From Floppy’s owner: Many dachshunds need extra protection in cold, wet weather, but there is no single temperature that is safe for every dog. Coat type, age, health, wind, rain, and time outdoors all matter. Watch your dog’s behavior as well as the forecast.

Start with the conditions, not a rigid cutoff

A dry, calm outing can feel very different from the same temperature in driving rain. A puppy, an older dog, or a dog with a health condition may need a shorter outing than a healthy adult. Long hair does not make a dachshund immune to cold, and smooth-coated dogs may need help staying comfortable sooner.

Shivering, lifting the paws, slowing down, or repeatedly trying to return home are reasons to end the outing. Do not push through those signs to complete a planned distance. If shivering continues after returning indoors, contact a veterinarian. Weakness, unusual drowsiness, impaired coordination, or collapse after cold exposure needs urgent veterinary care.

A practical cold-weather routine

• Check wind and precipitation before leaving, and plan a route with an easy way home.
• Use a well-fitting coat when your dog needs it. The dog should be able to walk, breathe, and relieve themselves normally.
• Inspect the belly and paws after walks, remove ice or debris, and dry wet fur.
• Keep a warm, dry resting place indoors, away from drafts and direct contact with heaters.
• Use short outdoor bathroom trips and suitable indoor enrichment when conditions are unsafe.

Choose a coat for fit, not just appearance

Measure your dog rather than buying by breed name alone. A dachshund’s long body can make a standard small-dog size a poor fit. Check the chest, neck, and back-length measurements against the manufacturer’s chart. Recheck fit while your dog moves, and remove a damp coat rather than leaving it on indoors.

What cold weather does not explain

Cold air alone does not establish that sneezing, fever, pain, or lethargy is a simple “cold.” New symptoms deserve attention, especially if they persist after your dog is warm. Do not assume that a reluctance to walk is stubbornness: pain, slippery footing, and fear can also play a part.

Keep activity appropriate

A winter routine should balance comfort, bathroom needs, and safe movement. Regular activity does not guarantee protection from intervertebral disc disease. If your dog has back pain, a recent injury, or a prescribed rest plan, follow the veterinarian’s instructions rather than using a general walking recommendation.

Sources and further guidance

• Cornell: Winter Safety Tips
• ACVS: Intervertebral Disc Disease

The post Are Dachshunds Cold-Natured? appeared first on Floppy The Dachshund.

Floppy says: Three in the morning is a tough time for a mystery bark. My owner will explain how to look for a practical cause.

The owner’s explanation

Barking at 3 a.m. does not point to one special cause. Your dachshund may need a bathroom break, hear a recurring noise, feel uncomfortable, or have trouble settling alone. If the behavior is new, pain or illness should be considered before you assume it is simply a habit.

The exact clock time is a clue to investigate, not evidence of supernatural activity. Check the dog’s needs and surroundings calmly.

What to do tonight

First, make sure your dog is safe and not showing signs of illness or pain. Offer a quiet bathroom trip when needed, then return to the sleeping area without starting a game. Check temperature, bedding, access to water, and any obvious noise or light source.

A puppy may need overnight assistance and reassurance. There is no age at which every puppy is guaranteed to sleep through the night. Do not withhold necessary bathroom breaks to meet a training deadline.

Look for a repeating trigger

A delivery vehicle, neighbor’s schedule, heating system, wildlife, or another dog may create a predictable disturbance. Note where your dog looks or moves when barking begins. Closing curtains or moving the bed to a quieter area can be a useful experiment.

Do not send the dog outside to confront wildlife. Keep outdoor trips supervised and use a leash where appropriate.

Review the evening routine

Provide appropriate activity during the day, a calm wind-down period, and a bathroom opportunity before bed. Avoid abrupt schedule changes if you can. The right amount of activity depends on the dog; strenuous exercise is not a substitute for diagnosing discomfort.

If sleeping alone causes persistent distress, consider a comfortable nearby sleeping spot while seeking a tailored plan. Ignoring panic is not the same as teaching independence.

This older illustration is not scientific evidence that dogs see ghosts. Nighttime barking should be assessed through observable triggers, practical needs, and health changes.

Keep a short record for several nights

• Bedtime and final bathroom trip.
• Time barking starts and what happens just beforehand.
• Whether the dog urinates or defecates when taken out.
• Any pacing, panting, confusion, stiffness, or appetite change.
• What helps, and how long it takes to settle.

You do not need to wait several nights if your dog seems unwell. A record is a tool, not a reason to delay care.

When to call the veterinarian

Arrange an examination for new or persistent night waking, especially with increased thirst, accidents, pain, reduced mobility, or confusion. Older dogs can develop cognitive dysfunction, but other conditions may create similar changes and need assessment. See Cornell University: cognitive dysfunction syndrome.

Severe pain, trouble breathing, collapse, or sudden inability to walk requires urgent help. Do not give sleep aids or human medication to quiet the dog.

If health and practical needs are addressed

A qualified reward-based trainer or veterinary behaviorist can help identify learned patterns and design a plan. Avoid punishment-based bark devices. The useful measure of success is comfortable, sustainable sleep for the household, not silence regardless of the dog’s welfare.

Related guides

• Why Do Dachshunds Like To Sleep With Covers?
• Reasons Why Your Pet Shouldn’t Sleep in Your Bed
• Common Reasons Behind Your Adult Dog Peeing In The House

Sources and further guidance

• Cornell University: cognitive dysfunction syndrome
• Cornell University: recognizing pain in dogs
• VCA Animal Hospitals: emergencies in dogs
• AVSAB: humane, reward-based dog training

The post Why Do Dachshunds Bark At 3 AM? appeared first on Floppy The Dachshund.

