Do you have a new Dachshund puppy and are wondering if you can let them off leash at the park? Here’s everything you need to know about Dachshunds and being let off the leash.
Can Dachshunds Go Off Leash? Even though some Dachshunds can be trusted off leash, most can’t. Dachshunds are hunting dogs by nature and could run off if they see a small furry animal nearby. Keep your Dachshund on a leash unless they are extremely well trained and good at recall.
But, before you take your Dachshund to the park, there’s more you need to know. Read on to find out whether you can trust your Dachshund off leash, and the 7 reasons why you should keep your Dachshund on a leash.
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This article is based on research and personal experience as a Dachshund owner of 10+ years. I’m not a Vet, qualified dog trainer or dog behaviourist.
Can I Trust My Dachshund To Go Off Leash?
You can’t ever trust a Dachshund 100% to be off leash. Dachshunds are hunting dogs by nature, so they could run if they catch a scent or see a squirrel or cat nearby.
That’s not to say all Dachshunds will run away when they see a furry animal. Some will be obedient enough to listen to your commands.
You just need to be sure you can trust your Dachshund and that they’re really well trained before you even consider it.
However, you should NEVER let your Dachshund off leash near a road. Dachshunds have very little road sense and could get harmed or cause an accident.
If you do decide to let your Dachshund off leash, it’s best to go to an enclosed park or fenced in dog area so your Dachshund is safely contained.
It’s also best to go to the park at off peak times when there are less people and other dogs around.
One of the most important commands you can teach your Dachshund is to ‘Recall‘. Book your puppy some dog training and obedience classes, so you start ‘Recall‘ training from a very young age.
It’s really important your Dachshund understands and responds to the ‘Recall‘ command before letting them off the leash.
7 Reasons Why You Should Not Let Your Dachshund Off Leash
This is why you need to be cautious about letting your Dachshund off leash:
1. Your Dachshund could run off
Dachshunds can get spooked and scared by thunder, loud noises or bangs. So, if they’re off leash at the park and hear something they don’t like, they could run and just keep running.
Fear can sometimes override their sense and ability to listen to you!
2. Your Dachshund could chase animals
Dachshunds are hunting dogs by nature. If they get a scent or see a small furry animal like a cat or squirrel, they may chase after it.
When dachshunds run, they can run really fast! You need to have a really obedient dachshund who comes to recall to trust him off leash at the park.
3. Your Dachshund could meet other dogs
Dachshunds are small dogs that could get scared or possibly even attacked by larger dogs in the park.
Of course, not all dogs will be a danger or aggressive towards your Dachshund. But some could frighten them by bounding over or playing a bit too rough.
Your Dachshund may also love running over to greet other dogs in the park. The problem is, you can’t ever say how the other dog will react.
You do have to be cautious when around other dogs because they may not be as friendly as your Dachshund is.
4. Your Dachshund could be territorial
Some Dachshunds can be a bit feisty or territorial. They do have the potential to nip or bite someone in the park if they get scared when approached.
Of course, not all Dachshunds would do this and most aren’t aggressive, but it’s worth being aware of.
5. Your Dachshund could have selective hearing
Even well trained Dachshunds have selective hearing at times. It would only take one squirrel for a Dachshund’s ears to stop working!
Dachshunds have a strong prey drive and they’re also really stubborn. So, trying to get their attention when they’re fixated with something else in the park can be a bit of a challenge. Sometimes they just don’t listen!
6. Your female Dachshund could be at risk
If your female Dachshund is in heat or having her season, you must NEVER let her off the leash at the park, or anywhere else for that matter.
It only takes a few seconds for a female Dachshund to get pregnant and you just don’t want to take that risk.
So be extra cautious with intact females around other dogs in the park.
7. Your Dachshund could be taken
It’s not something anyone ever wants to think about, but Dachshunds have sadly become a target for dog theft.
If your Dachshund is off leash, at a distance and out of sight, there’s a danger someone could pick them up and walk away.
It’s best to be extra cautious and keep your Dachshund close by, whether on or off the leash.
Where Is The Best Place To Let A Dachshund Off Leash?
The best place to let a Dachshund off leash is in a private secure garden or yard. This way your Dachshund gets to run around freely without the worry of other dogs or people nearby.
If there are any loud bangs or animals that come into the garden, you’ll have much more control over your Dachshund’s behaviour in a smaller, more contained area.
So, there you have it! Some Dachshunds can go off leash, but most can’t be trusted. It really does depend on the individual Dachshund and their personality. If you do let your Dachshund off leash, make sure they’re trained at recall so you know they’ll come back if Mr Squirrel makes an appearance!
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