Dachshunds in a flat and with children

The flat: small is fine, stairs are the issue

A quiet place to sleep, a fixed feeding spot and walks with plenty of sniffing time – a Dachshund asks for little more. The real question with a flat is the stairs. Lots of steps every day put strain on that long back.

No lift? Carry your Dachshund properly: one hand under the chest, one under the hindquarters, back horizontal. More in Back, stairs and exercise.

Floors, sofa and bed

Slippery tiles and wooden floors are tiring for short legs. Runners along the main routes give grip. In front of the sofa and bed, a small ramp – or the rule that it only goes up and down with help.

Neighbours and barking

The Dachshund reliably announces noises. Get the puppy used to the doorbell, doors and footsteps on the stairs early, and reward it when it stays calm. A Dachshund that’s had enough going on barks much less.

What children can do with a Dachshund

Hiding treats in the garden for it to find, feeding it with an adult, calm walks on the lead: scent games are a joy for Dachshunds and children alike.

Older children can teach it small tricks – sit, down, give a paw. The child learns patience and the Dachshund learns that children mean good things.

Being alone in the flat

A Dachshund also has to learn to be alone – in small steps, with a chew and a quiet spot. Many bark at the door at first when the family leaves. Short absences without a big goodbye help, as does a walk with sniffing time beforehand.

Reading its limits

Even the most patient Dachshund has limits. A stiff body, growling, lifting its lips or walking away are clear signals. Teach children to stop straight away – and respect those signals yourself instead of punishing them. Growling is communication, not cheek.