Do not use pepper sprays, concentrated essential oils, rubbing alcohol, or harsh cleaners to keep a dog away from furniture or garden beds. Avoid recipes that turn irritation into a supposedly harmless deterrent.

Why “natural” is not enough

Plants and plant extracts contain active chemicals. Concentrated essential oils can be harmful to pets through exposure or ingestion; ASPCA Poison Control advises caution with oils on skin, fur, and accessible surfaces. Adding water does not automatically make an oil mixture safe or evenly diluted.

Citrus peel, mint, and other scented ingredients also should not be scattered where a dog may chew or swallow them simply because they smell unpleasant. The safety of an ingredient, concentration, and route of exposure needs more than a general claim that dogs dislike it.

Products to keep out of training recipes

• Hot pepper or chili mixtures that can irritate eyes, skin, or airways.
• Alcohol-soaked cotton balls that can be swallowed or pose a fire hazard.
• Concentrated citrus, peppermint, or other essential oils.
• Household cleaners used contrary to label directions.
• Any spray aimed directly at the dog’s face or body as punishment.

Vinegar is not a universal dog-repellent solution either. A smell-based method can fail, irritate the dog, or leave the original reason for the behavior unresolved.

Match the solution to the problem

For a garden bed, use a secure physical barrier and supervise access. For chewing, remove tempting objects and offer appropriate chew items while investigating whether boredom, teething, or distress contributes. For furniture access, teach a comfortable alternative resting place.

For repeated indoor urination, clean with a pet-appropriate enzymatic product and review bathroom opportunities. A sudden change in a house-trained dog calls for veterinary advice, not a stronger fragrance.

Make the home comfortable

Store cleaners and oils securely, follow label instructions, and keep your dog away from treated areas for the required time. Allow ventilation where appropriate. Do not assume a product is safe for direct use on a dog because it is sold for household use or described as natural.

If your dog consistently avoids a scented area, remove the scent and observe whether comfort improves. Avoid repeatedly exposing the dog to test how much they dislike it.

If exposure has already happened

Move your dog away from the source if you can do so safely. Contact your veterinarian or an animal poison service with the exact product, ingredients, amount, and time of exposure. Do not induce vomiting or apply another chemical to neutralize it unless directed. Breathing difficulty, collapse, or marked weakness requires emergency care.

The safest boundary is one your dog can understand without being hurt or frightened: manage access, teach an alternative, and investigate persistent behavior instead of escalating the smell.

Related reading and original listings

• Things Dogs Often Dislike: How to Make Life More Comfortable
• Do Dachshunds Know When They Fart? Gas and When to Worry
• Do Dachshunds Like Water? A Safe Introduction
• Why Do Dachshunds Have Deep Chests?
• Can Dachshunds See in the Dark?

Sources and further information

• ASPCA Poison Control: essential-oil exposure
• ASPCA Poison Control: what to do after suspected poisoning
• AVSAB: humane, reward-based dog training

The post What Smell Do Dachshunds Hate The Most? appeared first on Floppy The Dachshund.

Floppy says: A sudden growl is a reason to pause and give space. My owner will explain the safety steps and why a veterinary check matters.

The owner’s explanation

A sudden change to growling, snapping, or biting deserves a prompt veterinary assessment and an immediate safety plan. Pain, illness, fear, and changes in the environment can affect behavior. Do not dismiss the change as a dachshund being naturally aggressive or trying to dominate you.

For now, avoid the situations that provoke the response, keep children and other animals safely separated, and tell the clinic about the bite risk before the appointment.

Make the situation safer without confrontation

Use doors or sturdy barriers to create distance. Let the dog rest in a comfortable space without people approaching, grabbing, or testing them. Do not corner the dog, take food by force, or punish a growl. A warning is information you need to respect.

If the dog is injured or cannot be handled safely, call the clinic for transport instructions. Do not improvise restraints that interfere with breathing or force a muzzle onto a panicking dog. Muzzle training can be useful in a planned program, but it requires appropriate equipment and gradual introduction.

Why a veterinary check comes first

A previously comfortable dog may react defensively when something hurts. The problem could involve a limb, back, mouth, ear, or another area. Medical and behavioral factors can coexist, and a normal-looking dog can still be painful. See Cornell University: recognizing pain in dogs.

The veterinarian may review the history, examine the dog, and recommend tests based on the findings. Do not start pain medication, sedatives, supplements, or leftover prescriptions on your own.

Build an accurate incident history

• What happened immediately before the reaction?
• Who or what approached, and from which direction?
• Was the dog resting, eating, playing, or being handled?
• Were there earlier signals such as freezing, moving away, or stiffening?
• Has appetite, sleep, walking, toileting, hearing, or vision changed?
• Was anyone bitten, and how serious was the injury?

Write this down without recreating the incident for a video. If a person is bitten, obtain appropriate medical advice for the wound as well as veterinary help for the dog.

What behavior treatment may involve

After assessment, a veterinarian or veterinary behaviorist can recommend management and a tailored behavior plan. A qualified reward-based trainer may be part of the team. The plan should address the trigger and the dog’s emotional state, not merely suppress the outward warning.

Eating before the dog, going through doors first, or forcing submission does not diagnose or solve aggression. Neutering is not a universal cure, and breed stereotypes are not an individualized risk assessment.

What should you expect?

Ask for clear instructions about safe contact, visitors, walks, handling, and follow-up. Improvement varies with the cause, severity, environment, and ability to prevent further incidents. Avoid anyone promising an instant cure or guaranteeing safety after a brief training session.

Your immediate job is not to prove control. It is to prevent another incident, identify possible medical contributors, and work with qualified professionals on a plan the household can follow.

Related guides

• How to Prevent Your Dogs from Fighting
• Do Dachshunds Have Leg Problems?
• Can Dachshunds Make Good Family Pets?

