One of the most interesting local customs I’ve encountered in the Netherlands is the Nederlandse Dag van de Teckel, which translates to the Dutch Dachshund Day. As a dachshund owner who is crazy about her dogs, I still find it amazing that there is an entire event dedicated specifically to this wonderfully stubborn, funny and long-bodied breed.
In 2026 I finally had an opportunity to attend Nederlandse Dag van de Teckel for the first time. Previous years I only saw posts and pictures after the event, wishing I could have been there. I was honestly overwhelmed in the best possible way. From the very beginning of the event everywhere I looked, there were dachshunds of every size and coat type: smooth haired, long haired and (my personal favourite) wire haired, tiny puppies, dignified seniors, dachshunds in strollers and countless dogs proudly walking through the area with their humans. The atmosphere felt less like a dog event and more like a family reunion for people who completely understand the unique personality of a teckel.
What makes it especially charming is how seriously – and lovingly – the Dutch celebrate it. Competitions, costumes, photo opportunities (unfortunately we missed the group photo location), dachshund themed products and endless conversations between owners making jokes about stubborn behavior, selective hearing, “racism” and dramatic reactions to absolutely everything.
I sometimes joke that no other breed gets this much dedicated attention. You see general dog festivals everywhere, but dachshunds seem to inspire a very specific kind of devotion. Maybe it’s because they are so full of personality packed into such adorable bodies.
What makes this tradition even more meaningful to me is that it reminds me of home. In Poland, where I come from, we also celebrate Dzień Jamnika (Dachshund Day).
I was honoured to be able to attend this event as a vendor and showcase my handmade dog accessories and gifts for dog lovers. Dog bandanas that you see on the pictures were made by me. I run a small business called Wiggly Tails and I make many pet products. If you’re curious about my creations, here are crochet dog bandanas that I make.
Before we got our first sausage dog I always thought it was funny that dachshunds had their own special day but now I understand why. My first doxie was the reason why I started making my own dog products. Whether in Poland or the Netherlands, dachshund owners seem to share the same affection, humor and acceptance of the delightful chaos that comes with loving this breed.
For me, attending Nederlandse Dag van de Teckel feels like experiencing a local custom that is both uniquely Dutch and strangely universal at the same time. It celebrates not only the dogs themselves, but also the people who adore them. I will definitely attend it next time as well!
The Doxie Diaries 
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