Originally developed to hunt badgers, rabbits, and foxes, Dachshund dogs are scent hounds. Dachshund packs have even been employed to track wild boar by hunters. Today, their adaptability allows them to be good family companions, show dogs, and small-game hunters, as well as excellent pets.
But don't be fooled by this adorable pooch. In the words of H. L. Mencken, "half a dog high and a half dog and a half long," but this small, drop-ear dog is hardly enough to take on a badger despite its size.
You may be more familiar with their many monikers, such as Wiener Dog, Sausage Dog, Doxie, and others. With this breed, you can get a small dog that will keep you on your toes and shower you with love.
All dogs, regardless of breed, are susceptible to health problems during the course of their life. When it comes to caring for your dog, a solid pet insurance plan may help you be prepared at any age. A complete list of Dachshund characteristics and facts can be found here!
Highlights
- Housebreaking a dachshund might be a challenge because of their stubborn nature. Dogs should be trained using crates.
- Intelligent, independent, and playful, Dachshunds make wonderful companions. It is because of this that they can be naughty. When you're teaching them, be patient, firm, and consistent.
- It's possible for them to display behaviours that are reminiscent of hunting because they were bred for it. Badger holes are their natural habitat, so they may mistakenly dig up your dahlias instead. Because they were trained to be tenacious in the hunt, they may be persistent in their demands for a reward. In the home, the "prey" will likely be your Dachshund's toys, which he will efficiently "kill" one by one. They were designed to not only hunt but to kill their prey.
- In comparison to their size, Dachshunds' barks are surprisingly loud and deep!
- You should keep an eye out for your Dachshund's weight gain and laziness, which might strain his back. Keep an eye on your Dachshund's diet to make sure he stays within a healthy range.
- Partially or completely paralysing spinal disc slippage is not uncommon in Dachshunds. Take care not to allow them to jump from high locations, and support their backs when you hold them.
- It is likely that your Dachshund will be a solitary companion for you. When he's a puppy, it's crucial to socialise him because he's naturally wary of strangers.
- Never buy a puppy from a puppy mill, negligent breeder, or pet retailer if you want a healthy dog.
Characteristics
Social Appearance
Adaptability
It's a common misconception that a little dog is better suited to living in a limited space. Many tiny dogs have too much energy and are too yappy to live in an apartment building. An apartment dog's best attributes include being quiet, low energy, somewhat peaceful indoors, and respectful to the other inhabitants. Your dog's personal space in your apartment can be improved by purchasing one of these fantastic dog cages.
Sensitivity Level
Depending on the dog, a strong rebuke can be taken in stride by some, while others regard even the tiniest hint of disapproval as a personal attack. If you have a loud or pushy owner, a chaotic home, or a routine that is unpredictable or variable, your low-sensitivity dog, often known as "easy-going," "tolerant," "resilient," or even "thick-skinned," will be able to handle it better. Do you have young children, host a lot of parties, or have a hectic lifestyle? Choose a dog that isn't overly sensitive.
Intensity
You can't tell from looking at them whether or not they're hyperactive, but when they do anything, they do it vigorously. They tug at their leashes (unless you teach them not to), they push their way through barriers, and they down their meals in huge, gobbling gulps. A home with young children or an elderly or feeble person may not be the best place for these dynamos to learn proper etiquette. On the other side, a dog with poor vitality adopts a more reserved demeanor.
Potential for Playfulness
The playful nature of certain dogs never fades away, and they're always ready for a game, whereas the reserved and serious tendencies of other dogs develop through time. Think about how many times a day you want to play fetch or tag with your dog, and whether or not you have children or other dogs who can act as substitutes.
Personality Appearance
Intelligence
In the same way as working dogs, such as those that herd sheep, are bred for intelligence and decision-making, working dogs like those who run all day need to exercise their bodies. The two most common activities that a bored pet engages in are digging and chewing, both of which require mental stimulation. There are several ways to keep a dog's brain active, including obedience training, interactive dog toys like tug of war, and dog sports like agility and search and rescue.
Energy Level
Energy-draining dogs are always on the lookout for a new activity. There are several jobs that require a lot of stamina from dogs, such as herding livestock or recovering prey for hunters. Children are more likely to engage in activities such as jumping, playing and exploring new sights and smells as a result of this change in their environment
A low-energy dog is more like a couch potato than a dog that needs a lot of exercise. Think about your level of physical activity and whether or not you find a hyperactive dog irritating before making your final choice.
