Activities For Poochins
Prepare for unexpected vet bills
Introduction
The Poochin is a combination of the beloved Poodle and Japanese Chin dog breeds. Japanese Chins actually originated in China, but were given to the royalty of Japan as gifts. They were revered in Japan and only introduced into the Western half of the world during the 19th century. Poodles have been around since at least the 1400s when they were bred as fowl hunting dogs in Germany. The regal look of Poodles quickly turned them into companion and show dogs.
Poochins are usually bred from the smaller toy Poodle, though they can also be bred from standard and miniature Poodles. They are typically small in stature with wavy fur that needs regular grooming.
Obedience Training
Poodles are gorgeous, regal and stubborn. Your pooch will get half of those traits. The stubbornness can make teaching commands difficult. Simplify the process by finding local obedience classes that cover the basics, such as sit, stay and down. Teaching your dog to come when called can be a literal lifesaver.
While your Poochin may be tiny, you don’t want them to be a terror. Obedience training not only teaches your pup manners, but it also builds the foundation for exercising, playing and even feeding time. Training classes usually start at a young age, but you really can teach old dogs new tricks.
Flirt Pole
Flirt poles are the dog version of a cat’s feather and string toy. Dogs like to paw at things waving in front of their faces just as much as cats. You can cheaply make your own with random items around the house. They can be used indoors or planted in the ground outdoors for hours of entertainment.
You can even take the activity up a notch and make several flirt poles. Teach your pup to walk between them like an obstacle course. If you prefer a pre-made flirt pole, they are sold in any pet store. Be sure to supervise your pup so they don’t eat the toys.
Spa Day
Poodles are notorious for their amazing curly fur. While your Poochin probably won’t have the same tight curls, they will have wavy hair that is fast-growing. Most small breeds need to be groomed every six to eight weeks. Those costs can really add up. If you feel that you are a patient person who can handle it, consider learning how to groom your pup yourself. Have a spa day at home every few weeks and brush daily between grooming times. Part of keeping a happy pup is having hair that isn’t matted or disheveled.
More Fun Ideas...
Walk on the Beach
Many dogs enjoy long walks on the beach as much as humans do! Find a dog-friendly beach and let your pup do the doggy paddle in the waves. Be sure not to let them eat sand, as that can cause fatal digestive issues in all dog breeds. A spa day might be necessary after a day at the beach.
Therapy Dog
After your pup has successfully completed obedience classes, continue their pupducation with therapy dog classes. Your Poochin will be the perfect combination of fluffy and cuddly for the job. Find local classes and then contact hospitals, nursing homes or even colleges to see if they have any therapy dog openings.
Conclusion
Poochins are happy, playful dogs who love a good romp at the beach. Poodles have a stubborn streak, so your Poochin will do well with a few obedience training classes. If those are successful, you can continue with therapy dog courses. Poochins are adorable little balls of fur that bring a lot of people comfort and joy.
Poochins have fur that is wavy instead of the tightly curled fur of purebred Poodles, but they still require a lot of grooming to keep their fur manageable. You can take them to a groomer or have a relaxing spa day at home. These are just a few ideas for activities your Poochin will pawsitively love!