Generated by All in One SEO v4.9.10, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # YouDidWhatWithYourWiener.com Improving Dachshund's Lives Through Education and Inspiration ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Posts - [Blog](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/?page_id=79884) - [Best Dachshund Training Treats Under 3 Calories](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/the-best-dog-training-treats-for-dachshunds/) - Contrary to popular belief, it is possible to train a Dachshund). They just need a lot of consistency and rewards, which are most commonly dog treats. When training your Dachshund, what matters most to them is the frequency of the treats, not the size. While most Dachshunds will work for any food, when you are - [The Best Supplements for Dachshunds According to an Owner](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/supplements-active-senior-dogs-and-dogs-recovering-from-ivdd/) - You want to keep your Dachshund healthy, so you may be wondering what the best supplements are for them. I want to keep mine healthy too so I researched supplements for senior dogs, supplements for Dachshunds with back problems, supplements for dogs that are very active, and more. I came up with a list of - [How I Choose the Best Food For My Dachshunds (and Which Ones I Like)](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/what-i-feed-my-active-dachshunds-to-help-keep-them-healthy/) - I'm often asked about dog food for Dachshunds - what I think is the best, what type is best (ie. kibble vs raw), or what I think about the quality of a specific food. I can definitely answer: Each owner should do their own research in order to make the right decision for themselves, their - [Hiking With a Dachshund? Prepare to Hear These 10 Things All the Time](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/top-10-things-you-hear-when-hiking-with-a-small-dog/) - I've been hiking with Dachshunds for over 20 years and I hear the same 10 comments over and over. I'm sure people think they are being original, but I hate to tell them they're not. They're predicable to me now. It's almost a game trying to guess which one of these 10 comments are coming. - [The 6 Best Back-Safe Backpack Carriers for Dachshunds (Scrutinized By A Gear Expert)](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/backpacks-carrying-dachshund-dog/) - I've been searching for over 15 y ears for a safe and practical backpack for carrying a Dachshund. I've seen almost every option available on the market, including outside of the US. While I have not tried every one of them, I have tried enough different ones that the rest are just "more of the - [How to Properly Transition Your Dog's Food (and Why You Should)](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/why-you-should-rotate-your-dogs-food-and-how-to-do-it-properly/) - Besides bringing variety, and a “thrill” to your dog’s taste buds, there are many reasons why you may want to rotate your dog’s food. Why Should I Switch My Dog’s Food? Dog Food Advisor sums it up perfectly, “Since there’s no such thing as a perfect dog food, it’s reasonable to assume every product is - [Help! My Dachshund Suddenly Can't Walk](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/help-my-dachshund-suddenly-cant-walk-advice/) - Over the years, I've probably received 100 messages and emails from people whose Dachshunds are experiencing back problems, neck problems, and trouble walking. Although I've written several articles on the topic, I haven't yet written one that specifically addresses the urgent time right after you discover that your Dachshund's back legs are paralyzed, their front - [Snowshoeing with Your Small Dog 101: Introduction - It's Easy and Fun](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/snowshoeing-with-your-small-dog-101-introduction-its-easy-and-fun/) - A couple of weeks ago we announced that were going to post a Snowshoeing with Your Small Dog 101 series. Yesterday we shared some of our favorite snowshoeing adventures to prove that small dogs really can snowshoe. Today is the kickoff of our series. We will publish a new post in this series each week - [How Much Does It Cost to Feed a Miniature Dachshund?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/how-much-does-it-cost-to-feed-a-miniature-dachshund/) - When I brought my third Dachshund home, I had to re-examine how much I was spending on dog food each month. When I only owned one or two Dachshunds, I didn’t care how much I was spending, but with three mouths to feed buying without looking at the price tag wasn't sustainable for me. UPDATED: - [How Many Calories Should a Dachshund Eat a Day?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/how-many-calories-should-a-dachshund-eat-a-day/) - The most accurate way to make sure your Dachshund doesn't become overweight is to calculate the number of calories they need a day. - [Help! My Male Dachshund Keeps Peeing Indoors](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/help-my-male-dachshund-keeps-peeing-indoors/) - My first Dachshund Chester was neutered at around 6 months old before me sexually matured. I honestly don't remember him ever marking in the house. Fast forward to life with Otter, my 2.5 year old intact male, and things look a little different. While I do consider Otter to be potty trained, he occasionally urine - [When Should I Neuter My Dachshund? A Breed-Specific Look at Timing and Health](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/when-should-i-neuter-my-dachshund-a-breed-specific-look-at-timing-and-health/) - My first Dachshund Chester wasn’t actually mine at first. He belonged to my roommate, but I helped raise him. I was there for the walks, the training, and the everyday care. When he was around six months old, my roommate had him neutered. That seemed to be common practice at the time, or at least - [11 Dachshund Breeders in Washington (WA) State - Local Dachshund Lover Recommendations](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/dachshund-breeders-in-washington-state/) - If you are looking for a Dachshund breeder in WA state, you have come to the right place. I'm a local Dachshund lover who runs a 2,000 member Dachshund club - the Adventurewiener Club - and many of our members have purchased Dachshund puppies from breeders in Washington State. A few breeders are actually club - [How I Help Keep My Dachshund’s Teeth Healthy Naturally](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/i-ditched-the-brush-how-i-help-keep-my-dachshunds-teeth-healthy-naturally/) - As I wandered the floor of one of the largest pet industry trade shows, a veterinarian from one of the booths caught my attention and showed me a new dog toothbrush design. I explained that I was attending the trade show as “media”, not as a buyer like most attendees, and that I don’t brush - [7 Tips for Training a Dachshund](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/tips-for-training-a-dachshund/) - Many people believe the sterotype that Dachshunds are too stubborn to be trained. But that couldn't be further from the truth - Dachsunds are not hard to train! I'm not pointing fingers because I used to beleive the sterotype too. This belief kept me from even trying to train my first Dachshund. But I learned - [9 Tricks to Get Your Dog to Look at the Camera](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/9-tricks-to-get-your-dog-to-look-at-the-camera/) - One of the most common questions I receive about my photos is, “How do you get your dogs to look at the camera?” I’ve been photographing my dogs for over 15 years, mostly outdoors in a high distraction environment, so I thought I would share some of what I have learned about taking good photos - [Why Your Dachshund Puppy Goes Wild at Night (and How to Help Them Settle)](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/why-your-dachshund-puppy-goes-wild-at-night-and-how-to-help-them-settle/) - I get it how frustrating it can be when you're ready for bed and your puppy suddenly decides it's time do zoomies around the living room. Many Dachshund owners are surprised when their pup seems to get a sudden burst of energy in the evening instead of winding down. This behavior is so common it - [Visit Dog-Friendly Seaside, Oregon](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/dog-friendly-seaside-oregon/) - Seaside, Oregon is a top spot along the Oregon coast for dog lovers. There are plenty of dog friendly restaurants, places you can stay with your dog, and, most importantly, your dog can run off leash at the beach! If you’re looking for things to do along the northern Oregon Coast and you’re bringing your - [Car Camping With Your Dog 101 Pt. 2 - What to Bring](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/car-camping-with-your-dog-101-pt-2-what-to-bring/) - So you've read Part I of this series - How to Choose a dog friendly Campsite - and you're ready to head out for your first camping trip with your dog. But what do you bring with you? The best thing about car camping is that you can pretty much bring whatever you want. When you go backpacking, you'll - [New Dachshund Puppy Essentials Checklist - What to Buy and Do](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/new-dachshund-puppy-essentials-checklist-what-to-buy-and-do/) - Are you getting a new Dachshund puppy? Congratulations! This is an exciting time but also a busy one as you prepare for the arrival of your newest family member. There is a lot to consider when making sure that you are ready, including purchasing the must-have supplies, puppy-proofing your home, finding a local veterinarian, and - [How to Feed Raw When You're Backpacking With Your Dog](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/trudog-freeze-dried-raw-real-meat-dog-food-hiking-backpacking-with-dog/) - I previously shared our food journey with you and talked about how I transitioned from feeding Chester some junk dog food to feeding both dogs raw. If you missed the series, you can catch my last post about deciding to feed raw here. I rotate their diet between a few different prepared, frozen raw foods - [Dachshund Dewclaws – What You Need to Know](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/dachshund-dew-claws-what-you-need-to-know/) - Does your Dachshund have a 5th (side) toe on their front or back foot? This is called a dewclaw. Having dewclaws on the front feet is common for Dachshunds. Seeing dewclaws on the back feet is less common. The nails of dewclaws can be the hardest to trim and it may seem like they are - [Best Websites and Apps for Planning a Dog Friendly Vacation](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/best-websites-for-planing-a-dog-friendly-vacation/) - I rarely travel without my Dachshunds. Honestly, I don't have much interest in going if they can't come. Although I have flown with each of my dogs on a few occasions, my preferred method of travel is driving. In fact, we've taken several big road trips that most people only dream of. Around 2015, we - [The Head of a Tick Was Left In My Dog - This is what Happened](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/the-head-of-a-tick-was-left-in-my-dog-this-is-what-happened/) - My dog Gretel got bit by a tick. Despite my best efforts, the tick broke when I tried to remove it, which left a tick head embedded in my dog's skin. If this has happened to you, and you're like me, you started to freak out. But don't worry too much yet. It's not always - [9 Tips for Flying with Your Small Dog for the First Time](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/tips-for-flying-with-your-dog-in-cabin/) - The thought of flying with your small dog for the first time may send shivers down your spine. No doubt you've heard more than a few terrifying tales of fellow dog owners who've had disastrous experiences taking their pups along with them. Whether you are moving overseas, or are fortunate enough to take your pooch - [How to Travel with a Dog That Gets Car Sick](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/when-you-want-to-go-hiking-but-you-dog-hates-the-car/) - If you were to ask me what my picture-perfect vacation would look like, it would involve packing my car with the necessary gear, and hitting the road to hike and camp with my dog. I imagine that there are quite a few people who would agree with this notion. That being said, car travel with - [Should You Protect Your Dog From Ticks in Washington State?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/should-you-protect-your-dog-from-ticks-in-washington-state/) - Although ticks are not as prevalent as they are on the east coast, protecting your dog from ticks in Washington state is still important. Tick bites used to only be a concern if you lived on the east side of Washington State, where ticks have always been encountered regularly, but that has changed in the - [4 Ways to Make CBD Dog Treats](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/make-your-own-cbd-dog-treats/) - You've heard how CBD could benefit your dog and you've decided to use dog treats with CBD oil instead of feeding your dog CBD oil directly. But maybe you're having difficulty finding CBD dog treats where you live, or your dog doesn't like the taste of the ones you've bought, so you've decided to make your - [Breeders in the US That X-ray for Spinal Calcifications in Dachshunds](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/breeders-in-the-us-that-x-ray-for-spinal-calcifications-in-dachshunds/) - Back problems are one of the biggest health concerns for Dachshunds, and about 1 in 4 will experience intervertebral disk disease (IVDD) in their lifetime. Unfortunately, many Dachshund owners are unaware of this risk. Of those that are, a significant portion are either terrified it will happen to their Dachshund and/or it's happened to theirs - [Is There An IVDD Test for Dachshunds?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/is-there-an-ivdd-test-for-dachshunds/) - Since 25% of Dachshunds will experience IVDD (Intervertebral Disk Disease/Degeneration) related back issues in their lifetime, many Dachshund owners wonder if there is a test for it. Back surgery can cost around $10,000, and it can severely impact the quality of a Dachshund's life (and the humans that care for them), so it’s very valuable - [10 Ways to Make Your Dog Comfortable in a Hotel Room](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/10-ways-to-make-your-dog-comfortable-in-a-hotel-room/) - I travel with my dogs everywhere. It's one of my favorite things to do! But I don't want my happiness to be at the expense of theirs. I do my best to respect their preferences and make them as comfortable as possible. I find that one of the most stressful travel experiences for my dogs - [25 Dachshund Facts Every Owner Must Know](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/21-things-about-dachshunds-every-owner-should-know/) - Whether you are a first-time Dachshund owner, haven't owned one in a long time, or are thinking of getting one, you'll definitely want to know these 25 important facts about Dachshunds. I wish I knew some of the things I know now from the beginning so I am going to share them with you below. - [Opinion: Is Treating Our Dogs Like Children Making Them Miserable?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/opinion-is-treating-our-dogs-like-children-making-them-miserable/) - Dogs have come a long way from the farmyards, porches, and backyards of the past. In just a few short decades, our relationship with dogs has shifted dramatically from outdoor companions with loads of freedom to "fur-babies" living inside our homes. On the surface, starting to treat our dogs like family seems like a life - [Why Dachshunds Lift a Front Paw: Decoding the Behavior](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/why-dachshunds-lift-a-front-paw-decoding-the-behavior/) - If you’ve lived with a Dachshund for any length of time, you’ve probably noticed them stopping mid-activity and lifting one front paw off the ground. To people new to the breed, it can look a little odd or even concerning. But for Dachshunds, it’s a very common behavior. There are several possible reasons your Doxie - [Musher's Secret Dog Paw Wax: Bootless Boots for Your Dog](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/mushers-secret-bootless-boots-for-your-dog/) - I get a lot of emails and comments asking me what I use to protect Summit and Gretel’s feet on our snowshoeing and hiking adventures. At first, I didn’t use anything. Note: this article was originally published in January of 2012. Disclosure: I am part of the Amazon Associate program and the links below are - [Sleepypod Air In-cabin Pet Carrier Review](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/sleepypod-air-pet-carrier-review/) - When I found out I would be flying cross country with my small dog, I was left scrambling to find a dog carrier for the airplane cabin. Sleepypod was kind enough to send me a Sleepypod Air Carrier (affiliate link) to take on our trip in exchange for sharing my thoughts about it. When the carrier - [Honest Review: Ibiyaya Evolution Speedy Fold Pet Buggy (Upgraded Version)](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/honest-review-ibiyaya-evolution-speedy-fold-pet-buggy-upgraded-version/) - I already own 7 dog strollers (yes, 7, I like to test them and loan them to people in our Dachshund club whose dogs are recovering from a disk herniation) but I jumped at the chance to try out the Ibiyaya Evolution Speedy Fold Pet Buggy when they contacted me. My favorite strollers that I - [My 5 Favorite Dachshund Strollers](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/best-dachshund-strollers/) - I bought my first dog stroller in 2016 when my miniature Dachshund Gretel suffered a back injury and was diagnosed with IVDD. Since then, I have owned several dog strollers and have tried many more at pet industry trade shows. In this article, I share some of the criteria I use to evaluate strollers for - [Want to Improve Your Dachshund's Behavior Without Training? Try These Two Things First.](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/two-ways-to-improve-your-dachshunds-behavior-without-training/) - Pet owners who are frustrated with their Dachshund's behavior often seek out a dog trainer for help. The owners have usually been living with an issue for a long time, have reached a point of desperation, and want or need a fix now. There are two primary ways that dog trainers can help - they - [5 Ways I Prevent Fleas and Ticks on My Dogs](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/how-to-prevent-ticks-on-dogs/) - I used to live in western Washington with my dogs where ticks are rare (although the encounters are increasing) but now we live eastern Washington where ticks are prevalent. Since ticks are a common danger when we hike, I’ve really had to increase my knowledge and learn how to prevent ticks from getting on my - [11 Secrets to Snapping the Perfect Photo of Your Adventure Dog](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/11-secrets-to-capturing-an-instagram-worthy-picture-of-your-adventure-dog/) - I've always loved photography. My mom was an amateur photographer when I was a kid and I remember sitting for hours looking at slides with her (yes, I'm that old). I started playing around with landscape photography when I discovered hiking. Updated: July 25, 2025 I switched to "landscape with pets" photos when I started - [15 Enrichment Ideas for Dachshunds](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/enrichment-ideas-for-dachshunds/) - The concept of enrichment for animals has been around since the 1950's and has gained in popularity for domestic pets in the last few years. If you want to know how enrichment got it's start, and why it's extremely important, read my article Dog Enrichment: Why All the Hype? In summary: Enrichment for animals started - [What is An Ovary Sparing Spay (OSS) and Is It Right for Your Dachshund?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/the-pros-and-cons-of-ovary-sparing-spay-oss-for-your-dachshund/) - Are trying you to decide whether to spay your female Dachshund or not? Did you know there is a middle ground called an Ovary Sparing Spay (OSS)? I didn't until 2019 when, for the first time, I brought home a dog that wasn't already desexed. I knew that getting her "fixed" was the right thing - [21 Common Dachshund Health Issues](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/common-dachshund-health-issues/) - Every dog breed has a set of medical conditions they’re prone to. The Dachshund breed is not exempt. There are common Dachshund health issues that every owner should be aware of so they can keep an eye out for associated signs and symptoms. This will not only help you catch any issues early, but it - [What Dachshunds Were Bred for (And How It Explains Their Behavior Today)](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/what-were-dachshunds-bred-for/) - The Dachshund dog was selectively bred for hunting, which required certain traits and characteristics. Although Dachshunds are not typically used for hunting anymore, at least not in the United States, people around the world have fallen in love with this quirky breed with a unique look and keep them as companions. While their living environment - [Dog Enrichment: Why All the Hype?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/dog-enrichment-why-its-important/) - The term enrichment is thrown around all of the time now in dog communities. However, this "hot topic" is largely misunderstood. The dog community talks about enrichment in a way that can make many dog owners feel like they are dumb for not knowing what it is, so they are afraid to ask. For those - [Is it Safe to Take My Dachshund to the Dog Park?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/is-it-safe-to-take-my-dachshund-to-the-dog-park/) - One one hand, I like taking my Dachshunds to the dog park. It's a convenient place to let them run off leash and visit with other dogs. On the other hand, I worry it's not safe to take them. If you are wondering if you should take your doxie to the dog park, and how - [IVDD Quality of Life: Do You Need to Treat Your Dog Like Breakable Glass?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/do-you-need-to-treat-your-ivdd-dog-like-breakable-glass/) - UPDATE: June 19, 2022 So you found out your dog has Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD). At a minimum, you and your dog endured 6 weeks of crate rest. There were sad eyes, guilt, whining, patience, and frustration involved. Some of your dogs needed surgery too. Your dog may or may not have recovered to normal, - [DoggoRamps Dog Furniture Ramps for Dachshunds](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/doggoramps-dog-couch-ramp-for-dachshunds/) - Does your Dachshund love to lay next to you on the couch? Do you love snuggling next to your pup at night? If the doorbell rings, or you get up, without a gentle way for your Dachshund to get off the couch, they have to jump down to get to the door or follow you - [What Is a Teacup (or Toy) Dachshund?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/what-is-a-toy-dachshund/) - UPDATED: June 3, 2022 I heard of this thing called a teacup Dachshund for the first time last week. Soon after that, I saw someone asking about a toy Dachshund. I admit I was a bit taken aback by this reference but, ultimately, dismissed it. However, a reader left a comment to one of my - [How to Find Off Leash Dog Trails in Washington State](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/off-leash-dog-trails-in-washington-state/) - You probably landed on this article because you are looking for trails in Washington where you can hike off leash with your dog. While it may feel like you and your dog have few options, there are probably more off leash dog trails than you think. I always knew that there were off leash trails - [Debunking Myths About Dachshunds and Exercise](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/whats-the-minimum-amount-of-exercise-my-dachshund-needs/) - As you know if you're read my blog at all, I am very passionate about making sure a Dachshund gets enough exercise. There are two main reasons for this: It helps to keep them healthy and fit It helps keep their core and back muscles strong so they are less likely to suffer from a - [The Surprising Truth About Dachshund Back Problems](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/the-truth-about-dachshunds-and-back-problems/) - In 2016, my rescue Dachshund Gretel suffered a back injury and was diagnosed with Intervertebral Disk Disease (IVDD). I knew about IVDD because I had researched back issues in Dachshunds extensively a year prior and was hyper-vigilant about keeping an eye out for any sign that could indicate a disk rupture. On average, 25% of - [The 15 Must-Have Dog Camping Gear Items This Expert Brings on Every Trip](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/best-gear-for-your-dog-friendly-camping-trip/) - Are you new to camping with dogs or have you done it so infrequently that you forget what essentials that you need to pack? I've been camping with my dogs for years. I've gone through a lot of trial and error and have decided that I won't leave home without these 15 things. UPDATED: April - [How to Crate Train an Adult Dachshund or New Puppy](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/how-to-crate-train-an-adult-dachshund-or-new-puppy/) - When I adopted Gretel, she was almost 1 years old and the rescue told me that she was crate trained. After bringing her home we realized she was most definitely not! She threw an anxious fit when I shut her in a crate. One time, she broke a nail scratching the sides and bled all - [12 Awesome Treats for Dogs That Like to Hike](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/chester-and-gretels-top-10-favorite-dog-treats/) - I really watch Chester and Gretel's weight. That doesn't mean they don't get plenty of treats though. We have treats for photo shoots, treats to give them energy while hiking, treats to distract them from acting inappropriately in public situations, functional treats (treat/supplement combos), rahab therapy treats, and treats just because. I'm able to keep - [Why Buying a Puppy from a Responsible Breeder Isn't a Death Sentence for Shelter Dogs ](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/why-buying-a-puppy-from-a-responsible-breeder-isnt-a-death-sentence-for-shelter-dogs/) - The debate over whether one should obtain a new dog from a rescue or breeder is a hot one. I’ve been privy to the passionate breeder vs rescue debate for over 10 years. It’s true that there are a lot of dogs dying in shelters each year. However, the issue won’t be solved simply by - [Dog Supplement Review: PetLab Co Probiotic Chews](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/dog-supplement-review-petlab-co-probiotic-chews/) - I've known for a long time that probiotics are helpful in maintaining my Dachshund's gut health. They help support immune system function, promote digestion and nutrient absorption, help maintain overall health, and more. Probiotics are a supplement that I don't consider optional. However, I don't have a favorite. For many supplements, I have a go-to - [Canine Dementia: Signs, Symptoms, and How to Help Your Aging Dachshund](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/canine-dementia-signs-symptoms-and-how-to-help-your-aging-dachshund/) - My Dachshund Chester developed dementia, which is similar to Alzheimer’s disease in humans, and is officially called canine cognitive dysfunction (CCD) syndrome, in his senior years. It was heartbreaking to watch my little sidekick start to lose his mental faculties. In the end, that is the reason that we had to say goodbye to him. - [3 Amazing Dog Friendly Oregon Hikes for Your Bucket List](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/three-dog-friendly-bucket-list-hikes-oregon/) - There is still a lot of snow in the mountain in the Northwest but I am already thinking ahead to spring. Gretel and I plan to hike a lot this summer in preparation for our 10-day backpacking trip. I don't like to hike the same trails all of the time so I've been looking around Oregon - [Ticks, Ticks, Ticks: Remember to Protect Your Dog When Hiking](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/ticks-ticks-ticks-remember-to-protect-your-dog-when-hiking/) - I never worried about ticks when I was growing up. Although I do remember my parents saying our family dog had a tick once, ticks weren't mentioned often and I hadn't seen one. I didn't realize how lucky I was, until later. You see, I grew up in Western Washington State where ticks are (or - [How to Socialize a Puppy Before Final Vaccinations](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/how-to-socialize-an-unvaccinated-puppy/) - Socializing your puppy before vaccinations are completed is crucial to creating a happy, confident, friendly dog. Many people don't let their puppy outside, or let them meet new dogs and people, until they are fully vaccinated because they fear them catching parvo or some other potentially deadly illness. This is a problem, though, because the - [What is Conservative Treatment for IVDD and What is the Chance My Dachshund Will Recover?