Looking for a furry friend that will bring joy and companionship to your home? Dachshunds might just be the perfect choice for you. These adorable little dogs are known for their long bodies and short legs, making them instantly recognizable and endlessly charming. Despite their hunting background, Dachshunds are incredibly affectionate and can make wonderful lap dogs.
Whether you’re a seasoned dog owner or a first-time pup parent, you’ll find that Dachshunds have a lot to offer. They are loyal, loving, and full of personality. These qualities help make Dachshunds great companions who love to snuggle up and share their warmth with you. Ready to learn more? Read on to discover 13 reasons why Dachshunds are the best lap dogs.
Table of Contents
- 1) Adorable Size
- 2) Loyal Companions
- 3) Great for Apartments
- 4) Low Shedding
- 5) Quirky Personalities
- 6) Perfect for Cuddling
- 7) Healthy and Hardy
- 8) Excellent Watchdogs
- 9) Eager to Please
- 10) Easy to Groom
- 11) Playful Nature
- 12) Adventurous Spirit
- 13) Good with Kids
- Health Benefits of Having a Lap Dog
- Training Tips for Dachshunds
- Dachshund Care and Maintenance
1) Adorable Size
Dachshunds are famous for their small, compact bodies. Their short legs and long bodies make them perfect for cuddling on your lap. You don’t have to worry about them taking up too much space.
These dogs are easy to carry around. Whether you want to bring them on errands or just move from room to room, their size makes it simple. Their tiny stature also makes them great for apartment living.
If you have kids, dachshunds are the perfect size for them to handle. Their small frame makes it easy for children to play with them, and they are less intimidating than larger breeds. Their adorable size is one of the many reasons why they make such wonderful lap dogs.
2) Loyal Companions
Dachshunds are known for their loyalty. They form strong bonds with their owners and stick by your side. These little dogs are always eager to be with you.
They’re very attached and love following you around the house. People often say that their dachshund is like a shadow. This makes them ideal for those seeking constant companionship.
Being close with their owners isn’t just a habit; it’s in their nature. They’ll often cuddle under the covers, providing warmth and affection. This dedication is part of what makes them such great lap dogs.
3) Great for Apartments
Dachshunds are well-suited for apartment living because they don’t take up much space. Their small size allows them to be comfortable in smaller homes.
They don’t need a lot of exercise to stay healthy, making them perfect for apartment dwellers. A short daily walk and some indoor play are usually enough.
Dachshunds are also quite independent, which is a bonus for busy people who live in apartments.
4) Low Shedding
Dachshunds are known for their low-shedding coats. Unlike some other breeds, their fur doesn’t end up all over your furniture and clothes. This makes them an excellent choice for people who want a clean home.
Whether they have short or long hair, Dachshunds shed very little. This helps keep your home free of dog hair. You can enjoy cuddling with your furry friend without worrying about constant cleanup.
Additionally, their low-shedding nature is great for those with mild allergies. You’re less likely to have allergic reactions, making it easier to relax and enjoy your Dachshund’s company.
5) Quirky Personalities
Dachshunds are known for their quirky and unique personalities. These little dogs often act like they’re much bigger than they really are, which can be quite amusing.
They love to make their owners laugh with their playful antics. It’s hard not to smile when your dachshund is being silly. They can be very adventurous and curious too.
Dachshunds often exhibit a mix of bravery and stubbornness. They may seem fearless, not backing down from a challenge, even if it’s much bigger than them. Their independent nature is part of their charm.
6) Perfect for Cuddling
Dachshunds are known for their love of cuddling. They enjoy snuggling up with their owners on the couch or in bed. This makes them excellent lap dogs for those who want a loving companion.
Their small size allows them to fit perfectly in laps. Even though they need exercise, they love spending quiet moments close to you.
These dogs are very affectionate and can form strong bonds with their owners. A dachshund is likely to follow you around the house, always looking for opportunities to cuddle and be near you.
7) Healthy and Hardy
Dachshunds are known for their good health and sturdy nature. They were originally bred for hunting, which means they have a lot of stamina. This makes them less prone to some of the health issues that affect other small breeds.
These dogs have a robust constitution, allowing them to be active and playful. With regular exercise, they stay fit and happy. Their hardy nature means fewer visits to the vet, keeping both you and your dog content.
8) Excellent Watchdogs
Dachshunds might be small, but they have big personalities. They are always on high alert and ready to sound the alarm at any sign of trouble. Their keen senses make them great at spotting anything unusual.
When it comes to protecting the home, you can count on your dachshund to keep an eye out. They are very loyal and will do their best to keep you safe. Their bark may be loud, but it’s a sign of their dedication to you and your family.
9) Eager to Please
Dachshunds love making their owners happy. They are known for their loyalty and willingness to follow commands, especially when rewarded with treats or praise.
You will find they are very responsive during training sessions. This eagerness to please makes them not only great companions but also easily trainable pets.
Their keen desire to make you smile can brighten up any day.
10) Easy to Groom
Dachshunds are quite easy to groom. Their short coats require minimal maintenance. A regular brushing session once a week is usually enough to keep them looking neat.
Long-haired dachshunds might need a bit more attention. A slicker brush can help prevent mats and tangles.
Keeping their nails trimmed is important too. You can use nail clippers or a grinder to maintain their length. Regularly check their ears for debris and clean them gently. Bathing your dachshund every few months or as needed will help keep their coat and skin healthy.
