When you wake up to the sound of the Mediterranean breeze blowing through the palm trees and the sun shining golden hues through your window, it’s like magic. Now, my mornings are even better (and more chaotic) because of this happy, tail-wagging greeting from Amore, our mini dachshund puppy, my little furry baby who has taken most of my socks and my heart!
As of this writing, Amore is four months and one week old, full of personality and love, growing in confidence every day, and exhibiting an insatiable curiosity. We have had her since she was nine weeks old. It has been adorable and hilarious at the same time to watch her explore the world.
For those who are unaware, miniature dachshunds are renowned for having strong personalities despite having small, sausage-like bodies. In addition to their cute appearance, this breed seemed like the perfect choice for my partner and me because of how well-suited they are to living on the Costa Blanca due to their small size. A mini dachshund will blend in perfectly with any home, whether you live in a villa with a view of the mountains in Altea or an apartment by the beach in Calpe. Your pace of life will be accommodated by their lively yet controllable nature. During siesta time, they are equally content to curl up in the shade as they are to trot along the promenades with their noses to the ground. Did I mention that they adore the sun as well? They’ll gladly spend hours tanning alongside you!
(Pictures of my little princess/terror!)
My little dachshund thrives in this place, which is centred on sunshine, clean air, and a sense of community. We now take morning walks together as a family, which includes my partner and our rescue fur baby. The Spanish people are quick to say “Que Bonita!” or ask her name as we walk down the streets, smiling at other dog owners. It seems that everyone loves mini dachshunds. Weekend afternoons are typically spent visiting pet-friendly cafes and visiting the World Dog splash pool (see A Day At The Dog Splash Park – Costa Blanca Daily for more information). We spend the majority of our training sessions at home. Because dachshunds are notoriously stubborn—I can’t say much about that—I’ve had to be patient and creative with my treats.
The gloriously sunny climate of Costa Blanca is accompanied by dog-parent duties. We take very early morning or late evening walks instead of midday ones during the warmer months. It can get too hot for her little paws, so I’ve also learnt to always check the pavement with my hand before leaving. However, I also got her a breathable bag, which she loves, and a portable bowl and water bottle, of course.
They have large appetites despite having small stomachs. Despite their small size, mini dachshunds have large appetites and, regrettably, are very likely to gain weight, which can cause major health problems, particularly with the back. We’ve made it a top priority to watch Amore’s portion sizes and concentrate on wholesome, low-calorie treats. She adores eating fresh fruit, such as seedless watermelon, strawberries, blueberries, or the occasional apple (always without core or seeds). These treats are cool, especially when served with Greek yoghurt from the freezer on a lick mat, and they also keep her happy and looking slender.
Though there are plenty of adorable Instagram moments, owning a small dachshund in the Costa Blanca is about more than that, I promise. It’s all about genuine friendship, having fun, and creating a life that combines happiness, sunshine, and a healthy dose of chaos in the greatest way imaginable. With my sausage-shaped shadow by my side all the time, life here is even sweeter than it was before.
I would also like to give a special mention to Home – Registered breeders of smooth-haired miniature Dachshunds based in the Castilla-La Mancha region of Spain. From the beginning to the time they brought our baby home, they were outstanding. They were encouraging, watchful, open, and obviously concerned about their puppies’ welfare. If you’re searching for a licensed breeder who is responsible and compassionate, I highly recommend them.
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