How do I keep my Dachshund safe during holidays and guest visits?
Follow these tips to ensure your Dachshund stays safe and comfortable with guests and holiday festivities.
Summer Heat Safety
Keep your Dachshund in a cool environment with temperatures no higher than 75°F (24°C) during the summer. Provide shade and fresh water at all times.
Avoid leaving your dog in a parked car, even with the windows down, as temperatures can rise rapidly to dangerous levels. Never leave your dog outside unattended for extended periods.
Limit exercise during the hottest parts of the day, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
- Keep indoor temperatures at 75°F (24°C) or cooler.
- Provide shade and water during outdoor activities.
- Avoid exercise between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Winter Temperature and Daylight
In winter, maintain indoor temperatures between 68°F (20°C) and 72°F (22°C) to keep your Dachshund comfortable.
Ensure your dog has access to a warm, dry sleeping area, especially if you have hardwood floors.
Adjust your dog's exercise routine to account for shorter daylight hours, providing 30–45 minutes of activity daily.
- Keep indoor temperatures between 68°F (20°C) and 72°F (22°C).
- Provide a warm, dry sleeping area.
- Adjust exercise to 30–45 minutes daily.
Seasonal Hazards
Be cautious of holiday plants like poinsettias and holly, which can be toxic to dogs.
Guests may bring unfamiliar foods and treats, so supervise your dog closely during holiday gatherings.
Fireworks can be frightening for dogs. Keep your Dachshund indoors during fireworks displays.
Traveling during the holidays can be stressful for your dog. Plan for a calm, familiar environment in the car.
- Avoid holiday plants like poinsettias and holly.
- Supervise your dog during holiday gatherings.
- Keep your dog indoors during fireworks.
- Plan for a calm travel environment.
Holiday Checklist
Before the holiday season, ensure your dog's ID tags are up to date.
Provide a quiet space for your dog to retreat to if they feel overwhelmed.
Keep your dog's routine as consistent as possible to reduce stress.
Monitor your dog's behavior closely for signs of stress or illness.
- Update ID tags.
- Provide a quiet retreat space.
- Maintain a consistent routine.
- Monitor for stress or illness.
Keep reading about Dachshund: Dachshund care sheet
Related questions
How can I keep my Dachshund cool during a heatwave?
Keep your dog in a cool, well-ventilated area with temperatures no higher than 75°F (24°C), provide shade and fresh water, and avoid exercise during the hottest parts of the day.
What should I do if my Dachshund gets too cold in winter?
Keep the indoor temperature between 68°F (20°C) and 72°F (22°C), provide a warm, dry sleeping area, and adjust exercise to account for shorter daylight hours.
How can I prevent my Dachshund from being stressed during the holidays?
Provide a quiet space for your dog to retreat to, keep their routine as consistent as possible, and monitor for signs of stress or illness.
Not veterinary advice. This guide covers husbandry — housing, feeding, cleaning and handling. If your dachshund is injured, off food unusually long, or behaving abnormally, contact a veterinarian.