There’s no way to overstate how valuable having a dog in your life is. The right kind of dog is always out there waiting for the perfect person. But as many of us already know, dogs are not one-size-fits-all. With dozens of existing breeds and many more mixes, different kinds of dogs can fill different roles in your life.
As someone who has lived in several tiny apartments, I’ve always gravitated towards smaller dogs. But a dog’s size alone doesn’t make them the perfect candidate for new family member. When adopting, there are a multitude of factors to consider.
As part of their series on “Dog Breed Of The Month,” Country Living focused on the Dachshund. An interview with Bill Lambert, a Kennel Club spokesperson, mused on whether these popular little dogs make good companions for people in small spaces.
“Dachshunds, especially the Miniature Smooth Haired variety, have become popular in recent years, partially due to their size which makes them suitable for smaller houses and apartments, and also because of their lively and comical nature.”
Is The Dachshund The Right Dog For You?
With an average weight range of 11 to 32 pounds, this breed is notably small. They certainly won’t be knocking you over by accident or getting stuck in cramped furniture.
“Their size makes them suitable for owners with a smaller house or apartment, although standard size Dachshunds require more exercise, with an opportunity to sniff and run around.”
Still, even little dogs need proper exercise and stimulation. Just because they can live in small spaces, doesn’t mean that’s where they should be limited.
“They may be small but they still need mental stimulation and exercise – they are really big dogs in little bodies!”
Even though they’re small enough to hold in your arms, Dachshunds can have larger than life attitudes. They require a patient and committed family to teach them the ropes.
“They are a good choice for experienced owners who are willing to put time and effort into their training. Dachshunds can be protective and will get on well with older children who take care of them and respect their space.”
If all of this sounds like a dream come true for you and your small home, the Dachshund may be the perfect match for you.
Dachshund Rescue Groups
Yes, it’s easy to find a purebred dog at a breeder. But so many purebred dogs or mixed breed dogs sadly await forever homes in shelters.
If you like this particular breed, look into rescues that specialize in it. Dachshund Rescue List compiled this catalog of both local and nationally operating Dachshund rescues.
H/T: Country Living
Featured Image: @slwilson1984/Flickr
Toledo, United States.
