Long Haired Dachshund Activities
As a long-haired dachshund owner, you know your pet needs exercise. These dachshunds are known for their long hair and wiener-like shape, hence the nickname wiener dog. There are countless activities for you to enjoy with your dachshund. But you may not realize how important it is for your dog to be mentally stimulated. Not only does exercise keep your dog healthy, but it can also strengthen the bond between you and your pet. Taking your dog on outings is essential, especially if they live a relatively sedentary lifestyle. Here are just a few of the many benefits of doing various activities with your standard dachshund or miniature dachshund:
Exercise helps prevent obesity problems in dogs. Just like people, dogs need regular exercise to stay fit and healthy. Lack of activity can lead to weight gain, leading to various health problems such as heart disease, diabetes, and joint pain.
Active dogs are less likely to become bored. A bored dog is often destructive, as they may start chewing on furniture or digging through the trash, looking for something to do or eat.
Exercise improves a dog's mood and happiness. Active dogs tend to be less depressed and more alert. They also have a better chance of coping with stress levels, as exercise makes dogs feel more energetic and happier.
Here, the American Human Society talks about when to start training your dog so you can help them become more social and increase their physical activity:
"The greatest learning window in a dog's life starts around three weeks and closes between 16 and 20 weeks. This period allows puppies to be exposed to various sights, sounds, smells, and sensations without becoming fearful. Puppies who miss out on these experiences may never learn to be comfortable around unfamiliar things, paving the way for anxiety, fear, and aggression later on in life." – American Humane Society.
In this article, we'll explore 15 fun places you can take your long-haired dachshund to help them stay active and stimulated indoors and outdoors and to help you and your dog companion spend some much-needed quality time together.
Indoor Activities
Not every activity you and your dachshund do has to be outside. Plenty of indoor activities can be fun and rewarding for your dog. Here are a few:
1. Coffee Shop
Your daily coffee is an essential part of your morning. Coffee shops are also one of the most dog-friendly facilities you can visit. Many coffee shops allow dogs to sit inside with their owners while they drink their coffee. Most coffee shops also have outdoor seating, allowing you and your dachshund to enjoy a nice cup of coffee and a bowl of water outside. Your dachshund will love these cafes' powerful aromas and flavors, and these trips may become one of their favorite things to do.
2. Doggy Daycare
Doggy daycare is an excellent option for anyone that needs to socialize with their mini dachshund puppy. These daycares have trained staff equipped to help keep an eye on your dog while allowing them to interact and play with other dogs. Most daycares welcome dogs of all sizes and breeds, so your mini dachshund will be introduced to a wide range of canines. Taking your dog to daycare makes it easy for you to go on vacation without asking your friends or family to watch your dog while you're gone. If you work long hours and have no other family members living at home, your dachshund may lack the necessary attention throughout the week. The doggy daycare can compensate for this, giving your pet a place to be around other dogs and people and staying active and entertained while at work.
3. Play Date
Friends are not just for people; dogs need friends too! This is especially true for dogs with no other pet companions at home. To keep your standard dachshund happy, try scheduling a play date with another dog they can spend time with and form a bond with. Try this with dogs you are familiar with first to keep your long-haired dachshund and the other dog safe; you don't want to set up a play date with just any dog. Your dachshund might exhibit unexpected behavior when meeting an unfamiliar dog. Play dates are critical for your long-haired dachshund puppy because they help teach them proper behavior and social traits. This will make them more obedient and socially mature, allowing them to behave better in other social activities.
4. Car Ride
Yes, car rides can be considered an indoor activity! Well, it's technically outdoors as well. But, it's made a spot on the indoor list because your dog can enjoy the scenery and sensory overload of the outdoors without you having to take them for a walk or to the dog park. If you're looking for a quick and easy way to excite any dachshund breed, try taking your pet for a ride around the block or bringing them with you on your trip to the store. Many dogs will be content just observing everything around them while keeping you company during your daily errands. Your miniature long-haired dachshund will love looking out the window, maybe even sticking its head out of it while you drive around and let them look at all the houses, stores, and people passing by.
5. Pet Store
If you've ever been inside a pet store, you've likely seen someone walking their dog or carrying another pet. That's the beautiful thing about pet stores; they welcome both you and your pets inside. The next time you need to make a trip to the pet store, bring your dachshund dog with you and let them explore the aisles. Let them pick out a new toy or a new treat. Let them explore the excellent dog products, and they'll be like a kid in a candy store. You can also have fun carrying them around and letting them look at all the pets for sale around the store. Seeing animals they've never seen before will be exciting, and they'll be entertained for the entire visit. Your miniature dachshund may even make new friends with the pet store employees or other pets!
6. To Work
Going to work every day and leaving your dog alone can be challenging. Some devices allow you to see into your home and interact with your dogs, but they're not the same as having them with you in person. Many jobs will let you bring your dog to work regularly or even on specific dog-friendly days. If your job allows this, consider bringing your dog with you to work. At first, your dog may become overstimulated by the new environment, but after a few days, they will get used to their new surroundings and feel just as comfortable as they do at home. Ensure your miniature dachshund is adequately trained, does well with others, and is potty trained before bringing them to your place of work. There's nothing worse than your dog having an accident at your job!