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/what-is-conservative-treatment-for-ivdd-in-dogs/) - If your Dachshund has suffered a back injury and been diagnosed with Intervertebral Disk Disease (IVDD), conservative treatment, sometimes referred to as "crate rest", may be recommended. In this article, I explain what IVDD is, when conservative treatment will be recommended, and what to expect, including the cost and chance of recovery. UPDATED: December 20, - [Why Does My Dachshund Cough After Drinking Water?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/why-does-my-dachshund-cough-after-drinking-water/) - I know how concerning it can be when your Dachshund coughs after drinking water. I've owned 4, and only my girl Summit does it, so it freaked me out the first few times. Perhaps like you, my primary concern was that something was wrong with her. Maybe she had a malformed or collapsed trachea. She's - [Best Coats for Dachshunds That Fit Their Long Body](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/warm-coats-for-dachshunds-that-fit-their-long-body/) - Over the years, I've written about what I think the best sweaters and coats for Dachshunds are because I know how hard it can be to find one that fits their odd-shaped body well. UPDATED: December 4, 2024 A dog coat is one of the 10 essential items we bring on every adventure, but I’ve - [Why Do Dachshunds Destroy Toys?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/why-do-dachshunds-destroy-toys/) - If you have a Dachshund who likes to rip apart their stuffed toys, then you understand what an expensive habit it can be. Like me, you have probably bought every "toughest" toy on the market, only to find it didn't last more than 15 minutes. I've spent up to $25 on "invincible" plush dog toys - [Why Are Dachshunds So Clingy?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/why-are-dachshunds-so-clingy/) - Every Dachshund owner knows that you can't go to the bathroom alone! But why is that? Is your Dachshund worried that you might fall in? That there is a boogeyman hiking behind the shower curtain? Or that you might not "do it" right? In all seriousness, there are logical explanations for why your Dachshund follows - [Tips for Keeping Your Dog Safe and Healthy on Winter Outdoor Adventures](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/winterizing-your-pet-and-keeping-them-fit-the-dog-buzz/) - Transitioning from warmer weather to the cold winter can be hard on your dog. However, that doesn't have to mean that you and your dog need to hibernate inside the house all winter. Winter is actually one of my favorite seasons to hike or snowshoe with my Dachshund Gretel In order to help you keep - [Backpacking With Dogs: What to Do if Your Dog Has an Allergic Reaction to a Bug Bite](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/backpacking-with-dogs-what-to-do-if-your-dog-has-an-allergic-reaction-to-a-bug-bite/) - Do you know what to do if your dog has an allergic reaction to a bug bite or sting when you are out in the woods? Most people assume they can rush their dog to the vet when something like that happens. The vet is not an option when you are in the backcountry like - [How Far Can a Dachshund Run?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/dachshund-runs-marathon-for-a-good-cause/) - Some lucky Dachshund owners have discovered the joy of watching a Dachshund race. A typically Dachshund race is a distance of 50 feet, so the Dachshund's don't run very far. The races are funny and interesting to watch. Some Dachshunds literally run circles and never make it to the finish line, some plod along like - [Hiking With Your Dog This Winter? Beware of Hypothermia](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/winter-hiking-dogs-hypothermia-symptoms-treatment/) - I hike and walk with my small dogs in the snow all Winter. My Dachsunds Summit and Gretel venture out in colder temperatures than most small dogs do. Or, at least, they are outside in cold temperatures longer than most dogs. Our average, our winter hikes is in snow are 3-4 hours long and the - [How Old Should My Puppy Be Before They Hike?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/how-old-should-my-puppy-be-before-they-hike/) - You wanted a hiking buddy with lots of energy and that was always excited to go when you are so you got a puppy. You can't wait to hit the trails with your new pup and introduce them to a life of adventure. But should you? UPDATED: November 4, 2022 Puppies shouldn't go on substantial - [Why Does My Dog Bark or Pee On the Floor When I Leave?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/why-does-my-dog-bark-or-pee-on-the-floor-when-i-leave/) - I've received many emails from Dachshund owners who are frustrated that their dog barks all day, or pees in the house, when they're gone. Most ask me if I think their pup does it because they are mad - or out of spite - and how to stop it. Since this topic doesn't only apply - [Is Running Bad for Dachshunds?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/is-running-bad-for-dachshunds/) - If you’ve found yourself reading this post, you’re probably wondering if you can take your Dachshund running with you. Many people believe that Dachshund's shouldn't run and that they are not capable of running long distances. In this article I will clarify the risks for running for a Dachshund so you can make your own - [THE Most Useful Thing I Learned in our Scary Dog Monster Class](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/the-most-useful-thing-i-learned-in-our-scary-dog-monster-class/) - Since recognizing that Gretel needed more help building confidence, being less fearful and not barking or growling on the leash I have been searching the internet for suggestions. I found a lot of stuff but much of it seemed contradictory (even within a specific training modality such as positive reinforcement) and confusing. It all made - [How to Choose a Small Dog Crate for Your Dachshund](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/how-to-choose-a-small-dog-crate-for-your-dachshund/) - You’ve just brought home a new Dachshund. Perhaps a puppy, a senior dog, or an adult. On your must-buy list is a crate. You've heard everyone talk about the importance of crate training, but where do you even start when it comes to choosing the right crate for your Dachshund? Ask yourself these questions, and - [Dachshund Puppy Training: 15 Things to Start Teaching the Day Yours Comes Home](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/5-things-you-should-start-teaching-your-dachshund-puppy-the-day-they-come-home/) - Bringing a new puppy home is exciting. It’s also kind of like bringing home a wild animal. A puppy is still learning about the world around them and how to interact with humans and other animals. They are literally born having no clue. It’s your job to teach them manners and the appropriate way to - [Pupford: Making Dog Training Easy and Guilt Free](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/pupford-making-dog-training-easy-and-guilt-free/) - When I brought puppy Summit home, I was committed to training her. I wanted to have the best behaved Dachshund around. But I quickly became overwhelmed. Our lifestyle, and my interest, didn't allow for an hour of training a day. A lot of online dog training videos made it seem complicated. Add to that, I felt - [Opinion: Dog Training Doesn't Have to Look Like Obedience](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/dog-training-doesnt-have-to-look-like-obedience/) - "Dog training doesn't have to look like obedience". This was the response of a dog trainer friend when I commented on her Instagram Reel the other day. Her Reel was about the importance of training small dogs and I commented, "I admit I never trained my first Dachshund, but he was also a pretty chill - [Why You Should Teach a Dachshund to Leave It and How to Do It](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/why-you-should-teach-a-dachshund-to-leave-it-and-how-to-do-it/) - Basic obedience shows your dog how to be a polite and well-behaved member of the family. But when you teach a Dachshund to “leave it”, you’re also taking an important step towards keeping your dog safe. I’m not a dog trainer but I do wish to have a well-behaved Dachshund so I’m learning. For a - [Are Dachshunds Hard to Train?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/are-dachshunds-hard-to-train/) - Do you beleive the myth that Dachsunds are stubborn and impossible to train? If so, you'll want to read this. - [The 20 Most Common Dachshund Behavior Problems (and What to Do About Them)](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/most-common-dachshund-behavior-problems-what-to-do-about-them/) - I’ve spent the last 20 years studying the Dachshund breed and there are 10 common behavior problems I see most often. Now, some of these aren’t “problems” per se. They may just be behaviors owners are shocked or surprised by because they didn’t fully understand the Dachshund breed before they got one. Although my experience - [How to Raise a Calm, Friendly Dachshund](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/how-to-raise-a-calm-friendly-dachshund/) - While it’s true that each dog is different when it comes to being calm and friendly, in general, most Dachshunds are not naturally that way. These feisty dogs are natural born hunters prone to anxiety so you have to create a calm, friendly Dachshund. The way to do that is through socialization and confidence training. - [15 Signs Your Dachshund is Stressed Out (and What to Do About It)](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/signs-your-dachshund-is-stressed-out-with-solutions/) - It's important to recognize when your Dachshund is stressed. When your Dachshund is stressed, they may be more likely to run away, training sessions may not be effective, they may be scared, it can lead to submissively peeing, or they may become reactive and act aggressively towards dogs or people. As humans, we typically only - [Why Does My Dachshund Bark So Much and How Can I Stop It?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/why-wont-my-dachshund-stop-barking/) - Dachshunds are notorious for barking all the time. I frequently see comments, and get messages from readers, asking what they can do to reduce or eliminate their barking Dachshund's behavior. In many cases, their Dachshund is constantly barking while they are gone, disrupting their neighbors, making the neighbors angry, and putting at them at risk - [Should I Use a Bark Collar on My Dachshund?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/should-i-use-a-bark-collar-on-my-dachshund/) - Every now and then I get a message from a reader who is facing getting evicted because of their Dachshund’s excessive barking or who is considering surrendering their Dachshund to a shelter because of it. They ask me, “Should I Use a bark collar for my Dachshund?” My thoughts and opinions on bark collars have - [How to Stop Your Dachshund From Barking, Scratching and Peeing When You Leave the House](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/stop-dog-separation-anxiety/) - It's difficult dealing with a Dachshund who has separation anxiety. Unfortunately, many people experience their Dachshund acting out when they leave the house but don't know it's anxiety that's causing their dog to "be bad". If your Dachshund is doing these things when you leave the house, they might have separation anxiety: Excessively barking or - [Dachshund Peeing in the House? It Might Be Separation Anxiety](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/your-dachshund-may-not-be-peeing-in-the-house-for-the-reason-you-think/) - If your Dachshund is peeing in the house, you might think your dog needs more potty training. But do you know that your Dachshund may not be peeing in the house for the reason you think? I've seen a significant uptick of people posting in Dachshund Facebook groups about their dogs peeing on the rug, - [9 Reasons Your Dachshund is Peeing in the House](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/reasons-your-dachshund-is-peeing-in-the-house/) - There are several reasons why your Dachshund may be peeing in the house. Some are under their control and some aren't. Some are under your control and some aren't. Below, based on my personal and shared experience, are the most common reasons Dachshunds pee in the house. UPDATED: December 31, 2022 Possible Reasons Your Dachshund - [Help! My Dachshund Won't Potty Outside in the Rain and Cold](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/my-dachshund-wont-potty-outside-in-the-rain/) - When I brought my Dachshund puppy home to the Pacific Northwest, it was September. That's the beginning of the rainy season for us and I thought, how in the heck am I going to potty traing a Dachshund when it's cold and rainy outside?? I've heard so many stories about Dachshunds who were perfectly housetrained - [What is Pooping in the House Season (and What Can You Do About It)?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/what-is-pooping-in-the-house-season-and-what-can-be-done-about-it/) - You’ve worked hard and, finally, your small dog is totally potty trained. It’s been months since your dog pooped in the house. Then the leaves start to turn, the weather turns cold, and rain and snow start to fall from the sky. You tried to take your dog outside to go potty - they have - [Potty Training a Dachshund: 15 Tips and Protocol for Success](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/potty-training-a-dachshund-15-tips-and-protocol-for-success/) - If you have heard that potty training a Dachshund is difficult, or you feel like your current potty training efforts are just not working, don’t despair! My puppy Summit came to me potty pad trained and she was 100% house trained (taught to only go outside) within 3 months. She is 5 years old now - [13 Important Dog Park Rules to Follow (And Two I Always Break)](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/two-dog-park-etiquette-rules-i-always-break/) - If you've visited a dog park, you probably noticed that most have the rules posted near the entrance. But not all do and not all dog parks have the same rules. The dog park rules below are true at almost every dog park and even if they are not official, it's courteous to observe them. - [Think Dachshunds Can't Use Stairs? You May Be Wrong](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/can-dachshunds-use-stairs/) - Ask if Dachshunds can use stairs, or post a picture of your Dachshund using them, in any breed-specific forum and 95% of the people will scream, “NO!” The belief perpetuated on the internet is that stairs are bad for Dachshunds and using them will cause a back injury and IVDD. However, although the difference between - [The Wieners Are Out In Full Force](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/the-wieners-are-out-in-full-force/) - We're starting to get our summer crowd back for the Adventureweiner Club Green Lake walk. We had over 30 people and almost 40 wieners show up. The event can draw up to 50 people during the summer months. Maybe it was the good weather.... or maybe it was the lure of free stuff. Ha, ha. The - [Adventurewiener Club West Coast Tour 2022 - Dates and Details](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/adventurewiener-club-west-coast-tour-2022-dates-and-details/) - This trip has since colcluded. Join the Adventurewiener™ Club to be notified when the next one is happening. Details of the Tour The Adventurewiener Club is a social Dachshund club that was founded by You Did What With Your Wiener? (us) in 2010. The primary goal of the Club is to help Dachshund owners connect - [Why I Chose Vectra 3DⓇ Flea and Tick to Protect My Dogs](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/why-i-chose-vectra-3d-flea-and-tick-to-protect-my-dogs/) - I admit that I didn’t use flea and tick protection for my dogs for a long time. In Western Washington, it used to be rare for us to run into fleas or ticks so we didn’t need to. However, that has been changing over the last few years. Today, the number of these pests has - [Easy DIY Insect Repellent Bandana for Dogs](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/easy-diy-insect-repellent-dog-bandana/) - One way to help prevent ticks from bothering your dog while hiking, camping, or hanging out in your back yard, is to have your dog wear an insect repellent dog bandana. You've probably seen tick and mosquito repellent dog bandanas available online or in pet stores before. The Insect Shield bandana for dogs is a - [Is Hemp CBD Safe for My Dog? Is it Legal?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/hemp-cbd-dog-treats-are-they-safe-and-legal/) - If you haven't already, you will probably start hearing about Cannabidiol, or CBD, treats for dogs soon. One of your first questions might be, is CBD safe for my dog? Next, you are probably wondering if it's legal to buy and posses in your state. Before I'd heard of them, I discovered "weed cookies" in - [Hemp Oil vs CBD Oil for Dogs - What's the Difference?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/shopping-for-hemp-cbd-dog-treats-read-this-first/) - Hemp-based cannabidiol (CBD) supplements for pets became all the rage in 2016. CBD is one, and the most abundant, of at least 113 active cannabinoids identified in the hemp plant. It is considered to have a lot of potential benefits for dogs. While CBD is derived from hemp, not all products containing hemp also contain CBD. I - [Hemp CBD Oil and Treats Are All the Rage; Can CBD Benefit Your Dog?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/health-benefits-of-hemp-cbd-oil-for-dogs/) - My adventure down the Cannabidiol, aka. CBD, knowledge road started when I visited my first recreational marijuana store a few months ago. I live in Washington State where recreational pot is legal now, which is still feels really strange to me, so I thought I might as well see what a "pot store" looks like on - [Pet Releaf CBD Hemp Oil Edibles and Review](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/pet-releaf-dog-treat-oil-review/) - By now, you have probably heard of CBD for pets and how it might benefit your dog. Pet Releaf Hemp Health was the first pet CBD (cannabidiol) brand I discovered back in 2016 and I was really impressed by the quality of the product and the owner’s knowledge. UPDATED: This article was originally published June - [High-Quality CBD Oil for Dogs - HempMy Pet Review](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/hemp-my-pet-review/) - Not to brag, but I kind of consider myself a bit of an expert on the topic of CBD for dogs. I’m have a few “secrets” - things about me I don’t talk about often, or ever, on this blog - like: I went through a huge hippie stage when I was younger and wanted everything - [How Much CBD Oil Should I Give My Dog?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/how-much-cbd-oil-should-i-give-my-dog/) - Whether you are talking about how much CBD oil, or dog treats that contain CBD oil, to give your pet, the discussion is really about the amount of CBD the product contains. One CBD dog treat from one brand might not contain the same amount of CBD as one treat from another. The amount of - [Can CBD Oil Help Calm My Anxious Dachshund?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/can-cbd-oil-help-calm-my-anxious-dog/) - I know what it’s like to have an anxious dog. Gretel was so nervous she was on Prozac when I adopted her. Over the years, she’s calmed down and learned to not be so reactive. However, sometimes when she gets stressed, her inner demon still rears its ugly head. I help control her anxiety naturally - [Low Calorie Peanut Butter, Banana, Coconut Kong Stuffing](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/peanut-butter-banana-coconut-kong-stuffing/) - I give my Dachshund Gretel a stuffed Kong when I leave the house to help with her separation anxiety. In an attempt to reduce her calorie intake, I switched from peanut butter stuffing to making my own low-calorie stuffing. Each small stuffed Kong holds 2 Tbs so each Kong was almost 200 calories when filled - [Easy 3 Ingredient Kong Stuffing Recipe](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/easy-quick-3-ingredient-kong-stuffing-recipe/) - When I'm preparing a trip and can't take both dogs for me, I pre-fill Kongs and put them in the freezer to make it easier for Dog Dad, or a dog sitter, to care for them. That way, the person watching the dogs can quickly grab one out of the freezer to help lure them - [Pioneering the Dog Friendly Spruce Railroad Trail](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/pioneering-the-spruce-railroad-trail/) - The Spruce Railroad Trail skirts Lake Crescent and is inside the boundary of Olympic National Park. The trail is a 4-mile rolling path in the woods along the shores of the lake, which is the second deepest in Washington at 600 feet. The Spruce Railroad Trail has been designated as part of the Olympic Discovery Trail - [Rattlesnake Ledge: An Actual View This Time!](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/rattlesnake-ledge-an-actual-view-this-time/) - In case you haven’t noticed, Rattlesnake Ledge is one of our favorite go-to hikes in the winter. The up side is that we are usually more out of shape in the winter and this one is easier and it is usually snow-free all or most of the way. The down side is that the views - [Hiking to Glass Beach in Port Townsend, WA With a Dog](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/beach-glass-adventure/) - If you're looking for a unique dog friendly adventure, look no further than Glass Beach in Port Townsend, Washington. I spent half of my life growing up in Port Townsend and it was always magical to hike out to glass beach. Now that I'm an adult, I love to go back and hike out there - [One Amazing, and One So-So, Dog-Friendly Hike Near Bend, Oregon](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/one-amazing-and-one-so-so-dog-friendly-hike-near-bend-oregon/) - When you are a tourist in a new area, it can be hard to find some of the "best" local things to do. A Google search often lists the most popular actives or places. However, just because they are popular, doesn't mean they are the most interesting or most beautiful. During our recent trip to - [Perfect Day For a Hike to Snow Lake](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/perfect-day-for-a-hike/) - I admit we haven't been the best K9 Kampers this time around. The challenge this month is to be active 30 minutes extra, 3 - 4 times a week. Right now I am so busy with school that any kind of activity at all is "extra" for us. We just HAD to get out and - [Urban Hiking Adventure: Ravenna and Cowen Parks](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/urban-hiking-adventure-ravenna-and-cowen-parks/) - We've had a love affair with Zuke's since before they had any idea who we were and we are proud to have them as one of our long-term sponsors. Their continued support helps to make sure we have the treats we need to fuel our adventures and that I can continue to share our stories and tips. We - [Urban Hiking Adventure: Washington Park Arboretum](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/urban-hiking-adventure-washington-park-arboretum/) - We can't always drive to the mountains to hike so urban walks are our staple. Sometimes we just want to commune with some nature and smell the trees and dirt instead of walking the neighborhood sidewalks though. We are lucky here in Seattle because we have several large parks within the urban area so I thought - [Dog Friendly Hike: Oyster Dome](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/hiking-adventure-oyster-dome/) - For our first hike of the year, that counts toward our 250 miles, we hiked up Oyster Dome. This dog friendly hike is in the town of Bellingham, about 1.5 hours north of Seattle. It may be "in" a town but it's certainly not an urban hike. It's a strenuous wilderness hiking experience. The trail climbs - [Dog Friendly Barclay Lake Trail: Easy Hike, Amazing View](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/dog-friendly-barclay-lake-trail-easy-hike-amazing-view/) - A friend took Chester and I to the Barclay Lake trail years ago. We hiked up there when the trail was covered in a couple of feet of snow. The trail has been on my hiking bucket list since them because I wanted to go back when I could see the actual trail. We hiked - [Dog Friendly Trail: Mailbox Peak - Oops We Did It Again](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/dog-friendly-mailbox-peak-trail-oops-we-did-it-again/) - The Mailbox Peak trail is one of the hardest dog friendly Northwest trails. We returned a mere three weeks after our first, failed attempt - a terrible, I'm-never-doing-that-again experience. I totally wasn't planning on hiking it again - maybe never but at least not until the end of the summer - but I got caught - [Hiking Misery Ridge at Dog Friendly Smith Rock State Park](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/hiking-misery-at-dog-friendly-smith-rock-state-park/) - I recently drove to a pet blogger conference in Las Vegas with Chester and Gretel. To make driving more pleasant for all of us, we played the 100 mile road trip game. One of our stops along the way was the dog friendly Smith Rock State Park in Oregon where we hiked the Misery Ridge trail. - [Dog Friendly Trail: Winding our Way up Beacon Rock](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/dog-friendly-trail-winding-our-way-up-beacon-rock/) - Beacon Rock is a 848 foot basalt column on the Washington State side of the Columbia River. A dog friendly trail winds it's way up to the top of the rock. Quick geology lesson: Beacon Rock once formed the center of a volcano. During the last