7 Shocking Reasons Why Dachshunds Hate the Rain
If you’ve ever tried taking Dachshunds out in the rain, you’ve probably seen them freeze, sulk, or outright refuse to walk. Their strong disdain for wet weather isn’t just dramatic—it’s part of what makes this quirky breed so unique. While many dogs might not enjoy the rain, Dachshunds seem to balk at every drop.
From getting their paws toweled off afterward to losing that cozy spot by the hearth, it’s not hard to see why they’d rather stay warm inside. It may feel like a hassle, but once you start thinking from your pet’s perspective, the experience becomes easier to handle. There are real reasons behind this hating, and with the right advice, dealing with it can be far less stressful for everyone involved.
7 Shocking Reasons Why Dachshunds Hate the Rain – Short Answer
Dachshunds are known for hating the rain because it makes their short legs and long bodies uncomfortable during a walk. They dislike getting their paws toweled off afterward and would much rather stay warm by the hearth.
Top Reasons Dachshunds Hate the Rain
1. Their Low Body Structure Soaks Easily
The Doxie’s small stature can have an unexpected effect when encountering rain. Their belly sits so close to the ground that it’s not just their feet getting wet—it’s their entire underside feeling cold, especially for a short-haired dog. This unpleasant experience can easily foster a negative association, causing your pooch to refuse to go outside, which can be problematic during housebreaking.
Even tiny puddles might feel like deep pools to Dachshunds. The water may not look like much to other dogs, but if it touches their body, it becomes a bigger matter altogether. Their reaction is completely understandable when you see it from their level.
2. Thin Coat & Skin Sensitivity
Dachshunds have thin coats compared to many other breeds, offering far less protection from the cold and wet conditions that come with rain. The discomfort of soaked fur can feel especially pronounced, often creating an intense aversion to stepping outside when it’s raining.
3. Discomfort from Cold and Wet Conditions
It may sound weird, but Dachshunds often hate the rain due to their natural tendency to lose body heat quickly. Like humans, they can catch a cold, and signs like shaking or strange behavior should be taken seriously. If that happens, it’s best to pick them up and head back home immediately to keep them safe and warm.
You can also check this seasonal care guide.
Sensory discomfort is another big factor. The sensation of wet ground under their paws, the smell of damp earth, and the general wetness are all deeply unpleasant. With their sensitive noses and paws, Dachshunds—like many dogs—are more acutely aware of these changes, making rainy days even harder for them to tolerate.
4. Slippery Surfaces Trigger Safety Instincts
Slippery pavements are one clear reason both you and your Doxie might dislike the rain. A major concern with this breed is its propensity for intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), with an estimated 25% affected by the condition.
Their unique body shape also makes back injuries more likely. Slick surfaces during rainy weather become a serious risk factor, making these situations even more problematic for them.
Sometimes, it’s not the rain itself but the effects that bother your Dachshund. The added uncertainty and unpredictable footing can be stressful. It may not be the precipitation your dog hates, but what it causes—and that’s a valid concern for both you and your pup.
5. Disturbance in Scent and Routine
Rain doesn’t just bring wet paws and cold bellies—it also washes away the outdoor scents that scent-driven breeds like Dachshunds rely on to understand their surroundings.
For a dog that uses its nose to navigate the world, this sudden loss of familiar smells can be deeply confusing. It’s not just the water—they’re losing an entire layer of sensory information. In some cases, changes in coat condition during the year might also play a role, as explained in this coat health article.
On top of that, rain often disrupts their preferred routines. Dachshunds are creatures of habit, and when the environment changes—no walk, no sniffing path, no time outside—it throws off their whole rhythm. It’s no wonder they resist heading out the door when it rains.
6. Fear of Thunder, Lightning, and Unfamiliar Sensory Input
Many Dachshunds exhibit signs of fear and anxiety during storms and rain. The sound of water hitting the roof or windows, mixed with thunder and lightning, can be overwhelming for dogs with sensitive hearing. This often makes them reluctant to go outside in rainy weather, even for a quick potty break.
Though training and gradual desensitization may help mitigate some of these fears, the deep aversion to rain usually remains strong, especially in dogs who’ve had past negative experiences with storms.
7. Negative Early Experiences or Lack of Exposure
Dachshunds that weren’t gradually exposed to rain during puppyhood often develop strong avoidance behaviors as they grow older. When a dog isn’t introduced to certain sensations early—like the feel of raindrops or the sound of splashing—it becomes something foreign and unsettling.
This lack of familiarity builds discomfort, and instead of curiosity, they respond with fear or refusal. Without those early, gentle experiences in wet weather, your Doxie is more likely to view rain as a threat rather than a harmless part of life. Over time, this reaction can turn into a deeply ingrained habit that’s hard to reverse.
Tips to Help Your Dachshund Tolerate the Rain
1. Start Early and Be Consistent
To prevent future fear or aversion, it’s important to introduce rain exposure during the sensitive socialization window of a Dachshund’s early development. This is when puppies are most open to new experiences, and positive interactions with rain can help them grow into confident, weather-tolerant adults.
