Dachshund - Dachshund

Dachshund Temperament

A lively and sweet natured creature, the Dachshund is a dog that makes a loyal and devoted pet for the right owner. These dogs are well suited to both inexperienced and experienced dog owners, as they are adaptable, intelligent, and sociable. The Dachshund is not the right choice for those with little time to dedicate to a pet, as they do need love, attention, and companionship. Training should not prove too much of a challenge, as the Dachshund is quick to learn, eager to please, and responsive. However, he can have a very possessive streak when it comes to his belongings and food. The Dachshund has a great sense of humor, and can be a very entertaining and cheerful pet to have around. The sharp bark of these dogs makes them effective watchdogs.

He tends to get along well with older, gentler kids. The Dachshund loves to be around other Dachsies, and with early socialization should get along fine with other pets. When it comes to strangers the reaction of the Dachshund can vary depending on his personality - some will be fine with strangers and others may be aloof. It is worth noting that there are three varieties of Dachshund - the long haired, the wire haired, and the smooth coated. The longhaired Dachshund appears to have a gentler and more amiable nature than the other two varieties and are less aloof with strangers. If you are particularly proud of your garden you may want to think twice before considering a Dachshund, as these dogs do love to dig. The Dachshund is a sensitive breed, and does not like to be teased or handled roughly. Care should be taken around younger or boisterous children, as the Dachshund can injure his back through to much rough play and jumping around.
Dachshund Appearance

The Dachshund is also known as a 'sausage dog' and has a very low body that is close to the ground, and is elongated. The Dachshund has a muscular and sturdy build, and his expression is a sweet and eager one. There are three varieties of Dachshund, and this includes the longhaired, the smooth haired, and the wirehaired variety. The miniature Dachshund weighs in at 7 to 11 pounds, and standard Dachshunds are around 20-28 pounds. The height of the Dachshund is 5 inches for miniatures and around 8-10 inches for standards. The coat of the Dachshund will vary depending on the variety of dog that you have - the smooth haired has a dense, short, and smooth coat; the long haired has a soft, longer, and possibly slightly wavy coat; and the wire haired has a harsh, short, and wiry coat. The coloring of the Dachshund can vary and includes black and tan, blue, chocolate, red, red sable, cream, and brindle.
Dachshund Grooming

The grooming requirements for the Dachshund can vary based upon the variety of dog that you have. The smooth haired needs occasional brushing to keep his coat in good condition, and the long and wire haired varieties need to be brushed twice weekly. Occasional trimming or clipping may be required for the long haired and the wirehaired has his dead coat stripped every few months when being shown, although as a pet standard clipping will be fine. The longhaired and shorthaired varieties are medium shedders and therefore may not suit those with allergies. However, the wirehaired is a low shedder.
Dachshund Health Problems and Life Expectancy

The life expectancy of the Dachshund is around 12-15 years, and there are a number of health problems linked to this breed. This includes cataracts, diabetes, epilepsy, spinal problems, luxating patella, PRA, elbow dysplasia, and obesity. The parents of the Dachshund puppy should have OFA and CERF certificates.
Dachshund History

The Dachshund originates from Germany, and is one of the oldest German hunting dog breeds. These dogs were originally bred to hunt badgers, but his size was altered through breeding to make him more suitable for hunting hares and rabbits. The breed was registered with the AKC in 1885.

# AKASausage Dog
# SizeSmall
# Ease of trainingMedium
# GroomingLow/Medium (Depends on coat type)
# SheddingLow (Wirehaired) Medium (Short and Longhaired)
# Exercise neededOccasional walk
# Energy levelLow/Medium
# ProtectionHigh, watchdog barking
# Good with childrenYes, with older, gentle children
# Health clearancesOFA, CERF
# Popularity6/155