ice age, when the softer rock around it was scraped - [Dog Friendly Trail: Marmot Pass via the Upper Big Quilcene](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/dog-friendly-trail-marmot-pass-via-the-upper-big-quilcene/) - Dogs are not allowed on trails inside Olympic National Park. The Upper Big Quilcene trail is located just outside of the National Park, in the Buckhorn Wilderness, so you can hike it with your dog. The trail leads up to Marmot Pass, which affords one of the best views of the Olympic Mountain range. Our - [Dog Friendly Trail: Rampart Ridge via Lake Lillian](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/dog-friendly-trail-rampart-ridge-via-lake-lillian/) - Last week we went one of the most beautiful, and tough, hikes of the summer - Rampart Ridge on Snoqualmie Pass. There are two ways to hike to Rampart Ridge. One way is called the Rocky Run trail via Lake Lillian. We heard it was the shorter, but steeper of the two options. The other - [Dog Friendly Hike: Lake Serene](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/dog-friendly-trail-adventure-lake-serene/) - Our Adventure Finishing up my final quarter in graduate school has been stressful so I decided to take a whole day off to hike and clear my head. A couple of my local hiking friends were heading to Lake Serene, and I had never been, so I decided to go. It was rare to be - [Dog Friendly Hike: Lake TwentyTwo](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/dog-friendly-trail-adventure-lake-twentytwo/) - I got the "ok to hike" from the doctor. I was itching to hit the trail after being sidelined on the couch with pneumonia for almost three weeks. I decided to check Lake Twentytwo off of my bucket list so my hubby and I packed up the dogs and headed out. The Lake Twentytwo trailhead - [Urban Hiking Adventure: Kubota Japanese Garden](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/discovery-of-a-dog-friendly-japanese-garden/) - Japanese gardens can be pretty amazing, especially in the fall when all of the maple leaves turn gold, orange, and yellow. Unfortunately, most Japanese gardens in the Seattle area don't allow dogs. I have discovered one dog-friendly Japanese garden though - the Kubota Gardens. As it turns out, it's a place that one of our - [Dog Friendly Hike: Gem Lake via Snow Lake](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/dog-friendly-hike-gem-lake-via-snow-lake/) - Our first backpacking trip with the dogs this year was up to Gem Lake. The most common way to get up to Gem Lake is via the Snow Lake trail so that's what we did. Snow Lake is one of my favorite dog friendly trails near Seattle because it's not too hard but the destination - [Dog Friendly Backpacking Trip: Snoqualmie Pass to Chikamin Peak](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/dog-friendly-backpacking-seattle-snoqualmie-pass/) - Originally, I planned to backpack all of Section J of the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) with my dog but had to cut our trip short due to weather and time constraints. Instead, I set my sights on Spectacle Lake, nestled at the base of Chikamin Ridge, and 16.9 miles along the PCT from Snoqualmie Pass - [Dog Friendly Fall Hike: Heather-Maple Pass Loop](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/dog-friendly-fall-hike-heather-maple-pass-north-cascades/) - While Gretel needed zero recovery time after our 3-day backpacking trip, I am still sore and ouchie. None the less, the show must hike on. A friend from California was in town last weekend and I thought I would show her some of the best fall-color hikes near Seattle. We have a lot of deciduous - [Urban Hiking Adventure: Point Defiance](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/urban-hiking-point-defiance-dog-friendly/) - A moment of honesty: sometimes I yearn for an outdoor adventure with Moo, but just don’t feel up for driving to the nearest mountain range to find the perfect place. I really can’t complain, as Snoqualmie Pass is only about forty-five minutes away from my house. Still, some days even that amount of time can - [Dog Friendly Hike Near Seattle: Diablo Lake Trail](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/dog-friendly-hike-near-seattle-diablo-lake-trail/) - A friend of mine is visiting Western Washington with her dog this summer for 3 weeks. She sent me her extensive list of dog friendly hikes on her agenda and there were a few that I haven't done. While I'm saving most of them for her visit, I decided to knock one off our bucket list now - - [Dog Friendly Trail: Dog Mountain Hike Washington](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/dog-friendly-hike-near-portland-dog-mountain/) - I read a lot of trip reports about the Dog Mountain hike north of Portland, Or (east of Vancouver, WA). I read about it being dog friendly, the amazing yellow wildflowers in spring, and the spectacular views of the Columbia River. I also read about how steep the trail was, about the potential for rattlesnakes, - [Want to Learn How to Snowshoe with Your Small Dog?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/want-to-learn-how-to-snowshoe-with-your-small-dog/) - I have been thinking about this for a while but now I have to get off my butt and do it. Last weekend we met with our Adventureweiner friends at a local dog park. My friend from Life with Doxies said she had been enjoying reading about our snowshoe adventures and asked me what to - [4 Lessons Learned During My Dog's First Snow Adventure](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/4-lessons-learned-during-my-dogs-first-snow-adventure/) - This is a guest post from my friend Elena and her Dachshund Moo. She recently moved to Seattle from Texas so this winter was Moo's first experience in the snow. Elena wanted to share what she learned. Being from the South, Moo’s exposure to snow was minimal… very, very minimal. There was once a few - [Snowshoeing with Your Small Dog Part VI - How Many Calories Do You Burn?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/snowshoeing-with-your-small-dog-part-vi-how-many-calories-do-you-burn/) - One of my most popular posts is “How Many Calories Do You Burn Walking Your Dog?” In this snowshoeing series, I have told you several times that snowshoeing burns significantly more calories than walking alone. I told you that snowshoeing is almost as easy as walking. I say “almost” because you WILL sweat more. Sweating - [Snowshoeing with Your Small Dog 101 Part VII – Short Day Trip Safety](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/snowshoeing-with-your-small-dog-101-part-vii-short-day-trip-safety/) - I hope you have enjoyed the Snowshoeing with Your Small Dog 101 Series so far. When I was thinking what to make today’s post about I couldn’t decide if I wanted to tell you about some of our favorite trails, and trail resources first, or talk to you about safety when Snowshoeing with Your Small - [Snowshoeing with Your Small Dog 101 Part VIII – Extended Trip Safety](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/snowshoeing-with-your-small-dog-101-part-viii-longer-day-trip-or-extended-trip-safety/) - The subject this week is somewhat long and dry. I wrote my post on safety and then realized it was way too long for someone to read in one sitting (I am a blogger not a novelist). As with the previous post on short day trip safety, I tried to make a somewhat long, boring - [Stay Fit this Winter by Snowshoeing with Your Dog](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/stay-fit-this-winter-by-snowshoeing-with-your-dog/) - For three years I have shared our adventure stories with the hopes that we might just inspire one of you to get active and fit with your dog. We aim to lead by example but I have also offered some tips to help get you started along the way. Today I want to share one of - [Top 5 Reasons to Try Snowshoeing with Your Dog](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/top-5-reasons-to-snowshoe-with-your-dog/) - There is something truly special about bundling up and playing in the white, fluffy stuff with your dog. Winter time can be so peaceful and the crisp air can revitalize the senses. My favorite winter activity to do with my dogs is snowshoeing. Have you tried it? Maybe this is the year that you should. - [9 Tips for Snowshoeing with Your Small Dog](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/9-tips-snowshoeing-with-your-small-dog/) - Snowshoeing is a fun way to enjoy the silence of winter while hitting some of your favorite summer trails. Summer trails become a whole new experience. A blanket of snow even makes trekking an abandoned logging road interesting. And snowshoeing with dogs is the best. Even small dogs can do it! UPDATED: January 8, 2023 - [The Dachshund is a Hound, Right? Maybe Not](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/the-dachshund-is-a-hound-right-maybe-not/) - Like most of you, I believed that the Dachshund is a scent hound. After all, the American Kennel Club (AKC) classifies them as one, it sounds like there is "hound" in the name, and they love to follow scents with their nose like a hound. Then my my mind was blown! I learned that some - [7 Tips for Traveling Internationally with Your Dog](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/7-tips-for-traveling-internationally-with-your-dog/) - When you go on vacation, of course, you want to bring along your dog. After all, they’re part of the family. But what if you’re planning on heading overseas, instead of somewhere close to home. Traveling internationally with a dog is a big step to take, and there are many extra things that you need - [The Top 3 Dachshund Skin Problems and What to Do About Them](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/top-dachshund-skin-problems-and-what-to-do-about-them/) - My first experience with Dachshund skin issues was with Chester, my first Dachshund. He was my first dog as an adult and I didn't know how often I should give him a bath, so I just assumed he needed them frequently. I noticed that he always itched for a couple days afterwards and he often - [Hiking with Your Dog? Pick Up Your Dog Poop Please](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/do-dachshunds-poo-in-the-woods/) - Yes, yes they do. Do you pick up after your dog? You should. Here is why and how. One of my many hats is a Water Quality Specialist – the streams and lakes kind of water. I help keep the world’s waters clean. This makes me very passionate about poo, or more specifically, what you - [Yes, "Pack it Out" of the Wilderness Means Your Poop Bags Too](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/yes-pack-it-out-of-the-wilderness-means-your-poop-bags-too/) - Back when I used to have an office job I was called the poop queen. I am sure you can imagine all kinds of scenarios that would lead to that nickname but I assure you the real reason is far less amusing. I was a Water Quality Specialist in charge of making sure the lake, - [Who Are These People Who Don't Pick Up Their Dog's Poop?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/who-are-these-people-who-dont-pick-up-their-dogs-poop/) - I don't know who the people are who don't pick up their dog's poop but I know they exist because of the abandoned dog poop piles I see everywhere. I find abandoned dog poop piles more often in the City than I do in the woods... and a lot of times sitting in the middle - [7 Ways to Go Green With Your Dog on Earth Day](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/7-ways-seattleites-can-go-green-with-their-dog-on-earth-day/) - I live near Seattle - a city with a lot of green space, and surrounded by sparkling waters and lush green forests. There is a lot of nature and beauty to appreciate and be thankful for here, so protecting the environment is something that is in the forefront of dog owner's minds. Updated: December 23, - [Celebrating National Trails Day by Picking Up Other People's Trash](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/national-trails-day-trash-cleanup-lake-twentytwo/) - This past Saturday, National Trails Day, we did our part to help preserve our trails. Through our Seattle Active Dogs Meetup group (I organize a group for all dogs - not just Doxies - now too), I organized a small group to hike the Lake Twentytwo trail and pick up trash. The last time we - [Pick it Up: How Dog Poop is Ruining Our Waterways](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/should-i-scoop-pick-up-my-dogs-poop/) - We've all been there at least once: no one is looking and you forgot a poop bag so you just walk away from your dog poop and hope no one sees you. Most people probably would't feel guilty doing it once in a while. I mean, how is one dog poop pile going to hurt - [Have You Been Duped? The Myth of the Biodegradable Poop Bag](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/so-how-can-they-label-bags-biodegradable/) - For those of us who try to be environmentally responsible pet owners, biodegradable dog poop bags seem like a smart choice. However, biodegradable bags may not be as helpful to the environment as you thought. Much of the information out there is misleading at best and deceptive at worst. UPDATED: Originally Published June 4, 2011 - [29 Dog friendly Races in and around Seattle](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/40-dog-friendly-races-seattle-western-washington/) - Do you love to run with your dog? If so, this list of dog freindly running races in the Seattle area is for you. UPTATED: April 3, 2022 Note: There were originally over 40 dog friendly races on this list but the pandemic really changed things. Many of the races have been discontinued. Dogs make - [Bike Tour with the Dogs – Astoria to Cannon Beach, Oregon](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/adventureweiner-bike-tour-part-i-astoria-to-seaside-oregon/) - A couple of weeks ago we took the dogs on a cycling tour of the North Oregon Coast from Astoria to dog friendly Cannon Beach. The whole route was about 60 miles. It was only the second time they had ridden in their doggie trailers. It was also our first time on a bona fide - [25+ Active and Social Meetup Groups for You and Your Dachshund](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/meetup-groups-help-keep-you-and-your-dog-active/) - I often write about the fun we have with the Dachshund club I started - Adventurewiener Club of Seattle. We go on hikes, meet up at local dog parks, camp and visit fun dog-friendly destinations. Being a part of this group promotes exercise and physical fitness for Dachshunds as well as provides socialization opportunities and mental - [Want to Paddleboard With Your Small Dog? Get Started with These 5 Tips](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/5-tips-for-paddleboarding-sup-with-your-dog/) - Stand up paddleboarding (SUP) been around for thousands of years in one form or another, but the sport hasreally taken off in the last 10 years. Many people have discovered that paddleboarding with a dog is a great way to bond and get exercise. If you're ever seen a dog paddle boarding, you can see - [Snow Hiking: Hillsound Trail Crampons Help Keep You off Your Ass](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/snow-hiking-hillsound-trail-crampons-help-keep-you-off-your-ass/) - I have a secret. I've hiked a lot over the years. I've been snowshoeing too - where the snow was deep and required them. However, I have almost 100% avoided HIKING on snowy trails. I guess you could call me a fair weather hiker. I'm pretty inexperienced when it comes to hiking on anything but dirt - [The Wazoo Survival Gear Adventure Bracelet Review](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/the-wazoo-survival-gear-adventure-bracelet-review/) - I never was a girl scout. I like to be prepared for anything though. My "always prepared" motto is front-of-mind when I go for day hikes. I like to bring enough stuff with me that I feel confident I could survive a night in the wilderness in case something went wrong. "Emergency" items I bring - [Subscription Box Goodies for People: Cairn Box Review](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/subscription-box-goodies-for-people-cairn-box-review/) - Over the last couple of years we have tried lots and lots of different subscription boxes for dogs. Chester and Gretel have enjoyed eating and playing with the goodies but the "surprise" is lost on them. I, however, am addicted to getting mail. Especially unknown mail. I thought, why should the dogs get all of - [Waggle Pet Monitor: Car Temperature Alert for Dogs](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/waggle-pet-monitor-car-temperature-alarm-for-dogs/) - You know the one thing that would make me buy a Tesla? Dog mode! I often go on solo road trips with my dogs, and take them with me when running errands all day. When they can’t stay home alone. Keeping them safe in the car when we’re out and about is important. But an - [11 Funny Things About Dachshunds Only Owners Will Understand](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/funny-things-about-dachshunds-only-owners-will-understand/) - What traits make a Dachshund unique? Why are Dachshund owners so nutty about the breed? Dachshunds are special little dogs with addicting personalities. They're cute and full of attitude. Most Dachshund owners say things like: "Once I owned a Dachshund, I could never go back." "You don't own a Dachshund, they own you." "My Dachshund - [Top 5 Mistakes People Make When Cutting Their Dog’s Nails](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/top-5-mistakes-people-make-when-cutting-their-dogs-nails/) - This article is a case of do what I say, not what I do because I've made a lot of mistakes when it comes to cutting my dog's nails. For the most part, My Dachshund's nails are an ok length, but they can easily get too long if I don't cut them every week. It - [How to Start Hiking with Your Dachshund](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/how-to-start-hiking-with-your-dachshund/) - How do you start hiking with your Dachshund? To quote Nike, "Just Do It!" Well, not so fast. It is recommended that you get your Dachshund cleared for exercise first by your vet to make sure they are healthy enough. But after that, yes, just do it. I've rarely met a Dachshund that didn't decide - [Dachshund Owners Answer: 50 Tips to Make Life with Your New Puppy Easier](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/dachshund-owners-answer-50-tips-to-make-life-with-your-new-puppy-easier/) - There is no better way to learn about raising a Dachshund puppy than to ask other Dachshund owners for advice. A few months ago, I asked our Facebook fans for their best tips and advice for getting through the crazy doxie puppy stage. Over 100 people commented with their best puppy-raising advice. I compiled this - [10 Things You Probably Don't Know About Dachshunds](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/10-things-you-probably-dont-know-about-dachshunds/) - When I first got a Dachshund, I knew nothing about them. Today, some people would call me a "fanatic". Between doing research for my blog, and via my friends in the Dachshund club that I run, I have probably learned most of what there is to know about wiener dogs. I thought I'd share a - [9 Key Lessons Learned While Flying with a Dog In-Cabin](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/9-lessons-learned-while-flying-with-a-dog-in-cabin/) - UPDATED: October 21, 2018 I've flown with my dog Gretel 4 times. I don't claim to be an absolute expert on flying with a dog in cabin but I am pretty savvy when it comes to traveling with a dog and I learn fast from experience (plus our Facebook followers gave me a bunch of - [How Far Can I Walk My Dachshund Each Day?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/how-long-should-i-walk-my-dachshund-each-day/) - Determining how long to walk your Dachshund can be a challenging dilemma. You may not even know how far a Dachshund is capable of walking. There are a variety of factors to take into consideration such as age, weight and overall lifestyle. UPDATED: October 5, 2023 In this article, we’ll help you decide how far - [How Much Exercise Does a Miniature Dachshund Need?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/how-much-exercise-does-a-miniature-dachshund-need/) - I see it time and time again: People saying they think Dachshunds don't need much exercise or that they are not capable of doing much because their backs are fragile. It frustrates me though because I see so many Dachshunds that are overweight and I'm sure it's the misconceptions about Dachshunds and exercise that significantly - [9 Signs Your Dachshund Isn't Getting Enough Exercise](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/signs-your-dachshund-isnt-getting-enough-exercise/) - It's not uncommon for Dachshunds to get less exercise than they should. Common reasons I've seen that many owners aren't able to exercise their Dachshund enough are: They think their Dachshund doesn't need much exercise They under-estimate how much exercise their Dachshund is physically capable of They think potty-break walks (on a leash or in - [Take The 30 Day Happier, Healthier Dachshund Challenge](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/take-the-3030-challenge-with-us/) - We all like to think we're taking the best care of our Dachshunds. I do too. But then I learn something different and find out that I could be doing more. That I could be making my Doxie's life even better. While this post was written in December, I am not big on New Years - [What is a Lick Mat and Why Does Your Dachshund Need One? (And Which Ones to Buy)](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/what-is-a-lick-mat-and-why-does-your-dachshund-need-one-and-which-ones-to-buy/) - I’m always looking for ways to bring more joy and enrichment to my Dachshund’s life and help keep them from getting bored when they’re hanging out in the house. One of those ways is with enrichment toys and food puzzles. We use several different types but today I want to share about dog lick mats. - [Is That Barking Dog on the Trail Reactive or Aggressive?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/reactive-vs-aggressive-dogs-hiking-trail/) - I was hiking with my two Dachshunds and having a great day when, out of nowhere, an off-leash dog came running down the trail toward us. The owners of the other dogs were nowhere in sight. I tried to quickly get off the trail, stepping between my dogs and the oncoming dog, in an attempt - [5 Must Haves for a Dachshund Recovering From an IVDD Back Injury](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/must-haves-for-a-dachshund-recovering-from-an-ivdd-back-injury/) - My Dachshund Gretel suffered a back injury and was diagnosed with Intervertebral Disk Disease (IVDD) in 2016. Many friends and members of our Dachshund club have shared their experiences with IVDD and recovery with us over the years. Here are 5 things I found essential to get through a back injury and the recovery period. - [What You Must Know Before Driving Across the Mexican Border With Your Dog](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/what-you-must-know-before-driving-across-the-mexican-border-with-your-dog/) - If you are planning a road trip to Mexico, you may be wondering – Can I take my dog to Mexico by car? What documentation will I need to drive across the border? I love Mexico and have visited several times myself. While I have considered taking my Dachshunds Summit and Gretel to Mexico, I - [Best Emergency Dog Rescue Sling for Hiking with Dachshunds](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/best-emergency-dog-rescue-sling-for-hiking-with-dachshunds/) - I’ve been hiking with my Dachshund for over 15 years and one of the most important first aid considerations for me is how I will get my dog out if she can't walk out by herself. That’s why I always carry some type of dog emergency rescue sling. In this article, I discuss the importance - [What You Must Know Before Driving Across the Canadian Border With Your Dog](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/dog-friendly-road-trip-traveling-to-canada-from-the-us/) - I haven driven across the Canadian border from the United States several times with my dogs. People know I like to travel to Canada with my dogs so they often ask me questions like: "Can I take my dog to Canada?" "How hard is it to cross the US-Canadian border with my dog?" "What rules - [How to Know If Your Dog Ready to Go Camping?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/how-to-know-if-your-dog-ready-to-go-camping/) - I've been camping with my dogs for 20 years and have camped with dozens of other dog friends. When I got my first dog, I obviously couldn't leave him at home alone for several days at a time, so I just took him with me. Although it was fun, the purpose was utilitarian. Luckily, the - [20 Reasons Why a Dachshund Might Not Be Right For You](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/20-reasons-why-a-dachshund-might-not-be-right-for-you/) - The question I get asked most often by prospective Dachshund owners is, “Do you think a Dachshund is the right breed for me?” Dachshunds have been my life for the last 20+ years. To say I am obsessed with them is an understatement. I likely will never own another dog breed in my life. Or - [Is My Dachshund a Mini or Standard?