hiding games can also be fun and stimulate your pooch’s mind as they search the yard for a favorite toy or treat. Finally, keep away is a great way to tire out your pup. Get outdoors and  play yard games with your Peke-a-Pin as much as "pawssible"! 

Step
1
Play fetch
Fetch is a fur-favorite! All you need to play is a large open space and a ball or toy to toss. Throw the toy and encourage your pooch to retrieve it. Once they have it, call them back to you so you can throw it again. You may need to use treats to teach the process, but your pal will catch on quickly and enjoy playing many rounds before tiring out.
Step
2
Object hide and seek
It’s always fun to play a game of object hide and seek with Peke-a-Pins because they can use their intelligence and energy to find the missing item. Begin this activity by showing them the object that will be hidden. Leave your pup inside while you hide the object somewhere outside. For your first few rounds, pick an easy spot so they find it quickly and get instant positive reinforcement from you. As they become experts at this yard game, pick more challenging hiding spots.
Step
3
Keep away
Use a favorite toy and get your Peke-a-Pin moving by passing it back and forth between you and another player. Throw the toy in the air as soon as your pup reaches you so that they think they almost have it. You can also hold it out to them and pull it away when they get close to it, forcing them to run the other way. Let them win every once in a while to keep them engaged!
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Daily Walks

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Sunny Day
Free
Easy
15 - 30 min
Items needed
Leash
Waste Bags
Activity description

The Peke-a-Pin is a relatively active breed which requires plenty of physical exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. An easy way to meet their moderate exercise needs is through the humble walk.

Chances are you already take your pup for regular walks, but it's important to change up your route now and then to prevent boredom setting in for both you and your Peke-a-Pin. Consider leaving your phone at home so you can take a "mindful" walk with your pooch and stay in the present moment. Take care not to walk your pup too far too often, as their small bodies are susceptible to skeletal deformities and congenital conditions like patellar luxation.

Step
1
Plan your route
Plan out your route before heading off on your walk to maximize your experience and make the most of your time. Planning a route will prevent you from stopping to make decisions while walking. Switch it up when you pick a route and include new sights and sounds each time you take a walk together.
Step
2
Take breaks
While walking, take in your surroundings and look for opportunities to stop and rest. Whether you're walking near a river or through an open field, take the time to let your pooch really get to know their surroundings by allowing them to stop and check out the different stimuli they encounter.
Step
3
Be mindful and present
Always stay present while walking your pup by taking notice of the things they are interested in. Don't get caught up in your thoughts, neglecting your dog. Pay attention to their needs, and walk at a pace that allows you both to take in your surroundings. Maintain your pup's leash manners while walking, and keep a good pace to work their leg and heart muscles.
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More Fun Ideas...

Movie Night

Have a movie night with your pup by either heading out to a local drive-in or staying in and converting your living room into an at-home entertainment space. No matter what you choose, a movie night is a "grrreat" way to relax with your Peke-a-Pin after a day full of physical activities!

Obedience Lessons

Include obedience lessons into your everyday activities with your Peke-a-Pin to help them develop into an obedient pack member. Be a confident leader, teach commands in chunks, and revisit all learned skills as you progress through your Peke-a-Pin's training together! Remember, positive reinforcement and treats go a long way in training!

Conclusion

With an abundance of energy, your Peke-a-Pin needs physical exercise daily, multiple times throughout the day. Meet this need by including daily walks in your pup's schedule. Depending on the other activities you have planned, you can vary your walk to meet their needs that day. 

While walking, look out for opportunities to socialize with other dogs. For more targeted socialization, check out a local dog park or arrange regular playdates with another pup. Playing backyard games is another way to get your Peke-a-Pin moving, while simultaneously stimulating their minds. Try a game of fetch, hide and seek or keep away and vary between the three throughout the week. When you own a Peke-a-Pin, you must be prepared to attend to their physical and mental needs multiple times a day, so they can develop into well-adjusted and well-behaved pups!Â