5 Reasons Why Dachshunds Love Sunbathing So Much
One surprising thing we quickly learnt about the dachshund breed, especially after bringing our boy home, was just how much he has a natural propensity for sunbathing. Whether it’s a bright summer day or a chilly winter afternoon, you will most likely find your dachshund sprawled out, basking in the warmth of the sun.
It doesn’t matter how hot it is—he’ll do everything he can to make his way to his favourite spot on the patio and soak up some sun, or even rotate himself slowly through various sunny spots in the house just to maximise his time.
5 Reasons Why Dachshunds Love Sunbathing So Much – Short Answer
Dachshunds love sunbathing because they have a natural craving for warmth and comfort. Their short coats and long bodies make them sensitive to cold, so lying in the sun helps regulate their body temperature. It’s also instinctual—they simply enjoy the cozy, soothing warmth it brings.
1. Instinctual Roots of Sunbathing
Ancestry from Hunting Dogs
Dachshunds are descendants of hunting dogs, originally bred in Germany for tracking small game like badgers. Their name, “dachshund,” even translates to “badger dog” in German, a nod to their bold working history. These little canines have retained some of their ancestors’ natural instincts, and sunbathing might be one of them.
In the wild, many animals, including dogs, rely on the sun to regulate their body temperature and absorb essential vitamins. Dachshunds may simply be following their natural instincts when they seek out sunny spots, enjoying not just the warmth, but tapping into behavior passed down through generations.
Innate Thermoregulation Behavior
Like wild canines, Dachshunds instinctively seek sun to warm themselves and conserve energy. This natural behavior not only helps them feel cozy but also reduces the effort their bodies need to maintain internal heat, much like their ancestors in the wild.
2. Physical Comfort and Body Heat
Vulnerability to Cold Due to Body Shape
Dachshunds have a unique body shape with long spines and short legs, making them more susceptible to feeling the cold. We have noticed that on a cold day, our dachshund sometimes shivers and will gravitate to burying himself in the warmest location possible under many blankets if it’s not a sunny day. Their need for external warmth explains why sunshine is so irresistible to them.
We’ve also found that understanding some helpful seasonal care tips can make those colder months more comfortable for your Doxie.
Cozy, Targeted Warmth
Sunbathing allows them to absorb warmth, which is especially appealing on cooler days. The sun’s rays can penetrate their short fur and reach their skin, providing a cosy and comfortable experience.
It’s not uncommon to see dachshunds curling up into a tight ball while sunbathing, maximising their exposure to the sun and ensuring they stay warm and content. This behavior reflects just how much they crave and benefit from the sun’s warmth.
3. Health Benefits of Sunlight for Dachshunds
Natural Vitamin D Absorption
Just like humans, dogs require vitamin D for various bodily functions, including bone health. Sunlight is a natural source of vitamin D, and dachshunds may instinctively seek out the sun to supplement their dietary intake.
While commercial dog food is formulated to meet their nutritional needs, the primal instinct to absorb sunlight for essential vitamins may still linger in dachshunds too. This behavior reflects their deep-rooted connection to natural sources of wellness.
However, skin and coat conditions like certain seasonal changes can also influence how much sun your dachshund seeks out.
Serotonin Boost and Mood Elevation
Sunbathing is not only about physical comfort; it can also have positive effects on a dachshund’s mood. Exposure to sunlight triggers the release of serotonin, often referred to as the “feel-good” hormone, in both humans and dogs.
Sunbathing sessions can contribute to your dachshund’s overall well-being, helping them feel relaxed and content, offering emotional as well as physical warmth.
4. Is Sunbathing Always Safe for Dachshunds?
Risks of Overexposure
While sunbathing offers comfort and health benefits, excessive sun can cause overheating or sunburn, especially in light-colored or short-haired Dachshunds.
Their thin coats don’t offer much protection, making them more vulnerable than other breeds. Always ensure they have access to shade and fresh water, and avoid letting them lie out too long during peak sun hours. A little sun is soothing—too much can be harmful.
Ideal Sunbathing Conditions
Safe sunbathing is essential to protect your dachshund’s health while letting them enjoy the warmth they crave. Limit their exposure to 10–20 minutes in the early morning or late afternoon, when the sun’s rays are less intense.
During these sessions, make sure they always have access to shade and water to cool off as needed. This is especially important on warmer days when their small bodies can heat up quickly. Monitoring their time in the sun ensures they get all the benefits without any of the risks.
5. Tips to Support Safe Sunbathing
Provide Shaded Rest Areas
Always offer shade so your Doxie can self-regulate their exposure to the sun. Dachshunds instinctively know when they’ve had enough warmth, and giving them the freedom to move between sun and shade helps prevent overheating.
Whether they stretch out in a sunbeam or retreat under a tree, having that choice is key to keeping their sunbathing both safe and enjoyable. A shaded space nearby ensures they stay cool and comfortable while still enjoying their favorite daily ritual.
Use Dog-Safe Sunscreen for Light-Coated Dogs
Apply vet-approved sunscreen to protect sensitive skin if sunbathing longer or during intense midday sun. Dachshunds, especially those with light or thin coats, can be vulnerable to sunburn. A gentle, dog-safe sunscreen helps shield exposed areas like the nose, ears, and belly, keeping your pup safe during their extended sun sessions.
Supervise During Outdoor Sessions
Monitor your dachshund’s behavior and look out for signs of overheating (e.g. panting, restlessness). Even though sunbathing is soothing for them, staying too long in the heat can put stress on their small bodies. Paying attention to how they act helps you step in before discomfort turns into danger.
For dogs that dislike wet weather, being mindful of their reaction to rain is another way to keep them comfortable outdoors.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to dachshunds and sunbathing, ultimately it is not just a quirky behaviour—it’s a combination of instinct, warmth, health benefits, and pure canine joy. Whether they’re stretching out in a sunbeam streaming through the window or lounging in the backyard, these lovable dogs continue to capture our hearts with their adorable sun-soaked antics.
So, the next time you catch your dachshund blissfully soaking up the sun, rest assured that they’re simply indulging in one of their natural, instinct-driven pleasures—a moment of contentment rooted in their nature.
FAQ’s
Do sausage dogs like the sun?
Yes, sausage dogs (dachshunds) love the sun and often seek out warm, sunny spots to relax. Their natural instinct and sensitivity to cold make sunbathing especially comforting for them. It helps them stay warm, cozy, and content.
Why is my dog obsessed with sunbathing?
Our pet’s baseline body temperature is higher than ours, so laying in the sun helps your cat or dog regulate their temperature without expending any energy. Cats and smaller pets lose body heat faster, making them more likely to take advantage of the sun’s warm rays. Dachshunds benefit in the same way, soaking up sun to stay balanced and cozy.
Why does my dachshund love the heat?
Your dachshund loves the heat because their short coat and long body make them more sensitive to the cold. Warmth helps regulate their body temperature and keeps them comfortable. Sunbathing also taps into their natural instincts for relaxation and well-being.
Why do dachshunds want to sit on you all the time?
Mostly, it’s a dog’s way of saying they love you and want to be close to you. In some cases, it can be a way of your dog guarding you as they relax nearby in the sun. Sunbathing might not just be about warmth—it could also be their way of bonding and keeping watch over you.