Easy To Train
Easy to train dogs can more easily form associations between a cue (like "sit"), an action (like sitting), and a reward than dogs that are more difficult to train. Dogs that require more time, patience, and repetition are more difficult to train.
Getting your dog interested in training will require incentives and games because many breeds are intelligent but have a "What's in it for me?" mentality when it comes to learning new things.
Family Affection Level
Affectionate With Family
Since puppyhood, some breeds remain aloof and independent; others form deep bonds with one individual but are uninterested in the rest of the family; still other types shower their entire family with affection. Canines raised in homes with people tend to be more open to human interaction and develop stronger ties, regardless of their breed or upbringing.
Kid-Friendly
Kids-friendly dogs are calm, strong enough to bear the hefty hugs and pets kids can dish out, and have an unfazed attitude about rushing, scream-inducing children. There are several names you may not expect to see on the list: Fierce-looking Both Boxers and American Staffordshire Terriers are regarded as family dogs (which are considered Pit Bulls). Chihuahuas, which are small, sensitive, and potentially sharp, are not always family-friendly.
Dog Friendly
Dog friendship and human friendship are two entirely different things. The fact that a dog is friendly with humans doesn't mean it's immune to aggression or aggression from other dogs; some canines choose to play rather than fight; others will just run away. The type of animal isn't the only consideration. Dogs who have spent a lot of time playing with their littermates and their mother at the age of six to eight weeks are more likely to be socially competent.
Physical Appearance
Amount of Shedding
Having a dog in the house means that you'll have to deal with some level of dog hair on your clothing and in the home. It's worth noting, however, that shedding varies widely among breeds. Some dogs shed all year long, while others ``blow" just during specific times of the year, and still others don't shed at all. If you're a stickler for cleanliness, you'll need to choose a breed that sheds less or lower your expectations. You can use a deshedding tool to keep your house a little cleaner.
Drooling Potential
While greeting you, some dogs may cover their arms with ropes of drool and create large, wet patches on your clothing. If you don't mind a little drool, go for it; but if you're a stickler for cleanliness, you may want to look for a dog with a low drool rating.
Easy To Groom
Some breeds of dogs can simply be brushed and left alone, while others require frequent washing, trimming, and other grooming in order to maintain their health and appearance. If you don't have the time or money to take care of a dog that requires a lot of grooming, you may want to look into hiring a professional.
Exercise Needs
Evening walks around the neighbourhood are perfectly acceptable for some breeds. Others, particularly those trained for physically demanding vocations like herding or hunting, require regular, rigorous exercise.
They can gain weight and release their pent-up energy in ways you don't like, including barking, chewing, and digging, if not given enough exercise. Those looking to train their dog for an energetic canine activity, such as agility, should consider getting a dog that needs a lot of exercise.
Average sizes and life expectancy of the breed
Weight
16 to 32 pounds
Lifespan
12 to 15 years
Height
8 inches to 9 inches tall at the shoulder
History
Both the Miniature Dachshund and the Standard Dachshund belong to the scent hound breed. There are six different sizes and coat types to choose from. For example, you can find standard and tiny variations with either smooth or wiry coats in these breeds. A German breed, the Dachshund was used for hunting badgers, wild boars, foxes and rabbits, as well as tracking wounded deer in the wild.
A Dachshund may be traced back to the 17th century, although there is a lot of debate regarding which breeds were used to make it. In the beginning, Dachshunds had a smooth coat, were larger than they are now, and had straight or crooked legs. To create the contemporary Dachshund, 'crooked' legs were used.
Known as the 'Rabbit' Dachshund, this smaller-than-the-Miniature Dachshund breed is recognised by several nations and kennel organisations such the Federation Cynologique Internationale. Short-haired and wire-haired varieties of the Dachshund were later developed. Speculation abounds as to the breeds responsible for the introduction of the various coat types.
When it comes to Long-Haired Dachshund's coat, there are two possible explanations. One is the selective breeding of dogs with longer coats, and the other is the usage of land and water spaniels in its development. This last possibility also explains why they have a marginally different personality. A wire-haired dog was mated with a Dachshund to produce the Wire-Haired Dachshund, which has a terrier-like personality and an affinity for digging. Dachshunds in Germany are classified according to their chest circumference, which influences the size of holes they can fit down when they are on the ground.
