Big life changes can affect both people and dogs. Here are some of the most common—and solutions that may help.

Common Situations

• Growing family: new partner, marriage, divorce, baby/toddler/children, another dog/cat
• Older relatives moving in with their pets
• Toddlers with dogs (especially senior dogs, or those with hearing or vision problems like double dapples, blindness, micro eyes)
• Illness, decline, or death of a loved one
• Young adult leaving for college
• Moving: assisted living, new home/apt/townhouse, deportation, homelessness, incarceration
• Landlord challenges: shared walls, eviction, apartment restrictions

Introductions

• Dachshunds have their own “etiquette” with other dogs. Neutral ground is best (leashed walk, park, or fenced dog park).
• Keep introductions calm. Let dogs meet side-by-side, not face-to-face.
• With new people, let your dog approach first. Have visitors sit at the dog’s level with treats ready.
• Praise good behavior with calm words like “good boy” or “good being nice.”

Children & Toddlers

• Always supervise children around dachshunds. Toddlers especially can overwhelm dogs, who may react by growling, nipping, or lunging.
• Give your dog a safe space (bed, crate, or pen) that kids know is off-limits.
• Use gates to separate dog and child when you can’t supervise.
• Teach cues like “gentle,” “soft,” “leave it,” and “stop.” Kids should also respect commands you give the dog.
• Remind children: dachshunds burrow under blankets, startle easily, and don’t like surprises.

Human Illness, Decline, or Death

• Plan ahead. Make sure your executor or family knows your wishes for your dog.
• Never assume illness or passing of a human means a dog must be euthanized—rescues can help their dogs find them a safe, loving home.
• RMDR has cared for dogs whose owners went into hospice, passed away, or could no longer care for them. We welcome seniors and those with medical needs.

Moving & Landlords

• Search for pet-friendly housing before moving. Discuss pet deposits and restrictions with landlords.
• If sharing walls, help your dog adjust by arranging walks, playtime, or sitter visits. Rover and similar services can provide reliable check-ins.
• Facing eviction? Note urgent timelines on your surrender form—we’ll work with you.
• In Utah, the Salt Lake City women’s homeless shelter allows dogs.

Sometimes life changes or challenges make it impossible to meet your dog’s needs. Surrendering can feel painful—but it may be the kindest choice for both you and your dog.

Common Situations

• One-person rescue attempt (too much to manage alone)
• Misunderstood pain signals (crying, whining, behavior changes)
• Overfeeding or poor diet (human food, obesity)
• Excessive kennel time (commuting, travel for work, frequent absences)
• Major life changes: moving, new job, family changes, assisted living
• Lack of training or mismatch with needs (ESA expectations not working out)
• Too many pets to care for
• Decline in owner’s health or ability to provide care
• Considering euthanasia when other options may exist
• Difficulties after rehoming doesn’t work out
• Unexpected situations: abandonment, found stray, vet staff preventing unnecessary euthanasia

Health & Ability to Provide Care

• Illness, aging, or new responsibilities can affect your ability to care for a dog.
• Planning ahead helps: identify family, friends, or rescues who could step in if needed.
• Remember: euthanasia is not the only option. Rescues like RMDR can provide loving homes for dogs whose families can no longer care for them.

Crying & Behavior

• Crying or whining isn’t “bad behavior”—it’s communication.
• Look for underlying causes: pain, discomfort, separation anxiety, or unmet needs.
• Common hidden issue: dental disease, which may not show obvious signs until advanced.
• When in doubt, consult a vet or behaviorist before assuming it’s “just whining.”
• See the Dog’s Health section for medical concerns and financial resources.

Diet & Feeding

• Human food and overfeeding often lead to obesity and related health issues.
• Ask your vet about a balanced diet plan for your dog’s age and activity level.
• Small changes (healthy treats, controlled portions) can greatly improve your dog’s comfort and lifespan.

