National Dachshund Day 2024: Date, Origin, and Ways to Celebrate

National Dachshund Day 2024 will be celebrated, as it is each and every year, on June 21st. Why June 21st? Because, like the lovable little weiner dogs it celebrates, June 21st is long. In fact, it is the longest day of the year! National Dachshund Day perfectly aligns with the spirited nature of these elongated canines. It’s as if the universe conspired to grant these spunky little sausages a few more moments of daylight to strut their stuff, wag their tails, and remind us that big personalities come in small packages. So, let’s celebrate our dachshund pals and bask in the extra daylight. Continue reading to learn more about National Dachshund Day 2024, its origin, and ways to celebrate.

National Dachshund Day 2024: Date

As mentioned above, National Dachshund Day will be on Friday, June 21, 2024. June 21 is the summer solstice in the Northern Hemisphere. It is the day when the North Pole tilts closest to the sun, resulting in the longest daylight hours. It’s a day marked by the sun reaching its highest point in the sky and is often associated with various celebrations and events, including National Dachshund Day! Longest dog; longest day! However, World Dachshund Day is celebrated on June 22. This is a total rip-off to dachshunds in the Southern Hemisphere, where June 22 is the shortest day of the year!

National Dachshund Day: Origin

Though there is not a lot of information regarding the origins of National Dachshund Day, the tradition likely dates back to the 1970s. The 70s saw a resurgence in popularity of the breed. Dachshund racing is said to have originated in Australia in the early 1970s but has since become a global phenomenon. It is also an integral event at many Dachshund Day celebrations. While dachshund races are amusing, the Dachshund Club of America does not sanction dachshund racing. This is due to the likelihood of injury to the pups. Dachshunds have a genetic predisposition to back injuries.

Why Celebrate?

Dachshunds have distinctive, comical, (sometimes stubborn), but all-around lovable personalities. Dachshunds were originally bred as hunting dogs, and they have retained a fearless and determined nature. The German word dachshund means badger dog in English. Dachshunds originate in Germany, where they hunted badgers and other burrowing animals, due to their long, low bodies. Their short stature allowed them to enter burrows and tunnels.

Dachshunds are naturally curious and inquisitive. They enjoy exploring their surroundings and investigating new scents and sights. Dachshunds tend to be playful and enjoy interactive games and toys. They can be quite energetic and require regular exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy. Dachshunds are loyal and develop strong bonds with their owners. They often become attached to their families. Dachshunds are affectionate and enjoy cuddling with their owners. They often seek attention and love being a part of family activities.

Ways to Celebrate

Celebrating National Dachshund Day can be a fun and heartwarming way to show your appreciation for these charming dogs. Some fun activities to share with your little schnitzel might include:

• Organizing or attending a dachshund meet-up at a dog park. It’s a great opportunity for dachshunds to socialize and for their owners to connect.
• If you live in an area with a strong dachshund community, consider participating in or watching a dachshund parade.
• Host or attend a dachshund costume contest with prizes for the most creative and adorable outfits.
• In honor of the day, consider donating to a dachshund rescue organization.
• Bake or buy special treats for your furry friends. You could even prepare a Dachshund-themed picnic.
• Get creative with Dachshund-themed crafts like making Dachshund-shaped cookies or painting portraits of your Dachshund!
• Take the day to educate others about the breed, sharing fun facts about dachshunds.
• Share heartwarming stories and photos of your dachshund on social media using the hashtag #DachshundDay to connect with other dachshund owners.

Remember, the most important thing is to spend quality time with your dachshund, showing them love and appreciation on this special day dedicated to these unique and lovable dogs.

Five Frank Facts

• The AKC officially registered the first Dachshund with the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1885. Dachshunds were among the first breeds that the AKC recognized.
• Waldi, the first official Olympic mascot was a dachshund! Waldi was a symbol for the 1972 Olympic Games in Munich.
• A museum in Passau, Germany is dedicated to the dachshund. The Dackel Museum has over 4,500 dachshund-themed pieces of memorabilia.
• Beyond National Dachshund Day, these entertaining pups are celebrated far and wide at events like Los Alamitos’ Wienerschnitzel Wiener Nationals, a dachshund race held annually in July. Nashville, Tennessee hosts a similar event, Dachtoberfest, which features games and races.
• Dachshunds are long-lived dogs. They often live for 20 years or more.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Tymoshenko Olga/Shutterstock.com

Secure a Lifetime of Wagging Tails: Get Pet Insurance!

Did you know some emergency surgeries for dogs can run upwards of $5,000? Don't put your dog or your wallet at risk! Click the button below to get a free and instant quote on a comprehensive plan for your pup.

Yes, I want a free quote!

A-Z Animals may earn a small commission from using this service.