Can Dachshunds Go On Hikes?

With their short, stubby legs and tiny stature, you might assume that dachshunds aren’t exactly equipped for long walks and treks.

However, the dachshund was originally bred for hunting vermin, an activity that requires a lot of energy, so these dogs aren’t as unathletic as their appearance suggests. 

So, can dachshunds go on hikes? The answer is yes! Your dachshund can accompany you on hikes, but you’ll need to build up their tolerance to rigorous exercise beforehand, while also ensuring you provide your pooch with breaks when they need it. 

If you’re planning a hiking trip and want to take your dachshund with you, here’s everything you need to know to keep your companion safe and sound on the trails. 

Are Dachshunds Actually Good Hiking Dogs?

brown dachshund on a forest hike

When you think of hiking dogs, the dachshund probably doesn’t automatically spring to mind.

While the breed’s long back and short legs do come with some challenges, that doesn’t mean you have to exclude your dachshund from outdoor adventures.

Dachshunds are energetic and love to explore, enjoying nothing more than investigating new sights, sounds, and smells.

These tiny pooches can make great trail partners as long as you make sure they don’t overexert themselves. Although this breed is always raring to go, they don’t know when it’s time to stop. 

It’s your responsibility to make sure your companion doesn’t get overtired and has a chance to recuperate while they’re out exploring.

It’s also vital that your dachshund is in good shape and health before you attempt hiking with them, just like any other breed. 

Don’t worry, you don’t need to adhere to a strict exercise regime to physically prepare your pooch for hikes.

Simply sticking to a consistent 30-minute to one-hour walk each day will suffice.

When you first begin hiking with your dachshund, keep treks short and gradually increase the duration to help build up your pooch’s fitness.

Is It Safe For Dachshunds To Go Hiking?

dachshund in the mountains

Provided your dachshund is healthy and fit, it’s perfectly safe for them to go hiking. Dachshunds are full of energy and vigor, which paired with their strong hunting instincts, make them excellent little explorers. 

However, although most dachshunds are physically capable of enduring hikes, there are some difficulties that your pooch may face while outside that you need to be aware of. 

Avoid Deep Bodies Of Water And High Obstacles

Due to the dachshund’s short legs and low-hanging abdomen, they may be unable to cross streams or other deep bodies of water, alongside obstacles like fallen trees, large rocks, and big drops. 

If you encounter a hurdle such as the aforementioned ones, it might be best to find a different route or carry your pooch until you’ve passed them.

Steer Clear Of Rocky Terrain And Vertical Inclines

You’ll need to take care walking over steep hills and vertical inclines as dachshunds have very delicate backs.

Rocky terrain can also be hazardous, again, due to the breed’s low-hanging belly.

Don’t Let Your Dachshund Fall Behind

Dachshunds need to take a lot more steps to match the pace of larger dogs and their human companions, so be mindful of how fast you’re walking.

Don’t let your pooch fall too far behind and allow them time to rest if they appear tired.

Keep Your Dachshund On A Leash

Although it’s tempting to let your dachshund explore off-leash while you’re hiking, it’s best to keep your dog close to you at all times.

Some mountain trails and parks also have rules that require all dogs to be kept on leashes.

Keeping your dog on a leash gives you full control of your pooch, preventing them from getting into mischief and coming into contact with hazards like roads, rivers, mountain bikers, wildlife, and other dogs.

Keep An Eye On The Weather

It’s a good idea to check the weather forecast on the day you’re planning to hike so you can prepare for any adverse conditions.

For instance, if it’s a hot day, avoid hiking until after 4pm (the sun is usually at its peak from 9am to 4pm).

Alternatively, if heavy rainfall or snowfall is expected, you might want to postpone your trip to another day when the weather is more favorable.

In addition, try to avoid hiking during the wintertime as it will be very cold and the paths may be covered in ice.

If you want to trek during the colder months, make sure your dachshund is equipped in appropriate attire, such as a thermal coat and paw protectors.


How Far Can I Take My Dachshund Hiking?

Your dachshund’s physical fitness, age, and overall health influence the distance they can hike.

For instance, if your pooch is elderly or suffers from health conditions like osteoarthritis, it would be unwise to take your dog on a long trek that spans several miles.

Most healthy, fit adult dachshunds should be able to hike for 5 to 10 miles, but never push your dog to hike further if they become tired, injured, or unwell. 

Additionally, your dachshund’s maximum tolerance when it comes to walking will also need to be taken into consideration.

Some dogs may slow down and show signs of exhaustion after an hour, while others will be full of beans the entire trek. 

Watch your companion closely so you can figure out their personal limit – don’t force them to continue hiking if they’re ready to go back home.

