A mischievous dachshund darting into a long cardboard box has captured the hearts—and laughter—of millions of viewers online, with the dog’s antics hailed being as a perfect example of “breed-appropriate enrichment,” according to amused TikTok users.
The short clip, posted to the platform on November 19 by the canine’s owner under @louieandbongo, has racked up more than 3.4 million views and over 365,000 likes to date.
Viewers were able to see a short-haired dachshund eagerly diving headfirst into a long, narrow cardboard box—possibly leftover from a Christmas tree or piece of flat-pack furniture—in a high-speed attempt to retrieve a ball. As the dog disappears into the box’s tunnellike interior, a second dachshund, this one a cream-colored, long-haired type, sits unfazed on a nearby couch, quietly observing the chaos. The caption simply reads: “Dachshund core.”
The post has been met with an outpouring of affection and laughter from viewers, many of whom saw the behavior as not just entertaining, but instinctive for the breed.
Dachshunds were originally bred in Germany to hunt badgers and other burrowing animals, and their long, low bodies are uniquely suited for tracking prey into tight spaces underground. Their drive to chase and retrieve remains strong, making ball games and exploration particularly enriching.
The phrase struck a chord with dog lovers on the platform, with many users celebrating the pet’s joyful intensity.
“We love the breed appropriate enrichment activity,” one viewer said, while another added: “That’s pure instinct there.”
“Dachshunds were bread to hunt in holes,” a third viewer shared. “[They’re] one of the only breeds that will back out of a hole and not try to turn around.”
“Love how your other pup looks at him like he’s lost his mind lol [laugh out loud]. So cute,” another commented.
Providing this kind of targeted enrichment is critical for keeping a dachshund happy and healthy. Without it, their high energy can lead to boredom, barking, digging, or even destructive behaviors around the house. But, with the right engagement, these dogs can thrive—not just in backyards or on walks, but also in boxes, tunnels, and any scenario that allows them to use their brains and bodies together.
Newsweek reached out to @louieandbongo for more information via TikTok.
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