By: Plants and Home
Dachshunds, like many dogs, come with their own hilarious quirks and unique personalities. From licking everything in sight to dragging their butts across the floor, these little wiener dogs sure know how to keep us on our toes! While some of their habits may seem strange, most are rooted in instinct, comfort, or communication.
Let’s break down a few common Dachshund behaviors and what they actually mean—plus a few stories from my own pack!
1. Why Do Dachshunds Lick Everything?
Paws, couches, humans, air—you name it. If it’s around, your Dachshund is probably trying to lick it.
🧠 What It Means:
- Self-soothing behavior: Licking releases endorphins and can help dogs calm down.
- Boredom or anxiety: Especially common in high-energy breeds like Dachshunds.
- Comfort: Licking familiar surfaces like beds or couches helps reinforce their scent.
- Affection & bonding: Licking you or other dogs is their way of saying “I love you.”
🐾 Real Life: Marbles and Little Foot (aka Feets) are my two lickiest Dachshunds. They even lick the floor like they’re helping me mop. Unhelpful, but cute.
⚠️ When to Worry:
If licking is constant or focused on one area, it may signal allergies, skin issues, or stress. A vet check can rule out any medical causes.
2. Cleaning Other Dogs’ Mouths (Seriously)
If your Dachshund is constantly licking another dog’s teeth or gums, don’t panic—it’s not that weird.
🧠 What It Means:
- Social grooming: A behavior rooted in pack bonding and affection.
- Submission or trust: Dogs often lick a more dominant dog’s mouth as a peace gesture.
- Curiosity: Dachshunds are nosey and like to explore every inch of their buddies.
🐾 True Story: Marbles used to stick her entire head into our 110 lbs Labrador’s mouth like a tiny canine dentist. She definitely doesn’t have a license to practice, but he let her do it anyway.
3. Scooting Their Butts on the Floor
Also known as “butt racing,” this classic move may look hilarious—but it usually signals discomfort.
🧠 What It Means:
- Full or irritated anal glands
- Worms or parasites
- Allergic reactions or infections
🐾 All three of my Dachshunds used to do this, especially after meals or naps. After starting them on this supplement (affiliate link), the butt races stopped—thank goodness!
✅ What You Can Do:
- Ask your vet to check their anal glands.
- Try a fiber supplement or digestive aid (linked above).
- Keep up with regular parasite prevention.
4. Why Are Dachshunds So… Weird?
Let’s face it—Dachshunds are just built differently. Their mix of sass, bravery, and stubbornness can lead to all sorts of quirky behaviors.
🧬 Why They’re Like This:
- Bred for hunting: Their sharp instincts and determination come from chasing down badgers.
- Highly intelligent: Boredom can trigger strange habits if they’re under-stimulated.
- Small but mighty: Their tiny bodies don’t stop them from acting like the kings of the house.
❤️ It’s All Part of Their Charm:
Most of these behaviors are completely normal, though if anything seems excessive, always check with your vet. Dachshunds just like to be… a little extra. And we love them for it.
🛍️ Recommended Products for Quirky Doxies
The links below are affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase—at no extra cost to you. These help support my blog so I can keep sharing helpful content with fellow dog lovers!
- ✅ Anal gland & digestion supplement my dogs use
- ✅ Lick-safe chew toy that keeps them busy
- ✅ Dog Peanut Butter that Supports Oral Care & Acts as Dog Plaque and Tartar Remover
🐶 Final Thoughts
From excessive licking to dental “assistance” and spontaneous scooting, Dachshunds are full of personality. Most of their behaviors are just instinctual quirks that can be managed with the right understanding—and a little humor.
Got a Dachshund story of your own? Drop it in the comments or send me a message—I’d love to feature some reader stories in future posts!
