Activities For Dameranians
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Introduction
Dameranians are a cross-breed of Dachshunds and Pomeranians. Despite their small size, Dameranians are active little dogs who require around 30 minutes of exercise per day. They are prone to separation anxiety and shouldn’t be left alone for a long stretch of time.
When using their parent breeds as an example, Dameranians are friendly, loving dogs. The Pomeranian genes can cause your pup to be a barker and suffer from small-dog syndrome, where they often forget their size and show aggression or dominance around larger dogs.
The history of the Dachshund dates back to the 15th century when they were bred to hunt badgers. Their long bodies and short legs allowed them to enter the dens. They later became more of a companion than a working dog, thanks to English royalty taking a liking to the breed.
Pomeranians have been popular since the time of Michelangelo, Mozart and Queen Victoria, all of whom owned the little spitfires.Indoor Obstacle Course
Dameranians are fiery little pups with more energy than you’d think for having short legs. Working off that extra energy in an indoor obstacle course will be fun for your dog and provide them with the attention they crave from you. Dogs need mental stimulation as well as physical activity. Obstacle courses make your dogs use their intelligence to fulfill the commands you’ve given them.
An amateur indoor obstacle course can start with easy obstacles and work up from there. If you have a fenced-in yard, you can set up the activity outside. Setting the course up indoors prevents the weather from interrupting your pup’s exercise time. You can use household items for different obstacles. Use treats to encourage your pup through the course.
Socialize
When you own a dog, it’s your responsibility to teach your pup manners when they are around both humans and other dogs. To do that, your dog needs to be socialized from a young age so they learn appropriate behavior. Even though it’s “cute” when small dogs jump up on human’s thighs, if it’s not acceptable for large dogs, it shouldn’t be tolerated for small dogs.
The Pomeranian side of your Dameranian could make your pup aggressive and dominant towards larger dogs. If properly socialized, your dog should be fine around any other dog.
Pomeranians can also be snippy with young kids because kids don’t always know how to be gentle with small dogs. Your Dameranian can be trained to accept young kids and their unintentional carelessness.
Socializing involves supervised contact between your pup and other dogs and people. This can be done for free or with training classes. Most dogs hate rain, so if the socialization occurs outdoors, make sure the weather is nice. Thirty minutes is a good time limit per socialization activity so that Fido doesn’t get overwhelmed.
Go For a Stroll
Dameranians are easy dogs. They are active, but also prefer to be with their human family as much as possible. Taking your dog for a stroll lets you bond with your pup while they get the required exercise. You can make the walk fun for your dog by letting their nose lead the way.
If you live in a warmer climate, it’s better to walk your dog early in the morning or late at night to avoid heat stroke. Walking is cheap or free, once you’ve purchased the necessary leash and harness.
You can change up the scenery for your dog by taking walks through the neighborhood one day and then going on a short hike the next. Dogs are creatures of habit, but they can also get bored, just as humans can.
More Fun Ideas...
Game of chase
Dameranians have a history of chasing badgers and foxes into dens, meaning they love a good game of chase. To play, wrap a string around your pup’s favorite toy and drag the toy behind you as your dog chases the toy. Remember, don't ever let your dog chase you! This game can be done indoors or outdoors, so weather is not a factor. Rope toys are really useful for this activity. You can also alternate between chasing and tugging.
Digging Pit
Dogs love to dig in general, but the Dachshund parent of the Dameranian was originally bred to dig into dens and other confined areas to hunt wild animals. You can create a designated digging area in your yard to keep your dog from digging up your flowers and lawn. Outline the digging area with bricks or wood and fill the area with loose dirt. Encourage your pup to dig in the designated area by burying bones or toys.
Conclusion
Dameranians inherit a combination of traits from Dachshunds and Pomeranians. Most likely, you will have a playful little pup who loves attention and exercise. Despite their little legs, Dameranians love to go for walks and excel at indoor obstacles courses that you wouldn’t expect, such as hurdles and tunnels.
Poms and Dachshunds are known to be very social dogs who love everyone -- and the feeling is mutual! Having a well-behaved dog is an essential part of owning a Dameranian. Socializing them at a young age allows them to be trusted around children and other dogs without the pup getting snippy.
The Dachshund part of your Dameranian got their start as a digger, so Fido would love any type of digging destination. Search for new and exciting ways to keep your Dameranian entertained, and your pup will pawsitively love you for it!