Sources and further guidance

• Merck Veterinary Manual: behavior problems in dogs
• Cornell University: recognizing pain in dogs
• AVSAB: humane, reward-based dog training
• VCA Animal Hospitals: emergencies in dogs

The post Why Is My Dachshund All of A Sudden Being Aggressive? appeared first on Floppy The Dachshund.

Floppy says: A whine deserves a closer look, not an instant translation. My owner will explain the difference between vocalizing and watery eyes.

The owner’s explanation

Dachshunds can whine, whimper, howl, or yelp. Those sounds may reflect a need, excitement, frustration, fear, or pain; they do not all mean separation anxiety. Wet eyes are a different issue and should not automatically be interpreted as emotional crying.

Start by checking the circumstances and your dog’s overall condition. Sudden vocalizing with pain or weakness needs veterinary advice. Breathing difficulty, collapse, or sudden inability to walk requires urgent care.

Whining when you leave

A dog who vocalizes during departure may be unsettled, but the sound alone does not establish a diagnosis. Watch for the broader pattern: pacing, escape attempts, inability to settle, or other signs of distress. A safe recording can help show what happens after you leave.

Do not simply keep lengthening absences while your dog panics. Arrange appropriate care where possible and ask your veterinarian or a qualified behavior professional for a gradual plan matched to the dog’s response.

Practicing departure cues at a comfortable level may be part of that plan, but there is no universal sequence that cures every dog. A toy or item carrying your scent is not a guaranteed treatment either. Only leave items that are safe for that dog’s chewing habits.

Whining for everyday needs

Check bathroom access, water, rest, temperature, and whether the dog is stuck or frightened. Meet genuine needs. For predictable requests, you can teach a simple alternative, such as approaching a door mat, rather than deliberately encouraging louder barking.

If whining happens during play or training, reduce frustration and make the task easier. Reward calm participation. Avoid expecting a puppy to remain silent while their physical needs go unmet.

Yelping or crying during movement

A dog who cries when lifted, avoids walking, or reacts to touch may be painful. Stop testing the movement and contact your veterinarian. Do not give human pain medicine or use someone else’s prescription.

For a dachshund with sudden weakness or inability to walk, seek urgent care and minimize unnecessary movement while arranging transport. Vocalization is only one possible sign of pain; a quiet dog can still be unwell.

Watery eyes are not the same as whining

Persistent tearing, discharge, redness, squinting, or rubbing the face calls for an eye assessment. Do not assume the dog is sad, and do not apply human eye drops without veterinary advice. Eye pain, a suddenly closed or squinting eye, or sudden vision changes needs urgent veterinary assessment. See Cornell University: glaucoma and eye warning signs.

What about smiles and laughter?

A relaxed open mouth during comfortable play can look like a smile, and playful breathing can sound expressive. Those observations do not prove the dog is laughing in the human sense. Use the whole interaction to judge comfort rather than labeling every expression.

Your next step should fit the cause: a bathroom break for a bathroom need, a safer setup for fear, training for a learned request, or veterinary care for possible pain or illness. Punishing the sound alone does not resolve the underlying problem.

Related guides

• Do Dachshunds Have Leg Problems?
• Common Reasons Behind Your Adult Dog Peeing In The House
• Why Do Dachshunds Like To Sleep With Covers?

Sources and further guidance

• Merck Veterinary Manual: behavior problems in dogs
• American College of Veterinary Surgeons: intervertebral disc disease
• Cornell University: glaucoma and eye warning signs
• VCA Animal Hospitals: emergencies in dogs

The post Do Dachshund Cry? appeared first on Floppy The Dachshund.

Floppy says: The house may be quiet to human ears without being quiet to a dog. My owner will explain what to check before another restless night.

The owner’s explanation

Your dachshund may be reacting to a sound, movement, discomfort, or a need you have not noticed. “Nothing is happening” usually means nothing is obvious to you, not that the dog has no reason to bark. Nighttime barking can also become a learned routine, so the solution depends on the pattern.

If a previously settled dog suddenly starts waking and barking, check for illness, pain, and changes in toileting before treating it as a training problem.

Look for environmental triggers

Traffic, other dogs, wildlife, lights, and household equipment can disturb sleep. Notice whether barking begins at a window, door, or particular sound. Close curtains, move the bed away from a busy boundary, or use a quieter room if that helps.

Do not leave your dachshund outdoors overnight to practice ignoring noises. Provide a comfortable indoor sleeping area and supervised bathroom trips. If you suspect wildlife, inspect safely during daylight rather than sending the dog outside to investigate.

Check practical needs

Was there a suitable bathroom break before bed? Is the sleeping area too hot, cold, noisy, or uncomfortable? Has the household schedule changed? A puppy may need overnight help; an older dog may need a revised routine.

Daytime activity and enrichment can support a settled evening, but exhausting the dog is not a treatment for every cause. Choose activities appropriate to health and fitness, and leave time to wind down.

How to respond in the moment

Calmly check that your dog is safe and not unwell. Offer a brief, quiet bathroom trip if needed, then return to the sleeping arrangement. Avoid turning every waking into exciting play or a large snack.

Do not automatically ignore prolonged distress. If the dog cannot settle when separated from you, consider whether the sleeping setup is beyond their current comfort. A nearby dog bed may be a reasonable management choice while you seek advice; it is not a guaranteed cure for separation anxiety.

Keep a night log

• Record the time barking starts and how long it lasts.
• Note any sound, movement, or location associated with it.
• Record bathroom trips, appetite, thirst, and daytime behavior.
• Note what response actually helped the dog settle.
• If available, use a safe recording to show the veterinarian or trainer.

Change one manageable environmental factor at a time so you can learn what matters.

