As a Dachshund owner, you know that these little dogs are full of personality and affection. They have specific ways of showing their love, from nuzzling to simply spending time with you. If you’re wondering how to make your Dachshund feel even more cherished, you’ve come to the right place.
Understanding how to make your Dachshund feel loved can deepen your bond and ensure your pet feels secure and happy. This guide will explore various ways you can show your affection, catering to their unique traits and needs. By following these tips, you’ll create a loving and supportive environment for your furry friend.
Table of Contents
- 1) Daily Belly Rubs
- 2) Morning Walks at the Park
- 3) Homemade Peanut Butter Treats
- 4) Snuggling on the Couch
- 5) Playing Fetch with a Squeaky Toy
- 6) Comfortable Dog Bed
- 7) Special Birthday Celebrations
- 8) Frequent Vet Check-Ups
- 9) Interactive Puzzle Games
- 10) Warm Blankets
- 11) Quality Time with You
- 12) Tasty Chew Bones
- 13) Soft-Chew Treats
- Understanding Your Dachshund
- Creating a Loving Environment
1) Daily Belly Rubs
Your Dachshund will love daily belly rubs. This simple act shows them that you care.
When they roll over and expose their belly, they trust you completely. Giving them a gentle rub helps them feel safe and loved. Plus, it’s a great way to bond and spend time together.
2) Morning Walks at the Park
Morning walks at the park are a perfect way to show your dachshund some love. The fresh air and new smells excite your dog and keep them engaged.
It’s important to bring water and a leash. Your pup will enjoy the exercise, and it’s also a good time for bonding.
3) Homemade Peanut Butter Treats
Your Dachshund will love homemade peanut butter treats! They are easy to make and contain simple ingredients.
Mix together flour, peanut butter, and eggs. Add a little water until the dough forms. Roll it out and cut into shapes. Bake at 350°F until done. You’ll have tasty treats your dog will enjoy!
4) Snuggling on the Couch
Dachshunds love to snuggle. They have a natural inclination to burrow under blankets and get cozy. Making them feel safe and loved is important.
When you cuddle with your dachshund, it can help reduce stress and anxiety for both of you. Plus, it’s a great way to bond.
Make sure to create a comfy spot on the couch with soft blankets. Your dachshund will appreciate it and feel more inclined to snuggle up with you.
5) Playing Fetch with a Squeaky Toy
Get a squeaky toy that grabs your Dachshund’s interest. Throw the toy a short distance. When your dog picks it up, praise them and give a small treat.
This game keeps them active and engaged. Repeat this regularly to make it a fun routine for both you and your furry friend.
6) Comfortable Dog Bed
A cozy dog bed can make a big difference in your Dachshund’s life. Look for a bed with orthopedic foam to support their joints. This is especially important because Dachshunds are prone to back issues.
Soft, quilted covers can add extra comfort. Beds with bolstered sides offer a safe, enclosed feeling which many Dachshunds love.
Durability is also key. A bed made from strong, dog-proof materials will stand up to their playful habits. Choose one with a non-skid bottom to keep it in place.
7) Special Birthday Celebrations
Celebrate your dachshund’s birthday with a homemade dog-friendly cake! Use ingredients like applesauce, peanut butter (no xylitol), and a large egg. Mix them with flour and baking soda, then bake in a cupcake pan greased with coconut oil.
Personalized gifts, like a custom birthday bandana or a coffee mug featuring their picture, make great presents. Include fun treats, squeaky toys, and a special meal to show your love.
Decorate with dachshund-themed party supplies to create a festive atmosphere. Invite friends and their pups for a day of games, treats, and fun memories.
8) Frequent Vet Check-Ups
Taking your Dachshund to the vet regularly helps catch health problems early. This includes common issues like Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) that Dachshunds are prone to.
Regular vet visits ensure your dog stays healthy and can live a long, happy life. Make vet check-ups a routine part of your care.
9) Interactive Puzzle Games
Interactive puzzle games can keep your Dachshund entertained and mentally stimulated. One idea is the tennis ball treat dispenser. Cut a small hole in a tennis ball, fill it with treats, and let your dog figure out how to get them out.
Another fun game is using a muffin tin. Place treats in a few cups and cover the others. Your Dachshund will use its nose to find the hidden goodies.