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/is-my-dachshund-a-mini-or-standard/) - When you adopted your Dachshund, or purchased him or her from a breeder, you were probably told whether your Dachshund was a miniature or standard. But when you made some Dachshund friends, you noticed that your Dachshund was larger than other miniatures or smaller than other standards. You began to wonder if what the breeder, - [Awesome Seattle Outdoor Pet Photographer: Tails & Trails Pet Photography](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/awesome-seattle-outdoor-pet-photographer-tails-trails-pet-photography/) - Are you looking for a professional pet photographer than can take photos of you hiking with your dog or take end of life portraits of your senior adventure dog? If so, definitely check out Tails & Trails Pet Photography. I recently had the pleasure of working with Bee to take some photos of me and - [First Week with My Dachshund Puppy: Lessons Learned and Tips for Success](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/first-week-with-my-dachshund-puppy-lessons-learned-and-tips-for-success/) - As a seasoned dog owner, I've had the privilege of welcoming two Dachshund puppies into my life – Summit and now, the newest addition, Otter. The first week with a new furry family member can be both exhilarating and challenging, but with the right approach, it can also be an incredibly rewarding experience. I’m sharing - [Wrong Answers I See Most Often in Dachshund Facebook Groups](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/wrong-answers-in-dachshund-facebook-groups/) - I assume, like myself, most people join Dachshund-related groups on Facebook to learn. But how do you know that the advice from other Dachshund owners is correct? I used to think when I saw a comment multiple times in many places, that it was probably true. But we've all learned in the recent years that - [Can a Dachshund Walk Off Leash? Maybe, If You Follow These Tips](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/can-a-dachshund-be-off-lead-tips/) - You may be wondering if you can let your Dachshund off the lead when you walk or hike. You have visions of walking unencumbered by a leash while your Dachshund goes on a sniffari and takes in all the scents to their little heart's content. The truth is though, Dachshunds are one of the worst - [Where to Snowshoe with Your Dog in Washington State](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/where-to-snowshoe-with-your-dog-in-washington-state/) - I assume you landed on this article because you already love to snowshoe with your dog in winter or you want to start doing it. I’ve been snowshoeing with my dogs for over 10 years and have traveled all over Washington State to do it. If you’ve never done it before, there are several reasons - [The Best Hiking Backpacks for Small Dogs](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/the-best-hiking-backpacks-for-small-dogs/) - If you want a backpack for your small dog - which is generally accepted to be dogs 25 lbs or under - but are having a hard time finding one that fits, you’ve come to the right place. Looking for Backpacks to Carry Your Small Dog in? Check Out This Article. I’ve been hiking with - [Lost Dog in the Woods? What to Do](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/lost-dog-in-the-woods-what-to-do/) - For many of us - myself included - dogs are family. I take them everywhere with me, including hiking and camping. The thought of one of my dogs getting lost in the woods scares me. Also, I always wonder what I would do if I found a lost dog in the woods (I even carry - [5 Ways to Make Your Dachshund's Toys Last Longer](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/how-to-make-your-dachshunds-toys-last-longer/) - Dachshunds are known for being tough chewers that can destroy a toy in minutes. While the habit makes sense in an instinctual prey drive context, it may be less than desirable since constantly buying toys can get expensive. If you have accepted that you probably can't stop your Dachshund from dissecting their toys, you may - [7 Tips for Including Your Dachshund in Your Engagement Photos or Wedding](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/lessons-learned-including-your-dachshunds-in-engagement-photos/) - When my fiancee proposed to me, he was also agreeing to marry my dogs since we're a package. It was only natural that we included them in some of our engagement photos. Luckily, our wedding photographer was game. Since we were dressed in our nice clothes, and we didn't want the dogs to be tired - [Holy Crap, I Found an Old Man In My House](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/holy-crap-i-found-an-old-man-in-my-house/) - I used to hike a lot in my 20s. Now that I am older my knees grind and my back hurts more often than not. I am a firm believer "in move it or lose it" but I have certainly slowed down in my older years. I get out a little less and go slower - [Are Plastic Chew Toys Harming Your Dog's Health?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/are-plastic-chew-toys-harming-your-dogs-health/) - I am not afraid to admit that I wasn't a very educated dog owner in the beginning. I tell people that "I made very mistake in the book" with my first Dachshund and I am not kidding. Although I consider myself a pretty educated pet parent now, I admit I still have a lot of - [Should I Let My Dog Kiss Me On the Mouth?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/should-my-dog-kiss-me-on-the-mouth/) - I have seen a lot of articles about the horrors of letting your dog kiss you on the mouth. I could cross the road and get hit by a bus too. Does that mean I shouldn't do it? Heck, No. I need to get places. Well, I appreciate the love and regularly let my dog - [Dog Friendly Glamping Yurts, Cabins and Huts in Washington](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/dog-friendly-glamping-yurts-cabins-huts-washington-seattle/) - If you and your pup are looking to spend a few days outdoors in the Washington wilderness, but tent camping isn’t quite your style, cabins, yurts, and fire lookouts can be an awesome alternative. Known as "glamping" - or glamorous camping - this way of experiencing the great outdoors means you can commune with nature - [Help! My Dachshund Won’t Come When Called!](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/help-my-dachshund-wont-come-when-called/) - Dachshunds are natural-born hunters. They are more inclined to chase something they believe to be prey rather than listen when you attempt to call them back. However, believe it or not, it is possible to improve a Dachshund’s reliability with recall. Teaching your doxie to come back when you call them will help ensure their - [10 Simple Ways to Entertain Your Dog Indoors](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/ways-to-entertain-your-small-dog-indoors-this-winter/) - With the snow falling and the temperatures dropping, many dog owners find themselves spending more and more time indoors with their dogs. Winter may not be the only time you might be looking for ways to keep your dog busy indoors either. You may need to keep your dog occupied while you work from homeYou - [Our Favorite Casual Harness for Dachshunds! The VelPro Mesh Choke Free](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/our-favorite-for-dachshunds-velpro-choke-free-mesh-harness/) - I've tried almost every harness recommended for Dachshunds and I have top favorites - one for casual use and and for hiking. This review is for the first one - the one my Dachshunds wear when we are traveling but not walking far or hiking. This is the harness that my Dachshund Gretel wore for - [How Your Dog Can Become a BARK Ranger](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/how-your-dog-can-become-a-bark-ranger/) - You've heard of the BARK rnger program, thought it sounds fun for your dog, and now you want to know more. In this article, we discuss what the BARK Ranger program is and how and where your dog can become a BARK Ranger. - [Don’t Get Fooled! How to Spot a Puppy Scammer](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/how-to-spot-a-puppy-scammer/) - Whether you are looking for a Dachshund puppy, or another dog breed, puppy scams are everywhere online. The last thing you want is to get emotionally invested in a new puppy only to have someone take your money and disappear. I’ve spent years researching responsible dog breeders as well as trying to find the common - [How to Cut Dachshund Nails - What Worked for Me](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/how-to-cut-dachshund-nails-what-worked-for-me/) - Dachshunds are notorious fighters when it comes to cutting their nails. It’s very important to keep them trimmed to a proper length though. Leaving a dog’s nails too long can cause pain, joint issues, and is one of the biggest mistakes when it comes to cutting your dog’s nails. I’m going to share my personal - [5 Things Your Dachshund Sitter Probably Isn’t Telling You](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/important-things-your-dachshund-sitter-probably-isnt-telling-you/) - I’ve been a Dachshund sitter for 10 years. While I occasionally watch other small dogs, I choose to specialize in this specific breed. Why? Well, there are many reasons, but it’s primarily because: I’ve been a Dachshund owner for over 20 years and I am obsessed with the breed Dachshunds and have unique behaviors and - [An Unexpected Adventure: Dog Friendly Carson Valley Nevada](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/an-unexpected-adventure-dog-friendly-carson-valley-nevada/) - Carson Valley, Nevada is an often overlooked area of the state, at least by many tourists. Most people pass through Reno, just to the north of the Carson Valley, on their way to Lake Tahoe or Las Vegas but it's worthy of a stop on it's own. Or rather, a stay, because there is a - [What Should I Do When My Old Dog Starts Peeing in the House?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/old-dog-peeing-house-help/) - When my old dog Chester turned 14, he started to slow his age by slowing down and peeing in the house. At about 10 years of age, my old girl Gretel started leak in her sleep. And I am not talking just a few dribbles. My guess is that you found this article because you - [Expert Dachshund Dog Sitter in Washington State](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/best-dachshund-dog-sitter-seattle/) - Welcome! My name is Jessica and I have been boarding Dachshunds, and small dogs, in my home for over 10 years. I'd love to be your pup's home away from home! Read on to see what makes me different and what your dog's stay with me will be like. i already know I want my - [12 Reasons Your Dachshund May Refuse to Walk on a Leash (and What to Do About It)](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/reasons-your-dachshund-may-refuse-to-walk-on-a-leash/) - I hear it all the time: “What do I do when my Dachshund refuses to walk?” It’s not uncommon for me to hear stories of people who tried to take their Dachshund out for a stroll and their dog dug in - pulling in the opposite direction on the leash - refusing to take another - [How to Get Your Dachshund to Walk in a Harness or Jacket](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/how-to-get-your-dachshund-to-walk-in-a-harness-or-jacket/) - There are many reasons a Dachshund may refuse to go for a walk. Two of the most common scenarios I see are related to a harness or dog jacket. If your Dachshund is used to walking on a collar, and you are trying to switch to a harness because you learned it’s safer your dog - [Unpopular Opinion: Sniff Walks Could Be Harming Your Dog](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/ways-sniff-walks-may-be-harming-your-dog/) - There is a new trend in the dog world called sniff walks and they may be harming your dog's health. Old school theory on properly walking your dog - and these ideas still linger in many dog training communities - is that your dog should walk only by your side in a heel position and - [How to Stop Your Dachshund From Backing Out of Their Harness](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/how-to-stop-your-dachshund-from-backing-out-of-their-harness/) - If you own a Dahcshund, the chances are good that you have experienced this at least once: You take your Dachshund for a walk and suddenly they stop in their tracks and refuse to go on You gently, and then perhaps more firmly, pull on the leash to encourage them to keep going Your Dacshund - [Tips for Camping with An Anxious Dog](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/tips-for-camping-with-an-anxious-dog/) - Great camping dogs aren't always born that way. Sometimes you have to help teach an anxious dog to enjoy camping. - [20 Warning Signs of a Dachshund Back Injury (With Printable Checklist)](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/20-warning-signs-of-a-dachshund-back-injury-with-printable-checklist/) - Because you won’t be sure your Dachshund has the disease until an injury occurs, the best thing you can do is commit the warning signs of a Dachshund back injury to memory and get your dog treatment right away if you see them. - [I Don't Brush My Dog's Teeth. I Did This Instead.](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/i-dont-brush-my-dogs-teeth-i-did-this-instead/) - I Admit I Don't Brush My Dog's Teeth Yup, you read that right - I. Do. Not. Brush. My. Dog's. Teeth. I've received a lot of flack for this statement. I've heard things like: "You're lazy" "You're selfish" "You obviously don't care about your dogs" "Your dog is going to die" (yes, seriously). If people - [Dog Travel Essentials (Printable Checklist) for A Pet Friendly Vacation](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/dog-travel-essentials-printable-checklist-for-a-pet-friendly-vacation/) - I travel a lot with my dogs. So much that I've been able to refine my list of dog travel essentials over time and for different scenarios. To make taking a vacation with my dogs easier, and to make sure I don't forget anything, I created this pet travel checklist for when I stay in - [How to Help Your Dachshund Lose Weight (and What to Feed Them)](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/how-to-help-your-dachshund-lose-weight-and-what-to-feed-them/) - Maybe you didn’t realize how chubby your Dachshund was getting until yesterday because you didn’t know what your Dachshund should weigh or were in denial. Or maybe you knew but weren’t ready to do something about it until now. Maybe it’s because you are in a panic because you just found out being obese can - [10 Ways to Help Stop Your Dachshund's Anxiety](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/ways-to-help-stop-your-dachshunds-anxiety/) - Dachshunds are a breed that is especially prone to nervousness and fear. If yours often shakes, looks nervous, or barks excessively and destroys things when you're gone, you are probably looking for a way to stop Dachshund anxiety. My Dachshund Gretel was so anxious when I adopted her that the rescue had put her on - [7 of the Best Natural Chews for Dachshunds (and Where to Get Them)](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/the-best-natural-chews-for-dachshunds-and-where-to-get-them/) - I am a huge fan of natural chews for Dachshunds, and I give one to my dogs on a daily basis. Natural chews are: Well, natural, and don't contain any filler ingredients Fully digestible (as long as they are processed naturally) High in protein and/or minerals and vitamins Made of animal parts of some sort - [LumaSoothe: IVDD Light Therapy at Home](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/lumasoothe-ivdd-light-therapy-at-home/) - If your dog has been diagnosed with Intervertebral Disk Disease (IVDD), or suffered an injury, you have likely heard about "light therapy" or "cold laser" treatments from your veterinarian or others dog owners. While effective at reducing inflammation and increasing the body's capacity to heal, most cold laser treatments are only available from your veterinarian - [Thinking About Feeding Your Dachshund a Raw Diet? Read This First.](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/pros-and-cons-feeding-your-dachshund-raw-diet/) - I ventured into the raw feeding world around 2013, when my first Dachshund was about 9 years old. I'd given my dogs a little raw food here and there, but not noticed the health benefits that a lot of raw feeding devotees claimed that I would. However, once I switched his diet to 100% raw, - [Darwin's Natural Raw Dog Food Review](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/why-choose-darwins-raw-dog-food/) - I've fed my Dachshunds Darwin's Raw Dog Food off and on for years. I think it's high quality, I love that I can have it delivered, and the company is based here in Western Washington so I can feel good about supporting a small, local company. In this article, I share my experience with the - [How to Train Your Small Dog to Hike Off-Leash](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/how-to-train-your-small-dog-to-hike-off-leash/) - Off-leash dogs are a controversial topic. Some pet owners despise the idea of dogs running around off-leash, while others prefer the freedom that being off-leash provides their dog. I see more big dogs hiking off leash but it can be done with small dogs too as long as you train them and take precautions. In - [Upcoming Roadtrip? Make a Pet First Aid Kit For Your Car](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/make-a-pet-first-aid-kit-for-your-car/) - I have first aid kit for hiking and overnight backpacking with the dogs. These kits are human first-aid kits with extra pet-specific stuff thrown in. When I am carrying the kit in a pack, I need to conserve weight so they are combined. I carry a human first aid kit in my car. It doesn't - [Best Pet Insurance for Dachshunds](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/best-pet-insurance-for-dachshunds/) - I frequently get asked what I think the best pet insurance for Dachshunds is. We've had pet insurance for over 10 years, and I have used it for three different Dachshunds. I love the fact that I can freely make medical decisions based on what is best for my dog and not money. Pet insurance - [How Often Should You Bathe a Dachshund?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/how-often-should-you-bathe-a-dachshund/) - Staying on top of your Dachshund’s grooming needs is an important part of being a responsible dog owner. Not only is a proper grooming routine helpful in keeping your house clean, but it also has a direct impact on your dog’s health and well-being. It controls shedding, prevents painful matting, removes dirt and grime, and - [4 Easy Dog Friendly Snowshoe Trails Near Seattle](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/easy-trails-snowshoe-dog-washington-seattle/) - It's usually not until mid-December that we have a reliable amount of snow on the trails near Seattle. But when we do, the mountains outside of Seattle turn into a beautiful winter wonderland. Most of the popular summer trails can also be hiked in the winter with your dog by merely strapping on a set - [3 Scary Easy Halloween Dog Treat Recipes](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/3-fun-halloween-themed-dog-treat-recipes/) - I don't always make Halloween dog treats but when I do, I want them to be easy and simple to make. I mean, I like to have some fun with the dogs, but I don't like to cook and don't want to spend much time in the kitchen. Here are 3 of my favorite Halloween - [10 Dog Road Trip Essentials for a Safe and Happy Journey](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/10-must-haves-safe-happy-road-trip-with-your-dog/) - My favorite way of traveling with my dogs is road trips. Travelling in the car with your dog is literally a choose your own adventure. It can be done in one long day or, if you are lucky, you can take days or weeks to do it. To make sure you and your furry friend - [What Should My Dachshund Weigh?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/what-should-my-dachshund-weigh/) - I get a lot of questions about the Dachshund breed, and, because our blog is one centered around being active with your Dachshund, one of the common question I hear is “Do you think my Dachshund is fat?” I’m not a veterinarian, but I’ve owned Dachshunds for 20 years, I've blogged about them for almost - [Layman's Guide to Buying a Cold Laser for Your Dog](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/laymans-guide-to-buying-a-cold-laser-for-your-dog/) - If you read my article about how cold laser therapy can help your dog, you know it can help dogs with: Arthritis ACL and other ligament tears Intervertebral Disk Disease (IVDD) and other spine problems General pain Healing wounds And more You've decided to buy a cold laser therapy machine for home use but the information - [3 Crucial Things to Know When Visiting a National Park with Your Dog](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/3-crucial-things-to-know-when-visiting-a-national-park-with-your-dog/) - You've been eyeing the beautiful pictures on Instagram or online for a long time and you're finally going to visit that National park this summer. And, of course, because you hardly do anything without your furry sidekick, you're dog is coming with you. Then you find out that dogs aren't allowed in National Parks and - [Top Dachshund Raincoats Tested by an Owner with High Standards](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/top-dachshund-raincoats-tested-by-an-owner-with-high-standards/) - It's difficult to find the right jacket for a Dachshund due to their unique shape, and finding a raincoat for your Dachshund is no exception. Dachshunds have a longer back and shorter legs than most dogs for the same ribcage circumference. There are also a few other considerations when searching for a Dachshund raincoat, which - [Dachshund Seizures - What to Do if Yours Has One](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/dachshund-seizures-what-to-do-if-yours-has-one/) - Dachshunds are prone to several neurologic disorders, including seizures and epilepsy. Earlier this year, My Dachshund Summit's breeder messaged me and said that one of Summit's siblings just has a seizure. She was letting me know because the cause can be genetic. I tried not to worry - Summit hadn't shown any signs and she - [Can Cold Laser Therapy Benefit My Dachshund?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/can-cold-laser-therapy-benefits-dog/) - When my Dachshund Gretel injured her back, and was diagnosed with Intervertebral Disk Disease (IVDD), I wanted to get her on the road to healing as fast as I could. During our first visit with the rehab vet, I asked her about absolutely every treatment I knew existed to potentially help Dachshunds with back problems. - [Is the Cairn Outdoor Gear Subscription Box Worth It?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/is-the-cairn-outdoor-gear-subscription-box-worth-it/) - I see a lot of people on social media asking if the Cairn outdoor gear subscription box is worth it. I've also seen a lot of people take to social media to complain about their box. I've been receiving the box for years and love it. However, I think whether you like the box or - [Let's Go Glamping! The Dog Friendly Sou'Wester Vintage Trailers](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/lets-go-glamping-the-dog-friendly-souwester-vintage-trailers/) - It was nice to stay at the Sou'Wester Vintage Trailers as a way to get our "camping" fix during the fall without having to sleep in the dirt in the bitter cold. When you go glamping, you are almost always guaranteed not to sleep in the dirt. The rest of the details can vary quite a bit - [5 Types of Camping You Can Do with Your Dog](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/different-ways-to-camp-with-your-dog/) - Summer is here and you are looking for ways to spend more time in the outdoors with your dog. Camping with your dog is a great way to do that. It's like taking your life and moving it outside. Your dog will love exploring all the new sights and smells, it will help clear your - [Why I’m Buying My Next Dachshund from a Responsible Breeder](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/why-im-buying-my-next-dachshund-from-a-responsible-breeder/) - Last week, I posted an update about getting a third Dachshund on Facebook. Some people voiced their disappointment that I am getting a puppy from a breeder this time around versus rescuing. I understand the controversy around breeder vs rescue very well, so I was not surprised. Of course, at least one person tried to - [How to Keep Your Dog's Paw Pads From Tearing or Getting Cut While Walking](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/how-to-keep-your-dogs-paw-pads-from-tearing-or-getting-cut/) - Whether your dog likes to hike, participates in sports like agility or flyball, or they just walk a lot, you are probably concerned with making sure their paw pads don't tear, get cut, or otherwise get injured. UPDATED: June 26, 2022 One of the biggest keys to preventing your dog's paw pads from getting damaged - [How Much Should a Dachshund Eat?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/how-much-should-a-dachshund-eat/) - The trite answer to the question of how much a Dachshund should eat is not so much that they become overweight and not so little that they become unhealthily skinny. But you probably landed on this article because you want to know the actual amount your Dachshund should eat a day. It is important to - [12 Great Dachshund Halloween Costume Ideas](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/dog-o-ween-event-and-costumes/) - For those that like to dress up their dog (and for those dogs who truly like to wear clothes), Halloween is a fun time of year. And it seems that nobody likes to dress up their dog more than wiener dog owners. Most cities will have at least one dog-themed Halloween event where there may - [Why a Biothane Leash is the Best Leash for Hiking with a Dog](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/best-leash-for-hiking-with-your-dog-in-wet-weather/) - There are, literally, probably 1 million different dog leashes out there. There are stylish leashes made of fun fabric patterns, colorful cotton rope leashes, leashes made of climbing rope, traditional nylon webbing leashes, leashes you can snap around your waist, and much, much more. The choices are overwhelming. So what kind of leash is best - [Yes, Zuke's Was Bought by Purina. So What?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/yes-zukes-was-bought-by-purina-so-what/) - We used to think Zuke's was the shit. Zuke's Performance Nutrition made high-quality dog treats that Chester and Gretel LOVED. Then, in late 2013, Zuke's was acquired by Nestlé Purina PetCare. UPDATE: The acquisition by Nestle-Purina occurred in late 2013. In February 2018, it was announced that Zuke's will merge with another natural pet food - [Why Is My Long Haired Dachshund So Fuzzy?