When professional help is needed

New persistent night waking, pain, increased thirst, accidents, confusion, or changes in mobility warrant a veterinary appointment. Cognitive dysfunction can affect older dogs’ routines, but other medical causes need consideration too. See Cornell University: cognitive dysfunction syndrome.

If health needs are addressed and barking continues, a qualified reward-based professional can help design training around the trigger. Avoid shock or spray collars and frightening corrections. The goal is a dog who can rest comfortably, not one who has been scared into silence.

Related guides

• Why Do Dachshunds Like To Sleep With Covers?
• Reasons Why Your Pet Shouldn’t Sleep in Your Bed
• Common Reasons Behind Your Adult Dog Peeing In The House

Sources and further guidance

• Cornell University: recognizing pain in dogs
• Cornell University: cognitive dysfunction syndrome
• AVSAB: humane, reward-based dog training
• VCA Animal Hospitals: separation-related distress in dogs

The post Why Do Dachshunds Bark At Night When There’s Nothing Going On? appeared first on Floppy The Dachshund.

Floppy says: That thoughtful stare might be about dinner, a door, or something else entirely. My owner will explain which clues matter.

The owner’s explanation

A dachshund may stare because they expect food, want a bathroom break, are waiting for a cue, or enjoy being near you. The meaning depends on what is happening and how the rest of the body looks. Staring is not one behavior with one explanation.

A relaxed look is different from a fixed stare with a stiff body. If your dog freezes, guards an item, or seems uncomfortable when approached, give space instead of staring back or reaching in.

Start with the situation

Does the staring happen near the door, during meal preparation, while you hold a toy, or after you give a training cue? Those details can suggest a practical response. Check whether your dog needs something before deciding the behavior is simply attention seeking.

An illustrative example: if your dog looks between you and the exit at their usual bathroom time, offer a bathroom opportunity. If they watch a sandwich, interest in food is a simpler explanation than a claim about loyalty or dominance.

During training

A dog who pauses and watches may not understand the cue in that setting. Make the task easier, reduce distractions, and reward a clear success. Avoid repeating the instruction louder or interpreting confusion as deliberate defiance.

Keep sessions short enough for comfortable participation. If a previously familiar task suddenly becomes difficult, consider whether pain, hearing, vision, or another health change warrants assessment.

During friendly contact

Soft eye contact may be part of a comfortable social interaction, but do not force a prolonged gaze. Invite contact, pause, and let your dog move away.

Body language is contextual. Tail movement, panting, and ear position should be interpreted with the dog’s posture and environment, not used as a checklist that guarantees friendliness.

When staring is a warning

A hard stare near food, a toy, a resting place, or during handling may be part of a tense interaction. Stop approaching and keep children and other pets away. Do not take the object to prove a point or punish a growl.

Get veterinary and qualified behavior guidance if this repeats. Sudden sensitivity or aggression may have a medical contributor.

What about staring into space?

Your dog may be noticing a sound or movement you missed. However, repeated unusual episodes, apparent confusion, getting stuck in familiar places, or changes in sleep and house-training should be discussed with a veterinarian. In older dogs, cognitive dysfunction is one possibility, not a diagnosis that can be made from staring alone. See Cornell University: cognitive dysfunction syndrome.

If your dog collapses, is unresponsive, has trouble breathing, or has an ongoing seizure, seek emergency veterinary care immediately. Unusual episodes that have stopped still need prompt veterinary advice. Record the duration or a safe video only if doing so does not delay care; do not provoke another episode.

Keep a short observation log

Note the time, context, duration, body posture, and what happened afterward. This helps distinguish a familiar request from a new pattern. Respond to the dog’s needs while avoiding certainty about thoughts that the behavior cannot establish.

Related guides

• Are Dachshunds A Smart Breed?
• Reasons Why Your Pet Shouldn’t Sleep in Your Bed
• Common Reasons Behind Your Adult Dog Peeing In The House

Sources and further guidance

• VCA Animal Hospitals: interpreting dog body language
• Merck Veterinary Manual: behavior problems in dogs
• Cornell University: cognitive dysfunction syndrome
• VCA Animal Hospitals: emergencies in dogs

The post Why Does My Dachshund Stare At Me Constantly? appeared first on Floppy The Dachshund.

From Floppy’s owner: A dachshund may react to the sound, smell, or sensation of passing gas, but we cannot tell from that reaction exactly what the dog understands. A startled look is not evidence of embarrassment.

Occasional gas can be unremarkable. A persistent increase, pain, appetite change, vomiting, or diarrhea is more important than whether your dog appears to notice the smell.

Where gas comes from

Swallowed air and fermentation during digestion can contribute to flatulence. Food changes, extra treats, scavenging, and eating patterns may affect it. Both diet and air swallowing can matter, but an ingredient list alone cannot diagnose the cause in your dog.

A food that suits one dog may not suit another. “Premium,” “natural,” or “grain-free” does not guarantee less gas, and a bad smell does not prove a particular additive is causing disease.

Keep a useful food record

Write down the exact main food, amount, treats, chews, table food, and any recent changes. Include access to trash or another pet’s bowl. Record when gas occurs and whether stool, appetite, weight, or behavior has changed.

This record is more useful than changing several foods and supplements at once. If symptoms persist, take it to your veterinarian and discuss whether an examination or a supervised diet change is appropriate.

Practical changes to discuss or try cautiously

Avoid unplanned table scraps and prevent scavenging. Keep meals calm, especially if another pet makes your dog rush. A correctly sized slow-feeding bowl may help a fast eater, provided the dog can use it comfortably and the material is not chewed.

Do not place a loose tennis ball or another swallowable object in the bowl to slow eating. Do not add human gas remedies, digestive supplements, or restrictive diets without advice. Food intolerance, allergy, and other digestive conditions are not interchangeable labels.

