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If you’re the proud owner of a dachshund, you’ll want to make sure you know how to walk them properly.
This comprehensive guide will teach you everything you need to know about walking your dachshund.
From how long they should be walked as a puppy or an adult, to what types of temperatures they can & can’t be walked in.
We’ll also cover important topics such as over walking a dachshund and why your pup may be refusing to walk.
So whether you’re a first-time dachshund parent or just looking for some helpful tips, read on to discover everything you need to know about walking your dachshund!
Table of Contents
Distance Adult Dachshunds Can & Should Be Walked
How Much Should A Dachshund Walk?
Dachshunds need anywhere between 30-60 minutes of exercise per day.
It’s best to split their exercise into 2 or 3 walks per day so they can do their business as well.
Whether it’s 2 walks that are 30 minutes long.
Or 2-3 walks that are roughly 20 minutes long.
Whatever works best with your schedule. The most important thing is that they’re getting the necessary exercise they need each day to stay happy and healthy.
How Far Can & Should A Dachshund Walk?
Many people think that because of a dachshund’s body structure they shouldn’t walk as far as other dogs.
Which isn’t true.
A dachshund should walk 1-2 miles per day.
But they can walk many more miles than that.
A woman named Catra runs with her dachshund 40 miles per week!
What matters most is gradually increasing the length of your dachshund’s walks so they don’t overdo it and end up injuring themselves.
How Often Should You Walk A Dachshund?
Your dachshund should be walked a minimum of 2 times per day.
Some people walk their dachshund 3-4 times per day.
If you have the flexibility in your schedule, 3 roughly 15 minute walks per day would be the best case scenario for your dachshund.
But if you’re only able to do 2 walks per day because of work that’s perfectly fine as well.
Can A Dachshund Walk 3 Miles?
Yes, a dachshund can walk up to and even exceed 3 miles.
However, if your dachshund is just starting out on their walking journey they shouldn’t be walked that far.
Start with shorter walks and gradually increase the length as they get more comfortable with walking long distances.
Can A Dachshund Walk 5 Miles?
Yes, dachshunds can walk up to 5 miles.
But as with anything, start slow and work their way up to this length of walk.
If your dachshund has never walked for longer than 20-30 minutes at a time it’s best not to jump to a 5 mile walk.
Can A Dachshund Walk 10 Miles?
Most dachshunds won’t be able to handle a 10 mile walk.
If your dachshund is used to 5 mile walks and you’re bringing water as well as taking breaks along your 10 mile walk they may do okay with it.
But for the majority of dachshunds, walking 10 miles will be too much for them to handle.
Can You Over Walk A Dachshund?
Yes, you can over walk a dachshund.
If your dachshund is used to 1 mile walks and you take them on a 5 mile walk, they’ll likely struggle with this.
This is why it’s important to start with shorter walks and gradually increase the length as they get more comfortable with walking long distances.
If you try to take your dachshund on a long walk when they’re not used to it they could get injured.
Dachshund Puppies & Walking: When You Can & For How Long
When Can I Walk My Dachshund Puppy?
You can start walking your dachshund puppy around 8-12 weeks old.
But you’ll want to keep the walks short, only about 5-15 minutes long.
As they get older and their bones and muscles develop more you can start increasing the length of their walks.
It’s also important they get their shots before venturing them too far from your home.
How Long Can You Walk A Dachshund Puppy For?
You can walk a dachshund puppy for up to 30 minutes.
But it’s best to keep the walks shorter when they’re young, around 10-20 minutes long.
This will help prevent them from getting too tired and overdoing it.
How Often Should You Walk A Dachshund Puppy?
You should walk a dachshund puppy at least once per day.
But you can start getting them into the routine of 2 walks per day if you’d like.
Just keep the walks short, around 10-15 minutes long, so they don’t overdo it.
Can You Over Walk A Dachshund Puppy?
Yes, you can over walk a dachshund puppy.
If they exercise too much it can negatively affect the growth of their muscles and joints.
You’ll need to be their voice of reason as they’ll likely want to keep going.
But short, 10-15 minute walks are best until they get to a few months old.
If you notice your pup is starting to slow down or want to rest during their walk, they’re telling you their body has had enough for this walk.
If this happens often you may need to adjust your walks with them to be a little shorter until they get older.
Distance Miniature Dachshunds Can & Should Be Walked
How Long Should You Walk A Miniature Dachshund?
You should walk your miniature dachshund for at least 30 minutes a day.
But if you can, aim for 45 minutes to an hour.
2-3 miles of walking per day is ideal for a miniature dachshund.
How Often Should You Walk A Miniature Dachshund Puppy?
If your miniature dachshund puppy is just 8 weeks old and you don’t have access to a backyard, 2 quick 5 minute walks per day should be exactly what they need.
Once they get 3-5 months old you’ll still want to walk them twice per day and can increase their walk length to 10-20 minutes.
As they get into their later months and move out of their puppy stage you can continue walking them twice per day or move up to 3 times.
How Often Should You Walk A Miniature Dachshund?
If your miniature dachshund is an adult, you’ll want to walk them at least twice a day.
But if they’re particularly active, you may need to increase this to three times a day.
Each walk should be around 20-30 minutes to give them the chance they need to explore, relieve themselves and get some exercise.
FAQs
How To Get Dachshund To Walk On Leash?
The best way to get your dachshund to walk on a leash is by starting them young.
If you have a puppy, start leash training early on so they get used to it.
You want to get them used to being tethered to a leash and wearing a collar/harness as early as possible.
Which means putting their walking gear on for short periods of time while they roam about your home.
When it comes time to take them outside they’ll be much more comfortable with the situation.
You can also try treats or toys as a way to entice them to walk with you.
When Is It Too Cold To Walk A Dachshund?
It’s generally too cold to walk a dachshund when the temperature reaches below 14°F (-10°C).
But this can depend on your dog, their coat type and the environment they grew up in.
If they grew up in a part of the world where the winters get super cold, they’ll likely be better able to handle colder temperatures.
Also, if you have a wire-haired or long-haired dachshund they’ll likely be able to handle cooler temperatures better than a smooth-coated dachshund.
You’ll also want to consider the wind chill and if there’s any precipitation like rain or snow.
Generally, if it’s too cold for you to be comfortable walking outside, it’s probably too cold for your dachshund as well.
Getting them a jacket for the winter months is never a bad idea either to help with the cold.
Why Does My Dachshund Not Want To Walk?
There could be a few reasons why your dachshund doesn’t want to walk.
It could be that they’re in pain, they’re not feeling well, they’re afraid or they’re just plain lazy.
If you think it might be one of the first two, it’s best to take them to the vet to get checked out.
Otherwise, you’ll just need to be patient and try again another day.
You can also try changing up your walking routine or route to see if that helps.
Related Reading: dachshund refusing to walk
How Should A Dachshund Walk?
There’s no one right way for a dachshund to walk.
But there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind.
First, dachshunds are hunting dogs so they’re naturally inclined to want to sniff around and explore everything on their walks.
This means that walks with them may take a little longer than with other breeds of dog.
And second, because of their long backs, you’ll want to be careful not to pull on their leash too much or jerk them around.
This could cause them pain or even injure their spine.
Overall, just take things slow and let your dachshund sniff and explore, their walk is the highlight of their day!
You may want to bring along some treats to help motivate them to keep walking.
And as always, if they need a break let them stop and rest.
Also, if you notice any limping or sideways walking this is an indicator that something is wrong with their hips or back.
Other posts you might find interesting:
12 Best Dog Beds for Dachshunds
Stop Dachshund Biting For Good (6 Simple Solutions!)