Fun Dachshund Fact

Meet Nugget - the worlds fastest dacshund

 

Dachshund races are a big hit every summer, but have you ever wondered just how fast a dachshund can run?  
Nugget is the fastest dachshund in the world and since 2016 he has been the No. 1 Dachshund each year in the 100 yard course and the top Dachshund for lifetime with top times between 21.8 and 22.17 mph.

Sonja Mueller

This month we would like to recognize and thank Sonja Mueller. Sonja has worked tirelessly to coordiante the ADR Wienerama event for the past two years.  Her dedication to this event is what makes it such a success - for both attendees and as a fundraiser to help us cover vet bills for our dogs.  We know that the friends and dogs of ADR appreciate how fun it is as well as how Sonja has also brought resources and learning to the event.
Thank you Sonja!
 

 

 

Why Dachshunds Aren't Good Swimmers and How to Help Them Succeed and be Safe.

Some dachshunds hate the water and others jump in any time they can.  With summer here, many of us like to take our dogs for a swim to cool them down or take them out on boats and paddleboards with us.  Dachshunds are not suited to swimming, though, due to their body shape so here is some information on how get your dog comfortable swimming and keep them safe while they do so.

Challenges for dacshunds when swimming

• Dachshunds are known for their short and stubby legs.  As you can imagine, short legs are not the most ideal to help adog propel through the water.
• They have small thighs compared to other short dogs.  Their short legs, combined with a small thigh, gives them a clear disadvantage in the water.
• Their bodies are elongated and disproportionate to the legs that are already unusually short. When the long body is combined with short legs, the dog is lower to the ground. In water, the dog is closer to the water as well. This means they’ll need to always keep their head upwards, making it difficult to swim.
• Even dachshunds who do swim tend to tire easily. This is because of their short legs use up a lot of energy when they swim and they need to kick to more frequently to stay afloat.

How to teach your dachsund to swim 

• The first step is to take your Dachshund to wherever there’s water. If you have a beach, lake, or river close by, take walks near to (but not in!) the water. You want to be close enough to the water for your dog to be able to wet their paws and hear and see the water. Just let your dog know that the water is there and that it is nothing to be feared.
• When you feel as though your Dachshund is ready, try to convince him or her to paddle and get their paws wet. Make sure to give positive praises (and possibly treats). Also, it may be a good idea for you to splash in the water with them.
• The next step involves exposure to shallow water. Whatever you do, do not throw them into the deep end first. Make sure the water is shallow enough for your dachshund to touch the ground while wading and it is best if there aren't any currents which could scare them.
• The next step involves going deeper and seeing your Dachshund’s real swimming ability.  The first time it is a good idea for you to be in the water as well as seeing you in the water will help your dog to feel confident and reassured. Dogs look to their owners when they’re hesitant. So make sure to be praising them and always in their view. With you going deeper, they are more likely to come out into the open water towards you.
• Practice at their pace.
• You never want to stress them out with something they don’t want to do. And if they’re not feeling it, try again another day.
• If your Doxie seems to be struggling in water, don’t over-work them. Give them a breather.

Keeping your Doxie safe while swimming

• Due to their body shape, dachshunds should always use a life vest. That way, if the dog does get too tired to swim, they will still be able to float and avoid drowning. It also gives you, as their owner, the peace of mind of letting them swim.
• Always keep a watchful eye on your dog while he is swimming. If he looks tired, remove him from the water immediately. It’s best you stay close by your Dachshund in the early phases of learning to keep them safe.
• If training your dachshund to love water is not going well, take a break. You can always try again in a few weeks or months. Realistically, it doesn’t really matter if your dog likes water or not. You will always love them, and they will love you, regardless.

This was summarized from an article posted by The Smart Canine and the full article can be read here: https://thesmartcanine.com/can-dachshunds-swim/