How to Keep Your Dachshund Occupied?

Richard Thomas
Over 15 years handling, testing, and restoring pocket, fixed-blade, and Damascus steel knives across hunting and everyday-carry disciplines.

How to Keep Your Dachshund Occupied?

Is your dog demanding a bit more attention lately? In this new article, we want to help you keep your dachshund busy at home or outdoors 😃

There are very simple ways to keep your pet active and train them with stimulating exercises or games!

Note: Are you familiar with anthropomorphism? We recommend this detailed read on attributing human behavior to your dog (as one might with a child).

Signs Your Dachshund Is Bored

Here are the 4 most common signs that your little dog might be bored:

Your Dog Is Seeking Attention

When you are sitting in front of Netflix or working on your computer, you are busy, but your dog isn’t involved.

Your dachshund might start licking your feet, your legs, or even start barking.

This isn’t necessarily a behavior that needs to be corrected; they just want a little attention from their owner to say: “Hey! I exist too, despite my small size.”

Your Dachshund’s Behavior Is Destructive

Destroying clothes, furniture (wooden legs, rugs), bed linen, or even the trash… Does this temperament of chewing and biting everything seem familiar?

Your dachshund lacks stimulation, and their canine behavior can become different and destructive.

For dogs that exhibit this attitude, it’s nothing malicious; in most cases, they are just entertaining themselves to pass the time.

If you have any doubts, seek advice from your veterinarian.

Your Dog Is Barking More Often

The dachshund is one of those dog breeds (terriers, hunting dogs) where barking is more frequent than in other breeds, and they make excellent guard dogs to alert their owners.

However, your dachshund’s yapping can sometimes be excessive when they don’t know how to keep themselves occupied.

Read: Dachshund barking, 5 tips

Dachshunds, both puppies and adults, are known for being playful, lively, and energetic.

This canine breed therefore needs activity and relaxation, such as outings or walks.

Also, they may demand playtime in the morning or during the day, so get them some fun toys or chew balls. (Always supervise your dog during playtime).

This way, your dachshund’s night will be much quieter and more restful 😴

Your Dachshund Is Obsessed with Something

Does your dog often circle around something or act strangely at certain times of the day?

If so, it could be due to boredom.

Furthermore, if your adorable pooch is often at your feet when you go out or when you are at home, they are showing signs of obsession.

Many dogs stick to their owners in the evening or right after eating. Yes, some are just more affectionate.

Different Ways to Keep Your Dachshund Occupied

If you have children running around, your dachshund will take the opportunity to play with them. This will give them exercise, burn off energy, and keep them busy for a while during their day!

Physical Exercise

A physical exercise routine not only prevents boredom but also helps reduce your dachshund’s stress and anxiety.

It is also a great way to reconnect and share precious moments with your dog.

It is recommended to have at least 30 minutes of walks per day with your dog (twice a day would be ideal).

Try to organize a walk in the forest or a long hike with your dachshund… Since dachshunds are known for their hunting skills, they love exploring this type of terrain.

NOTE: If your dog lacks recall, be careful and keep them on a leash (and collar), harness, or long lead. Dachshunds have a tendency to easily run off solo on an adventure…

Dachshund toys >

Mental Stimulation Games

Regardless of your dachshund’s size (kaninchen or miniature, dwarf, standard), they love to play, so don’t hesitate to stimulate them with their toys, most of which are very fun! 😉

For example, making them use their brain to sniff out and find kibble contributes to the healthy growth of your pet.

It will also reduce their excessive barking or attacking your furniture.

In Summary

Keeping your dachshund occupied is not very complicated:

Walks that tire them out, toys that stimulate them, and obviously plenty of love and petting on their beautiful coat 😊

You can also (with time) introduce your lovely terrier to training activities near you, and consider getting them a dental chew ball to take care of their teeth and breath!

The DoxieLife team – 💚 Last modified on 01/10/26

Read: Why the Chiweenie?