2. Use Positive Reinforcement
Begin by associating the rain with positive experiences. Every time it rains, offer your Dachshund their favorite treats or toys to help create a comforting association. When they connect rain with fun and rewards, they become more willing to go outside.
It’s even better if you play fetch with your doxie in the rain—this simple activity can make them feel more relaxed and shift their perception of wet weather.
3. Invest in a Properly-Fitting Raincoat and Booties
Use waterproof coats and booties specially tailored for Dachshunds to keep them warm and dry during rainy outings. These accessories make a big difference in comfort and can reduce your dog’s hesitation about going out in wet weather.
Great example brands to try include the CoCo Raincoat and the Dachshund Space Raincoat, both designed to fit the unique shape of your Doxie perfectly.
4. Create a Post-Walk Comfort Ritual
After a rainy outing, it’s essential to towel dry thoroughly to remove excess moisture from your Dachshund’s coat. Then, offer warm blankets or a cozy space so they can relax and warm up. Since Dachshunds are sensitive to cold and dampness, this step helps them feel secure and comforted.
For extra warmth, you can also use a low-heat blow-dryer to gently dry their fur and increase comfort post-walk. These small steps not only help your dog physically recover from the wet weather but also create a calming routine that makes future rainy-day walks less stressful.
5. Indoor Alternatives for Exercise
On those rainy days when going outside isn’t ideal, use puzzle toys, a game of fetch, or short training sessions to mentally stimulate your dog. Dachshunds are intelligent and energetic, and keeping their minds engaged indoors helps them burn off steam and reduce frustration caused by being stuck inside.
6. Seek Help from a Trainer if Needed
If your Doxie continues to refuse rain walks even after consistent training, don’t get discouraged—it’s a common struggle for this sensitive breed. In such cases, it’s wise to consult a professional who specializes in canine behavior. They can assess your dog’s specific triggers and create behavior-specific strategies tailored to your pet’s emotional and physical needs.
A trainer or behaviorist can guide you through gradual exposure techniques, confidence-building exercises, and calming methods that go beyond basic obedience. With expert help, even the most stubborn Dachshund can learn to manage their rainy-day fears over time.
Health & Safety Tips for Rainy Weather
Monitor for Signs of Illness
Cold and wet exposure can have serious health effects on Dachshunds, including hypothermia, skin infections, or even worsening arthritis in older dogs.
It’s important to watch for signs like trembling, stiffness, or any unusual behavior, as these may indicate discomfort or a developing issue. Protecting them from prolonged dampness helps reduce these risks and ensures your dog stays healthy.
Protect Against IVDD and Slips
To keep your Dachshund safe and confident during rainy walks, it’s essential to avoid slippery routes that could pose a hazard. Their long backs and short legs make them more prone to injury, especially on wet pavement or uneven ground.
If the conditions seem risky or your pup is clearly uncomfortable, don’t hesitate to carry your dog when needed—especially for short stretches or dangerous areas.
Doing so helps prevent injury and also reassures your dog that rain doesn’t always mean discomfort or danger. Over time, this builds trust and makes them more open to stepping out, even when the skies are grey.
Final Thoughts
Dachshunds have good reasons to dislike the rain—it’s cold on their feet and bellies, especially around deep puddles, which can feel scary when the water is relatively high. Still, you can teach your dog to let the rain roll off their backs by being aware of your surroundings, keeping walks safe, and using gear like raincoats and booties to keep them comfortable and wet-free.
Treats are a universal master key for unlocking reluctance during bad weather. Go slowly, focus on easing your dog into accepting the situation, and create a positive experience. Lots of praise can help break their resistance. Some Doxies even learn to enjoy relaxing in warm outdoor spots, as mentioned in this fun behavior piece.
FAQ’s
Why do Dachshunds hate being wet?
Coat and skin sensitivity make rainy days especially uncomfortable for Dachshunds. The discomfort of wet fur can feel quite pronounced, causing a strong aversion to stepping outside. This reaction is often more physical than behavioral.
Why don’t Dachshunds like water?
Even if you manage to convince your dog to step into water, their body structure works against them. Dachshunds aren’t natural swimmers, and anything more than a few strokes can be tiring or uncomfortable. This adds to their hesitation when facing wet conditions like rain.
Which dog breeds don’t like rain?
Dog breeds that often dislike rain include Dachshunds, Chihuahuas, and Greyhounds due to their thin coats and sensitivity to cold or wet conditions. Breeds with low body fat or short legs may especially struggle with puddles and staying warm. These pups may balk at going outside, seeing rainy walks as a necessary evil rather than fun.
What are Dachshunds afraid of?
Dachshunds are more likely to suffer from noise and thunderstorm fear, which makes rainy days extra stressful. Their naturally nervous and fearful nature heightens their sensitivity to sudden sounds. While not usually aggressive toward people, the tension during storms can make them act out or hide.