Alternatively, avoid letting your dachshund hike for long durations even if they’re seemingly enthusiastic to prevent overexertion and injury.

What Will My Dachshund Need For Hiking?

If you’re arranging a hiking trip, there are a few things you’ll need to pack on your journey to keep your dachshund safe and comfortable out on the trails.

 You NeedWhy
Leash and HarnessAs mentioned earlier, you should always keep your dachshund on a leash while they’re outdoors so you can keep them and others safe, so be sure to bring both a leash and harness with you!

Although you can use a collar, it’s best to use a harness instead as it’s much gentler on your dachshund’s fragile neck.
ID TagsMake sure your dachshund’s collar has ID tags that display your contact details like your cell number to prepare for unexpected escapades.

This will allow other hikers to reach you if they find your dog. It’s also a good idea to get your pooch microchipped if you haven’t done so already.

In addition, keep a recent photo of your dachshund on your cell phone so you can show it to other hikers to help track down your dog if they go missing.

A GPS tracker attached to your four-legged friend’s collar can also help you locate your dog if they run off.
Food and WaterTrekking can be thirsty and hungry work, both for you and your dachshund, so pack some snacks and water to replenish your pooch’s energy.

A dog water bottle is a great option as it comes with an attached bowl for convenience and easy access.
Poop BagsKeep trails safe and beautiful by cleaning up after your dachshund when nature calls.

If you’ve ever stepped in dog poop, you’ll understand the frustration of having to pry it from your shoes, especially when you’re outdoors and supplies are limited!

Bring a stash of poop bags with you, making sure to deposit your dog’s waste in a nearby trash can.
Bug ProtectionThe great outdoors is rife with insects like ticks, fleas, and mosquitoes, so make sure your dachshund is up to date with its flea and worm treatments.

You should also bring a dog-safe bug repellent spray with you to deter insects from biting your dachshund. 

Pack a tick comb with you and check yourself and your dog for ticks after you’ve been exploring outdoors.

The most common areas you’ll find ticks on your dachshund’s body are the face, chin, groin area, under the tail, ears (inside and outside), armpits, eyelids, and between the toes. 
Paw ProtectionDog booties or paw protectors can help keep your dachshund’s feet comfortable and free of debris while they’re hiking, especially if you’re traversing an off-road trail.
Pet First Aid KitIf your dachshund becomes injured while you’re hiking, a pet first aid kit can help you deal with mild wounds and scrapes.

Ideally, your pet first aid kit should include tweezers, scissors, gauze, antiseptic wipes, bandages, a thermometer, and styptic powder.

The latter is useful for helping minor cuts stop bleeding quickly, allowing you to bandage up your pooch’s wound without a bloody mess.
Dog CarrierIn the possibility that your dachshund becomes limp or ill during your hiking adventure, a dog carrier or a second backpack can help you carry your pooch the way back to your car or house. 
dachshund in a backpack

Tips to Get Started Hiking With Your Dachshund

Before you start hitting the trails with your dachshund, here are some tips to help you prepare your pooch physically and ensure they’re up to the task!

Make Sure Your Dachshund Is Used to Walking

Your dachshund should be used to walking for at least 30 minutes most days before you attempt hiking with them, otherwise, your pooch could injure themselves and will find it difficult to keep up with you on the trails.

Book a Vet Checkup

Book your dachshund in for a checkup at your vet so they can look for any potential health issues or conditions that could make hiking unsafe for your companion. 

Keep Hikes Short Initially

When you first start hiking with your dachshund, stick to short journeys in the beginning until their physical fitness has improved.

Keep to 30 to 60 minutes treks initially, though this could be shorter or slightly longer depending on your companion’s fitness, age, and health. 

Once your dachshund has been on a few short hikes, you can gradually increase the duration of the hike.

Keep an eye on your pooch to make sure they don’t get exhausted, dehydrated, or stressed. 

Give Breaks Every 15 to 20 Minutes

Even if your dachshund shows no signs of stopping during a hike, make sure you offer them water and some time to rest every 15 to 20 minutes.

Don’t Let Your Dachshund Jump

As we touched upon earlier, avoid trails that contain obstacles like fallen trees, rocks, big drops, or anything else that requires your pooch to jump.

Jumping puts a lot of pressure on your dachshund’s back and joints, especially when leaping down.


Final Thoughts

Despite their small size and short legs, the dachshund can make a great little partner to hit the trails with, provided you take all the appropriate precautions to keep them safe.

Be sure to gradually build up your pooch’s physical strength and fitness by beginning with short hikes.

Let your dachshund go at their own pace and don’t hesitate to cut a hike short if your dog becomes tired or has reached their limit.