When gas is not the main issue

Contact a veterinarian about persistent flatulence accompanied by loose stool, weight loss, poor appetite, or discomfort. Repeated unproductive retching, a swollen or painful abdomen, severe weakness, or collapse requires urgent care rather than a food experiment.

Be particularly cautious with puppies, older dogs, or dogs with an existing medical condition. The whole clinical picture matters more than the number of times gas is passed.

Can you train a dog not to fart?

Punishment will not solve a digestive issue. Keep the dog comfortable, ventilate the room, and investigate changes that affect well-being. A funny reaction may make a memorable moment, but it does not provide a reliable window into canine self-awareness.

The best next step is simple: if your dog otherwise seems well, watch for patterns; if the gas is new, persistent, or accompanied by other symptoms, ask your veterinarian.

Sources and further guidance

• VCA Animal Hospitals: Dogs and Gas
• ACVS: Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus
• VCA Animal Hospitals: Emergencies in Dogs

The post Do Dachshunds Know When They Fart? appeared first on Floppy The Dachshund.

From Floppy’s owner: “Cold-natured” can mean sensitive to chilly weather or emotionally aloof. Dachshunds vary in both respects. Some seek warmth quickly, while some are cautious with unfamiliar people despite being affectionate at home. Neither trait means every dachshund has the same needs or temperament.

If your question is about weather, use your dog’s comfort and health to guide outings. If it is about affection, look at voluntary interaction rather than expecting every dog to enjoy cuddling.

Affection does not always look like a cuddle

A dachshund may choose to rest nearby, follow familiar routines, or play with you without wanting to be hugged or carried. Let the dog approach and leave. A reserved dog is not necessarily unhappy or disloyal.

Sudden withdrawal is different from a lifelong preference. If a usually social dog becomes reluctant to move, avoids handling, or behaves unusually, contact your veterinarian. Discomfort can affect how much contact a dog wants.

Hunting history is not a personality guarantee

The breed has a history of scent-driven work, and many dachshunds enjoy sniffing and investigating. That history does not make every individual aggressive, stubborn, or incapable of learning. Do not use coat type alone to predict whether an individual dog will be outgoing or easygoing.

Use short, clear training sessions and rewards that matter to the individual. A missed cue may reflect distraction or an incomplete skill rather than an argument over who is in charge.

Help a cautious dog feel safe

• Keep greetings optional and give visitors simple instructions.
• Provide a resting area where the dog will not be approached.
• Introduce new situations gradually, at a comfortable distance.
• Allow sniffing and breaks instead of insisting on continuous interaction.
• Reward calm participation without using food to pull the dog into an overwhelming situation.

Children need active supervision. Teach them not to grab, chase, corner, or disturb the dog. Another dog is not automatically a better companion because it is a dachshund; size and play style still matter.

Alone time and everyday activity

Build a routine with bathroom access, appropriate exercise, enrichment, rest, and social contact. A fenced yard does not replace walks or time with people. Keep the dog secure outdoors, especially where following a scent could lead toward traffic or wildlife.

Destruction or indoor accidents are not proof of revenge. If absence produces persistent distress, get professional guidance rather than treating the behavior as a personality flaw.

What if your dog gets physically cold?

Offer a warm, dry indoor resting place. For necessary outings, consider a properly fitted coat if your dog tolerates it, and return inside if they show discomfort. Wet clothing should not remain on the dog. Move a shivering dog to a warm, dry place. Persistent shivering needs veterinary advice, and weakness, collapse, or suspected hypothermia requires urgent veterinary care.

Choose care based on the dog in front of you. A useful temperament assessment asks what helps that dog feel comfortable, not whether they match a list of breed stereotypes.

Sources and further guidance

• Merck Veterinary Manual: Behavior Problems of Dogs
• American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior: Humane Dog Training
• Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine: Winter Safety Tips

The post Are Dachshunds Cold-natured? appeared first on Floppy The Dachshund.

Floppy says: Matching long bodies do not automatically make matching roommates. My owner will explain how to put compatibility and safe introductions first.

The owner’s explanation

There is no dependable rule that a dachshund will prefer another dachshund over every other dog. Compatibility depends on the individuals: their social history, play style, health, size, energy, and ability to share a home. Matching the breed is not a substitute for careful introductions.

A second dog is also not a reliable treatment for separation distress. Before adopting, ask whether you want and can care for another dog even if the two never become close playmates.

What matters more than the label

Consider how your current dog responds to calm dogs, energetic dogs, puppies, and unfamiliar visitors. A dog who enjoys one familiar friend may dislike a crowded dog park. A senior with pain may find a persistent puppy overwhelming.

Size matters for physical safety even when both dogs are friendly. A larger dog can injure a dachshund during exuberant play. No “gentle giant” breed guarantees a safe match, and a small dog’s bite should not be minimized either.

Questions before adding a dog

• Can you afford separate veterinary care, training, equipment, and supervision?
• Can you provide separate feeding and resting areas?
• Does the resident dog have unresolved guarding, fear, or pain?
• Can each dog receive individual attention and walks?
• Does the rescue or breeder support carefully managed meetings and explain their placement policy?

Do not choose solely by sex or assume female dogs cannot live together. Individual history and observed interaction provide more useful information than a blanket male-versus-female rule.

Plan a low-pressure first meeting

Arrange an appropriate neutral setting and a capable adult handler for each dog. Begin at a distance where both remain comfortable rather than forcing nose-to-nose contact. A parallel walk may provide an opportunity to observe relaxed behavior, but the pace and distance should suit both dogs.

Do not use a first meeting to test whether they will “sort it out.” If either dog is stiff, repeatedly avoiding, lunging, or unable to settle, create distance and get qualified help before progressing.

