Dachshund Dog Breed Info Characteristics And Care

• Height: 8–9 inches (standard) 5–6 inches (miniature)
  
  
• Weight: 15–32 pounds (standard) 11 pounds or less (miniature)
  
  
• Lifespan: Around 11–16 years
  
  
• Colors: Black, chocolate, fawn, or blue with tan, cream, wheaten, wild boar, red, black, fawn, chocolate, or blue with cream
  
  
• Best for: Families and individuals with patience and are experienced dog owners, families with older kids
  
  
• Personality/Temperament: Independent, playful, bold, protective, charming, sometimes stubborn

This dog breed was developed or bred to chase badgers; their small stature and extremely outgoing disposition make it easy. If you look at dachshunds, they are vastly different from normal dogs and are unique.

As with most breeds, having this dog is neither peaceful nor boring; many people cannot resist their attractiveness and cuteness, but it depends from person to person. However, keep one thing in mind: this breed is not appropriate for every family.

The Dachshund originated in Germany as a dog that hunted close to the hunter. They are descended from the German Schweisshund but have shorter legs.

The Dachshund was also bred with terrier and spaniel breeds to achieve specific hunting abilities and wirehaired and longhaired coat types. He is a faithful hunting hound; the German word Dachs translates to "badger," another animal with a robust physique and short, crooked legs.

Since the Middle Ages, Dachshunds have assisted hunters and families with everything from game tracking and hunting to homestead protection. The Standard Dachshund was bred primarily as a tracker, used to hunt badgers and wild boars.

Characteristics ratings of Dachshund out of 5:

Dachshunds were created to hunt small rodents that burrow in the ground. This activity requires them to work individually and make quick decisions. Modern Dachshunds rarely maintain this hunting tradition, but their personalities endure.

The Dachshund is a sharp, independent small dog. They might be headstrong and will not always listen to their owners. Dachshunds, likewise, are playful and charming and may be highly affectionate toward their human relatives.

Dachshunds hold a good personality and are typically enjoyable to live with, which explains why they are so popular. They bark a lot and are excellent watchdogs. However, it would be best if you worked hard to influence your Dachshund's behavior, and the result will be worthwhile.

If you buy a Dachshund puppy from a breeder, do your homework and evaluate breeders thoroughly. Unethical breeding enterprises like puppy mills regularly create popular tiny breeds like Dachshunds.

Look for breeders who prioritize their dogs' well-being and are open about answering concerns, allowing you to visit their facilities, and providing health assurances.

If you want to adopt a Dachshund, search for breed-specific rescue groups in your region. You can also look into animal shelters and humane societies. Small dogs are adopted more rapidly, so be patient if you wish to save a Dachshund.

Dachshunds make excellent family pets, although they are the best match for households with older children. Unfortunately, Dachshunds are not always patient enough to handle rough handling and antics from more minor children. Physically, they are also vulnerable to injuries due to their long backs.

While well-socialized Dachshunds can live with small children, their interactions must be carefully monitored. Dachshunds will not be able to play as hard with energetic children as other breeds, so keep this in mind when selecting a family companion.

They may not be ideal for busy families with little time at home. Dachshunds are gregarious canines who might develop separation anxiety and destructive behavior if left alone repeatedly.

Dachshunds may dislike other pets, but mostly, it depends on how they socialize as puppies. Their assertive, protective dispositions can lead to conflicts with other dogs. Dachshunds are small dogs who do not always act like they are, which might be deadly if they attack a giant dog.

When properly socialized and supervised, Dachshunds might enjoy having a dog companion. Ensure they do not play too rough to protect your Dachshund's back.

Dachshunds, who were bred to hunt small animals, may chase cats. Early socialization and pairing the dog with a cat that is at ease with canine companions and not acting as prey can help with this propensity.

Keep birds and tiny exotic pets away from Dachshunds to minimize predator upset or worse.

If you consider adding a Dachshund to your household, you may wonder what living with and caring for this cute breed is like. There are some crucial things to know when owning a Dachshund.

Exercise

Dachshunds are energetic dogs but require daily exercise to maintain weight and build their back. To prevent spinal injuries, kids should avoid high-impact sports such as running and leaping.

Daily 30-minute walks are a viable alternative, as are canine activities like tracking and Earthdog competitions.

They should also use or train their minds daily. Consider interactive and puzzle toys for ongoing brain stimulation. 

Training

Although they are bright dogs, other parts of their behavior make training difficult. Dachshunds are bred to operate independently; therefore, they may not see the need to obey human directions.

They are also prone to arrogance. However, Dachshunds respond well to positive reinforcement training methods. If you treat rewards as part of your training method, subtract the calories from your Dachshund's total daily allotment.

Grooming

Dachshunds do not shed heavily, but longhaired puppies require frequent cleaning. Smooth-coated Dachshunds require the most miniature grooming. A brief weekly bristle brush or grooming glove session is usually sufficient.

Wirehaired Dachshunds need to have their coats hand-stripped a few times a year. Also, they require weekly brushing and, occasionally, a brief trim. Bathe your Dachshund as needed and clip their nails at least once a month.

Brush your dog's teeth regularly, and consider using dental treats, water additives, or exceptional food. Your veterinarian can recommend the best oral care products.

Dachshunds can consume any nutritionally balanced meal designed for dogs. Choose a brand that caters to the nutritional requirements of your dog's life stage, from puppy to senior. Because of the smaller kibble size, many Dachshunds prefer to consume small-breed dry food.

If you offer canned or soft food to your Dachshund, remember that they, like many small breed dogs, are susceptible to dental disease. If your pet is not eating hard kibble daily, you may need to enhance their preventative dental treatment.

Dachshunds are also prone to obesity, which is unhealthy for any dog but can be especially difficult for them. Carrying too much weight strains the dog's long back and increases their risk of spinal disorders.

Like many other breeds, these breeds also are prone to some health problems; they are:

• Intervertebral Disc Disease
• Heart disease (but for miniature varieties only)
• Dry eyes
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

Their Name means Badger Dog

Dachshunds came from Germany, and their Name in the original language reflects their intended use. The trained Dachshunds tracked badgers down to their burrows to hunt them.

Different Coat Types Have Different Purposes 

Breeders developed the wire-haired and long-haired types of Dachshunds from the original smooth-coated breed. The denser wirehaired coat was designed to defend them when hunting through thorny plants. Longer hair kept other Dachshunds warm in chilly weather.

Waldi Dachshund, the First Olympic Mascot 

The dog breed, the dachshund Waldi, was recognized as the first-ever Olympic mascot at the 1972 Olympic Games held in Germany. He became an instant game icon because of his appearance and personality.

Male Dachshunds, like other breeds, are a bit larger than females. Unneutered males may be bold and even violent towards other canines. They are also more likely to engage in behaviors such as humping and urinating.

Female Dachshunds will go into heat around twice a year unless spayed. If you do not intend to breed your dog, consult your veterinarian about when to spay or neuter it.