Time & Attention

• Long kennel hours can cause stress, anxiety, and behavioral issues.
• Options:
  • Dog walking services (like Rover)
  • Trusted neighbors/friends for playtime and potty breaks
  • Doggy daycare, if affordable and available
  • Even short walks or play sessions make a big difference

Our dachshunds are family members, and like us, they need regular medical care to stay healthy. Common challenges include:

Health Concerns

• Dental disease: bad breath, tooth loss, periodontal issues
• Serious illnesses: Diabetes, Cushing’s Disease, IVDD, UTI, injuries, cancer, tumors, other diseases
• Age-related needs: Puppies (vaccinations, parvo, spay/neuter), senior dogs (monitoring for age-related conditions)
• Allergies: Food or environmental, fur loss
• Genetics or breed-specific issues: Double Dapple, Puppy Shingles (auto-immune)
• Breeding-related concerns: Pregnant dogs, breeding dogs, wet nurses
• End-of-life care: Hospice or euthanasia

Warning Signs to Watch For

• Unexplained crying or whining
• Bad breath or bleeding gums
• Excessive thirst or urination
• Limping, loss of balance, or unusual behavior
• Persistent hunger (possible Cushing’s)
• Reactions that seem minor but persist (e.g., puppy shingles, abscesses, ear irritants)

If you notice any unusual signs, consult a vet promptly. Early intervention often prevents more serious complications.

Solutions & Financial Assistance
Medical care doesn’t have to be a roadblock. Some resources include:

• Dollar for Doxies (Emergency Fund)
• GoFundMe campaigns
• CareCredit (vet financing)
• Pet insurance (best to enroll while your dog is young)
• Vet office donation programs (some offices allow clients to donate toward costly procedures for others)
• Social media fundraisers (birthday drives, adoption stories, sharing your dog’s journey)

Hospice & End-of-Life Dog Care

• RMDR accepts dogs in hospice care. We provide loving foster families who specialize in end-of-life care.
• Surrendering is heartbreaking. Dogs don’t understand why they’re leaving home, so remaining with you is often the most comforting option.
• Please don’t give up on a dog just because they’re aging or need extra care. Disclose all medical conditions so RMDR can continue necessary care.
• RMDR is not an euthanasia service—if your circumstances have changed, we can help your dog find a loving home rather than  end their life early.

Surrender Form

Dachshunds are lovable characters: they zoom, side-eye, cuddle, and keep us laughing. But they’re also hunting dogs with strong instincts: following scents, digging, exploring small holes, and hunting prey (rabbits, woodchucks, badgers). They need mental stimulation, walks, hikes, and family time to stay happy. Even well-loved dogs can develop behaviors that challenge owners. Here’s what to watch for—and how to help:

Common Challenges

• Conflicts with dogs or humans: Nipping, biting, growling, barking, guarding
• Unknown history: Abandoned or rescued dogs with unknown pasts
• Potty training or marking problems
• Senior dog reactions: Confusion due to low vision, hearing loss, or cognitive decline
• Depression or loneliness: Loss of a bonded dog or long periods alone Separation anxiety: Velcro dogs who panic when left alone
• Crying or whining: Sometimes misinterpreted as bad behavior, may indicate pain or discomfort

Solutions

Potty Training & Marking

• Consistently remind your dachshund that “outside” is for potty.
• Use camouflage-style washable pee pads for accidents.
• Set up a potty-clean-up station: flushable tissue, paper towels, cleaning wipes. Be patient; accidents may occur during emotional stress or changes in routine.

Depression & Separation Anxiety

• Dogs grieving a lost companion may benefit from a new dog friend—but not to replace the old one.
• Reassure your dog and teach them you always return after leaving.
• Consider short, supervised separations to gradually build tolerance.
• Regular walks, playtime, and mental stimulation help reduce anxiety.

Crying & Whining

• Check for underlying medical issues first: dental disease, pain, or illness.
• Regular vet visits and home dental care can prevent discomfort.
• Understand that whining often communicates need, discomfort, or stress—not “bad behavior.”

Reactive Behavior: Nipping, Biting, Growling

• Ensure your dog has safe spaces to decompress (crate, pen, or quiet room).
• Exercise and mental stimulation reduce pent-up energy.
• Use gates or separate rooms to manage overstimulation.
• Teach household members (including kids) to respect the dog’s space.
• If behavior escalates, consult a vet or behaviorist; calming treats or medications may help.

Senior Dogs

• Older dogs may have limited vision or hearing; they may nip if startled or confused.
• Approach calmly, allow them to see or smell you first.
• Keep large crowds, loud events, and chaotic environments limited.
• Recognize and respect their boundaries—and give them space.