Lizzy Hetherington knew she wanted an adventuring buddy when she moved to Arkansas from upstate New York. Both areas of the country boasted beautiful areas to explore, and it was something she wanted to continue after settling in. “There are a lot of amazing outdoor stuff you can do in upstate New York, and that’s true for Arkansas as well,” Lizzy explained.
She brought home Boomer Cedric Diggory, a long-haired dachshund, seven years ago when he was eight weeks old. “I wanted a high energy dog that needed a lot of training,” LIzzy joked. “I really wanted a hiking buddy and I live in an apartment so I needed a small dog.”
Her research discovered that both dachshunds and chihuahuas were the top small dog picks for adventuring. “He is honestly such an amazing hiker,” Lizzy said. “People are constantly on the trail being shocked watching his little legs. He goes faster than I do and that’s a joy.”
Boomer can be found on Instagram under HotDiggoryDog, where Lizzy documents their Arkansas adventures. “He showcases areas of this very beautiful state where dogs can go and be really successful exploring,” Lizzy said. “He’s an Arkansas ambassador for exploring, which means that the state tourism board has recognized his Instagram to learn about good places to hike in the natural state for dogs and people.”
She didn’t know about the more challenging sides to dachshund ownership, which included being selective about people and communicating intensely via barking. Lizzy decided to seek out Telltail Dog Training when Boomer also started showing signs of anxiety. In the years since, they’ve completed several foundational classes, Leash Manners, Out and About, and Rock City Dogs. “One thing that has really changed is our bond and connection with each other,” Lizzy shared. “When he’s in a place where he’s getting really stressed out or really reactive, I have a lot of strategies to use to get him more centered.”
Adding in snuffle mats and balls and puzzle toys also made a world of difference. “You suggested going into cognitive work with him, and that’s been huge,” Lizzy said. “Those are the real keys when he’s getting elevated.”
Even with the challenges they’ve worked through, she wouldn’t trade him for the world. “I love everything about Boomer,” Lizzy gushed. “He’s the world’s best cuddlebug. He’s the greatest adventure buddy. He’s so loving and so loyal. He’s one of my favorite creatures I’ve ever met and I have the pleasure of knowing.”
If anyone else is considering a dachshund for adventuring, Lizzy suggested getting ahead of the training early. “Dachshunds are very cute and wonderful,” Lizzy added. “And they require a lot of training. Train your dachshunds.”
