Are Dachshunds Lap Dogs?

couple sitting on couch with dachshund on their lap

You’ve just adopted an adorable dachshund puppy. Congratulations! You will be spend years enjoying the company of this lovable breed, and no doubt you’re looking forward to cuddling with your new puppy. But not all dogs are as cuddly as others. While dachshunds may be small, that does not necessarily mean they are lap dogs. Read on to learn more:

What is a lap dog?

What makes a dog a lap dog? Turns out, it’s more than just a dog wanting to sit on your lap. After all, a golden retriever may want to sit on your lap, but that won’t make it very comfortable for you. In general, though, there are a few criteria:

  1. The dog is small enough to sit comfortably on their owner’s lap
  2. The dog frequently sits on their owner’s lap and likes to be close by their owner
  3. The dog was not bred for a working function

Dachshunds were bred for hunting, so this alone would technically disqualify them. Many working dogs are less likely to lie on their owner’s lap than dogs that were bred solely for companionship. This doesn’t mean working dogs are not cuddly; they simply enjoy running around and being active more so than lying on a couch.

Each dog is different

Dachshunds may be working dogs, but that does not mean your individual dachshund will not turn into a lap dog. Each dog is different. One dachshund may love to lie on your lap all day, while another will be happiest playing fetch.

At the end of the day, so long as you love your dachshund for who they are, they will give you unconditional love right back!

If you’re looking to adopt a dachshund puppy into your family, Patti’s Dachshund Farm is here to help. We have several dachshund puppies who are looking for their forever home. Contact us today at 334-385-2600.