A snuffle mat is also great. It has fabric strips where you can hide treats, and your dog will love sniffing them out. These games keep your dog busy and happy!
10) Warm Blankets
Your Dachshund loves to burrow and feel warm. Placing a cozy blanket in their favorite spot can make them feel safe and loved. Pick a soft, warm blanket and drape it where they like to rest.
Dachshunds enjoy creating their own little nests. Let them snuggle and burrow into their blanket to show them you care. Cozy time with a warm blanket makes them feel secure and loved.
11) Quality Time with You
Spending quality time with your dachshund helps them feel secure and loved. Whether watching TV, reading a book, or just relaxing, these moments strengthen your bond.
Your dachshund thrives on companionship. Playing, cuddling, or going for walks are simple ways to make them feel cherished and happy.
12) Tasty Chew Bones
Giving your Dachshund tasty chew bones can be a great way to show love and keep them entertained. Look for options like Himalayan Yak Cheese Dog Chews, which are natural and high in protein.
Earth Animal No-Hide Chews are another good option, as they are healthy and safe, unlike rawhide.
Chew bones not only satisfy your dog’s need to chew, but they also help clean their teeth and keep their gums healthy.
13) Soft-Chew Treats
Soft-chew treats are perfect for Dachshunds, especially those with dental issues or older dogs. These treats are easy to chew and digest, making them an ideal option.
Look for soft treats made from natural ingredients. Avoid those with artificial colors and preservatives to keep your Dachshund healthy and happy.
Training becomes easier with these treats as they are small and can be quickly consumed. Your Dachshund will love the taste and texture, feeling loved through these tasty rewards.
Understanding Your Dachshund
Dachshunds are unique dogs with specific traits and behaviors. Knowing these can help you bond with them and cater to their needs better.
Personality Traits
Dachshunds are known for their lively and playful personalities. They are curious and brave, often acting like watchdogs even with their small size. Loyalty is a key trait, and they tend to form very tight bonds with their owners. They are also highly intelligent, which means they can learn commands quickly but may also be stubborn at times.
These dogs are usually very energetic and love to play. It’s important to keep them mentally stimulated. They may have a stronger hunting instinct due to their history as badger hunters. Socialization is crucial; they can be wary of strangers if not properly exposed to different people and situations early on.
Common Behaviors
Dachshunds have several typical behaviors that might seem quirky. Burrowing is a common one; they love to dig and often try to burrow under blankets. Snuggling close is another behavior, showing their affection and desire to be near you. They sometimes use their paws to touch you, seeking attention or expressing love.
Another notable behavior is their love for nuzzling and making eye contact. They may press their noses against you or stare lovingly into your eyes. This is believed to release oxytocin, which helps strengthen your bond.
Barking is also prevalent in Dachshunds. They use their barks to communicate various feelings, from excitement to alerting you of strangers. Be ready to train them to manage excessive barking.
Understanding these traits and behaviors can help you better cater to your Dachshund’s needs and keep them happy and healthy.
Creating a Loving Environment
Your Dachshund’s happiness depends largely on a warm and inviting home and safe outdoor experiences. By focusing on these areas, you can create a space that makes your dog feel secure and cherished.
Comfortable Living Space
A cozy living area helps your Dachshund feel loved and secure. Soft blankets and pillows provide a comfy place for them to snuggle. Arrange their sleeping area in a quiet corner where they can retreat for uninterrupted rest.
Make sure their bed is the right size. Dachshunds often love to feel snug, so consider a soft-sided bed or a cushioned crate. Toys are also important for their comfort, offering both entertainment and security.
Temperature control is crucial. Dachshunds can get cold easily due to their small size, so keeping your home warm and adding a pet-safe heating pad in their bed can help.
Safe Outdoor Exploration
Exploring outside safely is key for a happy Dachshund. Secure your yard with a fence that they can’t dig under or jump over. Check the yard for any hazards like sharp objects or toxic plants.
Walks and playtime outside are great ways to bond with your dog. Use a harness instead of a collar to protect their fragile necks. Keep an eye on the weather and make sure they’re not too hot or cold.
Introducing them to new environments gradually helps build their confidence. Whether it’s the park or just the backyard, ensuring they feel safe will make them more adventurous over time.
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.
