Dachshunds in an Apartment: Good or Bad Idea?
Here is a new article to help you answer this question: Does the dachshund make a good apartment dog? 🐶
The Kaninchen (rabbit) and miniature dachshunds are probably the best suited for apartment living because they are the smallest.
As a reminder, the dachshund dog breed according to the FCI comes in 3 sizes:
- Kaninchen
- Miniature
- Standard (larger)
and 3 coat types:
- Smooth-haired
- Long-haired
Dachshunds, these all-terrain 4-legged sweethearts, make excellent apartment dogs because they are very affectionate and will provide the companionship you are looking for 🥰
As with any other pet, it will take some time for you and your dachshund to get used to living together, especially in a small space.
Owning a dachshund is by no means a short-term commitment.
This dog breed can live up to 16 years or more if given lots of love and proper care.
If you want to adopt a pet, we recommend that you first prepare yourself for the commitment it will require and the time that will be devoted to it, because yes, the dachshund is a lively and dynamic dog that needs to go out and get some physical exercise.
The Basics of Living with a Dachshund
Read: Which Dachshund Should You Choose?
Before adopting your dachshund into your family, it is important that you first understand their personality.
Dachshunds are well known for their stubbornness 😅
They will continue to do exactly what they want until you have trained them!
So, if you are considering getting a dachshund puppy, start their training at a very young age and be aware that you need to be assertive with them... otherwise they will tend to take charge.
Furthermore, if you are a family with small children, be careful at first when they are around your dachshund. Start early by teaching your children and your dog together so that each can get used to the other and show mutual respect.
However, as stubborn as they may be, dachshunds are probably one of the most loyal breeds in existence!
It is also a very territorial breed that will bark at everything that happens near your apartment: this is what makes the dachshund an excellent guard dog.
Moreover, dachshunds are undeniably cuddly velcro dogs! If you are looking for a small dog that loves to cuddle and be touched, then the dachshund is perfect for you.
These little terrier dogs were once trained and used to hunt foxes, badgers, among other things. Because of this, the dachshund behaves like a hunting dog that loves to dig... especially under your blankets 😅
Nothing will make your pup happier than sleeping by your side (often so close you can't move) all night long. Be sure to find a comfortable position, because your dachshund won't move for the rest of the night.
Home Life in a Restricted Space - Health and Exercise
Read: Do dachshunds shed?
Everyone knows the dachshund, and there is a good reason for that. No other dog has such an iconic shape as the famous "Dachshund"!
However, this physical form can lead to health problems if you are not careful.
Due to their long backs, dachshunds are prone to spinal issues.
Diet
According to statistics, 1/3 of adult dachshunds are overweight, so you must be very careful to monitor their daily diet (if you put food in front of them, the dachshund will continue to eat until they vomit).
This is why many dachshund owners struggle to maintain their pet's ideal weight and avoid slipping into overfeeding.
If this overfeeding continues, it will not only contribute to back problems but will increase the risk of other health issues like canine diabetes.
Living space
Also, be careful when letting your dachshund jump on furniture, as this can really affect their back.
Help your dachshund by lifting them when you can (read how to carry a dachshund), but be VERY careful to support their back!
To make their life easier, you can get them a dog ramp to help them get up and down your armchair, sofa, or bed easily.
Activity
Dachshunds need plenty of exercise, and keeping them confined to the apartment can make them a bit stressed as they need to burn off energy.
However, if you have the time, walk your dachshund at least 3 times a day, which should allow them to burn off the overflowing energy they may have.
If, on occasion, you cannot find the time to walk them enough, stimulation toys are a good solution to help your dachshund get the exercise they need in your apartment.
I Work a Lot: Can My Dachshund Stay Alone in the Apartment?
Read: How to keep your dachshund occupied?
Training dachshunds at an early age (puppies) can avoid some unpleasant surprises in your apartment, like them starting to chew furniture or clothing...
If you are constantly leaving the house for long hours during the day and leaving your dachshund alone, you might have some surprises upon your return...
This is not due to your dog's bad behavior; it means you have been gone too long and you are starting to be missed!
Punishing your dachshund after the fact will do no good. Your dachshund will not understand your anger, and they will not care.
This is why training your dachshund at an early age will more than likely save the interior of your apartment.
It is also worth noting that while dachshunds are the perfect size for an apartment, these dogs tend to behave much better in pairs (duos).
So, if you have the funds and you really want a dachshund, it might be worth it for you in the long run to adopt two dachshunds 🐶
With two "dachshunds," even if you often have to leave the house, your dog will at least have another little companion to keep them company so they don't feel so alone.
The (small) drawbacks of having a Dachshund in an Apartment
Here are a few things to consider before buying your dachshund to live in your apartment...
- Once again, dachshunds are stubborn pups. Without proper training, they are likely to have accidents in the apartment because they are very dynamic and love to play.
- Besides their stubborn personality, dachshunds are "barkers." These vocal dogs (bred for hunting) do not hesitate to bark to alert you to a noise.
This is therefore an important factor to consider if you live in an apartment with thin walls and do not want to receive complaints from your neighbors...
- Living in an apartment means being in tight quarters. Be prepared to have your dachshund lying against your legs on the sofa during your evenings or in the middle of the night.
- Dachshunds are not the most patient with small children. It would be better to supervise your child when they are playing with your dachshund until your puppy has received proper training, as dachshunds can sometimes be possessive.
Final Word
Overall, the dachshund can be an excellent pet for apartment owners and families. It just takes a little time and understanding from both parties.
It is also obvious that if you cannot invest time, this little companion is not for you (note that all dogs need attention).
However, if you have the time and the desire to work with your adorable dachshund, enjoy it and you could have a very engaging and affectionate companion for years to come.... ☺️
The Teckelshop Team - 💚 Last updated on 09/26/19
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