People sometimes ask what it’s like living with multiple dachshunds. In our case, “multiple” means nine dogs—and there are definitely a few things nobody tells you beforehand.

First, personal space becomes more of a suggestion than an actual rule. Sit down, and someone wants your lap. Head to the kitchen, and you suddenly have an escort. Go to the bathroom? Congratulations—you may have just called a meeting. Around here, our Bathroom Meetings have become an almost official part of the day.

But perhaps the biggest surprise is how completely different their personalities can be.

You might think nine dogs living in the same home would begin to act alike. Not even close. Elliott takes his role as leader seriously. He even expects to be hand-fed on occasion. Emyrson is our Zoomie Queen and will turn any opportunity into a chance to run. Edie keeps an eye on the weather—and anything else that might cause a little anxiety. Edison has very definite ideas about his pouf and does not tolerate change. Elly May is always ready to investigate something suspicious—she doesn’t even take her chicken strip without investigating it! Elena would happily spend her day in the water, or at least playing in the water bowl if that is all that is available. Molly brings the wisdom of being the oldest, while our baby girls, Everly and Emmy Lou, bring plenty of puppy mischief.

And yes, there is barking. Sometimes one dog knows why everyone is barking. Sometimes nobody knows. Once the alarm has been sounded, however, everyone apparently feels obligated to participate.

There are also blankets everywhere, toys under furniture, dogs under blankets, and an impressive ability to detect the sound of anything remotely resembling a treat package.

But here’s what nobody really tells you about living with multiple dachshunds: your home doesn’t just get more crowded. Your life gets bigger.

There are more muddy paw prints, more laundry, more barking, and considerably less room on the couch. But there are also more greetings at the door, more laughter, more warm bodies curled beside you, and more little personalities making ordinary days interesting.

Would life be quieter with fewer dachshunds?

Absolutely.

Would we want it that way?

Not for a million dollars!

Welcome to life with Elliott and The Entourage. Around here, there’s always room for one more adventure—even when there’s no room left on the couch.