Set up the home before arrival

Provide barriers and separate areas so neither dog must immediately share beds, food, toys, or close space. Feed separately. Supervise interactions and allow rest away from each other. Do not leave them together unsupervised simply because the first greeting went well. See Battersea: introducing a new dog to an existing dog.

An authorized trial arrangement can reveal more than one short visit, but it still needs a safety plan and clear expectations with the organization placing the dog.

When one dog is enough

Some dogs are comfortable as the only dog. Suitable human company, walks, enrichment, and planned care may meet their needs without a second pet. If loneliness is really panic during owner absence, consult your veterinarian or a veterinary behaviorist instead of assuming a companion will fix it.

The aim is peaceful, safe coexistence. Friendship is a welcome outcome, but it should not be forced or promised based on matching long bodies and short legs.

Related guides

• Can Dachshunds Make Good Family Pets?
• How to Prevent Your Dogs from Fighting
• Are Dachshunds A Smart Breed?

Sources and further guidance

• Battersea: introducing a new dog to an existing dog
• VCA Animal Hospitals: separation-related distress in dogs
• VCA Animal Hospitals: interpreting dog body language

The post Do Dachshunds Prefer Other Dachshunds? appeared first on Floppy The Dachshund.

From Floppy’s owner: Some dachshunds enjoy water and others prefer dry ground. Breed alone cannot tell you whether an individual dog likes swimming or can do it safely. Never throw a dog in to find out, and do not assume that paddling means they can stay afloat, find an exit, or cope with fatigue.

A safe outing can be a relaxed walk near water or shallow wading. Swimming is optional, not a milestone every dachshund needs to achieve.

Start with the setting

Choose a controlled area with safe footing and an easy exit. Avoid currents, waves, steep banks, boat traffic, cold water, and unknown water quality. Check local closures and algae warnings before allowing access. Clear-looking water is not a guarantee of safety.

Keep your dog close enough to assist without putting yourself in danger. Use a properly fitted canine flotation device, and supervise continuously. Flotation equipment is not a guarantee against drowning. Follow its fitting instructions and practice wearing it on land first.

Introduce water without pressure

Begin at a distance where your dog remains relaxed. Let them investigate the edge voluntarily and reward calm interest. If they choose to wet their paws, keep the experience brief. Do not lure them into a depth they cannot handle or drag them forward with the leash.

Watch for freezing, scrambling, frantic paddling, repeated attempts to leave, or tiredness. End the session before distress develops. Returning another day is better than making one outing a battle.

A swimming photograph is not a complete safety demonstration. Use a properly fitted canine flotation device, stay close, supervise continuously, and provide an easy exit.

Teach the exit, not just entry

In a suitable supervised setting, help your dog learn where to leave the water. Pool steps and ramps may not be obvious from the dog’s perspective. Access should be blocked when nobody is supervising, even if the dog has swum successfully before.

For a dog with a medical or mobility condition, ask your veterinarian before swimming. Recreational swimming is not interchangeable with prescribed rehabilitation.

Water safety checklist

• Bring fresh drinking water and discourage drinking pool, lake, or seawater.
• Inspect the life jacket and secure it according to its instructions.
• Stay within a safe, controlled area and keep sessions short.
• Stop if the dog is cold, tired, distressed, or unwilling.
• Rinse and dry the dog as appropriate after the outing.
• Store equipment out of reach if it could be chewed.

Harmful algae can be dangerous. If your dog contacts suspected contaminated water, prevent licking and immediately rinse the coat thoroughly with fresh water if you can do so safely. Contact a veterinarian immediately, even if your dog still seems well. Rinsing does not replace veterinary care.

What if your dachshund never enjoys it?

Choose a different activity. Sniffing walks, training games, and gentle play can be just as rewarding. A dog who declines water is not failing to be brave, and repeated forced exposure is not the route to confidence.

Judge success by your dog’s comfort and safety, not how deep they go or how long they swim.

Sources and further guidance

• AAHA: Water Safety for Dogs
• VCA Animal Hospitals: Water Sports Safety
• Cornell: Harmful Algae Exposure

The post Do Dachshunds Like Water? appeared first on Floppy The Dachshund.

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From Floppy’s owner: Some dachshunds stand with their front feet angled slightly outward, but a photograph cannot tell you whether the alignment is healthy. A pronounced turn, unequal limbs, worsening shape during growth, limping, or pain deserves veterinary evaluation. Do not dismiss a functional problem as simply part of the breed’s appearance.

Feet that turn out are not the same thing as kneecap luxation, and paw licking does not diagnose a leg deformity. Separate the visible alignment from other signs so your veterinarian can investigate the right problem.

Why limb alignment can change

The forelimb includes bones and joints that need to work together. Differences in growth, injury to a growing limb, or other developmental changes may affect alignment. An angular limb deformity is more than a cosmetic label: joint fit and comfortable movement may be affected.

Dachshunds’ short-legged build provides background, not a complete explanation for every crooked leg. Avoid claims that one gene, one nutritional deficiency, or ordinary walking explains every case. A growing puppy with a changing limb shape should be assessed promptly rather than waiting until adulthood.

What to bring to the appointment

• Your dog’s age and when you first noticed the change.
• Whether one or both front limbs are affected.
• Any known fall, collision, or other injury.
• Photos taken over time from a consistent angle, if already available.
• A short video of normal walking, only if the dog can do so comfortably.
• Information about diet, supplements, and current medication.

The veterinarian may watch your dog move, examine the joints, and recommend imaging. Treatment and timing depend on the diagnosis and whether growth is still occurring. Do not try to straighten the limb with homemade splints, stretching, or exercises.

Look at the paws and nails too

A damaged nail, sore pad, foreign material, or irritated skin can cause limping even when limb shape is unchanged. Check gently if your dog allows it, but stop if they show pain or might bite. Persistent licking, swelling, discharge, bleeding, or a lump between the toes needs an examination.