Despite its popularity in earthdog competitions, the Dachshund is still widely used as a hunting dog today. Because of its small stature and ability to live in urban areas, the breed has grown in popularity as a pet and a companion dog all over the world.
Personality & Temperament
There are two sizes available: standard and miniature. They're little, curious, loyal, and outgoing, and Dachshunds are no exception. Brave and determined, these people are. In spite of their affectionate demeanour toward their owners, Dachshunds can be wary of strangers and yelp when approached. As a result, early socialisation with other canines and humans is critical. Although Dachshunds are naturally drawn to prey, they can be taught to tolerate other pets if they are socialised from an early age. While their independence makes them less prone to separation anxiety, they can nonetheless become highly destructive and even damage furniture if they do feel frightened.
Dachshunds are not recommended for families with small children because of their strong personalities. They can be taught to be tolerant and patient with children if introduced to them from an early age and given the right training, although they may nip if provoked. In spite of their diminutive stature, Dachshunds are a fearless breed that can serve as a warning to intruders. Long-haired Many people believe that standard and miniature Dachshunds are more reserved than their wire-haired cousins.
Care
When it comes to caring for dachshunds, especially pups, new pet owners must take a variety of considerations into account. If you're thinking about adopting or rescuing this breed, make sure you think about all of its requirements. The sooner a puppy is socialised and trained, the better off he or she will be in the long run. This will help your doxie become more comfortable among strangers and other animals.
Health
A Dachshund can expect to live for 12 or more years, regardless of whether it is a Standard or Miniature. Neither the UK Kennel Club nor the American Kennel Club classify the miniature dachshund as a Category 1 breed because of any specific health issues. Although Dachshunds are known for their long lifespans and active lifestyles, the modern breed is susceptible to various health issues. Among them are:
Epilepsy
Recurrent seizures harm dogs with this illness. Anti-seizure medicine can be used to control seizures, which can occur at any time. Pregnancy is more common in children between 6 months to 5 years old. Miniature Most Dachshunds with long or wiry dreadlocks are at risk.
Obesity
Despite their tendency to run around and play, Dachshunds love to eat and sleep with their owners. Overweight can lead to a number of health issues for these dogs, including diabetes, in addition to putting additional strain on their already fragile backs, which are chondrodystrophic by nature.
Chondrodystrophy
Dachshunds are considered a dwarf breed because of their tiny legs, which puts them at an increased risk of developing back problems. Intervertebral disc disease can be brought on by the faster degeneration of the spinal column's discs than in other non-chondrodystrophic breeds. Pain and paralysis can ensue, necessitating surgery if necessary, although not all dogs recover and may need to be put down.
Preventing injuries in Dachshunds can be as simple as making sure they are kept at a healthy weight and constantly exercising. Avoiding stairs, keeping them from leaping on and off furniture, and lifting them carefully with two hands to support their back are all strategies to keep them safe.
Entropion
Eye discomfort occurs when the eyelids fold inwards. Rubbing causes ulcers that are uncomfortable and can lead to long-term vision problems if they are not treated properly. This is a genetic disorder.
Ectropion
When the upper and lower eyelids meet. The lower eyelid is more likely to be affected, and it is a congenital disorder.
Disease of Retinal Degeneration
Dachshunds of any breed can be affected by this ailment, which is regarded to be an autoimmune disease. Antibodies target the retinal cells, which might result in blindness within a short time frame. It is most common in dogs between the ages of six and eighteen.
Heartbeats
Wire-Haired Dachshunds were found to be affected. A murmur is characterised by the presence of an additional sound coming from the heart. Blood flow disturbances, such as turbulent flow, can be caused by a variety of issues, including difficulties with the heart itself.
Mitral Valve Disease
The mitral valve in the heart allows blood to drain backwards. When this occurs at a young age, it is considered to be inherited by all Dachshund breeds, however this has not been confirmed to be the case. Males are more likely than females to be afflicted. A decrease in exercise tolerance, difficulty breathing or a cough when lying down are all possible warning signs. Eventually, weakness and collapse are all possible outcomes.
