I have two Chins and they each get out for about 45 minutes every day. In that time they usually run around and play so hard that after 45 minutes to an hour they wear themselves out and go back in their cage all on their own so time wise that is pretty much their limit for being out. Sometimes they run out of energy before they make it back in their cage plop down and go to sleep right where they are, then I have to gently herd them back in. But for the most part they love their cage and are always ready to go back in on their own. If a Chins cage is set up properly and comfortable for them they will see it as a safety haven and choose that over staying out and I don't think they will see it as punishment.