Why Do Dachshunds Love Sunbathing
One thing we quickly learnt about the dachshund breed after bringing our boy home, was how much the breed has a propensity for sunbathing. Whether it's a bright summer day or a chilly winter afternoon, you will most likely find your dachshund sprawled out, basking in the warmth of the sun. It doesn’t matter how hot it is out, on a warm day our boy will do everything he can to make his way to his favourite spot on the patio to soak up some sun. On a sunny day spent indoors, he has also been known to slowly rotate himself around various spots in the house to maximise his sunbathing time!
But why do these adorable dogs have such an affinity for soaking up the sun's rays?
Instinctual Behaviour
Dachshunds are descendants of hunting dogs, originally bred in Germany for hunting small game like badgers. Their name, "dachshund," even translates to "badger dog" in German. These canines have retained some of their ancestors' instincts, and sunbathing might be one of them. In the wild, many animals, including dogs, rely on the sun to regulate their body temperature and absorb essential vitamins. Dachshunds may simply be following their natural instincts when they seek out sunny spots.
Warmth and Comfort
Dachshunds have a unique body shape with long spines and short legs, making them more susceptible to feeling the cold. We have noticed that on a cold day, our dachshund sometimes shivers and will gravitate to burying himself in the warmest location possible under many blankets if it’s not a sunny day. Sunbathing allows them to absorb warmth, which is especially appealing on cooler days. The sun's rays can penetrate their short fur and reach their skin, providing a cosy and comfortable experience. It's not uncommon to see dachshunds curling up into a tight ball while sunbathing, maximising their exposure to the sun and ensuring they stay warm and content.
Vitamin D Absorption & Mood Boosting
Just like humans, dogs require vitamin D for various bodily functions, including bone health. Sunlight is a natural source of vitamin D, and dachshunds may instinctively seek out the sun to supplement their dietary intake. While commercial dog food is formulated to meet their nutritional needs, the primal instinct to absorb sunlight for essential vitamins may still linger in dachshunds too.
Sunbathing is not only about physical comfort; it can also have positive effects on a dachshund's mood. Exposure to sunlight triggers the release of serotonin, often referred to as the "feel-good" hormone, in both humans and dogs. Sunbathing sessions can contribute to your dachshund's overall well-being, helping them feel relaxed and content.
When it comes to dachshunds and sunbathing, ultimately it is not just a quirky behaviour—it's a combination of instinct, warmth, health benefits, and pure canine joy. Whether they're stretching out in a sunbeam streaming through the window or lounging in the backyard, these lovable dogs continue to capture our hearts with their adorable sun-soaked antics. So, the next time you catch your dachshund blissfully soaking up the sun, rest assured that they're simply indulging in one of their natural, instinct-driven pleasures.
