Why I built the hub
Three dachshunds, a Kelpie, a cat, and a lot of learning.
Hi, I'm Riahna. I share my home with three dachshunds, Poppy, Milo and Roo, plus Cydi the Kelpie and Henri the cat.
Living with long dogs means living with their backs. Over the years we've had back scares, a fight and a lot of learning along the way.
What this hub is for
The Long Dog Hub puts what I wish I'd known in one place: how to spot the early signs, what to do next, and a community of owners who understand.
What it isn't
I'm an owner, not a vet. Everything here is for education and support. It never replaces an examination by your vet. If you're worried about your dog, call them.
The most beautiful things in life are dogs and the experiences they share with us.
They bring a kind of joy that's hard to explain—pure, uncomplicated moments that remind us what it means to just be. Sometimes I feel like we don't deserve them, the way they give so much of themselves, asking for so little in return.
They show us the beauty in the everyday—the way they find excitement in the smallest things, like a new scent or a soft patch of grass. They pull us into the present, forcing us to slow down and pay attention to the things we usually miss. Their presence alone makes life feel a little brighter, a little lighter, as if they're carrying some of the weight we didn't realize we were holding.
And it's not just what they do—it's who they are. They're the ones who make us laugh when we're too tired to smile, who show us that love doesn't need to be big or grand, just genuine. In a world that feels heavy, they remind us of the beauty that still exists, that maybe we've forgotten. They give us something that feels too good to be real, and sometimes, I think we could never repay that gift.
World Dachshund Day
Every year on 21 June, dachshund lovers around the world celebrate their long dogs. The date marks the winter solstice here in the Southern Hemisphere and the summer solstice in the Northern Hemisphere, so it brings both halves of the world together.
It's a big day in our house too: Poppy and Cydi were both born on World Dachshund Day.
Helpful links
Thinking of adopting, or want to read more? These are good places to start.
All 4 Dachshunds
A dachshund charity that rescues and rehomes displaced dachshunds, with foster and adoption options.
Visit site (opens in a new tab)Devoted 2 Dachshunds Rescue
A breed-specific rescue charity rehoming dachshunds, with dogs listed for adoption around Queensland.
Visit site (opens in a new tab)Dachshund Rescue
Australian dachshund rescue and rehoming. Visit their site to see dogs needing homes.
Visit site (opens in a new tab)Dachshund Club: back scoring
How back scoring works in Australia, plus info for breeders and vets. Read our summary on the Back scoring page.
Visit site (opens in a new tab)PetMD dachshund breed guide
Vet-reviewed breed facts: sizes, coats, temperament, health and care.
Visit site (opens in a new tab)
Our signature brand
Supplements and gear
Back-safe training
Foundation (not-for-profit)