Fun Games to Play With a 5-Month-Old Chihuahua

Playing games is an exciting way to interact with your dog. Especially with a new puppy, this interaction is pivotal in the bonding experience between you and your Chihuahua. While playing these games, you can also lay the foundation for obedience training that will make it simpler to housebreak your dog and teach it basic commands such as sit and stay. Keep in mind during play that Chihuahua puppies are very fragile, so be gentle and keep the play area free of obstruction.

  1. Tug-of-War

    • Puppies love to bite. While this can be a nuisance if they chew on your belongings, it can be sweet behavior if they are chewing on a toy. Chewing on toys can also strengthen a puppy's teeth and help break up tartar buildup. Tug-of-war is a game to play with your small Chihuahua that both of you will love. Use a small enough rope that your puppy can easily bite. Pull lightly from the other end after your puppy grips it with its teeth. During this early obedience training, it is important that you win so the puppy knows who is in control.

    Hide-and-Seek

    • Puppies are curious creatures. At 5 months they are so young that they are still exploring their surroundings. You can offer an incentive to help guide them in this process. Hide small treats in areas around the home and watch as your puppy sniffs them out. It is important to hide these treats only in places that your puppy is allowed to go. Avoid areas such as closets or under furniture where the puppy may learn to dig or chew. Section off areas of your home where it might do damage in his hunt.

    Chasing Games

    • Dogs love to play, especially puppies that have seemingly endless amounts of energy. Chasing is a good way to expel some of that energy while creating a situation where you can bond with your pet. Introduce the concept of "fetch" during these games by tossing a small toy, ball or stick and teaching your dog to chase after it and bring it back to you. Or you can just chase your dog around and let your puppy chase you. At the end of the chasing, give your Chihuahua puppy a treat that lets it know you are happy with its behavior.

    Socializing

    • Chihuahuas can be nervous dogs, especially when surrounded by other animals and larger dogs. One way to help socialize them with other animals is through monitored game play. Toss the ball to your puppy and to other animals. Promote sharing and gentle play by rewarding good behavior with treats and affection and punishing bad behavior by shaking a can filled with coins or by withholding affection from your puppy.