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/why-is-my-long-haired-dachshund-so-fuzzy/) - About 10 years ago, I noticed that some long haired Dachshunds have hair that looks silky and flowy and some have hair that is downy and fuzzy. I dog sat two female Dachshunds that were little poofballs. A few years later, I learned that this fuzzy hair look was called a “spay coat” from my - [IVDD Setbacks - the Ups and Downs of Living with a Dachshund with the Disease](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/owning-an-active-ivdd-dog-there-will-be-setbacks/) - I remember the day that my Dachshund Gretel was diagnosed with IVDD back in 2016. Our active life, and the future plans I had for us, flashed before my eyes. I was devastated. And by the responses I've heard and seen from readers, members of our Dachshund club, and in Facebook groups, I know I - [11 Reasons Why Seattle is the Most Dog Friendly City](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/11-reasons-why-seattle-is-the-most-dog-friendly-city/) - Seattle is the best city to travel to, or live with, your dog. I may be a bit biased because we live here and I know all the "secrets" but I have not been to a pace that I found to be as dog friendly as Seattle. Keep reading for 11 reasons Seattle is really dog - [Top Tips for Visiting a Pumpkin Patch With Your Dog](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/top-tips-for-visiting-a-pumpkin-patch-with-your-dog/) - If you love to take fall-themed photos of your dog, you may be looking for a dog friendly pumpkin patch or corn maze to visit. Photos of dogs with pumpkins and fall decorations are popular on social media, expecially Instagram, but they're also great memories to cherish for any dog owner. There are some things - [15 Tips for Pop Up Trailer Camping With Your Small Dog](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/15-tips-for-pop-up-trailer-camping-with-your-small-dog/) - There’s something to be said about waking up in a campground with your dog snuggled in your sleeping bag with you. But ouch, your aching back! Although there are 5 different ways to camp with your dog, maybe it’s time to upgrade that tent to a pop-up tent trailer. A pop-up tent trailer is a - [Pet Blogger Challenge 2015: A Year in Review](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/pet-blogger-challenge-a-year-in-review/) - Welcome to our blog! Maybe it's your first time visiting or maybe you've been visiting for a while but don't know that much about us. Who we are today is a "travel and outdoor lifestyle blog that focuses being active with your small dog". Our back-story is so much more than that though. I had been - [Enhance Your Dog's Meal with Real, Fresh Food for These Health Benefits](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/enhance-your-dogs-meal-with-real-fresh-food-for-these-health-benefits/) - Have you heard about the benefits of adding whole, fresh, and raw kibble toppers to your dog's food? Are you wondering which kibble toppers to use to enhance your dog's meal? Are you curious about how to start feeding raw but feel overwhelmed with all the information? Let’s look at the benefits that your Dachshund - [Top Tips for Visiting a Tulip Festival With Dogs](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/top-tips-for-visiting-a-tulip-festival-with-dogs/) - If you love to take spring-themed photos of your dog, you may be looking for a dog friendly tulip festival. Photos of dogs in tulip fields are popular on social media, expecially Instagram, but they're also great memories to cherish for any dog owner. There are only two tulip festivals where dogs are allowed in - [The 5 Best Dog Subscription Boxes for Dachshunds](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/the-3-best-dog-subscription-boxes/) - I've been a fan of dog subscription boxes since I discovered them in 2012. At one time, I was subscribed to 10 different boxes, so my Dachshunds were receiving a lot of surprise products each month. Evaluating so many different boxes month after month honed my taste and allowed me to start gauging the suitability - [5 Amazing Dog Friendly Road Trips in Washington State](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/4-amazing-fall-color-road-trips-dog-friendly-washington-state/) - When it comes to dog friendly road trips, Washington State has some of the nation’s most well-known scenic drives. Dog owners living in, or visiting, the state definitely should not miss driving at least one of these with their trusty four-legged sidekicks along for the ride. Below are some of my favorite driving routes. Great - [Cushing’s Disease in Dachshunds: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/cushings-disease-dachshunds-symptoms-diagnosis-treatment/) - If your Dachshund’s veterinarian has recently mentioned Cushing’s Disease and you aren’t quite sure what it means, it could be frightening. No one wants to be left confused and wondering about a potential health problem with their dog. I’ve been studying the breed full time since 2012, and Cushing’s Disease is one of the top - [How to Protect Your Small Dog From Wildlife While Hiking or Camping](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/how-to-protect-your-small-dog-from-wildlife-while-hiking/) - For me, getting out into nature to enjoy a hike with my dogs is one of the most relaxing, fulfilling activities we can do together. But adventuring out in the wild with my small dogs means that we may be faced with potential threats. Each time we venture out into the woods, we are intruding - [8 Things Purina Taught Me About Pet Care](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/purina-scientist-making-life-better-with-pets/) - Twice now, I have been invited to attend the Purina (Nestlé-Purina) Better with Pets Summit in New York City. The first time I received an invitation, I almost didn’t accept. I admit that I had become caught up in all the "corporate" bashing of Purina on social media. Inherently, a large company is more visible - [Lake Padden Off Leash Dog Park, Bellingham WA](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/off-leash-dog-park-review-lake-padden-bellingham/) - We frequently visit Bellingham, WA and part of what I like about the town is that it's very dog friendly. One of my first stops when we arrive is the Lake Padden dog park where my pups can stretch their legs and work off some energy. It's convenient because it is not far from the - [Why Do Dachshunds Sit Up on Their Hind Legs and Is It Bad?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/why-do-dachshunds-sit-up-on-their-hind-legs-and-is-it-bad/) - One of the peculiarities of Dachshunds that has puzzled dog lovers for years is their tendency to sit up on their hind legs like a prairie dog. If you've ever owned a Dachshund, you've probably witnessed this behavior firsthand. Your furry little friend might suddenly pop up onto his hind legs, with his front paws - [Recipe for Homemade Energy Bars Both You and Your Dog Can Eat](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/homemade-energy-bars-both-you-and-your-dog-can-eat/) - I finally cooked a treat for the dogs....kind of. While these homemade energy bars are safe for dogs to eat, I initially made them more for myself. These energy bars, or trail mix bars, are called Hike and Hound Energy Bars. Most homemade energy bar recipes out there contain chocolate, which is toxic to dogs, - [Easy Banana Blueberry Ice Cube Dog Treat Recipe](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/lazy-dog-mom-treats-banana-blueberry-ice-cubes/) - I am not opposed to making homemade dog treats for my pups but I'm lazy dog Mom when it come to that. I won't make stuff that takes too much effort and prefer to make treats that both you and your dog can eat. Another "fault" of mine is buying food and then not eating - [Healthy Green Smoothie Both You and Your Dog Can Eat](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/healthy-green-smoothie-both-you-and-your-dog-can-eat/) - I recently bought a terribly expensive Vitamix blender in a quest to sneak more vegetables into my diet. The dogs have been watching me closely as I "destroy" food in it and it made me wonder if they could eat my green smoothie too. I can get almost a days' worth of veggies past my - [7 Easy Summer Barbecue Recipes Both You and Your Dog Can Eat](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/7-easy-summer-barbecue-recipes-both-you-and-your-dog-can-eat/) - Enjoying a weekend barbecue with your pup is a lot of fun. Dogs often end up eating the food at the barbecues too. Sometimes it's unintentional - they steal food out of the garbage or manage to snag it off of the table. Sometimes it's quasi-intentional - you don't intend for your dog to eat - [Should My Dachshund Wear a Collar or Harness for Walking?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/why-your-dachshund-should-wear-a-harness-for-walking/) - The most essential accessory for your Dachshund is something to attach their leash to while you're out walking, whether it be a collar or harness. A standard collar is normally the “default” option for most dog owners. However, in my opinion, Dachshunds should be walked using a harness. Here's why. UPDATED: March 9, 2023 Harness - [7 Ways to Keep Your Dog Busy at Camp](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/how-to-keep-your-dog-busy-at-camp/) - Keeping your dog busy at camp has many benefits. When your dog is entertained and mentally stimulated, they are less likely to become anxious, get underfoot, harass wildlife, bark excessively at other campers, or run away. Of course, taking your dog for frequent walks and hikes will help keep them tired and relaxed but there - [Uncertain and Exciting Times](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/uncertain-and-exciting-time/) - Three years ago I had a good, steady job. My life had settled into a predictable routine. I was doing what I was "supposed to". I was also miserable. I had been searching for some sign of the "right direction" for years but nothing was making sense. Little did I know that things were about - [Yes, Zuke's Was Bought By Purina. Don't Panic!](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/yes-zukes-was-bought-by-purina-dont-panic/) - Yes, Zuke's Performance Pet Nutrition, was acquired by Nestlé Purina PetCare. I heard a rumor Wednesday and yesterday it was confirmed. UPDATE: The acquisition by Nestle-Purina occurred in January 2014. In February 2018, it was announced that Zuke's will merge with another natural pet food company owned by Purina - Merrick Pet Care, an natural and organic - [Keep Your Wiener Warm: Jackets That Fit Dachshunds](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/good-jackets-list/) - One of the questions I get most often is "Do you have any recommendations for jackets that fit Dachshunds well?" We know all to well how hard it can be to find jackets that fit the Dachshunds long body, deep chest, and accommodates their short legs. Alert: A more recent update can be found in - [Is it Bad for Dachshunds to Jump? New Evidence That Might Surprise You](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/is-it-bad-for-dachshunds-to-jump-new-evidence-that-might-surprise-you/) - Dachshunds not only can jump but they love to do so. Maybe it’s excitement, because they want to get your attention, or because they are daredevils that enjoy the thrill of it. But is it bad for Dachshunds to jump? You’ve probably heard the advice a hundred times - jumping is dangerous for Dachshunds because - [How to Survive With a Dog on Crate Rest](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/dog-crate-rest-tips/) - If your dog suffers from an injury to a joint or ligament, they will most likely be prescribed crate rest during the recovery process, whether as a primary course of treatment or after surgery. Crate rest, when used in lieu of surgery, is another name for conservative treatment since, although conservative treatment encompasses many modalities, - [Your Dog Just Received an IVDD Diagnosis - Now What?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/your-active-dog-was-diagnosed-with-intervertebral-disk-disease-now-what/) - The vet came out into the emergency waiting room and confirmed my worst fears: my Dachshund Gretel was diagnosed with Intervertebral Disk Disease (IVDD). Our life together as I knew it flashed before my eyes. I was upset and sad. It was such a blow. You see, Gretel had been my hiking partner for 5 - [Dachshund Back Surgery - Description and Cost](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/dachshund-back-surgery-description-cost/) - If your Dachshund has suffered a back injury and been diagnosed with Intervertebral Disk Disease (IVDD), surgery may be recommended. In this article, I explain what IVDD is, when surgery will be recommended, and what to expect, including the cost and chance of recovery. What is Intervertebral Disk Disease (IVDD)? I wrote in depth about - [How to Help a Dog with Back Problems](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/how-to-help-a-dog-with-back-problems/) - The most common cause of back problems in Dachshunds, and many other dog breeds, is a condition called Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD). I previously wrote an article explaining what IVDD is and how to recognize the warning signs of a back problem, and what you can do to help prevent them. However, IVDD is a genetic - [5 Negative Dachshund Stereotypes Busted](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/breaking-sterotypes-about-small-dogs/) - Dachshunds have a reputation for being aggressive, stubborn, difficult to potty train, and lap dogs. However, these are just stereotypes and generalizations that do not apply most Dachshunds. In this blog post, I'll be busting these five common misconceptions and showcasing the true nature of the breed 1) They're Aggressive A common stereotype is that - [Should I Get a Third Dog? My Thoughts After Trying it Out](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/should-i-get-a-third-dog-my-thoughts-after-trying-it-out/) - I’ve seen more than one rescue or puppy that made me want to bring a third dog home. Those cute faces are irresistible! So I’ve asked myself, “Is 3 dogs too many?” If I did get a third dog, it would be another Dachshund. And if we became a 3 dog household, at least I - [Physical Therapy Exercises for Dogs with IVDD](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/ivdd-recovery-exercises-for-strengthening-balance-and-body-awareness/) - If your Dachshund has suffered a disk rupture, or back injury, related to Intervertebral Disk Disease (IVDD), you may be looking for physical therapy exercises you can do at home to help your dog recover. These IVDD rehabilitation exercises are good for your Dachshund even if they haven't suffered a back injury yet. They strengthen - [5 Things That Will Make the First Days with A New Puppy Easier](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/5-things-that-will-make-the-first-days-with-your-new-puppy-easier/) - Bringing home a new puppy is very exciting. You’ve likely chosen a puppy but have to wait weeks before he or she is old enough to come home to you. The bad news is that the wait can be difficult and feel like forever. The good news is that waiting gives you a lot of - [5 Ways to Keep Your Dog From Running Away While Camping](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/how-to-keep-your-dog-from-running-away-while-camping/) - You're sitting around the campfire chatting with your friends when suddenly you realize your dog is missing. Maybe you hear barking, or yelling, from the campsite next door and realize your dog is over there sticking it's nose where it doesn't belong. Or maybe your dog has chased after a chipmunk and you're panicked because - [4 Genetic Traits That Make Dachshunds Great Hiking Companions](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/genetic-traits-that-make-dachshunds-great-hiking-companions/) - Hiking with small dogs is becoming more popular and Dachshunds are one of the best small breeds that make great hiking partners. Originally bred to be hunting dogs, their athletic ability and tenacity was bred into them. Dachshunds also have several physical characteristics and traits that allowed them to excel at their job of hunting - [Dog Dental Cleaning Without Anesthesia - My Review](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/cleaning-your-dogs-teeth-anesthesia-free-teeth-cleaning-is-not-evil/) - I'm willing to put my dog's under anesthesia to clean their teeth and get x-rays if our vet thinks it's necessary, but I would rather avoid it if possible. While undergoing anesthesia is relatively low risk for most dogs, I have personally seen how it takes my dogs several days after to return to acting - [10 Reasons to Add Water to Your Dog's Dry Food](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/10-reasons-to-add-water-to-your-dogs-dry-food/) - As a kid, I remember my Mom preparing our dog's dry food, or kibble, for meals. She added in a lot of things to make it more nutritious and tasty, including water. This was before the internet so she must have learned it from a book, magazine, or it was passed along from knowledgeable dog - [My Dachshund Hogs the Bed, Does Yours?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/how-do-you-sleep-at-night/) - My Dachshunds sleep in the bed with me and, after my dog waking me up at 4 am again, I got up and decided to take my frustration out by drawing a diagram of it. I have no drawing skills, and no experience drawing in Word Paint, and I literally put zero real effort in. - [Dog Subscription Box Review: MAY PoochPerks](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/dog-subscription-box-review-may-pooch-perks/) - I'm bummed that I didn't open our subscription box from PoochPerks earlier. Each box is themed and based around the holiday that month if there is one. May means Cinco de Mayo but I opened our box after May 5th so Chester and Gretel didn't get to use the fun goodies to celebrate. Pooch Perks puts a lot - [Subscription Dog Box Review: OCT Pooch Perks](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/subscription-dog-box-review-oct-pooch-perks/) - We've been getting the Pooch Perks dog subscription box for several months now. It's helpful to see the monthly dog boxes we review several times to get a good picture of what they are about and what they offer. After several months I can say that Pooch Perks is a dog subscription box that is - [Pooch Perks: Subscription Dog Box Review](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/pooch-perks-subscription-dog-box-review-and-giveaway/) - We recently tried the Pooch Perks subscription box for the first time and they definitely got off on the right foot with us. Two things really caught my attention about the Pooch Perks subscription box. First, their toys are held to the same rigorous standards and children's toys. What does that mean exactly? Toy safety - [Dog Subscription Goody Box Review: PupJoy](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/dog-subscription-goody-box-review-pupjoy/) - We’re on a mission to try every dog subscription box available. We recently got the opportunity to try the new PupJoy subscription box. As more and more subscription boxes flood the market, a few are truly trying to stand out from the rest. PupJoy is one of them. Nowadays it's almost standard for companies to - [BarkBox Inspires: Getting More Than What's Inside the Box](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/barkbox-inspires-getting-more-than-whats-inside-the-box/) - I love dog subscription boxes and we've tried many of them. I ordered the first BarkBox for my Dachshunds almost 7 years ago and I've been hooked ever since. The treats and toys that come inside the box are high quality, are always made in the USA, are of similar quality to what I would - [Is the BarkBox Dog Subscription Box Worth It?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/barkbox-goodies-in-the-mail-worth-it/) - We recently discovered a dog subscription box called BarkBox and I wondered if it was worth it. When you sign up for the service, they send you a box in the mail every month with goodies for your dog. It's like a grab box because you never know what you will get. They send you - [BarkBox Subscription: Fun, Unique Dog Goodies in the Mail](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/barkbox-subscription-fun-unique-dog-goodies-in-the-mail/) - There are so many dog goodie subscription boxes on the market today. The trend started with BarkBox though. BarkBox was founded in 2011 and, while having options is nice, BarkBox has had the longest time to perfect their box just for your dog. And that they did. Chester and Gretel first experienced BarkBox way back in - [Our Road Trip from Seattle to Colorado to Hike a Dog Friendly 14er](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/colorado-road-trip-adventure-mount-elbert/) - I love to take a big road trip with my dogs at least once a year and in 2015 we set our sights on Mount Elbert - a dog friendly 14er and the tallest mountain in Colorado. Fourteeners (14ers) are mountains with a peak elevation of over 14,000 feet. My Hubby was into high pointing - [5 Important Reasons to Gate Your Small Dog Out of the Kitchen](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/important-reasons-to-gate-your-small-dog-out-of-the-kitchen/) - The kitchen is probably the most dangerous room in your house. It’s full of sharp objects, things your dog shouldn’t eat, hot liquids, etc. Your dog just wants to be part of the action but that can be risky for both you and your dog. It’s safest to keep your pet out of the kitchen - [How Much Does Teeth Cleaning Cost for Dogs?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/how-much-does-it-cost-to-get-a-dogs-teeth-cleaned/) - I don't brush my dog's teeth but I am willing to pay for full teeth cleaning under anesthesia when they need it. So that I was prepared when that day comes, I started researching how much teeth cleaning for dogs cost. UPDATED: January 25, 2023 How Much Does a Dog Dental Cleaning Cost in Seattle? - [7 Things You Need to Do Before You Fly With Your Small Dog](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/flying-with-a-dog-getting-ready-for-takeoff/) - The first time I flew with my small dog, I did a lot of research about how to prepare for the flight. I wanted to write everything down since I don't fly with my dog often and would probably need to review the information in the future. I hope it helps you prepare to fly - [6 Reasons You Should Get Certified in Dog First Aid](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/6-reasons-you-should-get-certified-in-pet-first-aid/) - Getting a dog first aid certification is one of the best things I’ve done as a pet parent. The knowledge was especially handy that time my hubby and I hiked 6 miles into the woods to camp with our Dachshunds and Chester had an allergic reaction to a bug bite. After a moment of panic, - [We're An Award-Winning Blog: Best Dog Blog Design and Best Dog Blog](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/i-would-like-to-thank/) - It's been award-winning year for us (if you count by calendar year anyway). In September of 2014, this blog was nominated for Best Active Living Blog in the Petties. It's a voter-based award and you all blew me away by voting me to the top even though I never really asked (that meant SO much - [Fun Camping and Paddleboarding With the Dogs at Lake Wenatchee State Park](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/dog-friendly-camping-lake-wenatchee-state-park/) - When my hubby and I got paddleboards, we started itching to take the dogs on an adventure. We chose Lake Wenatchee State Park because he had never been there, I hadn't been in years, and dogs are welcome. It was early spring and, although Seattle can receive a lot of rain that time of year, - [The Pet Friendly Lie: It Might Not Mean What You Think it Does](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/dog-friendly-does-not-always-mean-dog-friendly/) - When I first started traveling with my dogs, I was repeatedly surprised and perplexed by places labeled "pet friendly". Frequently, I was disappointed. It turns out that there is a big difference between let and allow - between pets allowed vs pet friendly. UPDATED: originally published June 2013 Pets Allowed vs Pet Friendly So what - [15 Ways to Be a Good Houseguest With Your Dog](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/the-importance-of-being-a-good-houseguest/) - When you stay at someone else's house with your dog, it's important to be a good houseguest. If you aren't, your host may take to cringing every time you want to stay or not invite you back. I've been traveling and staying at other people's house as a guest for over 20 years. Below are - [A Guide to Leave No Trace Principles for Your Dog](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/tread-lightly-on-trails-leave-no-trace-principles-doggy-style/) - With many - hundreds in some cases - people and dogs using the same trails and parks, they can have quite an impact on the environment. In 1990, the United States Forest Service, in conjunction with the National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS), developed a set of outdoor ethics promoting conservation in the outdoors. The aim of these - [9 Cautions About Visiting York City with a Small Dog](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/9-tips-surviving-new-york-city-with-a-small-dog/) - I visited New York City for the first time last month. I heard it could be pretty crazy there but I' not one to shy away from adventure, so I decided to take my small dog, Gretel, with me. Adventure is what I got too. People warned me before I went that it might not - [Where You Can See Cherry Blossoms in Seattle With Your Dog](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/we-love-spring/) - Every spring, I fall in love with Seattle again. The city is so pretty when all of the trees, flowers, and cherry blossoms are blooming. It's one of the one most magical times to grab your pooch and tour the City. Here are some of the best places to see cherry blossoms in Seattle with - [5 Easy Dog Friendly Waterfall Hikes in Western Washington](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/best-easy-dog-friendly-waterfall-hikes-washington-seattle/) - One type of hike that I like to do with my dogs is waterfall hikes. Rushing rivers and mountainous terrain makes for some of the most magnificent views—views that NEVER fail to take my breath away and make me feel in awe. Fortunately, Washington State boasts plenty of dog friendly waterfall hikes. Not every state - [How Often Should You Stop on a Road Trip with a Dog?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/driving-with-dogs-the-100-mile-road-trip-game/) - Taking road trips with my dogs is one of my favorite things to do with them. We've driven over 4,000 miles from Seattle to Arizona, Driven 3,00 miles to southern California, driven to Colorado to hike some 14ers, gone on multi-day road trips in Washington State, and taken hundreds of other short trips. Taking a - [How Far Can a Small Dog Hike?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/is-it-ok-to-take-my-dog-for-a-long-hike/) - One of the most common question I receive when post pictures of my small dogs hiking is, "How far can they hike?" I recently announced plans for a 4-day backpacking trip. I will be hiking with my 11 lb miniature Dachshund Gretel for 7 – 10 miles a day. Someone left a comment on that - [7 Reasons to Hike With Your Dachshund](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/7-reasons-hike-with-dog/) - Dachshund owners, like a lot of people, are discovering a desire to get back to basics, simplify their life, and connect with nature. We are surrounded by so much stuff competing for our time – our cell phone, Facebook, Twitter, Email, people who need something from us, etc. Getting out in the woods with our - [How to Tell if Your Dog is Tired of Hiking](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/how-to-know-when-your-hiking-dog-may-be-injured-or-sick/) - As you know, I'm all about hiking with dogs. I believe that almost any dog in good health can do it. However, it IS true that not all dogs can go the same distance or over the same terrain. If your dog has never been hiking before, you should start them slow on easier trails - [My Dachshund Started Skipping When She Runs: What's Wrong?