Assured Breeders Scheme
To be eligible for the Assured Breeders Program, Dachshunds must be tested for the following conditions by DNA:
Retinal Degeneration (crd1 PRA)
A condition known as Day Blindness NPHP4 (crd1 PRA) Progressive Retinal Degeneration is one type of retinal degeneration that can affect Miniature Dachshunds. When the retinal cells do not function properly or degrade, vision is affected.
Which genes are involved determines the degree of severity, as do the symptoms that accompany the disorder. The exact age at which this occurs is unknown, although it is considered to be linked to a second, unidentified genetic variant. Testing should be conducted on Miniature Dachshunds with all three coat types.
Lafora Disease
This is a hereditary kind of epilepsy. After the age of five, it frequently manifests itself in the form of seizure-like episodes. An episode may occur if there are flashing lights, loud noises, or movements that are too close to the head. The condition eventually advances and causes other symptoms, such as a loss of coordination, blindness, and dementia.
Because of the late development of this illness, all Miniature Wire-Haired Dachshunds should be DNA tested for it.
Distichiasis
This is a syndrome in which there are additional eyelashes that grow, irritating the eye and causing corneal damage and excessive tear production, depending on their position. There are a variety of therapy options available for Miniature Long-Haired Dachshunds with this issue, from medical to surgical. If a dog has the ailment, it should not be bred from and should be tested for it.
Recommended Health Test
- Hearing
- Blood Test
- Hip X-Rays
- (Dna Test For Pra)
- Eye Examination
Nutrition
Your dog's weight, activity level, and age all play a role in determining how much food he or she needs. Watch your dog's intake and weight closely and make sure you're feeding him only the best.
If you suspect that your dog is becoming overweight, contact your veterinarian for advice on how to keep your pet at a healthy weight by altering your dog's diet. To help your dog live to its full potential, you should do this.
Grooming
The dachshund's hair coat determines how much grooming it requires. needs. In general, professional grooming is not required for longhaired dogs, but they do require daily brushing. Smooth dachshunds shed more than other types of dachshunds. In order to maintain the health of your dog, you should bathe him or her on a regular basis (frequently if skin problems exist).
Keep your pet's paws safe by trimming their nails on a regular basis. Keep an eye out for signs of illness or mites in the ears that flap down. Brushing your dog's teeth twice a week will help to keep his mouth healthy.
Exercise
Dachshunds have a predisposition to becoming overweight by nature. To keep their weight in check, your dachshund should be taken for walks on a regular basis.
A minimum of two 10-minute walks each day is recommended, as is some fun such as fetch. The importance of sufficient nourishment cannot be overstated, though, so be cautious not to overfeed.
Training
While dachshunds are known for their strong personalities, they can also be stubborn, protective, and defensive. Many dachshunds also have a tendency to bark, which is why they are so popular. These potential flaws can be turned into strengths with the right kind of obedience training.
Housebreaking a dachshund can be a challenge. If you're going to employ crate training, you'll need to be persistent. Ensure that you have a supply of puppy pads and cleaning products on hand.
Children And Other Pets
If introduced to children from an early age, dachshunds get along well with their own kind. As a parent, it's important to keep an eye on your children's pals.
Because of his long back, the Dachshund is prone to injury when not properly cared for. Children under the age of eight years old should be prohibited from approaching the Dachshund unless they are sitting on the floor. Always teach youngsters how to approach and touch dogs, and supervise any interactions between dogs and small children to avoid any biting or ear or tail pulling on the part of either party. Never approach any dog while it is sleeping or eating, and never try to take the dog's food away from it. A dog should never be left alone with a child, no matter how old they are.
They get along nicely with other animals, especially if they are introduced to them as puppies. As a result of their strong personalities, they may very well be the most powerful.
Puppies
Puppies of doxie breeds can be mischievous and destructive, so it's important to be patient with them while they're still young. Just a little time and patience is all that is needed to get them to remain obedient and confident.
Dogs Similar to Doxie
The Pembroke Welsh corgi, the Scottish terrier, and the Beagle are all dog breeds that are comparable to the doxie.
Pembroke Welsh Corgi
Short yet muscular legs, large black eyes, a compact physique, and long ears compared to body size are some of the distinguishing characteristics of this breed.
Scottish Terrier
This small, short-legged dog has a tremendous personality and a self-assured appearance.
Beagle
Beagles are small to medium-sized dogs with short hair. With plenty of exercise and room to run, they are a popular choice for families.