Do not assume every itchy paw is a food allergy. Do not squeeze or lance a bump, apply leftover antibiotics, or follow a fixed antiseptic regimen from an article. Different causes require different treatment, and licking may complicate healing.

Routine care without overpromising

Keep nails at an appropriate length with help from a groomer or veterinary team if needed. Provide good footing and avoid surfaces that are dangerously hot, icy, or abrasive. Ask your veterinarian about body condition and an appropriate complete diet.

Extra calcium, vitamins, or minerals do not automatically correct limb alignment and may be inappropriate for a growing dog. Do not add them as a home treatment.

What about knee problems?

A luxating patella affects the kneecap in a hind limb; it does not explain all outward-facing front feet. Brief hind-leg skipping, persistent lameness, or unusual movement is worth describing separately. Your veterinarian can assess whether several problems coexist.

When is it urgent?

A dog who cannot bear weight after an injury, has severe pain, or suddenly cannot stand or walk needs urgent care. Keep activity limited while arranging professional advice; do not perform a home test by forcing a walk.

The goal is comfortable function, not making your dog look like a picture. Early assessment gives you a clearer answer about what needs monitoring, what may require treatment, and what activity is appropriate now.

Floppy’s coloring book

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Separate from the care guidance: Floppy the Dachshund: Adventures Around the World coloring book on Amazon, or the book’s original short Amazon link. Check the current edition and availability with the seller.

Sources and further guidance

• Merck Veterinary Manual: Developmental Bone and Limb Problems
• ACVS: Patellar Luxation
• FDA: Complete and Balanced Pet Food

The post Why Do Dachshunds Feet Turn Out? appeared first on Floppy The Dachshund.

Floppy says: Woof! That pillow looks inviting, but the sleeping arrangements are a family decision. My owner will explain how to make them comfortable and safe.

The owner’s explanation

Sharing a bed with your dachshund is a household choice, not automatically a bad habit or a sign of dominance. The decision depends on sleep quality, health considerations, your dog’s behavior, and safe access to the bed. A dog bed beside your own can provide closeness without the same space and access problems.

Separate sleeping is the better immediate choice if your dog guards the bed, startles aggressively when touched, cannot get down safely, or disrupts anyone’s sleep. Do not force a confrontation to reclaim a sleeping spot.

What people may enjoy

Some owners find a dog’s company comforting and like having their pet nearby. Those preferences are valid, but they are not evidence that bed-sharing treats anxiety, lowers cholesterol, or improves health. Pet ownership and sleeping on the same mattress are different questions.

Others prefer a cooler, cleaner, quieter bed. You do not owe your dog mattress access to demonstrate affection.

Reasons to choose a separate bed

• Your dachshund moves, snores, scratches, or wakes you repeatedly.
• Someone has allergies or a medical reason to limit close animal contact.
• The dog is not reliably house-trained or needs frequent nighttime bathroom breaks.
• The bed creates a fall risk or difficult access.
• The dog stiffens, growls, or snaps when approached or moved.

People with particular infection risks should ask their clinician about close sleeping arrangements. Discuss your dog’s parasite prevention, skin problems, or illness with your veterinarian. Basic hygiene is useful, but it cannot guarantee zero risk.

Dachshund access matters

A high bed can be difficult for a small, long-bodied dog. Do not assume adding a bench makes the route safe; that may simply create another jump. Consider a stable, nonslip access solution approved for your dog’s needs, or keep sleeping at floor level. A dog with a back diagnosis may have specific restrictions that take priority.

If you lift your dog, support the chest and rear, keep the body steady, and prevent jumping from your arms. Do not repeatedly lift a dog who appears painful.

Help your dog learn a new sleeping place

Set up a comfortable bed in a calm location, initially nearby if that helps. Reward voluntary use during the day before expecting an entire night there. Keep the bedtime routine predictable and offer appropriate bathroom breaks.

A crate is an option only if it is a comfortable, familiar resting space for that dog. Do not suddenly confine a panicking dog or ignore signs of illness in the name of consistency.

What if the dog takes your spot?

Warmth, comfort, and habit may explain it; the behavior does not prove a bid for leadership. Teach a voluntary move-to-bed cue in a relaxed setting. If the dog guards the spot, manage access and seek veterinary and behavior help rather than pulling or pushing them away.

Try the arrangement that supports good sleep

Track how everyone sleeps and whether the dog moves safely. You can revise the rule if circumstances change. The best arrangement is one that is comfortable, predictable, and safe for both the people and the dog.

Related reading and original listings

• Do Dachshunds Bond With Only One Person?

Sources

AVSAB: humane training and dominance position statements

• Behavior reference

The post Reasons Why Your Pet Shouldn’t Sleep in Your Bed appeared first on Floppy The Dachshund.

From Floppy’s owner: To understand your dachshund’s body language, look at posture, movement, facial expression, and the situation together. No single gesture translates neatly into one emotion. A wagging tail can accompany excitement or tension, and a dog lying on their back is not always asking for a belly rub.

The most useful response to uncertainty is to pause, create space, and let the dog choose whether to reengage.

Start with your dog’s normal behavior

Notice how your dachshund looks when resting comfortably, greeting a familiar person, and exploring a safe place. This baseline helps you recognize changes. Long ears or a particular tail carriage can make textbook illustrations less obvious, so focus on changes in tension and movement rather than one fixed pose.

Pain can change posture too. A newly hunched stance, reluctance to move, or reaction to touch deserves veterinary attention rather than an assumption about mood.

Relaxed interaction versus tension

A loose body, easy movement, and voluntary approach may indicate comfort. A still body, closed mouth, hard stare, or attempt to turn away may suggest the dog needs space. Read combinations and context; panting can reflect heat, activity, stress, or illness.