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/dog-skips-hops-when-running-walking/) - My recently started running with my Dachshund Gretel again with the goal of running a dog friendly 5k near Seattle. However, a couple of weeks ago, my plan came to a halt because she started skipping on one of her back legs while running. Then she started doing it when she was just walking. The - [6 Important Tips for a Happy Road Trip with Your Dog](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/important-tips-happy-road-trip-with-dog/) - Going on a road trip with your dog is definitely an awesome and unforgettable memory. Gretel and I just finished up a nine-day, almost 4,000 mile road trip with some friends. We had a lot of adventures and made a lot of memories. Some of the adventure was unplanned, but because we were prepared, we - [9 Tips for Taking Your Dog on a Long Car Ride](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/9-things-to-remember-when-planning-a-road-trip-with-your-dog/) - Taking a your dog on a long car ride to visit a new destination is definitely an awesome and an unforgettable experience. Taking a road trip with my dogs is also one of my favorite ways to put some adventure in your lives when the weather is less than favorable. But there are also times - [The Easiest Way to Attach Dog Tags to a Collar or Harness](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/easily-move-dog-tags-from-one-collar-to-another/) - You probably landed on this article because you are a new dog owner and are wondering how to attach a dog tag to a collar or you are wondering if there is an easier way to do it. Typically, a dog tag will come with what is called a "jump ring". I'm not sure how - [15 Tips for Finding a Dog Friendly Campsite](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/15-tips-for-finding-a-dog-friendly-campsite/) - I've camped overnight in the woods with my dogs hundreds of times over the years. Finding a dog friendly campsite has become second nature to me - something I could do in my sleep - so I've forgot how much thought and research actually goes into it. I decided to sit down and do a - [Help! Off-Leash Dogs Scare My Dog on Trails](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/off-leash-scared-reactive-dogs-on-trails/) - Although I chose to hike on a weekday afternoon to reduce encountering off leash dogs, I knew we might encounter one or two. My Dachshunds, Chester and Gretel, are what you call "reactive" dogs - an off-leash dog running up to them, especially when they are leashed, scares them. I rounded the corner and saw two - [7 Tips for Handling Off-Leash Dogs While Hiking](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/7-tips-for-handling-off-leash-dogs-while-hiking/) - This is a guest post written by an expert in adventure travel with dogs, Jen from Long Haul Trekkers. Scroll to the bottom of the article to read more about her. Thirteen miles into a 15-mile training run, my dog, Sora and I came upon a group of senior bird watchers stopped on the trail, peering - [Layering: How to Dress a Dog for Varying Weather Conditions](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/protect-your-dog-from-the-elements-by-layering/) - If you are taking your dog outdoors in varying weather conditions, a key to keeping them safe is with a jacket layering system. I don’t know about where you live, but in Washington State, we pretty much have to be ready for any weather condition at any time. As they say around here (I've actually - [8 Ways to Celebrate National Trails Day with Your Dog](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/8-ways-to-celebrate-national-trails-day-with-your-dog/) - Those of us that love to hike with our dogs don't need much of an excuse to get out on the trails. However, if you need a little extra motivation, celebrating National Trails Day with your dog might be the extra push you need. What is National Trails Day? The American Hiking Society's National Trails - [6 Common Dachshund Teeth Problems](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/common-dachshund-teeth-problems/) - Dental problems in dogs are often viewed as being a minor inconvenience, but problems with your Dachshund’s teeth could be much more serious than you realize. In this article, I am going to share the 6 most common Dachshund teeth problems and why you should pay attention to the signs of trouble. I’m also going - [Barker Bag: A Unique Dog Sleeping Bag That Zips Onto Your Mummy Bag](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/barker-bag-a-really-different-dog-sleeping-bag/) - As a blogger, I get a dozen or so emails a week wanting me to check out this product or mention that company. I received an enthusiastic email the other day from a guy who lives in Seattle who invented a dog sleeping bag called the BarkerBag. UPDATED: January 12, 2023 I liked this guy's - [Read This If You're Visiting Astoria, Oregon With Your Dog](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/dog-unfriendly-astoria-oregon/) - We visited Astoria a few weeks ago on our Oregon Bike Tour. Astoria is where we were going to leave our car and launch or trip from. Before we left, I did a search of dog-friendly stuff in town. I didn’t really find anything except hotels and restaurants on BringFido when I searched “stuff to - [Emergency Sling Pack for Small Dogs - REI Flash 18 Pack Review](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/rei-flash-18-pack-review-you-put-your-weiner-in-there/) - If you are going to hike regularly with your small dog, there is inevitably going to be an emergency that requires you carry your dog out of the woods. Maybe their paw pads get cut or scraped, they have an allergic reaction to something, or they injure a leg. UPDATED: January 8, 2023 I always - [Teckelklub Fleece Jackets Are Perfect for Dachshunds](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/teckelklub-light-fleece-jackets-are-perfect-for-dachshunds/) - Updated: December 12, 2019 As much as we like adventuring in the woods, sometimes we like to spend a day exploring our own City. Our heavy-duty outdoor jackets are usually just too much for a little causal exploration. For those times, Chester and Gretel usually just wear a lighter fleece jacket to keep the chill - [14 Unique Gifts for Dachshunds and Dachshund Lovers! (Updated 2022)](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/10-unique-gifts-for-dachshunds-and-dachshund-lovers/) - I've kept an eye out for cool products all year precisely with you in mind. Every year around Christmas time, I like to share our favorites. Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links, which means I earn a small comission on qualifying purchases. Updated: December 8, 2022 Gifts For Dachshunds 1) Teckelklub Luxy Jacket - [Hurtta Jacket Sizing Guide for Dachshunds](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/hurtta-dog-jacket-coat-sizing-easy-dachshund/) - UPDATED: October 18, 2020 I get a lot of questions about Summit and Gretel's dog jackets from Hurtta. People are excited when they see a quality made gear for active Dachshunds. I like that you guys are interested in them, and I really do like helping you out, but I find myself answering the same - [The Best Miniature Dachshund Harness for Hikes or Long Walks](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/the-best-hiking-harness-for-a-dachshund/) - Updated: May 10, 2022 Finding a harness for hiking or long walks with your Miniature Dachshund can be a real challenge. Trust me, I've been trying to find one that fits well, and doesn't chafe when it gets wet and dirty, or when we hike or walk for long distances (over 5 miles and up - [Voyagers K9 Apparel Review for Dachshunds](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/voyagers-k9-apparel-review-for-dachshunds/) - We recently had the chance to try out a couple dog jackets from Voyagers K9 Apparel. People started asking me for my reviews so here they are. Disclaimer: I bought two of these jackets but they sent me the other two at no cost to review. A Note on the Necessity of Dog Jackets While - [Which Subscription Dog Goody Box is For You?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/which-subscription-dog-goody-box-is-for-you/) - This post is outdated. Please visit our current subscription box comparison post. About a year ago I heard of subscription boxes for dogs. The deal is that you pay a monthly fee in exchange for a "grab box" of dog goodies delivered to your doorstep. I don't know about you but the only thing I - [Warm Dachshund Fleece Coats That Actually Fit](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/warm-dachshund-fleece-coats-that-actually-fit/) - You bought a super cute Dachshund fleece coat or sweater but, unfortunately, it doesn't fit. It's disappointing. I get it. It's difficult to find clothes for a Dachshund that don't end up looking like a midriff shirt because it only covers half way down their body. When shopping for a fleece coat for your Dachshund, - [7 of the Best Dog-Friendly Breweries in Bend, Oregon](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/best-dog-friendly-breweries-in-bend-oregon/) - We took a road trip to Bend, Oregon for vacation a couple of weeks ago and stopped by as many dog friendly breweries as we could find. Here are our favorites. UPDATED: January 8, 2023 Top Dog Friendly Breweries in Bend 1) 10 Barrel Brewing Company There are quite a few locations that you can - [5 Unique Things to Do With Your Dog In Seattle](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/5-unique-things-to-do-with-your-dog-in-seattle/) - Seattle is one of the most dog friendly cities in the U.S. You may have heard but there are actually more dogs than kids in Seattle. It's hard to go anywhere without seeing people driving with dogs in their cars, eating outside at restaurants with their dogs, or out walking with their dogs. Dog friendly hotels - [How to Keep Your Dog Calm When Traveling](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/how-to-keep-your-dog-calm-when-traveling/) - Taking your dog on vacation with you can be a really fun and memorable experience. However, if your dog is not used to traveling, it may not go as smoothly as you anticipate. Dogs new to traveling may find it stressful at times. Whether travelling by car, train, bus, or airplane, dogs can quickly become - [Goldilocks and the Search for the Perfect Dog Walking Purse](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/perfect-dog-mom-purse-haiku-gotoconvertible/) - Many years ago I discovered the wonder of having a great dog walking purse. I discovered a great bag for dog walking - sort of a small messenger bag but with a lot of purse qualities and a lot of pockets - at a thrift store. I bought it thinking I would just use it - [Meet Gretel: A Literal Rags to Riches Story](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/meet-gretel/) - The photo to the right was taken just days after Doggy Daddy and I adopted Gretel in 2010. As it is with most rescue dogs, her exact age was unknown. The rescue we adopted her from was told she was about 8 months old at the time of surrender but, upon her first vet examination, - [Washington's Toxic Plants Your Dog Should Avoid](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/washington-northwest-toxic-plants-your-dog-should-avoid/) - Guest Post by Elena Edwards UPDATED: 9/3/2020 Moo and I went on a camping trip with some friends in the Hood River area of Oregon over Memorial Day Weekend. The area was super secluded, so I felt good about letting Moo off the leash to explore a little and have some fun herself (Moo’s not - [Couch to Peak™ Training Program Launch](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/couch-to-peak-launch/) - Summer is just around the corner which means the days are longer and the sun is out more. Most of us have spent the winter hibernating inside or only getting outside to move our body once every few weeks. Now is the perfect time of year to start a new exercise routine or just simply - [Couch to Peak™ Final Hike](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/couch-to-peak-final-hike/) - This is really a little out of order. I posted about our huge hike up Mount Si earlier in the week but really this hike happened before that hike. Our final goal in the Couch to Peak series was a hike up Rattlesnake Ledge. We have been up this trail several times but it was - [Keeping Up With K9 Kamp](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/keeping-up-with-k9-kamp/) - Welcome to the first installment of Keeping Up With K9 Kamp! As you may have heard, we are now official co-hosts of K9 Kamp with Kol's Notes and Peggy's Pet Place. K9 Kamp, a fitness challenge aimed at fighting pet obesity, happens a couple of times year. However, we believe that canine fitness should be - [A Great #PawNatural Raw Dog Food for Adventuring](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/a-great-pawnatural-raw-dog-food-for-adventuring/) - I feed Chester and Gretel all-meat, frozen raw dog food. I didn't see the difference in energy most claim with raw food until I switched to food that was 90% or greater raw meat and bones. After the switch, my senior dog Chester started acting like a kid again. Frozen raw food is impossible to - [Is Your Dog Active? Beware of Harness Chafing](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/a-cautionary-note-about-harnesses-and-active-dogs/) - I feel the need to caution people about using harnesses on active dogs. I believe that harnesses are better than collars for dogs when they are being active. However, a harness does have one big downfall for active dogs. It can cause severe harness chafing if you're not careful. My warning harnesses chafing primarily applies - [Walks n' Wags Pet First Aid Classes - Fun and High-quality](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/walks-n-wags-pet-first-aid-classes-fun-and-high-quality/) - As a dog walker, occasional pet sitter, a responsible pet parent, and someone who hikes in the woods with her dogs, I get certified in pet first aid. This year, I got certified through one of the most comprehensive pet first aid classes there is - Walks n' Wags First Aid. I was so happy that - [The Easy Way to Choose the Best Pet Insurance](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/how-do-i-choose-the-best-pet-insurance/) - UPDATED: June 3, 2018 When Chester was my only dog, I waffled back and forth about the issue of pet insurance. There are two main schools of thought - get insurance and pay monthly for peace of mind and guaranteed coverage or save an amount equal to the insurance premium each month in a "pet - [Do Dogs Need Boots for Snow?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/does-my-small-dog-need-to-wear-boots-in-the-snow/) - I’ve received a lot of questions about dog boots for winter over the years like: Do dogs need to wear boots in the snow?Is snow bad for dogs paws? Do your Dachshunds wear boots in the snow? At what temperature do dogs need boots?What boots do you recommend? Well, today I’m going to answer all - [Disaster Happens: How to Protect Your Pet When You're Not Home](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/pet-safety-natural-disaster-emergency-home-alone/) - I hear a lot of people say that they would never separate from their pet in the case of a natural disaster emergency. I feel the same way. However, I have worked in emergency management before. I know the truth is you can't always choose to stay. Also, it's quite possible you could be away - [Can Dogs Get Altitude Sickness?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/dog-altitude-sickness-hiking/) - Whether you are moving to Colorado or hiking a to mountain peak over 10,000 feet, you may be wondering if your dog can get altitude sickness. I became curious about this a few years ago when I was planning a road trip to Colorado with my small dogs. Article originally publishes August 2015 We planned - [How to Make Sure Your Dog Doesn’t Die of Heat Stroke](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/how-to-make-sure-your-dog-doesnt-die-of-heat-stroke/) - As dog owners, we like to think we are always being careful and bad things won’t happen to our dogs. I remember the first time Gretel got heatstroke. It was scary. It was a hot day in Seattle so we decided to hang out on the water in hopes of staying cooler. We went paddleboarding - [Can Dogs Go in an Infrared Sauna?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/can-dogs-go-in-an-infrared-sauna/) - I'm getting an infrared sauna next month and I wondered if my dogs can go in an infrared sauna with me. Yep! I'm that crazy dog lady that wants to share as much of my life, and activities, with my dogs as I can. I wondered if they would enjoy the dry heat of an - [Valley Fever in Dogs – What You Need to Know](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/desert-hiking-with-your-dog-beware-of-valley-fever/) - There are many risks that we may encounter when adventuring outdoors, depending on our location. From dangerous algae in the waterways to running into a bear in the woods, outdoor adventurers must be prepared. UPDATED: This article was originally published in July of 2012. For many located in the western states, or who travel there, - [Puppy Blues: How to Handle Post-Puppy Depression & Regret](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/puppy-blues-how-to-handle-post-puppy-depression-regret/) - You might have wanted a puppy for years, perhaps ever since you were a kid, and now that it is finally here – you don’t feel the way you thought you would. You feel stressed, sad, and depressed, and you find yourself wondering if you have made a terrible mistake. You did everything to prepare: - [6 Signs Your Wiener Dog Might Have Wet Belly Syndrome](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/six-signs-your-weiner-dog-might-have-wet-belly-syndrome/) - Most Dachshunds, often called wiener dogs, have been afflicted by wet belly syndrome at one time or another. Some Dachshunds outgrow it, or learn to live a full life despite of it, but some never recover. Wet belly syndrome can be a debilitating condition that can interfere with the enjoyment of their life and affect - [The Saga of Obie the Obese Dachshund](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/will-the-real-obie-post-please-stand-up/) - Obie the obese Dachshund shot to startdom in 2012 when we became known as the fattest Dachshund, possibly in the world. How this came to be, and what ensued after his fame, is not something a lot of people know about. Most of you have only heard of Obie's before and after weight loss journey. - [Is the Leptospirosis Vaccine Necessary for My Dog?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/does-your-dog-hike-they-might-need-a-lepto-vaccine/) - Last fall, one of our friend's dogs - Jeffie - died from leptospirosis (lepto for short). He got it from the back yard and died suddenly. Jeffie's owner starting educating people about lepto and get the word out about the risk. I wondered, "Does my dog need the lepto vaccine?". UPDATED: December 12, 2022 I - [Does My Small Dog Need to Wear a Jacket in Winter?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/does-my-dog-need-to-wear-a-jacket-when-hiking-in-winter/) - Unless your dog is an Arctic breed that is selectively bred to withstand subzero temperatures, they could probably use at least one warm jacket to get them through the winter safely and comfortably. Dog jackets aren’t just for looks - they can keep your dog’s body temperature stable when they go outside for potty breaks - [Love and Loss: Letting Go of My Dog With Dementia](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/love-and-loss-letting-go-of-my-dog-with-dementia/) - I slowly meandered through the woods with Chester and sat on a log. I had things I needed to say to him. Things I wanted him to know. There was no better setting than in the woods a few miles from my house to tell him. We'd shared almost 16 years of adventure in places - [What Are the Chances My IVDD Dachshund Will Need a Second Surgery Later In Life?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/chances-ivdd-dachshund-need-second-surgery/) - I received this question from a blog reader the other day: "How many cases have you encountered of repeat Intervertebral Disk Disease (IVDD) and what amount resulted in a second surgery?" The woman said she found little information online regarding Dachshunds who experience a spinal injury related to IVDD a second time. Since I have - [How I Prevent My Dachshunds From Jumping Off the Couch](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/how-i-prevent-my-dachshunds-from-jumping-off-the-couch/) - When my Dachshund Gretel was diagnosed with IVDD, we had to make some major changes around the house. Specifically, we needed to prevent her from jumping off the couch. In my mind, there were only two ways to do that: Completely prevent her from getting on the couch in the first place.Make it so the - [Leptospirosis Vaccine Reaction in Dachshunds: Is it Really That Risky?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/leptospirosis-vaccine-reaction-in-dachshunds-is-it-really-that-risky/) - Leptospirosis (or lepto, for short) may be a risk for some dogs, and that must be weighed against the risks of the vaccine itself. Dachshunds are one of the breeds that can have severe negative reactions to the vaccine, and it’s important to know that before making a decision on getting your dog the vaccination. - [Could My Dachshund Have a Luxating Patella?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/could-my-dachshund-have-a-luxating-patella/) - A luxating patella is a common condition in dogs but is especially prevalent in small breeds like Dachshunds. It usually becomes noticeable around 4-6 months of age, and it’s often a congenital defect. Dachshunds have a predisposition for luxating patella, and it can normally be diagnosed and treated early on. What is a Luxating Patella? - [Myelomalacia in Dachshunds: Is My Dog at Risk?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/myelomalacia-in-dachshunds-is-my-dog-at-risk/) - If your Dachshund has recently had surgery for back problems or a spinal injury, you may have heard your veterinarian mention a condition called myelomalacia. However, if you haven’t heard about it, you’re not alone. Myelomalacia in Dachshunds is not often spoken about because it’s incredibly rare, but it is still possible! To help raise - [Dog Fights: What To Do When a Big Dog Attacks Your Little Dog](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/dog-fights-are-you-prepared/) - Dog fights are scary. I’ve seen them happen and have experienced the shock and “paralysis” from not knowing what to do. I’ve only experienced close encounters involving my miniature Dachshunds but I’ve heard tragic big-dog attack stories from other Dachshund owners. Unfortunately, at least one of them resulted in their dog dying. The risk of - [10 Benefits of Using a Mobile Veterinarian](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/3-reasons-why-mobile-vet-services-are-awesome/) - Pet parents want to give their dogs the best treatment that they can. However, with our busy lives, they are also seeking more freedom and convenience when it comes to caring for their pet. UPDATED: Originally published July 2014 For example, people more frequently order dog food and pet supplies online so they don't have - [One Way to Clean Your Dog's Teeth Without Brushing](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/one-way-to-clean-your-dogs-teeth-without-brushing/) - Note: Brushing your dog's teeth is the best way to keep them healthy and clean. I am not saying you should do this instead. However, if you do not brush your dog's teeth, this is one way you an start doing something to keep them healthy. If you do already brush your dog's teeth, this - [Is TropiClean Fresh Breath a Safe Solution Your Dog's Teeth and Breath?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/is-tropiclean-our-clean-teeth-and-fresh-breath-solution-smoochurpooch/) - Is TropiClean safe and an effective way to help clean your dog's teeth and keep their fresh breath? - [How Many Times a Week Should I Walk My Dachshund?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/how-many-times-a-week-should-i-walk-my-dachshund/) - You may be wondering how much exercise your Dachshund needs. Specifically, how often you need to walk your dog per week and for how long. The short answer is that it varies by each particular Dachshund. Factors like age, health, mobility issues, and fitness level must be considered. Another thing to reflect on is their - [10 Ways to Show Your Dog Love Without Making Them Fat](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/show-your-dog-love-without-treats-making-them-fat/) - People often show their love through food. Some mothers love to cook for their kids and encourage them to eat up. When someone has a Birthday people often take them to dinner, bake them a cake, or buy them some nice candy. Valentine's Day is all about couples going to dinner and the exchange of - [How Long Does an Overweight Dachshund Live?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/lets-get-real-is-your-dog-fat/) - We love our Dachshunds with all of our hearts and want them to be with us as long as they can. You may be wondering how long that is though. There are a lot of factors that influence a Dachshund's lifespan. One of them is how overweight they are. Article originally published December 6, 2012 - [9 Ways to Help Stop Your Dachshund from Eating too Fast](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/9-ways-to-help-stop-your-dachshund-from-scarfing-their-food/) - My Dachshund Gretel has always eaten her dog food too fast. She practically inhales it. It’s "funny" to watch, and it’s something Dachshund owners often joke about because it's common in the breed, but a dog eating their food too quickly can actually have serious consequences. What Can Happen If Your Dog Eats Food Too - [IVDD Recovery Treatment - Things You Can Do at Home](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/ivdd-recovery-treatment-things-you-can-do-at-home/) - When Gretel injured her back, and was diagnosed with Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD), I was determined that this would just be a blip in our journey together. I see people every day that overcame physical limitations and continue to be active in the outdoors. Although mild by comparison to some issues, I've deal with chronic - [10 Essential Items to Bring on Every Adventure with Your Dog](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/essential-items-to-bring-on-every-adventure-dachshund/) - I've been hiking, camping, and traveling with my Dachshunds over 15 years. I love dog gear but, over time, I've found that there are several essentials I take with us every time we go on an adventure. My dogs may be small but I know my must-have list would be the same even if I - [How to Get the Dog Pee Smell Out of Your Carpet](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/how-to-get-the-smell-of-dog-pee-out-of-your-carpet/) - Trying to get the dog pee smell out of carpet is a frustrating task that comes with being a dog owner. Over the years, I’ve had to deal a dog peeing in the house from: A dog learning potty trainingA dog with separation anxietyGuest dogs we were sitting that were confused about where to go - [No Space? How to Create a Dog Friendly Mudroom Anyway](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/creating-a-dog-friendly-entryway/) - Oh, how I drool over photos of fancy dog friendly mudroom ideas on Pinterest. But the problem is, every house I have lived in had no space for me to build a mudroom. Not having one causes a problem for me when I come home from a rainy walk or muddy hike with my dogs - [I Hired an Animal Communicator - This Is What I Learned](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/animal-communicators-talk-to-pets-seattle/) - I don't know about you, but sometimes I wish I knew my dogs knew how to speak English so I would know what they're thinking. Instead I am left trying to infer meaning from their body language and it's totally a guessing game. UPDATED: December 27, 2022 Do those kisses mean that Gretel loves me - [19 Activities I Look Forward to in Fall with My Dogs](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/7-reasons-i-look-forward-to-fall-with-my-dogs/) - I used to go into hibernation mode with my dogs when the weather turned cold, but now I look forward to several dog friendly activities unique to the fall season. At a certain point in the fall, I can just tell that things have changed. The mornings are crisp again, I get to break out - [Gretel's First Off-Leash Adventure at the Beach](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/im-as-free-as-a-bird-now/) - This last weekend we went to Port Townsend to walk the beach with my Step-Dad, Guest Adventureweiner Sadie and her Mom. Sadie’s Mom brought two dogs – Sadie and a Doberman named Smokey. Sadie is very old and wise so she is allowed to walk off leash. Smokey is also allowed off leash so he - [Dog-Friendly Cannon Beach, Oregon](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/dog-friendly-cannon-beach-oregon/) - I heard that Cannon Beach was one of the most dog friendly coastal towns in Oregon so, or course, we had to visit. Since our first visit, we've been back several times. During our first visit though, we decided to take the budget route and camped at the quaint, family-owned Wright’s for Camping just off - [Essential Dog Beach Safety Tips for Your Small Dog](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/essential-dog-beach-safety-tips-for-your-small-dog/) - I love visiting the beach with my small dogs. Some of my favorites to visit are Seaside Beach, and Cannon Beach, on the Oregon coast and Kalaloch Beach in Washington State. The beach is wide open and we often seek out secluded ones. Because of this, it’s one of the few places I feel comfortable - [5 of the Best Dog Breeds for Hiking (for Those Who Want a Small Dog)](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/5-popular-small-dog-breeds-for-hiking/) - While I own and hike with Dachshunds, I've also researched other best breeds for hiking in the small dog category. There are a lot of advantages to hiking with a small dog so I want to help spread the word that they can make great adventure companions. The Best Dog Breeds for Hiking That Are - [10 Hilarious and True Dachshund Memes That Will Totally Make Your Day](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/funny-cute-dachshund-meme/) - Dachshunds are unique dogs - cute and full of attitude. If you're a Dachshund owner, you get it because you live with them every day. So you'll think these are funny. If you are thinking of getting one, these cute and funny dachshund memes will give you a taste of what it will be like - [Can You Take a Dachshund Hiking?