Top Activities For Dachshunds - Wag! (2024)

Any Day

Cheap

Normal

30 min

Dog Treats

Blankets

Pillows

Empty flower pots (2 of the same size)

While you will need to be careful about setting up an "obstacle course" for your Dachshund, it is possible and will be enjoyed. Remember though, the Doxie is prone to back issues due to their elongated spine, so you need to keep any "jumps" pint-sized with the Doxie in mind! Although the Dachshund is prone to weight gain, and he can appear quite plump, the Dachshund is actually quite athletic and craves activity. In this activity, you can use the blankets and pillows to create a digging area inside your home. Simply pile them on top of a treat (after showing the Doxie that there is a treat there, of course) and watch the Dachshund dig away! This activity will tap into the innate need for a Doxie to dig (remember, he was developed to burrow into the dens of his prey). You can also make a small "jump" obstacle for your Doxie by taking two empty flower pots and placing a broomstick across them. Eventually, your Doxie will find great enjoyment in running and jumping over this homemade obstacle.

Gather your items and set up varying stations for your agility training. Place a broomstick across two empty flower pots (remember, these should be small). Also, gather old blankets and pillows to create a digging station. You will also need treats for the digging station. Your Dachshund will be pleased that the digging results in a prize!

To show your pup what you expect regarding the jumping obstacle, once it is set up, take them to the obstacle. Say "jump." Place the pup on one side of the obstacle, then move to the opposite side yourself. Hold a treat in your hand, and repeat the command. Once the dog jumps over the obstacle, reward them with the treat. Repeat as necessary.

You will need to show your pup the treat a few times, and you may need to show them that you are hiding a treat under the pillows and blankets. Use the command "Dig" when you are ready for your Doxie to start searching for the treat. With enough practice, your pal will eventually see a pile of pillows and associate that with the digging game.

Any Day

Cheap

Easy

15 - 30 min

ball or an old shoe

The Dachshund is a natural-born hunter. Engaging the Doxie in games that capitalize on those hunting instincts will keep the pup sharp both mentally and physically. Hide and seek can be played indoors or outdoors. (NOTE: One should be cautious when considering outdoor play with the Doxie. The dog may run when unleashed. It might be a good idea to play Hide and Seek in an enclosed area when outdoors.) The Dachshund is very intelligent, and, of course, a natural scent hound. You may choose a chew toy, an old shoe, or a tennis ball for your object. With just a few repetitions, the Doxie will catch on to the game. In fact, they may find your hiding spot for the object and initiate a game with you!

Show the object to your Doxie. You might want to say "ball" if the object is a ball, or you might say "shoe" if the chosen object is an old shoe. You want the Dachshund to associate a word with the object. Allow the Doxie to smell (scent) the object.

The first few times that you play, you may have to show the dog where you hide the object. Praise them when the object is found. You might also give the dog a treat. Always ask "Where is my shoe (or ball)?" to initiate the game. After a few practice sessions, your smart little Dachshund will surprise with the ease of finding the object. At that point, you can increase the difficulty.

Any Day

Cheap

Easy

30 min

Thin piece of rope

favorite toy

This game will tap into your Dachshund's innate desire to chase prey. You can incorporate one of your Doxie's favorite toys, or you can purchase a toy that has a built-in string. Regardless, you can pull the toy behind you while encouraging your dog to "chase" the "prey." Remember, the Doxie is a born hunter, and this activity will give them both mental and physical stimulation. This activity can be done inside or outside, although you might want to begin training them for this activity indoors. Eventually, you can take the "prey" and twirl it over your head and encourage them to chase the prey in this manner.

You will need thin nylon rope. Attach this rope to the toy. You may either drag the toy along, or, after your Doxie catches on to what you expect during this game, you may twirl the toy around and simulate a chase for the toy. (NOTE: There are toys available that come with the rope already attached, but it might be a good idea to train your Doxie with a toy that they already like.)

This step is quite simple. You will likely want to train your dog for this activity by dragging the toy along, allowing them to catch the toy from time to time. When you do allow for "catching," give your pup praise and a treat. Eventually, you can work up to running and twirling the toy above your head while the Dachshund chases you.