Image: © Sarah Haggie
Owning a Dachshund: One Year With Stanley
Dachshunds are instantly recognisable with their long bodies, short legs, and curious personalities. They are loyal, entertaining, and full of character - qualities that make them a popular choice for families and individuals alike. But like all breeds, they have their own traits and care needs. To help you understand what life with a Dachshund is really like, we share the story of Stanley, the much‑loved one‑year‑old Dachshund owned by our vet, Sarah. His first year has been full of adventure, mischief, and affection, perfectly showcasing why Dachshunds are such wonderful companions.
About the Dachshund Breed
Dachshunds are loyal and courageous dogs with a strong hunting instinct, which means they are naturally prone to digging, barking, and chasing. They thrive in homes where someone is around most of the day, as they form deep bonds and may suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for long periods.
Image: © Sarah Haggie
Although suitable for apartment living, Dachshunds still require regular, active walks and plenty of mental stimulation. They can be excellent watchdogs and are adaptable to smaller homes if walked enough. Dachshunds are affectionate and tend to enjoy having a furry companion if properly socialised.
Dachshunds can be prone to serious, expensive back issues, so having suitable pet insurance is highly recommended. They may not be ideal for households with very young children due to their fragility.
Stanley’s Story: A Year of Fun and Adventure
Daily Life With Stanley
Stanley is a one-year-old Dachshund owned by our vet, Sarah. He has lots of energy, and his favourite walk is along the beach. His favourite adventure was climbing Munros in Glencoe last summer, which is no small feat for such little legs!
Image: © Sarah Haggie
Around the house, Stanley brings endless entertainment. His favourite activity is dragging his bed around the house or stealing toys from other dogs and hiding them in his own bed. One of his bad habits is to occasionally sneak into Sarah’s bed instead of sleeping in his own.
Play and Mental Stimulation
Dachshunds need good mental stimulation throughout the day, and Stanley is no exception. His favourite toys are his soft donut teddy and his Kong - especially when Sarah fills it with doggy peanut butter! One of Stanley’s proudest achievements was completing the Canny Cross half marathon with Sarah at Druridge Bay, showing just how enthusiastic and determined Dachshunds can be.
Image: © Sarah Haggie
Stanley’s Friends
Dachshunds often enjoy having other pets around, and Stanley is very well socialised. His best friend is Eddie, a Pom‑Shih, and he also has a girlfriend called Violet, who is a Staffordshire Bull Terrier. These friendships highlight how affectionate and companionable Dachshunds can be when they are introduced to other dogs appropriately.
Image: © Sarah Haggie
Is a Dachshund Right for You?
Overall, Dachshunds are lovely pets with so much to offer. They are incredibly loving and cuddly, yet always ready for an adventure. With the right exercise, attention, and care - especially around their back health - Dachshunds make loyal and endlessly entertaining companions. Stanley’s first year has been full of fun and adventure, and he is the perfect example of why so many people fall in love with this charming breed.