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor activities are often best suited for your dogs. Long-haired dachshunds will love to tag along while you explore the neighborhood, go on walks, and do other things outside that allow them to see the world. Here are a few of the best outdoor activities for your long-haired dachshund:
7. Dog Park
The dachshund dog breed is very independent, but they will also love spending time with other dogs. Training them with proper behavior skills is vital before bringing your dog to the dog park. If your dachshund doesn't seem confident around other dogs but doesn't show any signs of aggression, bringing them to the dog park can get them out of their comfort zone and teach them how to be confident and outgoing with canine friends. Some dog parks will have a divided section for large and small dogs. If you can opt for the small dog park, this may be easier and more comfortable for your long-haired dachshund. Regularly taking your small dog to the dog park is a great way to train them to be more social and make new friends. This activity may soon be their favorite part of the week!
8. Outside Restaurant
Many restaurants have outdoor seating and patios for you to enjoy your meal outside. During warm months, there's nothing better than enjoying an ice-cold drink and a delicious meal outside with friends. Fortunately, many restaurants also allow you to bring your dog! It's important to note that other people may have dog companions tagging along. Your dog should be socially trained so that you and everyone around you can have a peaceful experience. Your miniature dachshund puppy will enjoy being outside and smelling all the delicious food. Some restaurants even have treats or doggy dishes that you can order to keep your dog occupied while you enjoy your meal.
9. With You on Vacation
Have you ever gone on vacation just to spend most of your time missing your pet? Next time, bring them with you! Nowadays, many hotels and Airbnbs are dog friendly, which makes taking your dog with you on your next vacation easier. Long-haired dachshunds are small enough to fit in a carry-on crate. This is a wonderful option for bringing your dog onto your flight without traveling separately. If you're planning to take your dog on a trip with you, make sure the destination you're choosing is dog friendly so you can bring them along as you explore the new location. Your dog will love the change of scenery and will enjoy walking new routes, meeting new people, and even meeting new canine friends. Bringing your dog on vacation can often save you money if you usually enroll them in doggy daycare or pay someone to watch them while you're gone.
10. The Beach
The beach is a beautiful place to relax and spend the afternoon. Next time, bring your miniature dachshunds along and let them enjoy the beautiful view of the ocean. If you bring your dog to the beach, it's vital to ensure that you bring an umbrella or a source of shade to keep them out of the sun for long periods. Bringing along a doggy bowl with water and dog food is also essential. Because of dachshunds' small stature, keep an eye on them and ensure they don't go too close to the ocean without your supervision. The beach is perfect for your dog to run freely, cool off in the water, and relax under the sun.
11. On a Hike
If you want to get more creative with walking your dachshund, try taking them on a hike. Most areas will have hiking trails or even bike trails you can take your dog on to give them a taste of the outdoors. Hiking with your dog gives them better exercise and allows them to have more privacy and freedom. If your dog is well trained, you can walk them off the leash without worrying about them getting into trouble. Your dog will be excited by all the new wildlife and plants they come in contact with and will have the time of their life. If you intend to go on long hikes, your dachshund's short legs may not be adequate to walk the entire route. Consider bringing a dog carrier with you to carry your dachshund if they get too tired.
12. Camping
Going on a camping trip is a lovely activity to do with your long-haired dachshund. Camping is usually secluded and gives you enough space to relax, allowing your dog to walk around freely without you having to worry about them getting into danger. If you enjoy camping but have trouble finding someone to take care of your dog on your trips, taking them with you allows you to camp for as long as you like while also being able to spend quality time with your companion. Camping can be just as fun for your dog as it is for you. Bring them to the lake, let them splash in the calm waters, and bring them along on your wilderness hikes. Also, bring enough supplies, such as food and water bowls, blankets, a crate, treats, and don't forget some toys! Make sure the camping site or cabin you want to rent is dog friendly before booking your travel plans.
13. On a Boat Ride
If you're into fishing, tubing, or sunbathing and have a boat, these trips can often take hours as you relax under the sun. If you're tired of leaving your dog home while you go on these trips, consider bringing them along with you. You may not want to do this if your dog is still a puppy driven by its impulses, but a dog with proper training will love spending time with you on your boat. Depending on where you're boating or fishing, your dog can cool off by swimming in the water while you relax. Always remember to bring a doggy life jacket and follow safety precautions for the entire trip to ensure they are safe in case of an accident.
14. Trick or Treating
Once a year, children and parents get to dress up as their favorite characters and trick or treat. Halloween is a fun holiday for many people, and this fun can also be had with your dog! You can find a costume for just about any dog. Try dressing up your dog next Halloween and bringing them with you throughout the night. People will love to see your dog in costume, and many may even have dog treats for your companion instead of candy. If you stay home and pass out candy, still consider dressing up your dog. Children will love seeing your canine in costume answer the door.
15. On a Picnic
Going on a picnic is a relaxing way to spend time with a loved one and enjoy a delicious meal out in nature. You can have a picnic just about anywhere, at a park, in a field, or a forest. People aren't the only ones that enjoy picnics; dogs do too! Bringing your dog along with you on your next picnic trip is a great way to spend quality time with them. You can even bring along kibble or a doggy picnic meal for them to enjoy while you eat your food. Your dog will appreciate the change of scenery, and you can play outside with them while you relax.
Bring Your Dachshund With You
The long-haired dachshund is a cute little companion you can take almost anywhere. While they aren't the smallest dog, they are still small enough to carry and bring with you on your errands. The next time you're thinking about taking yourself out, try one of these 15 fun places to take your long-haired dachshund where you can spend quality time together. All dogs need mental and physical stimulation and will benefit from going out and exploring the world with you.
