It's true. There are some dachshunds out there who really don't chew, rip, tear, or dig. And they're not on anti-anxiety medication, either. If you're very lucky, you might find that your new dachshund is one of these one-in-a-million dogs and that most of your dachsie-proofing will have been for naught. More likely, however, your wiener dog will be on a lifelong search-and-destroy mission. Lots of exercise, mental stimulation, and human companionship help lessen the bent for destruction, but some dachshunds will never be trust worthy around chewables unless in their crates.

It probably goes without mentioning, but a dachshund on a “mission” in an undachsie-proofed home and yard can cost you hundreds if not thousands of dollars that were never earmarked for your original “dog fund.”

On a more serious note, you may also find your beloved canine dead if you've left something lethal within his reach. So make sure your home is dachshund-friendly before you bring your new dog home. Your dachshund will be much safer, and you will be able to maintain your sanity, as well as a significant portion of your savings.