We dachshunds have become a favorite breed to adopt when it comes to choosing a pet. This is mostly because of our big personalities, lively nature, distinctive look, and high intelligence. All these appealing characteristics, when combined with our endearing looks – the cute floppy ears and the big charming eyes, along with our adorably small bodies – generally leave humans dazzled and defenseless. And this is exactly why even with our little disagreeable habits, humans jump at the chance to adopt one of us.
Even if the idea of owning a dachshund sounds pleasing and easy, it can be a tough job in reality. Want some advice? Learn a few things about us before and after adopting us. This will also help you quickly form a strong bond with your dachshund; this way, you will feel better equipped to take care of him as well.
Here’s something to learn about: our “cold” nature. Read on!
Do Dachshunds Like The Cold?
Maybe you have known a dog or seen one at your friend’s place who enjoys winter and dances around in the snow, leaving you with little to no worry regarding his health in the cold weather. You might even be inclined to believe that all dogs love winter. However, this is certainly not true for all breeds.
We dogs are gifted with a layer of hair on our outer body, which is generally referred to as a ‘coat’. Many dogs out there even have thick or double coats. These coats generally protect us from the cold, which is what makes dogs able to brave the rain or snow. But this is not the case with dachshunds. Dachshunds were not graced with thick fur. We are threatened by low temperatures, which is why we are usually reluctant to go outside in the freezing wind.
To sum up, you can say that we dachshunds dislike cold weather and might even shiver and shake if forced to endure low temperatures.
Root For This Dislike Towards Cold
As mentioned above, most dogs have a thick layer of hair on their body that protects them in all sorts of weather. In winter, their coat helps keep heat inside their body. But dachshunds, because of our thin fur, do not have this advantage. Our fur does not work well as an insulator.
This is a result of our domestication. Early on, when we were used for hunting purposes, we were good at handling different weather. But as times changed, and my breed was more or less domesticated, our capacity to ward off cold deteriorated. So at one time, we were capable of fending off the cold, but today, that is not the case. Even long-haired dachshunds, who might seem like they have good fur, are not good at fighting off cold. Despite the length, their coats are not thick or layered, and as such, won’t act as a good insulator.
Also, us dachshunds, because of our small legs, are closer to the ground. Our whole body almost touches the floor at all times. This basically means close proximity to dampness and coldness 24/7. As a result, we are bad at handling cold when compared to the other breeds of dog.
A medical condition can also account for our lack of protection against the cold. Some of us are prone to certain serious illnesses, like diabetes or kidney issues. And these diseases make us sensitive, and even defenseless, when it comes to the cold.
How Cold Is Too Cold?
If you own a dachshund, you might be in the habit of worrying about your little friend as soon as the temperature begin to drop. So, if you want an exact number as to how cold is too cold for your cute little friend, I don’t blame you.
As we now know, my breed is not a great fan of winter. And on the basis of my experience with it, I would say temperatures at or above 45 degrees Fahrenheit are suitable for us. But just as it begins to drop, we tend to start shivering and feel a deep need to bury ourselves underneath a deep layer of covers. So, below 45 degrees is definitely too cold.
How Ruthless Are Winters Towards My Breed?
Winter is not my favorite season. A little cold makes me uncomfortable and may even make me shiver and shake, but a very low temperature can actually physically harm me. It can make me sick, and in some cases, might even require a visit to the vet in the middle of the night.
For me, illnesses that can be caused by experiencing cold temperatures include:
Cold And Fever
Dachshunds are often the victims of temperature drops, as a result of which, we suffer from cold (with repeated sneezing), and even fever in certain cases.
Hypothermia
Your dachshund might even start showing symptoms of Wet Belly Syndrome. That is, he might refuse to go outside of the house because he is continually exposed to dampness and coldness from the ground. If you don’t make sure your dog stays dry and protected from coldness and dampness, then he will be vulnerable to hypothermia.
Frostbite
If my paws are perpetually exposed to cold, among other things, I can get frostbite.
How To Keep Dachshunds Safe From The Cold?
You might be thinking, Easy! I just won’t take my dog out. However, it’s not that simple. Because of our short legs and long backs, we are prone to certain problems like slipped discs or nerve damage. Constant exercise is very important in preventing these issues from developing. It is necessary for us to go out so it is a good idea to look for alternative solutions.
What are they? Let’s find out!
Cute Little Sweaters
If your dachshund sticks close to the heater or has a tendency to bury himself in blankets for long hours, then these are signs that he is feeling cold and in need of a sweater. This extra layer of warmth will help keep us safe from the cold.
Check out available Dachshund clothing in my articles:
Jackets And Outdoor Gears For Dachshund
Fashionable Clothes And Accessories For Your Dachshund
Warm Environment
When temperatures start to drop, we dachshunds like our kennel to be a warm environment. Adding a fleece duvet can ensure that.
Conclusion
Now that you know all about our dislike for cold and rain, take care to ensure that your little friend stays safe, warm and cozy by providing him with a cute little sweater or even a duvet for his kennel.
See Also My Other Related Posts:
Don't Forget To Make Your Dachshund Happy And Check Out Dachshund Favorite Products!
In my article, I reveal all the information about Dachshund’s Favorite Food. The best dachshund food available on the market: Most Nutritious And Delicious Dachshund Food Products Available On The Market.
If you want to learn what are the latest trends in Dachshund fashion check my article: Dachshund’s Fashion. How to choose the dachshund clothes that just simply fit: Finding the Right Clothes for Your Dachshund.
If you want to prepare your beloved Dachshund for cold weather check out my article: Jackets And Outdoor Gears For Dachshund.
To go out with your dachshund, but not choke him to death check out my article about harnesses: Finding The Best Harness for Dachshund When you are ready to get one check the options available on the market Choosing The Right Harness For Your Dachshund.
