Dachshund dog

 

Thinking about a Dachshund dog as a companion?
Get to know this popular small dog breed before you buy!

 

Size
Exercise
Grooming

Height: Standard: up to 20 cm (8 inches) at the shoulder; Miniature: up to 15 cm (6 inches) at the shoulder
Weight: Standard: up to 12 kg (32 pounds); Miniature: 4.5-5 kg (10-11 pounds)

Group
American Kennel Club: Hound
The Kennel Club (UK): Hound
Australian National Kennel Council: Hound

Lifespan: 12-14 years

Who is the Dachshund?

A playful, lovable family dog, the Dachshund dog comes in three different coat types (smooth, long and wire-haired) and two different sizes (standard and miniature).

Breed history

The origins of the Dachshund are lost but the breed seems to have emerged in Germany in the 1600s. 'Dachshund' in German means 'badger dog' and the breed was used to hunt badgers, foxes and rabbits. With its long, slim body, the dog could easily go down a badger hole. This hunting background has given the breed a courageous temperament and some won't hesitate to challenge a much larger dog.

Nowadays, the breed is valued for its playful, fun-loving nature. With its somewhat oddly shaped body, it has become of the world's most popular puppy breeds but also suffers from a number of nicknames, such as 'wiener dog' and 'sausage dog'!

Personality

• Playful
• Devoted and loyal
• Courageous
• Good watchdog

Good with children?

Yes - dachshunds love to play and chase balls and most will enjoy the company of children. But children should be taught to handle the dog carefully to avoid damaging its long back. A provoked dachshund dog will bite, though it small jaws will usually deliver only a painful nip.

Exercise needs

They enjoy a regular walk and a game in the backyard.

Health

A well-cared for dachshund will live for many years (some have reached the age of 18 or 20 years). A healthy diet is particularly important for this small dog breed. The dog should never be allowed to overeat as obesity is a common problem.

Possible health problems

Spinal problems, resulting from the long spinal column

Luxating patella (a condition in which the patella, or kneecap, dislocates or moves out of its normal location)

Von Willebrand's Disease (a bleeding disorder)

Cushing's disease (the production of too much adrenal hormone)

Eye problems

Good breeders should x-ray or test their dogs for as many of these conditions as possible before breeding, or should avoid breeding from dogs that display the conditions.

Grooming

The smooth-haired and wire-haired dachshunds require little grooming but the long-haired needs a regular brushing.

The dachshund dog has long, floppy ears which do not allow the air to flow around the ear's opening. The ears can become infected but regular cleaning with an ear cleanser should keep them in good condition (ask your vet or pet shop for a good product to use).

When grooming, remember to check the paws, ears and coat for grass seeds. Also check for any minor injuries and check the teeth to see if they need cleaning.

Ideal owner

The ideal dachshund owner will provide plenty of loving attention and activity for their dog.

They will not appreciate being left along for long periods of time and can become destructive chewers, so make sure you offer company and distractions.

The dachshund dog will thrive in a family situation and will enjoy playing with children and adults alike.

 

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