11) Playful Nature
Dachshunds are known for their playful nature. They have lots of energy and love to play games. Their natural curiosity keeps them active and engaged.
These dogs enjoy playing fetch and chasing after toys. Their small size makes them perfect for indoor play as well. Dachshunds can turn any space into their playground.
Due to their playful personality, Dachshunds never fail to bring joy to their owners. They are always ready to have fun and make you laugh.
12) Adventurous Spirit
Dachshunds are known for their adventurous spirit. Don’t let their small size fool you. These dogs have a natural curiosity and love to explore. Taking your dachshund on a walk can turn into an exciting adventure.
They are always ready to sniff out new scents and discover new places. This makes every outing more fun and interesting. You never know what you might find together. Their bravery and eagerness to explore make dachshunds perfect companions for anyone who loves a bit of adventure.
13) Good with Kids
Dachshunds are known for their playful and affectionate nature. They enjoy being around children and can become their best friends. Their small size and friendly demeanor make them less intimidating for kids.
Dachshunds love to play games, which means they can keep your kids entertained for hours. They are energetic but not too overwhelming, making them a good match for family life.
Early socialization and training are important to ensure they adapt well with children. Teaching kids to be gentle and respectful will create a strong bond between them and your dachshund.
Health Benefits of Having a Lap Dog
Having a lap dog like a Dachshund can greatly improve both your mental and physical health. They provide constant companionship and can help lower stress levels while also encouraging an active lifestyle.
Emotional Support
Owning a lap dog can significantly boost your emotional well-being. These dogs are known for their loyalty and affection. Their presence can reduce feelings of loneliness and anxiety. When you pet or cuddle with your dog, your body releases oxytocin, often called the “love hormone,” which helps you feel calmer and happier.
Lap dogs are also great listeners. Sharing your day or concerns with them can be soothing. Dogs can sometimes sense when you’re feeling down and offer comfort. This emotional support can make stressful situations feel more manageable.
Physical Well-being
Caring for a lap dog can also have physical health benefits. Taking your Dachshund for regular walks can help you stay active. Even small amounts of physical activity, like playing fetch or taking short walks, can contribute to better cardiovascular health.
Having a dog can also strengthen your immune system. Studies show that dog owners often have lower blood pressure and decreased cholesterol levels. The routine of taking care of your pet ensures you get outside more, which can increase your vitamin D levels from sun exposure, improving your overall health.
Training Tips for Dachshunds
Training your Dachshund can be a rewarding experience if you use the right methods. Focus on housebreaking and socialization to ensure they grow up well-behaved and happy.
Housebreaking
Housebreaking a Dachshund requires patience and consistency. Start with a regular feeding schedule to regulate their bathroom habits. Take them outside frequently, especially after meals and naps. Choose a designated bathroom spot and take them there every time.
Use positive reinforcement by giving treats and praise after they successfully go outside. If they have an accident indoors, clean it up thoroughly to remove the scent, which might attract them back to the same spot.
Dachshunds can be stubborn, so avoid scolding or punishing them for accidents. This can create anxiety, making the process longer. Instead, stay patient and keep up the consistent routine.
Socialization
Socialization is crucial for Dachshunds to become friendly and well-adjusted pets. Begin as early as possible, ideally between 3 and 12 weeks of age. Expose your puppy to various environments, sounds, people, and other animals during this critical period.
Take your Dachshund to puppy classes, dog parks, and on walks to meet new dogs and people. Use treats and praise to create positive associations with new experiences. Encourage gentle interactions and play to build their confidence.
Avoid overwhelming your Dachshund with too many new experiences at once. Gradually increase exposure to new situations to help them adapt comfortably. Positive reinforcement and consistency are key to successful socialization.
Dachshund Care and Maintenance
Taking care of your dachshund includes keeping their coat groomed and providing them with the right nutrition to stay healthy and happy.
Grooming Requirements
Dachshunds come in three coat types: smooth, long-haired, and wire-haired. Each type needs different grooming.
Smooth-coated dachshunds only need weekly brushing to remove loose hair. You can use a soft-bristled brush or a grooming mitt.
Long-haired dachshunds need more attention. Brush them several times a week to prevent mats and tangles. A pin brush or slicker brush works well.
Wire-haired dachshunds require both brushing and trimming. Use a slicker brush to keep their coat neat and trim it about every 6 months.
All dachshunds need regular nail trims, usually once a month. Clean their ears weekly to avoid infections. Bathing should be done as needed, typically every 3 months, unless they get particularly dirty.
Feeding and Nutrition
Proper nutrition is essential for your dachshund’s health. Choose high-quality dog food that lists meat as the first ingredient. Avoid foods with fillers like corn or soy.
Feed your dachshund based on their size and activity level. Generally, adult dachshunds need about one cup of food per day, divided into two meals. Puppies need more frequent, smaller meals.
Watch their weight, as dachshunds are prone to obesity. Avoid giving too many treats and human food.
Fresh water should always be available. Supplements like glucosamine can help with joint health, especially since dachshunds are prone to back issues.
If you’re unsure about the best diet for your dachshund, consult your vet for personalized advice.
My name is Danny Jackson and I’m the CEO and Chief Editor behind Petloverguy.com. After spending a decade working with vets and private clients as an animal behavioral and nutritional specialist I co-founded Pet Lover Guy to help other pet parents learn how to interact with, and make the most of the time that they spend with their adopted and rescued best pet friends.
Working with Ella, our chihuahua rescue, we seek to help all dog and cat lovers have the happiest life possible.
