Dachshund
● Key Characteristics Of Dachshunds
● How Can I Take Good Care Of A Dachshund Puppy?
● Most Asked Dachshund Questions
● Similar Dog Breeds
The look of the Dachshund is hard to miss. These dogs have a short stature that leaves such a lasting impression. Also referred to as sausage or wiener dogs, dachshunds make loyal companions and excellent watch dogs.
● Key Characteristics Of Dachshunds
● How Can I Take Good Care Of A Dachshund Puppy?
● Most Asked Dachshund Questions
● Similar Dog Breeds
The look of the Dachshund is hard to miss. These dogs have a short stature that leaves such a lasting impression. Also referred to as sausage or wiener dogs, dachshunds make loyal companions and excellent watch dogs.
The Dachshund has its origin in Germany. Although the dog’s origins date as far back as the 15th century, the breed was fully developed in the 17th century.
The term “dachshund” loosely translates to “badger dog” in German. The breed was so named because it was good at hunting badgers. Their short legs, massive chests, and flap-down ears made them suitable for this activity.
During the 17th century, the dachshund was further developed into two sizes. The standard sized dachshund, which continued hunting badgers and the miniature sized which were more skilled in pursuing hares and rats.
| Are Dachshunds Family-Friendly? | Yes, they are great for families with older kids. They are loyal and fun-loving, but they can also be wilful and feisty. |
| Daily Exercise Needs? | They need moderate amounts of exercise, about 20 to 40 minutes of exercise daily. Although they love walks, they shouldn't be taken cycling or jogging. Such activities can take a toll on their short legs. |
| Common Health Issues & Considerations | These dogs are prone to certain conditions: ● Intervertebral disc disease. ● Patella luxation. ● Hip dysplasia. ● Eye issues. ● Obesity. |
| Lifespan | 12 to 16 years |
| Nature & Temperament | These dogs pack a lot of personality into small bodies. Dachshunds are playful, attention-loving, smart, independent and bold. |
| Size | Weight Miniature size: <5 kg Standard size: 8 - 14 kg Height Miniature size: 13 - 15 cm Standard size: 20 - 23 cm |
| Suitable Environment | Best suited for house or apartment living. |
| Grooming | Dachshunds are moderate shedders. The wire-haired dachshunds shed the least. Brushing their coats once or twice a week is enough. |
● Dachshunds come in three main coat varieties: smooth, wire-haired and long-haired.
● Often, these dogs will have chocolate, red, dapple or black and tan colours.
● They are aloof to strangers and will likely bark at intruders.
● Dachshunds do better in warm climates. In winter many owners buy doggie sweaters.
● They can be somewhat difficult to housebreak, therefore crate training is recommended.
Nutrition
One thing you’ll notice about dachshunds is that they have no concept of feeling full. This makes them prone to overeating. Owners may need to watch their feeding habits. The daily intake is approximately ½ to 1 ½ cups of quality dog food.
Grooming
Grooming dachshunds depends on the kind of coats they have. For the smooth and long-haired ones, a weekly brushing is enough.
Wire-haired dachshunds need a slightly different grooming approach. The dead hairs in their coats need to be removed at least twice every year.
Recommended grooming tips:
● Check their ears weekly to ensure they are not a breeding ground for bacteria.
● Trim their nails one or two times every month.
● Brush their teeth twice each week.
● Bathe them once a month.
Exercise
Dachshunds don’t need a lot of exercise. Two walks of reasonable distance – about 1 km per day is generally enough. They are a long-lived dog breed that can live for more than 16 years with the right care.
Training
Although they are very smart, dachshunds are not easily trained. So while they can learn commands in a short amount of time, they will only do so when it suits them. But with the right motivation (treats), they are trainable.
The key features of these dogs are their long bodies and short legs. Character-wise, these dogs form strong bonds with their families. They are also playful and loyal.
Dachshunds thrive in families with older kids as they can handle them with care. But they are not always friendly to visiting children. They might switch to protective mode with strangers.
Yes they can, it’s in this breed’s nature to bark. Once Dachshunds find their voice, they have a bark that sounds like a bigger dogs. This attribute makes them excellent watch dogs.
If you’re planning to adopt a dachshund, they should be at least eight weeks old. This is when they have been weaned properly.
Dachshunds for sale cost on average between $500 and $3000 approximately.
Dachshunds have a natural tendency to bond with their owners. But there are other ways of strengthening this relationship.
Historically dachshunds were earthdog trained. Activities such as fetch, playing chase or hide and seek can be stimulating for your Dachshund.
This is general information and should not be relied on as adoption or purchasing advice.
● Beagle