Dachshunds are lively, friendly, and intelligent pets that bring so much joy to their human family members. They love to be a part of the action within their household, though they do appreciate their independence and the ability to sneak away for a quiet nap alone when they feel like it. If you have never owned or spent a significant amount of time with a Dachshund, you may be wondering if the breed likes to cuddle, especially if that’s what you are looking for in your next pet. The short answer is that yes, Dachshunds typically enjoy cuddling with their companions. Read on to learn more!
Most Dachshunds Are Cuddle Bugs
Dachshunds are extremely loving and affectionate. Most never pass up the chance to lie on someone’s lap or feet. Many will go out of their way to make sure they are at least near or touching their companion if outright cuddling is not a possibility.
This breed also tends to stick close to their companion’s side when in social settings. They like to cuddle because it is their way of showing love, appreciation, and loyalty to their companions. Another reason that Dachshunds like to cuddle is due to their instincts. They’re bred to hunt burrowing animals, so they get a feeling of satisfaction when they dig themselves into blankets and couch cushions.
Not All Dachshunds Like to Cuddle
While most Dachshunds like to cuddle, not all of them do. Every dog has their own unique personality. If your Dachshund is not a big cuddler, it does not mean they don’t love you or want to bond with you. It simply means they would prefer to offer affection in other ways, such as through gameplay, snack time, and walking together.
Trying to force your Dachshund to cuddle with you when they do not want to can push them away from you, and you might find that they become less affectionate overall. The best thing that you can do is give your dog the space that they want and make cuddling attractive by staying calm, offering plenty of petting, and making it seem like it’s no big deal whether they decide to cuddle.
Beware of Encouraging Clinginess
The fondness that Dachshunds have for cuddling can quickly lead to clinginess and problems such as separation anxiety. Cuddling is not bad, but make sure you’re not encouraging it to the point that it is all that your Dachshund wants to do. If you’re having to move your dog off your lap just to get things done around the house or your dog seems to want to cuddle every single time you sit down, chances are that clinginess has kicked in.
If your Dachshund gets too clingy, they could develop a reliance on your presence and start to become depressed and/or destructive when you are not around to keep them company. You can keep clinginess to a minimum by cuddling with your dog only when they initiate it. If the cuddling gets too intense or overbearing, redirect your dog’s attention to another activity so they maintain their independence.
Summary
Dachshunds are perfect pets for people who enjoy cuddling with their animal companions while hanging out at home. Some consider them lap dogs because they enjoy cuddling up on the couch or in a chair whenever the opportunity arises. These dogs typically maintain a balanced sense of independence that helps make cuddling feel more like a joy than a chore.
Featured Image Credit: TetiBond, Shutterstock
