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Dachshund Dog Breed Info | About Dachshund Dogs
Dachshund History |
Dachshund Temperament
Dachshund Care | Dachshund Exercise
Dachshund Grooming | Dachshund Training
Dachshund Health | Choosing a Dachshund Puppy
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 Country
of Origin: Germany
Alternate Names:
Size Variations: Miniature Dachshund
Standard Dachshund
Color Variations: colors
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Weight:
Exercise Needs:
Grooming Demands:
Life Expectancy:
Good With Children:
Good With Other Pets: pets
Trainability:
Common Misspellings:
Breed Group AKC:
Breed Group CKC:
Breed Group UK:
Breed Group AU:
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This is a general dog breed description of the Dachshund. Individual dogs within a breed may vary in appearance, temperament, and behavior.
Often called “weiner dogs,” Dachshunds are spirited little dogs with long bodies and short legs. Dachshunds are an ancient breed, although the modern versions are of German origin. They were prized by royal courts throughout Europe for their ability to hunt, chase and flush badger and other burrowing animals. These small, fearless dogs have been known to take on larger animals, like foxes, as well.
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Dachshunds are an ancient breed, although the modern versions are of German origin. They were prized by royal courts throughout Europe for their ability to hunt, chase and flush badger and other burrowing animals. These small, fearless dogs have been known to take on larger animals, like foxes, as well.
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Dachshunds were bred to be obstinate and to make their own decisions, two qualities that are admirable when hunting yet undesirable in a companion animal. This breed can be hard to train, but with patient and consistent training the Dachshund can be a well-behaved family companion. Dachshunds who are overindulged and treated like people or toys become snappy and unpleasant, and will try to run the family.
Long-haired Dachshunds are considered by some fanciers to have calmer personalities, while the wire-haired variety is more clownish. However, the temperament varies a great deal within the breed, and the appearance of the coat is no guarantee of the dog’s temperament. Choosing a Dachshund puppy whose parents have even temperaments, and proper socialization and training, are the keys to rasing a well behaved and friendly pet who is welcome anywhere.
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Dachshunds do not require a lot of exercise, but since this breed has a propensity for weight gain, a daily walk is a must. Daily exercise will keep both you and your Dachshund in good shape, and in a good mood.
Smooth-haired Dachshunds require little grooming, and may be rubbed with a damp cloth to remove dirt and loose hair. Long- haired varieties require daily brushing, and wire-coated Dachshunds require professional trimming twice a year. Attention to grooming will reduce the amount of hair this average shedder leaves in the house.
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The Dachshund needs an owner who will set limits on his dog’s behavior in regard to what is acceptable, and what is not. It is vital that the owner socialize his dog well from puppyhood, training his dog patiently and with a gentle, no-nonsense attitude to avoid raising a snappy little dog who tries to run the family. Dachshunds should be exposed to a variety of people, sights, sounds, and smells from an early age.
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Their long backs and relatively short rib cages make Dachshunds vulnerable to back injuries and spinal disc problems. Disc degeneration can lead to paralysis of the rear legs. Obesity, rough handling, jumping from heights and hard exercise should be discouraged to reduce health risks.
Other possible health concerns include epilepsy, urinary tract disorders, heart disease, various eye conditions, thyroid conditions, dental problems and allergies.
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A well-socialized Dachshund is good with kids, but may not be the best choice for families with very small children who may play too roughly with the dog, fall on him, or try to pick him up. Older children should be taught to pick the dog up carefully, supporting his back, to avoid injuring his spine.
Dachshunds adapt to a variety of living conditions. Because of their small size, they are popular companion dogs for apartment and city dwellers, but being cooped up inside too long will lead to inventive destruction. They need at least one long daily walk, and will enjoy playing in the park or other open areas.
While Dachshunds are prone to bad temperament, spinal disorders and many other medical conditions, reputable breeders attempt to eliminate these problems from the breed. Buy your Dachshund only from a breeder who has a proven track record of producing high-quality, healthy puppies of good temperament.
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Dachshund
History
Is
the Dachshund The Right Dog Breed For You?
