Even dachshunds with mobility issues can enjoy walks
A bored dog is a naughty dog, and since dachshunds are already prone to mischief, you can only imagine what the trouble a bored dachshund can cause! Be proactive and engage in activities that will stimulate (and tire out) your doxie.
Go on daily walks
Daily walks are a must! As you probably know, regular exercise is important for keeping your dachshund in good physical condition. However, walks serve other purposes, too: They burn up excess energy and stimulate your dachshund's mind.
Even old and infirm dachshunds can enjoy walks. If you don't want to shell out the big bucks for a pet stroller, a human stroller works just fine; look for one on Freecycle, craigslist or at your local thrift store.
Take a field trip
Most dachshunds love to ride in the car, especially when a vet visit isn't on the other end of the trip. Try taking your doxie on a hike, a trip to the dog beach or a weekend away. You might be surprised at the number of dog-friendly acommodations located in lovely areas throughout California.
Hank loves roughhousing at the dog park
Check out your local dog park
Although not every dachshund likes the offleash dog park, most enjoy it quite a lot. Try to stay in the small-dog section of your park, where your little dog can safely play with other small or gentle dogs.
Don’t be too surprised if your doxie prefers to sniff around, rather than engaging in play. However if you can encourage play with other dogs, you’ll be doing your doxie a favor—a well-socialized dog is an asset when you are in public places.
Play games
Dachshunds of all ages enjoy playing games with their owners. Make time each day for one-on-one playtime with your little guy, and you’ll increase the bond between you. Hide-and-seek with treats is a favorite game, as is fetch, especially with a squeaky plush toy. Dachshunds do well in pairs, so you might also consider getting your buddy a buddy. Avoid playing tug-of-war with your doxie as the tugging motion can injure his back.
Gilligan is an agility champ
Photo by Heather Plott
Try obedience training
Even though dachshunds are stubborn and can be difficult to train, they should complete at least a basic training class. If your dog seems to enjoy learning new tricks, then you might want to explore more advanced classes. A good goal to shoot for is Canine Good Citizenship.
See if your dachshund enjoys agility
Not just for big dogs, agility is a fun way to keep your dachshund trim and focused. Dachshunds use specialized agility courses that do not involve jumping more than a couple of inches, so your doxie can safely engage in this activity. They especially love going through the tunnel!
Explore the idea of earth dog
Dachshunds do extremely well with earthdog, an outdoor activity that indulges and enhances their hunting instincts. Bred to sniff out underground badger dens and then “sound” (called spurlaching) when they’ve located their prey, dachshunds will especially enjoy sniffing out and barking at underground prey. Earth dog is a safe, fun way to engage this instinct; Google “earth dog trials” to find a group near you.
Honorary dachshund and certified therapy dog
Miss Roxie Roo models her blue AAT bandana.
Get your dachshund certified for animal assisted therapy
Unless poorly socialized early in life, many dachshunds can be excellent therapy dogs. Their small, portable size, their proclivity for giving kisses and their love of people make them highly qualified for visiting and comforting the elderly or infirm. To find a program near you, Google “therapy dog certification” or visit the Delta Society’s website (www.deltasociety.org).
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Even cart dachshunds can participate in earth dog
This little one is learning how to scent prey (No prey was harmed during this lesson!)
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