Why Do Dachshunds Hate The Rain?
It’s a commonly held belief that dachshunds, as a breed, dislike the rain (and water in general). While I’ll begin by pointing out that this is a broad generalisation and doesn’t apply to every dachshund, from my experience as an owner and speaking with several others, it does seem to be the case for many of these little dogs. A quick search online reveals a plethora of memes and social media posts highlighting dachshunds’ dislike of rain, suggesting it’s a breed-specific trait. In this post, I’ll explore some of the reasons why some dachshunds are less fond of wet weather and share a few tips to help your dachshund feel more comfortable venturing outside when it rains.
If you’re interested in reading more about the breed and some of their traits, we have also previously written a dachshund breed guide which covers some of the typical characteristics and a post on things I’ve learnt as a dachshund owner.
Why Dachshunds Might Hate the Rain
Dachshunds are small dogs with long bodies and short legs, which means they’re naturally closer to the ground and more prone to being splashed by puddles. Combined with their typically thin coats, this makes them more vulnerable to the discomforts of cold, wet weather. Many dachshunds have a lower tolerance for chilly conditions, and rain can cause them to shiver or feel generally uncomfortable. These negative sensations can lead to them associating rain with unpleasant experiences.
Additionally, dachshunds were originally bred as hunting dogs and are natural scent hounds. The rain can wash away or mask scents in the environment, which might confuse them or make it harder for them to follow their natural instincts. As a result, some dachshunds may simply find rainy conditions less than ideal for their usual scent-tracking behaviour.
How to Help Your Dachshund Cope with Going Out in the Rain
Establish a Consistent Routine
When it comes to toilet training your dachshund, consistency is key. One of the elements we have previously covered in our post on how to toilet train your dachshund puppy was to establish a consistent routine to get them used to going outside to toilet while they are learning. The same applies when it comes to getting your dog outside in the rain. If you begin early, ideally while they’re still a puppy, and stick to a consistent routine, your dachshund can become accustomed to going outside regardless of the weather. Aim to take your dog outside every 20-30 minutes, particularly when it’s raining. While it may take some extra patience, consistency will help avoid accidents indoors and help your dog get used to the rain.
Use Positive Reinforcement and Rewards
Alongside a consistent schedule, it’s essential to use positive reinforcement when encouraging your dachshund to go outside in the rain. Every time they go outside in wet weather, reward them with treats, praise, or their favourite toy. This creates a positive association with the experience and helps them understand that rain doesn’t always mean something unpleasant. We’ve found that rewarding Rocky with a treat after he finishes his business outside helps him realise that rain doesn’t need to be a bad experience. While he’s still not keen on walks in the rain, he no longer avoids going outside for toilet breaks in bad weather.
Invest in a Good Coat or Jumper
A good coat or jumper can make all the difference in keeping your dachshund comfortable and dry during wet weather. I highly recommend investing in a waterproof coat or jumper designed specifically for dachshunds. We have previously covered a post on our favourite dachshund jumpers and coats from Equafleece, which although made of fleece material are also water resistant, so a good choice for keeping your dachshund dry in cold, wet weather. These coats are made to fit dachshunds properly (something that’s often an issue with generic dog coats) and help keep them warm and dry. If your dachshund isn’t keen on wearing a coat, try a few different styles or materials to see what works best for them. A comfortable coat can help make the process of going outside in the rain much easier.
Consult a Professional Dog Trainer
If you’ve followed the above tips and still find your dachshund struggling to go outside in the rain, particularly when it comes to toilet training, it may be worth seeking the help of a professional dog trainer. A trainer can assist with any behavioural issues and provide tailored guidance to help you overcome the challenge. We’ve been lucky enough not to need professional help, but many dachshund owners find that expert advice makes a real difference.
Every dachshund is unique, and while some may revel in puddle-jumping, others may do everything in their power to avoid the rain. If your dachshund belongs to the latter group, I hope these tips help make rainy days more manageable for both you and your dog. With patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement, your dachshund can learn to cope with the wet weather and, who knows, maybe even start enjoying it!
