Why the ideal dog for a dedicated gardener is a dachsund

Is there such a thing as the perfect breed of a dog for a dedicated gardener? If so, then it's surely the miniature dachshund, a breed favoured by some of Ireland's best-known gardeners including Helen Dillon and June Blake, as well as the late Christopher Lloyd of Great Dixter, who went so far as to name his dogs after his favourite plants.

Why the miniature dachshund? Clever, loyal, dainty and light of foot, it’s petite enough to not crush fragile flowers/foliage underfoot with the tread of a furry paw, even in the smallest of gardens. Plus, if it happens to stray onto your plants, it’s small enough to be quickly scooped up in one hand.

Professional dog trainer Samantha Rawson of the Canine College agrees that certain breeds are a much better choice for keen gardeners, and advises would-be dog-owners to think carefully about the size and particular traits of different breeds as well as the size of your garden and your time-commitments before choosing a dog.

“For instance, if you have a terrier, you will have a digger, while a small dog is easier to manage in a small garden – bigger dogs do more damage and require more play and exercise.”

But no matter what the breed, she says that it’s always possible to teach your dog some basic garden manners. “Your most important tools are your lead and your voice, to both discourage and encourage.”

Training

To toilet-train a dog to relieve itself in a designated area of the garden, Rawson suggests escorting it there on a long lead, but stresses that with a young puppy, it should initially be allowed to relieve itself near the house “as it needs that safety and security before it will venture down the garden”.

Rawson also emphasises the fact that in order to train any dog, you have to spend time with it. “The most effective words are ‘No’ and ‘Good’. So if you correct the dog and it stops and listens, reward it with lavish praise and provide an alternative outlet for its energies; this could be something to chew, a toy to play with, or a sandpit to dig in.”

She also stresses the importance of never allowing a young dog to see you planting or digging. “Young dogs are incredibly curious and will smell your scent in the soil and dig up what you have ‘buried’”.

Even if your dog does dig up your prized plants, avoid harshly chastising them. “There is absolutely no benefit to scolding the dog after the event. This will create confusion and destroy a dog’s trust. The most effective tool is prevention.” (See thecaninecollege.ie)