If your dog freezes or growls when approached, stop advancing. Keep children away and avoid reaching over the dog. Do not punish a warning or repeatedly recreate the situation to see what happens.

Common gestures and their limits

• Resting the head on you may be comfortable contact or a request for attention. It is not a promise to protect you.
• Standing over you does not establish a rank in the household. Consider location, access, and what the dog is trying to reach.
• A play bow often appears during play, but the rest of the interaction should still be loose and mutually enjoyable.
• Rolling onto the back can occur during relaxed contact or an uncomfortable interaction. Do not automatically reach for the belly.
• Licking can accompany social contact, interest in taste, or other states. It is not an infallible sign of affection.

Make petting a conversation

Invite your dog closer, offer a few gentle strokes, and pause. If they return or lean in comfortably, continue briefly. If they move off, stiffen, or turn away, stop. Never hold the dog in place to finish showing affection.

Teach children to use the same principle with active adult supervision. Avoid hugs, face-to-face kisses, and disturbing a dog who is sleeping, eating, or chewing.

Watch play between dogs

Look for opportunities to pause and disengage. If one dog repeatedly tries to escape, hides, or becomes stiff, separate calmly rather than assuming rough play is harmless. Similar size or breed does not guarantee compatible play.

When to ask for help

Record the situation and what happened immediately before the behavior. A safe video may help a professional, but do not provoke a reaction to obtain one. New sensitivity to touch, changes in movement, or sudden aggression should start with a veterinary appointment. A qualified behavior professional can help interpret persistent patterns and build a safe plan.

Sources and further guidance

• RSPCA: Understanding Your Dog’s Body Language
• VCA Animal Hospitals: Interpreting Dog Language
• American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior: Dominance and Behavior Modification
• Merck Veterinary Manual: Behavior Problems of Dogs

The post Dachshund’s Body Language Explained appeared first on Floppy The Dachshund.

Floppy says: Personal space is a good thing, even for a small dog. My owner will explain how to notice discomfort and make everyday care kinder.

The owner’s explanation

Dogs do not all dislike the same things, but forced contact, frightening experiences, painful handling, and unpredictable treatment can make many dogs uncomfortable. Watch your individual dog and change the parts of a situation that cause discomfort.

Watch the whole body and the situation. Moving away, freezing, turning the head, or becoming stiff can mean an interaction needs to stop. A wagging tail does not automatically make the rest of the body language friendly.

Forced greetings and close contact

Allow your dachshund to choose whether to approach visitors or unfamiliar dogs. A dog park is not a necessary test of sociability. If your dog is trying to hide or leave, create distance rather than making them “say hello.”

Avoid tight hugs, face-to-face crowding, and lifting without warning. Invite contact, pet briefly in an area the dog appears to enjoy, then pause. If the dog moves away, let them. Children need active adult supervision and a clear rule that sleeping and eating dogs are left alone.

Loud sounds and frightening situations

Thunder, fireworks, construction, or household noises can be upsetting. Provide a comfortable retreat and reduce exposure where possible. Do not force a dog to remain near a noise until they give up reacting. A quiet dog is not necessarily a relaxed dog.

For recurring fear, speak with your veterinarian before the next predictable event. Training plans should be gradual and remain within the dog’s ability to cope. Pressure wraps, supplements, and other products are not guaranteed solutions or substitutes for assessment.

Handling, grooming, and clothing

Brushing a mat, trimming a painful nail, or pulling a tight garment over the head can hurt. Break routine care into small, rewarded steps. A groomer or veterinary team can help if necessary care cannot be completed comfortably.

Do not skip needed hygiene indefinitely because the dog dislikes it, but do not turn it into a struggle either. Ask for a safe plan. Clothes should have a practical purpose or be tolerated comfortably; remove them if they restrict movement, snag, or cause distress.

Too little choice and too little to do

A dog needs opportunities to rest undisturbed as well as appropriate activity and social contact. Sniffing on a safe walk, gentle play, and manageable training can add variety. Constant entertainment is not required, and more exercise is not the answer to every behavioral concern.

Long absences can be difficult for some dogs. Arrange care that meets bathroom and social needs. Pacing, escape attempts, or persistent distress when alone deserve help, not a demand to “get used to it.”

Inconsistent rules and harsh correction

Choose a few clear expectations and teach the behavior you want. If jumping is inconvenient, practice a calm greeting. If table begging is a problem, teach settling away from the meal. Reward success rather than waiting for a mistake to punish.

AVSAB recommends reward-based training. Physical punishment and intimidation are not needed to establish a relationship or make a dog understand household rules. See AVSAB: humane, reward-based dog training.

Strong smells and unpleasant weather

Let your dog move away from fragrance and avoid using pepper, essential oils, or harsh chemicals as training deterrents. Store cleaners securely and follow product directions. “Natural” does not mean harmless.

For a dachshund reluctant to enter rain or cold, consider a sheltered bathroom spot, a well-fitting coat when appropriate, and shorter outings. Do not assume every refusal is stubbornness; discomfort or pain may be involved.

A quick comfort check

Ask whether the dog can move away, whether the interaction is necessary, whether there is a gentler way to do it, and whether a new reaction might indicate pain. Respecting those answers makes ordinary care easier without pretending to know every thought in your dog’s head.

Related guides

• What Smell Do Dachshunds Hate The Most?
• Can Dachshunds Make Good Family Pets?
• Reasons Why Your Pet Shouldn’t Sleep in Your Bed

Sources and further guidance

• VCA Animal Hospitals: interpreting dog body language
• AVSAB: humane, reward-based dog training
• CDC: safe interactions with dogs and bite prevention
• ASPCA: essential oils around pets
• Cornell University: recognizing pain in dogs

The post The List of Things Dogs Hates the Most appeared first on Floppy The Dachshund.