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/can-you-take-a-dachshund-hiking/) - Many people don't think that Dachshunds can hike. That's especially true for those that haven't owned a Dachshund. However, I've also heard many stories from other owners over the years about their Dachshund sitting at home. They say they didn't think theirs could hike but want to try it now that they saw us out - [9 Beginner Mistakes I Made When Hiking With My Dog](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/beginner-mistakes-i-made-when-hiking-with-my-dog/) - If you are thinking of taking your dog hiking for the first time, you might be a bit nervous. You want to make sure both you and your dog have a good time and no one gets injured. Well, I started hiking with my dog 15 years and I made a lot of mistakes. I - [Seattle Off-Leash Dog Park Review: Magnuson](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/off-leash-dog-park-review-magnuson-part-i/) - Magnuson off-leash area is Seattle's biggest dog park. It's also one of the top 10 dog parks in the Seattle area. The off-leash area sits within the larger Warren G. Magnuson Park located in the Sand Point neighborhood of Seattle along the shores of Lake Washington. It the only dog park in Seattle with water access. The dog - [Top 5 Benefits of Traveling With a Small Dog](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/5-benefits-of-traveling-with-a-small-dog/) - Some people wonder if you can travel with a small dog. Or why you might want to. Besides the many benefits of traveling with your dog, traveling with a small dog, specifically, has several advantages. When you compare a big dog vs a small dog, here are the reasons I think traveling with a small - [Training Your Dog to Hike: Start Small Then Go Big](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/our-secret-start-small-and-then-go-big/) - You have heard us go on and on about how ingrained the stereotype of small dogs is – of how they are often underestimated and are capable of so much more. We even wrote a guest post about it over at Will My Dog Hate Me? and I compiled a list of the 10 - [It Gets Deeper](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/it-gets-deeper/) - Yesterday I told you that Gretel was a victim of puppy “flipping”, or trafficking, and that is what lead her to our family. A local woman was busted for purchasing cheap puppies online, falsifying vaccination and spay/neuter papers (even forging a veterinarian’s signature) and reselling them for a profit. Initially, the woman denied any wrongdoing - [Gretel, Hookers and Blow](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/gretel-hookers-and-blow/) - Gretel’s past was a little fuzzy when we adopted her. We were told that the people who bought her got way more than they expected and couldn’t handle her. The issues of anxiety and aggression towards men were mentioned. The couple decided to surrender her to Motley Zoo Animal Rescue saying that the situation they - [Where Gretel Came From (Hint...Not a Stork)](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/where-gretel-came-from-hint-not-a-stork/) - We have said how lucky we feel we are to have found Gretel. We wanted to share a little about the people who brought her to us, Motley Zoo Animal Rescue, because we think they are great. As a young, fresh organization they are already revolutionizing the rescue scene. They go beyond everything a traditional - [How a Little Rescue Dog Changed My Life and Helped Animals](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/rescue-dog-adopted-changed-life/) - “I gave $2,000 to Motley Zoo Animal Rescue in 2015 to help save animals” I never thought I would be saying that. I never had that much money at my disposal and, honestly, was more likely to give to environmental and humanitarian groups. In 2012, I was a frustrated woman disillusioned with her job. I - [DIY Dog Catching Treat Photos](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/how-to-take-a-funny-photo-of-your-dog-using-treats/) - Have you been inspired by the Dogs Catching Treats photo series and want to capture your own? Well, I did. I was stuck around home for a while and decided to make this one of my special projects to keep me busy. I thought this might be a fun thing for other people to do - [Top 10 Adventurous Dachshund Pics That Will Inspire You](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/best-adventure-dachshund-photos-instagram/) - I love, love, love and appreciate all of our fans on social media. Facebook is where we found all of our passionate Dachshund friends. Instagram is where I've found a community of people who like to hike, camp, and adventure with their dogs. I also love Instagram there are so many great photographers posting pictures - [Best Pet Photographer in Seattle: Julie Austin Pet Photography](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/julie-austin-pet-photography-dog-cat-horse-seattle/) - Sometimes it's fun to be a tourist in your own city. A few months ago, I visited some of the best dog friendly attractions in Seattle with Chester and Gretel. While I have a gazillion (almost an exact figure. Ha, ha.) photos of my Dachshunds Chester and Gretel, I don't have many of us together. - [8 Tips for Taking Great Dog Photos with Your Smartphone](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/8-tips-for-taking-great-smartphone-photos-of-your-dog/) - When your dog is your constant hiking or travel companion, there will be a lot of opportunities to capture great photos of your dog. The camera you are most likely to have on hand when you want to capture the moment - because it’s the only one you have or you forgot your “good camera” - [Gearing Up for a Backpacking Trip with the Dogs](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/gearing-up-for-a-backpacking-trip-with-the-dogs/) - Besides meeting with some of our Doxie friends at the Edmonds off-leash dog park (our favorite) and visiting with family, we spent the weekend preparing for our vacation next week. We plan to start off the week with an overnight backpacking trip with the dogs and then we head off for a mini bike tour - [5 Challenging (and Spectacular) Day Hikes for You and Your Dog Around Seattle](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/5-challenging-and-spectacular-day-hikes-for-you-and-your-dog-around-seattle/) - I want to start making "theme" lists of dog-friendly hikes in the Seattle area. I wrote before about unknown dog-friendly trails around Seattle and I plan to make a list of easy hikes later. We are nearing the end of the hiking season so I wanted to start off my list series by telling you - [7 Reasons Why Hiking with a Small Dog is Better](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/7-reasons-why-hiking-with-a-small-dog-is-better/) - UPDATED: April 13, 2020 I love all dogs and do not discriminate based on size. However, it's a fact that there are differences between small dogs and big dogs. First, some people wonder if small dogs can hike the same trails that big dogs can. I can assure you that small dogs are indeed capable - [What to Bring When Hiking With Your Dog](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/what-to-bring-when-hiking-with-your-dog/) - I have been hiking with dogs for almost 15 years now. I still manage to forget to pack something every now and then - especially when I am getting back into the swing of things at the beginning of the season. For example, I know better but have been leaving the bug spray at home - [Another Famous Adventureweiner - Crusoe the Cebrity Dachshund](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/guest-adventureweiner-crusoe/) - We go way back with Crusoe the Celebrity Dachshund. I discovered him about a year after I started this blog about, at the time were two of the most famous Dachshunds on the internet - my Dachshunds Chester (now passed) and Gretel. I was thrilled to find another Dachshunds who liked to get outdoor as - [Where We've Been and Where We're Going in 2017](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/where-weve-been-and-where-were-going-in-2017-and-giveaway/) - Each year, I like to reflect on what happened the previous year with the blog, and in our lives, and think about where we hope to go. You can read the end-of-year post I wrote last year HERE. Our friends over at Go Pet Friendly remind me ever year to take this time to think - [Why My Experience with the Emerald City Emergency Clinic Sucked](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/gretel-comes-home/) - I have to say I was not very impressed with the ER clinic I took my Dachshund Gretel to recently - Emerald City Emergency Clinic. They Never Called Me to Pick Her Up The clinic said she would have to stay 24 hours but then said she might be ready to come home earlier. I - [How Many Calories Do You Burn Walking Your Dog?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/how-many-calories-you-burn-walking-your-dog/) - I'm always talking about the benefits of exercising with your dog. We love to hike and I used to occasionally run with my Dachshund's Chester and Gretel (yes, believe it or not, some Dachshunds can go running). However, I've found that walking is the easiest, and most convenient way for me and my pups to exercise - [How to Get Your Dog Ready for Hiking Season](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/how-to-get-your-dog-ready-for-hiking-season/) - It's no longer healthy for my dogs to be weekend warriors. Truthfully, it never was. When Gretel was young, and I was younger too, we could sit on the couch for weeks, go out and hike 15 miles, and easily do it again the next day. Then age happened. Honestly, though, each time we pulled - [The First Official Meetup of the Adventureweiner Club](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/first-adventureweiner-club/) - Tuesday marked the first official meetup of the Adventureweiner Club of Seattle. The evening walk around Greenlake went great and appears it will be our one permanent event. I just love getting other weiner dog owners together to socialize and let our dogs play together. Having great spring weather helps too. This group was smaller - [Pet Blogger Challenge 2012 - Get to Know Us Better](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/pet-blogger-challenge-get-to-know-us-better-2/) - Hello friends. We are first-timers to the Pet Blogger Challenge. We were in existence when the last time it happened but we were too busy learning how this bloggy thing worked to look into what the challenge hubbub was all about. Our world has expanded a lot over this last year. Will My Dog Hate - [2014 Pet Blogger Challenge](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/2014-pet-blogger-challenge/) - Today is the day of the 2014 Pet Blogger Challenge hosted by GoPetFriendly and Will My Dog Hate Me. It’s the time pet bloggers answer some questions to see how far we've come and make some plans for where we’re going. It's also a chance for our readers to learn a little more about our - [Magical Dachshund Children's Books That Teach Kindness and Diversity](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/magical-dachshund-childrens-books-that-teach-kindness-and-diversity/) - Two Washington State creators teamed up to create a series of whimsical Dachshund children's books that that inspire kindness and imagination. Writer Kizzie Elizabeth Jones (Edmonds) imagines stories that use her favorite dog breed - the Dachshund - and other animals to model and honor kindness, compassion, collaboration, and diversity. “I hope each time the - [Winter Hiking With Dogs: 10 Important Safety Tips](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/hiking-with-dog-winter-safety-tips/) - Hiking with your dog in winter is a great way to get exercise in the colder months. Hiking in the winter is very different than hiking with your dog in the summer though. There are more dangers and dangers specific to the season. However, if you and your dog are properly prepared and up-to-date on - [5 Tips for Camping with Multiple Dachshunds](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/dachshund-camp-seattle-dog/) - The first time I took my Dachshund camping was in 2003, not long after I got my first one. In 2010, I started a Dachshund club - the Adventurewiener Club - with the aim of helping other owners do fun things in the outdoors with theirs. In 2014, I organized my first multiple-Dachshund camping trip - [Dog Diaper Bag - What to Pack](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/what-adventurous-dog-parents-pack-for-a-road-trip/) - Whether you are traveling with a puppy, a dog that is not fully potty trained, an anxious peeer, or an incontinent senior dog, it's a good idea to bring a dog diaper bag. UPDATED: July 7, 2021 Bringing a doggie diaper bag is important because you never know when your dog may make a mess - [WEIner vs. WIEner and Other Nicknames for a Dachshund](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/weiner-vs-wiener-dachshund-name-variations/) - Once upon a time, a girl (me) inherited a little funny shaped dog from a roommate. I decided I should learn all I could about the Dachshund breed and that started my obsession. Since that day, I've learned that people also call Dachshund by alternate names including wiener dog, weiner dog (a misspelling of the - [The Size Debate: What is Considered a Small Dog?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/the-size-debate-what-is-considered-a-small-dog/) - There’s an age-old debate about what size is considered a small dog. Confusion tends to swirl around this topic because it can be open for interpretation. There does happen to be a professional opinion on how much a small dog weighs, and we’ll cover that in this article. Not only do we discuss the typical - [Why Are Small Dogs So Aggressive?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/why-are-small-dogs-aggressive/) - It's a common belief that small dogs are aggressive, misbehaved, angry, and are always trying to prove themselves to big dogs by barking, lunging, and sometimes even biting. Collectively, this behavior is often referred to little dog syndrome, small dog syndrome, or a "Napoleon Complex". But is it true? Are small dogs more aggressive? And - [Do Dachshunds Like to Swim?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/do-dachshunds-like-to-swim/) - While the majority of Dachshunds do not naturally like water, some love to swim, either naturally or after they are taught to like it. Swimming can be great exercise and is an essential safety skill for a Dachshund to have if they are going to participate in water-related activities. Pools and other bodies of water - [9 Expert Tips for Hiking with a Small Dog](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/hiking-with-dogs-insider-beginner-newbie-tips/) - So you've discovered the wonders of hiking with your small dog? Good for you! UPDATED: November 28, 2022 I've been hiking with my small dogs (Dachshunds) for over 16 years so I can attest to how awesome it is. I can also attest to how overwhelming it can be everything there is to know about - [19 Best Dog Friendly Golden Larch Hikes in Washington State](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/best-dog-friendly-golden-larch-hikes-in-washington-state/) - Viewing the golden larch trees in fall is a favorite Washington State pastime but not all of the hikes are dog friendly. - [Suncadia - a Pet Friendly Luxury Vacation Resort Near Cle Elum, Washington.](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/adventure-with-your-dog-near-seattle-pet-friendly-suncadia-vacation-rentals/) - While, normally, our overnight adventures include camping, glamping, or other forms of roughing it, we enjoy a bit of luxury now and then too. A few weeks back was one of those times. We had the privilege of being guests at the pet friendly Suncadia Resort, which is one of the nicest pet friendly hotels - [10 Dog Friendly Beaches in Lake Tahoe](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/10-dog-friendly-beaches-in-lake-tahoe/) - If you're vacationing with your dog in the area, you're probably looking for Lake Tahoe dog friendly beaches. Well, you're in luck! I combed the internet for weeks and came up with this list. Remember to respect other beach visitors and help keep the pristine waters of Lake Tahoe beautiful by always following posted rules - [Don't Make These Hiking Mistakes](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/dont-make-these-hiking-mistakes/) - About 5 years ago, when I was first dating my now husband, I took him and Chester to one of my favorite overnight backpacking spots. We hiked to Marmot Pass on the Upper Big Quilcene trail to camp. Dog's aren't allowed in the Olympic National Park but this trail leads to a 5,000 pass on - [Bribing Your Dachshund With Orijen Freeze Dried Treats](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/when-you-reeaally-want-your-dachshund-to-do-something/) - Gretel have not had any formal training. They have learned a few things that were easy to pick up in a day or two or out of habit. For example, they have learned to wake me up at 5 am (ok, sometimes 4) seven days a week, without fail, to eat. Chester has learned that - [5 Reasons You Need a Covered Portable Dog Playpen in Your Life](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/5-reasons-you-need-a-covered-portable-dog-playpen-in-your-life/) - I can't even remember a time before I had a playpen for my dogs. I mean, there was a time but apparently it was so unnoteworthy or stressful that I blocked it out. So why do I think that a dog playpen is a must for every dog owner? I'll get to that later. But - [What Does Hiking Mean? How Is It Different Than Walking?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/do-you-know-the-definition-of-hiking/) - When someone says they're going for a hike, what exactly do they mean? How is hiking different than walking? - [15 Small Athletic Dogs Breeds That Make Great Hiking Buddies](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/15-small-dogs-breeds-best-for-hiking-camping/) - Once upon a time I was a cat person. Then, in college, I watched my Geology field trip friends pal around with their dogs. I decided I wanted a canine best friend. Bad. I researched A LOT of dog breeds to determine which was the right one for me. Small athletic dogs weren't even on - [Hiking with Dogs Etiquette - How to Set a Good Example](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/dont-be-that-guy-good-etiquette-when-hiking-with-your-dog/) - UPDATED: January 1, 2021 Search the internet and you will find that dogs on hiking trails is a topic that is hotly contested. There are very passionate voices on either side. Most of this controversy boils down to complaints about dogs and dog owners - both from doglegs hikers that don't want to be bothered - [Dog Friendly Backpacking Near Seattle - PCT to Chikamin Peak](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/dog-friendly-backpacking-seattle-pct-chikamin-peak/) - I waffled back and forth on where Gretel and I were going to do our 4-day backpacking trip because the fall mountain forecast was changing daily. I decided at the last-minute to go with Plan A - one of the best dog friendly hikes near Seattle - with one modification. We were going to do an - [Look Ma, We're Running](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/look-ma-were-running/) - I wasn't a runner. Then life forced me to be. Then I liked it. Then I couldn't. Now I might be a runner again. I wasn't much into sports. I grew up training to become a ballerina and, after I stopped, I wasn't into taking on any kind of sport in high school. One day I - [Top 3 Things to Do with Your Dog in Death Valley National Park](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/top-3-things-to-do-with-your-dog-in-death-valley-national-park/) - Death Valley National Park is a very unique place to travel with your dog. It's a gorgeous, rustic land of extremes. I've taken many vacations to Death Valley National park with my Dachshunds so I thought I would share my favorite things to do. Whether you're already planning to vacation in Death Valley with your - [5 Reasons Your Dachshund Will love Hiking](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/reasons-your-dachshund-will-love-hiking/) - Believe it or not, most Dachshunds love hiking. That is my experience anyway. I founded a Dachshund club in 2010 to help people get active with theirs and many times a Dachshund has come to our hikes that has never done it before. The owners are shocked how their Doxie takes to hiking right away - [The Ashore Hotel - Best Pet Friendly Hotel on the Oregon Coast](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/ashore-hotel-best-pet-friendly-hotel-on-the-oregon-coast/) - If you’re looking for a pet friendly hotel on the Oregon coast, definitely put the Ashore Hotel in Seaside on your list! The Ashore Hotel is one of the only hotels on the Oregon Coast that truely is PET friendly, not just dog friendly. Disclosure: I've paid to stay at the Ashore Hotel myself. However, - [Weiners, Bavarian Bratwurst and Snowshoeing in Leavenworth](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/bavarian-bratwurst-and-weiners-in-leavenworth-wa/) - The Bavarian town of Leavenworth, WA is a fun, dog-friendly, town. We like to spend some time relaxing in town after hiking or snowshoeing one of the several great trails in the area. The streets are always crowded with tourists and at least a quarter of them bring their dogs. Since we usually get into town - [Seattle Off-leash Dog Park Review: Golden Gardens](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/off-leash-dog-park-review-golden-gardens/) - When we visited Golden Gardens off-leash area, part of the park was closed off because it was so swampy. Still, this fully fenced park has plenty of space for the dogs to run around. Even though the closed end was all mud, the surface in main area the ground was moist, soft dirt with only - [Dog Friendly Backcountry Hut Adventure: Scottish Lakes High Camp](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/dog-friendly-backcountry-hut-adventure-scottish-lakes-high-camp/) - I am always on the search for dog-friendly adventure destinations in Washington State. Doggy Daddy and I hardly go anywhere without Chester and Gretel because, well, they are part of the family and an adventure isn't the same without them. A few months ago I found a wonderful gem - Scottish Lakes High Camp. The - [Visiting Port Townsend with Your Dog](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/visiting-port-townsend-with-your-dog/) - UPDATED: March, 9 2021 I spent last weekend in Port Townsend, WA with my dogs and we had a lot of fun. Port Townsend is a cute little Victorian port town and a great place to visit with your dog. A Brief History Lesson There was early speculation that Port Townsend would be the largest - [The Best Washington Ghost Towns to Visit With Your Dog](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/the-best-5-dog-friendly-ghost-towns-near-seattle/) - I’ve recently taken on a new-found interest in visiting Washington’s dog friendly Ghost Towns. The abandoned buildings found in ghost towns tell the story of a different time and a different way of life, and I find myself drawn to exploring these neglected, and often times eerie, historical sites. Ghost towns allow you to take - [Fort Stevens State Park: A Dog Friendly Yurt Adventure](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/fort-stevens-state-park-dog-friendly-glamping-yurt/) - I've been wanting to stay in a yurt with Chester and Gretel for a while. So when the Astoria Warrenton Chamber of Commerce contacted me and asked if we wanted to stay in one of the dog friendly yurts at Fort Steven's State Park, I jumped at the chance! Fort Stevens was once the primary military - [Visit Beautiful Fort Worden State Park With Your Dog](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/visit-beautiful-fort-worden-state-park-with-your-dog/) - Fort Worden State Park is one of my favorite places to take my dogs when visiting Port Townsend, Washington. With a rich history, over 430 acres of land crisscrossed by miles of trails, and over 2 miles of saltwater shoreline, it's a great place to play and relax with your dog. Note: You will need - [9 Tips for Visiting the Painted Hills With Your Dog](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/tips-for-visiting-painted-hills-with-your-dog/) - Painted Hills is part of the the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument and dogs are allowed. There are 3 land units that make up the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument and the Painted Hills Unit is one of them (Clarno and Sheep Rock are the others). It's the most notable of the 3 - [Enjoying a Dog Friendly Vacation at the Adrift Hotel in Long Beach, WA](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/enjoying-a-dog-friendly-vacation-at-the-adrift-hotel-in-long-beach-wa/) - I think the Adrift Hotel in Long Beach, Washington is one of the coolest dog friendly hotels in Washington state. Disclosure: I've paid to stay at other Adrift Hospitality properties myself. However, in this case, I was provided a free stay in exchange for telling you about the Adrift. Whether you want take your dog - [Tips for Organizing a Dog-friendly Group Car Camping Trip](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/first-adventureweiner-camping-trip-deception-pass/) - For those of you who don't know, I organize the biggest Dachshund activity club in Seattle - the Adventurewiener Club. Our activities include hiking, dog park play dates, local pet events and the like. Now we can add "camping" to our list. I organized a camping trip to Deception Pass State Park, located a couple - [8 Expert Tips for Camping With a Small Dog](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/expert-tips-for-camping-with-a-small-dog/) - Camping with your small dog is a fun way to bond with them while enjoying everything the great outdoors have to offer. I’ve been camping with my miniature Dachshunds for over 18 years and it’s one of my favorite things to do with them. They love the sighs and smells of the outdoors and seeing - [The Best Dog Carrier Sling Bag for Carrying Your Small Dog](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/the-best-sling-bag-for-carrying-your-small-dog/) - I prefer that Chester and Gretel walk everywhere. I mean, I take them with me so they get exercise. Sometimes we go to a place where it is too dangerous or stressful for them to be on the ground though. In those cases, I prefer to have something I can carry them in. I've tried - [How to Keep Your Performance Waterproof Dog Jacket Working Like New](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/how-to-keep-your-waterproof-dog-jacket-working-like-new/) - If you are like me, you want only the best, highest quality waterproof dog jackets for your dog. My dogs are very active so, while they need something waterproof, they also need it to be waterproof to dissipate body heat. If body heat isn't vented from the waterproof jacket, moisture can build up inside causing - [Kurgo Adventure Gear: Loft Hammock Car Seat Cover](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/kurgo-dog-adventure-gear-giveaway/) - I worked at a large outdoor retailer for years and have always been a gear junkie. I know a quality made product when I see it. I can also tell if something is just made to look like "outdoor adventure gear" for dogs or if it's actually going to work and hold up to repeated - [17 of Your Questions About Hiking with Small Dogs Answered](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/questions-about-hiking-with-small-dogs-answered/) - People generally don't expect to see small dogs hiking so I find they have a lot of questions. I don't mind answering. I've been hiking with my Dachshunds for 15 years and I'm passionate about opening people's minds to the idea of small dogs as hiking companions. I compiled a list of common questions I've - [Dog Friendly Road Trip: Is Your Dog Safe Riding in the Car?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/dog-friendly-road-trip-dog-safety-riding-car/) - I take Chester and Gretel with me in the car a lot. In 10 days Gretel and I are driving from Seattle to Salt Lake City for the Outdoor Retailer Show. What if I got in a car accident? The dog's safety is always on my mind when we take long road trips but, really, - [5 Mistakes That Can Get You Kicked Out of a Dog Friendly Restaurant](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/etiquette-mistakes-get-you-kicked-out-dog-friendly-restaurant/) - We are lucky to have a lot of dog-friendly restaurants in Seattle. Not only are there restaurants where you can sit on the patio outside with your dog, but there are a few that allow you to actually eat inside with your dog! I love taking Gretel with me to a local pub or cafe - [15 Tips for a Successful Group Hike with Dogs](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/tips-for-a-successful-group-hike-with-dogs/) - I've watched as, over the last few years, hiking with groups of friends and their dogs has become more popular. Whether you call them group hikes or pack walks, going with other friends and their dogs can be fun. However, there are some things that can be not so fun if the group doesn't think - [Teckelklub Fuzzie Fleece Jacket Review](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/teckelklub-fuzzie-fleece-jacket-review/) - The Fuzzie fleece jacket from Teckelklub is our year-round, go-to Dachshund jacket. We've had many of them over the years, not because they wear out but because they get worn (and washed) so often. I also like having them in multiple colors. The Fuzzie definitely makes the list of our all-time favorite Dachshund jackets. 5 - [We're Hipsters Now](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/were-hipsters-now/) - Last year I bought new ID tags for the dogs. Unfortunately, I had a brain fart and somehow combined my work phone number and S’s for the second contact. Since one number on the tag was correct I was lazy in getting them corrected or replaced. I had been eyeing the BlanketID tags as a - [How to Enjoy National Parks With Your Dog](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/how-to-visit-national-parks-with-your-dog/) - Planning to visit a National Park and bring your dog along? Do you know that there are a lot of rules about what you can and can't do with your dog in National Parks? While your dog is allowed to visit the park with you, they aren't allowed to hike or visit most of the - [10 Surprising Benefits of Traveling with Your Dog](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/10-surprising-benefits-of-traveling-with-your-dog/) - There are a lot of benefits of traveling with your dog. Some are obvious and some are not so obvious. The more obvious benefits, which most articles about traveling with your dog mention, include: Your dog gets to experience sights and sounds that are different than around home You don't have to miss them You - [Protect Your Car from Muddy Paws](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/protect-your-car-from-muddy-paws/) - You would be really surprised how dirty a 10 lb Doxie can get. After 12 years of hiking and walking in the rain with a Doxie, I am still surprised. I swear it's their paddle feet that flip mud and dirt on their bellies when they walk. I didn't care so much about my old - [6 “Unknown” Dog Friendly Trails Near Seattle](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/6-“unknown”-dog-friendly-trails-near-seattle/) - Summer is finally here in Seattle. It’s time to start setting your sights on goals for the season. For instance….getting out to hike with your dog more. If you are a Seattle local, or did a little online research of the area, you probably know some of the area’s most famous hiking trails: Mount Si, Little - [Pawstruck Natural Chews: The Stuff Doggy Dreams Are Made Of](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/pawstruck-natural-chews-the-stuff-doggy-dreams-are-made-of/) - Chester and Gretel love it when the mailman delivers a package. They especially love it when it is something they can eat. We recently got a huge shipment of natural chews from Pawstruck.com and the smell of the box drove them nuts. They almost opened it for me. What did they get? They got lamb - [Seattle to Bend Road Trip - Camping at Smith Rock State Park](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/seattle-to-bend-road-trip-camping-at-smith-rock-state-park/) - Earlier this month we took a road trip to dog-friendly Bend, Oregon for our 1-year Anniversary. For once we were packed and all ready to go 3 or 4 days before our scheduled bug-out day. If you ever think that time goes too fast, try packing for a trip you are super excited about a - [Our Favorite Snowshoe Adventures](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/our-favorite-snowshoe-adventures/) - We are excited to launch of Snowshoeing with Your Small Dog 101 Series tomorrow. We have been snowshoeing with Chester and Gretel for almost 10 years. We want to share everything we know with so you can get out and have your own fun. We have only been blogging for just over a year so - [Dachshunds on Parade](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/dachshunds-on-parade/) - This last weekend I went to Dachshunds on Parade, a big Doxie event in Ellensburg, WA, for the first time. My friend had told me about it years ago when Chester was a pup and told me I should go but I never managed to make it. I decided this year was the year because several - [Weiner Dogs Don't Need Snowshoes](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/weiner-dogs-dont-need-snowshoes/) - Chester accompanied me on a solo (lone human), overnight snowshoe trip up to Skyline Divide near Mount Baker. Once at the top we wandered around on snow fields for a few hours waiting to photograph Mount Baker at sunset. The trail was not well-marked or easy to see in the snow. We didn't see another human or doggie the - [Little Dogs Hiking With the Big Dogs](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/hiking-with-the-big-dogs/) - So, my best laid plans to get a bunch of weiner dogs together to hike didn’t work out. Maybe it’s the weather this time of year or maybe they can’t keep up on the type of hikes we prefer. As the "hikes” I planned for the Seattle Dachshund Meetup group got shorter and flatter, we decided to - [Special Mission Accomplished - Peek Inside the North Face of Dog Gear](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/peek-inside-the-north-face-of-dog-gear/) - So there I was, fawning all over like a giddy teenager in front of her crush. A couple of weeks ago I was at Superzoo - a huge pet product trade show - and visited the Ruffwear Performance Dog Gear booth. I had a special mission. My hubby and I were going to Bend, OR - [This is Where We Drop Off the Face of the Earth](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/this-is-where-we-drop-off-the-face-of-the-earth/) - Some of our blogger friends may have noticed that we haven't been commenting on their blogs much in the last week. I have been SUPER busy in other areas of my life. I have been working frantically all summer to get my Grandparent's house on the market. I spent all summer cleaning the place out - [What We're About](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/hello-world/) - Weiner dogs get no glory. They are lumped into the "cute but you can't do a lot with them" category with other small dogs. Part of this notion is due to their propensity for back injury. Most of what I have read says that a dachshunds tendency to develop back problems in mostly influenced by genetics. - [Meet Chester](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/meet-chester/) - Chester can out hike his humans for at least 4 miles. His biggest hiking adventure covered 15 miles and a mountain pass in one, 7-hour day. When Chester is not out hiking you will find him going for runs around Greenlake, socializing at the dog park, going for car trips, lounging on the couch or otherwise ## Pages - [Glad You Found Us!](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/) - Welcome! Hi! I'm Jessica, the dachshund life coach You can find a lot of information about Dachshunds online, but most of it is fragmented, contradictory, or not written with your specific dog in mind. I help owners connect the dots between health, behavior, enrichment, and daily life, so advice actually makes sense and works in - [Dachshund Behavior Training](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/dachshund-behavior-training/) - Dachshund Training & Behavior Consults (available Anywhere in the US) Helping align your dog's behavior with your expectations to create a more enjoyable life together! Imagine Having the Fun Dachshund Buddy You Imagined When you decided to get a dog, you probably.... ... imagined casually walking through a crowd with your Dachshund buddy by your - [Dachshund Blog Expert Interviews](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/dachshund-blog-expert-interviews/) - Since 2011, I've had the privledge of being featured on TV, radio, podcasts, in print and online magazines, and in books many times over the years. I’ve been quoted as an expert on the topic of hiking and camping with small dogs, the Dachshund breed, and turning a blog into a small business, and the - [Dachshund Enrichment Plans](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/dachshund-enrichment-plans/) - Custom Dachshund Enrichment Plans (available Anywhere in the US) Because Enrichment is More Than a Toy - It’s a Life Lived Well! You probably think you give your Dachshund the best life possible, and you're not wrong. But even a well-loved dog can still be under-fulfilled. It's not because you aren’t trying, but because modern - [Dachshund's Best Life Podcast](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/dachshunds-best-life-pod/) - Now You Can Listen on the Go More and more people want to listen to content and get to actually know the person behind it. I created the Dachshund's Best Life (DBL) podcast so I can share information and stories about my life with my Dachshund's Otter and Summit in a way that feels like - [Work With Us](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/work-with-us/) - If you already know you want to work with us, please fill out THIS APPLICATION. If you want to know more, please see below sand/or email Jessica at Jessica@pettalkmedia.com for a current media kit. Who We Are You Did What With Your Wiener? (YDWWYW) is an award-winning outdoor adventure and travel lifestyle blog that focuses - [Shop Our Favorites](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/shop-our-favorites/) - Products We Love Trail and life tested stuff that we use regularly Disclosure: Many of the links on this pate are affiliate links (Amazon Associate or other programs we participate in). As an affiliate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases. My Favorite Amazon Products Curated Just for You Jackets and Sweaters Hurtta Extreme Warmer Voyagers - [Dachshund Life Coach](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/dachshund-life-coach/) - Dachshund Health & Lifestyle Support If You're Looking for Behavior Consult, Please Click Here You’re Over-Researched, Overwhelmed, and Still Unsure What to Do When More Information Isn’t the Answer Anymore If you’re here, chances are you’ve already spent hours researching your Dachshund’s health, behavior, or lifestyle. You’ve read articles, scrolled forums, asked questions in social - [Adventurewiener Club -Washington State Chapter](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/adventurewiener-club-washington/) - Adventurewiener Club of Washington members play together and learn together. Whether it be via talking with other Dachshund owners, or directly through instruction-focused events, most people learn something new by coming to our events. Our guarunteed monthly events are the Greenlake Walk and a meetup in the Lacey/Olympia/Tacoma area. The Greenlake event draws up to - [Camp Adventurewiener Dachshund Boarding](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/camp-adventurewiener-dachshund-boarding/) - Welcome to Adventurewiener Camp! Dachshund Boarding, Training, & "Camp" in the Mountains of Central Washington How your pup's stay here is different here: Customized care based on the total welfare model - considering each dog's physical and mental health, plus more. Careful management of dog interactions to ensure a positive experience Daily enrichment activities, including - [Intervertebral Disk Disease (IVDD) Guide and Resources](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/inervertebral-disk-disease-ivdd-resources/) - Intervertebral Disk Disease (IVDD) Guide and Resources In 2016, my miniature Dachshund Gretel diagnosed with a Grade II disk rupture due to IVDD, a genetic disease that affects approximately 1 in 4 Dachshunds. Since then, I have met - both online and in person - and cared for Dachshunds with back issues caused by the - [About Us](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/about-us/) - Welcome to the go-to resource for Dachshund owners who want to help their Dachshund live a happier, healthier, and more fulfilled life! Photo credit: Tails n Trails Pet Photography (Seattle) Hi! I'm Jessica I’m the creator of YouDidWhatWithYourWiener.com, the first dedicated blog for Dachshund parents on the internet. Since 2010, I’ve been helping Dachshund lovers - [Welcome to Our Blog!](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/about-page-dog-hiking-adventure-life/) - Is Your Dachshund Living Their Best Life? My goal is to help your Dachshund be the happiest and healthiest they can be. What does that mean? It means that you are here to: Learn how to improve your Dachshund's health through a better diet, properly caring for their backs, appropriate exercise, and more! Find out - [Dachshund Training Courses and Consults](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/dachshund-training-courses-consults/) - Virtual Training & Behavior Consult Understand your Dachshund better, strengthen your relationship, and improve behavior Understanding Reactive Doxies & How to Help Them Addressing the root of the cause for more enjoyable outings & a better relationship - [Home](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/create-home/) - helping you make your dachshund healthier & happier How Can I Help You? I want to read Popular Posts I want to book a Behavior Consult I want to book Doxie Sitting I want to join the Doxie Club Get Valuable Tips & Advice Straight to Your Inbox Recent Posts "Your blog is where I - [Contact](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/contact/) - We love to hear from you - our fans and readers! We like hearing about your stories, hearing how YDWWYW has inspired you, and helping you make the most of your life with your pup by answering your burning questions. There are several ways you can get in touch with with me, Jessica, the human - [Adventurewiener Dachshund Camp](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/adventurewiener-dachshund-camp/) - Send Your Dachshund on a Camping Adventure! Whether it's an add-on to a current dog boarding stay, or you want to send your Dachshund to "summer camp" for a week while you are working long hours, I can take your dog camping and walking in the woods. Note: this service is generally available only mid-spring - [Adventurewiener Dachshund Club](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/adventurewiener-club/) - Please select an option below to be directed to where you can join the club. I LIVE IN WASHINGTON STATE I LIVE OUTSIDE OF WASHINGTON STATE History - How It All Started I've (your club President Jessica) been studying the Dachshund breed for over 15 years and have been hiking (most of the time with - [Dachshund-Specific Information and Articles](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/dachshund-specific-information-and-articles/) - My two biggest passions are hiking and camping with my Dachshunds and learning about the breed. There was so much I wish I knew when I inherited my first Dachshund. Since that fateful day in 2005, I've devoted thousands of hours learning and I share that with you so you don't have to. If you - [Whoopsie! 404 Error!](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/whoops-error/) - I Apologize for the Inconvenience It appears the link you clicked no longer exists or is broken. Please Don't Leave! I promise you are in the perfect place if you are looking for: Tips and advice that will help you improve your Dachshund's health Advice about hiking and camping with your small dogs Suggestions about - [Privacy Policy](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/privacy-policy/) - YouDidWhatWithYourWiener.com (alternately spelled weiner on occasion) (“Website”) is governed by the following privacy policy (“Privacy Policy”). We respect your privacy and are committed to protecting it. The purpose of this Privacy Policy is to inform you what personally identifiable information we may collect and how it may be used. This statement only applies to this - [Legal Stuff](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/legal-stuff/) - I Am Not Your Veterinarian I’m a passionate pet parent that shares what I know about Dachshunds and adventuring with small dogs. Some of what I share is researched facts; some of it is stuff I’ve learned through living with pets my whole life; and some of it is just good ol’ opinion. While authors - [Adventurewiener Club of America](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/adventurewiener-club-america/) - Although events have historically been held only in Washington State, the club has slowly started rolling out events in other areas of the US. For example, in 2018 and 2019 we held several events in Portland, Oregon. In 2022, we took the club on the road to hold Dachshund meetups along the west coast in - [Content Marketing Services](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/content-marketing-services/) - Content Strategy & Social Media Consulting Jessica's unique education and experience with digital communications in the pet industry, and work in the environmental and outdoor industries, positions her as the perfect consultant to work with: Pet-centric brandsAn outdoor brand that wants to expand into the pet-owner marketplace Jessica can help your company and team by: Making - [Blog Coaching](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/blog-mentorship/) - A personalized one-on-one program where you'll learn how to build a successful and profitable pet blog There I was. Driving toward the trailhead in a caravan of cars filled with people and dogs I’d met through my blog and Instagram. As I rounded the bend, and the picturesque Mount Shuksan came into view, I started - [FAQ's About Dachshunds and Hiking with Small Dogs](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/faqs-about-dachshunds-and-hiking-with-small-dogs/) - We receive some questions over and over. To make the answers easy to find, I compiled them onto this page for you. Click the underlined text read the relevant "answer". Frequently Asked Questions About Hiking with Dachshunds and other Small Dogs 17 of Your Questions About Hiking with Small Dogs Answered If you are only - [Planning a Trip to Seattle With Your Dog?](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/plan-a-trip-visit-seattle-with-your-dog/) - Then you've come to the right place! I'm very fortunate to live in Seattle, where the mountains, sparking water, and lush green forests are plentiful. Seattle is also one of the most dog friendly cities in the country! With more dogs than children living within the City limits, and pet parents in Seattle treating their - [Media/PR Info](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/sponsor-prinfo/) - Media Opportunities Jessica, author of You Did What With Your Wiener? (YDWWYW), is available or public appearances or interviews. She is also available for interviews over the phone or via email. Jessica is available to appear at local events in the Seattle area. She also travels to national events such as Superzoo, the Global Pet - [Archives](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/archives/) ## Elements - [About the Author](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/?kadence_element=custom-author-box) - About the Author Hi, I’m Jessica. I'm a Dachshund sitter, President of the largest social Dachshund club in Washington State, a dog trainer in training, and I've been a Dachshund owner for 20 years. I have over 150,000 hours of experience with the breed. When I’m not working, you can find me hiking, camping, and ## Categories - [Northwest Trails](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/category/hiking-with-your-dog-tips-info/dog-friendly-hikes/) - Hikes in the Seattle area and beyond - [Dog Hiking Tips](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/category/hiking-with-your-dog-tips-info/) - A series of posts that offer tips of how to start hiking, and how to improve, hiking with their dog. - [Get to Know Us Better](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/category/about-us/) - Learn more about Chester and Gretel and how our blog got started - [Reviews](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/category/reviews/) - [The Dachshund Mom Life](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/category/living-with-dogs/) - General thoughts and info on living with dogs - [Pet Travel Tips](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/category/dog-friendly-travel/pet-friendly-travel-info-tips/) - [Popular Posts](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/category/popular-posts/) - The most popular blog posts for the past quarter or year - [Dog Gear](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/category/reviews/dog-gear-products-reviews/) - [Road Tripping](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/category/dog-friendly-travel/dog-friendly-road-trip/) - [Dog Friendly Recipes](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/category/living-with-dogs/dog-friendly-treat-food-recipes/) - [Dachshund Facts](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/category/dachshund-dog-breed/dachshund-facts/) - [Dachshund Health](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/category/dachshund-health/) - [Dachshund Training](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/category/dachshund-training/) - tips for training your dachshund, dealing with behavior issues, and addressing other frustrations - [Dog Camping Tips](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/category/camping-with-your-dog-tips-info/) - Tips on how to start camping with your dog and enjoy it more while keeping your dog healthy and safe. - [Dog Friendly Stays](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/category/dog-friendly-travel/dog-friendly-hotels-camping-stays/) - [Dog Friendly Destinations](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/category/dog-friendly-travel/dog-friendly-destinations/) - Places to visit, stay, and play with your dog - [Uncategorized Hidden](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/category/uncategorized-hidden/) - [Dachshunds](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/category/dachshund-dog-breed/) - Expert tips and advice about Dachshunds - [Dog Friendly Travel](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/category/dog-friendly-travel/) - [Back Issues](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/category/dachshund-health/intervertebral-disk-disease/) - [Food and Supplements](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/category/dachshund-health/dog-food-and-supplements/) - [Weight and Exercise](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/category/dachshund-health/dachshund-dog-weight-management/) - [Grooming, Fleas, and Ticks](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/category/dachshund-health/other-canine-health/dog-grooming-feet-teeth-care/) - [Other Doxie Health](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/category/dachshund-health/other-canine-health/) - [Dachshund Puppy Care](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/category/dachshund-training/dachshund-puppy-care/) - [Dog Enrichment Indoor](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/category/dog-enrichment-toys-ideas/) - Enrichment toys, ideas, and recipes for dogs - [Snowshoeing](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/category/hiking-with-your-dog-tips-info/snowshoeing-with-dogs/) - [House Soiling and Barking](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/category/dachshund-training/house-soiling-barking-issues/) - [General Training Tips](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/category/dachshund-training/general-training-tips/) - [Senior Care](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/category/dachshund-health/senior-care/) ## Tags - [Adventure Dog Tips](https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/tag/adventure-dog-tips/)