Dachshund Facts, Wirehair & Toy Dachshund, Pictures, History

Appearance

• Dachshunds are unique looking dogs.


• They have a long-muscular body and short stubby legs.


• These small dogs come in three different sizes:


1. Standard – weighs between 11 and 15 pounds. Stands between 8 and 11 inches tall.


2. Miniature – normally weighs less than 11 pounds. Stands between 5 and 7 inches tall.


3. Toy or Kaninchen (means rabbit) – normally weighs 8 pounds or less. Can get up to 12 inches in height. This type is not recognized by the AKC.


• Dachshunds also come in three coat variations including:


1. short-haired (smooth)
2. long-haired
3. wire-haired (least common in the U.S., but most common in Germany)


• These small dogs also have a wide variety of patterns and colors including:


1. red
2. black
3. black and tan
4. chocolate
5. wild boar
6. fawn with tan points
7. cream

Temperament

• These dogs are typically loyal and love to play.


• They have the tendency to chase things such as birds or other small animals.


• These small dogs are known for having a loud bark which can make them good watch dogs.


• This breed is also prone to separation anxiety if left alone for a long period of time. They require attention and affection from their masters.


• These small dogs are considered average from an intelligence standpoint.

Living Standards

• These dogs are quite active indoors and do not necessarily require access to a large yard.


• This breed will be fine in a small home or in an apartment.

Exercise

• This small dog breed should be walked on a daily basis.


• Due to their playful nature, spending time throwing a tennis ball around is wonderful exercise for these dogs.


• Be sure to provide them with dog toys and bones to chew on as well.

Litter size

• This breed will typically have between 3 and 4 pups per litter.

Health and Life Expectancy

• Due to the length of their body, this breed is prone to spinal problems.


• These small dogs also suffer from health issues which include:


1. Epilepsy
2. Hypothyroidism
3. Allergic Dermatitis
4. Progressive Retinal Atrophy
5. Cataracts
6. Cushing's Disease


• The life expectancy of this breed is roughly 12 to 15 years of age.

Training and Obedience

• Due to their stubborn nature, this breed can be quite difficult to train.


• House breaking these small dogs is also a chore.


• Despite how difficult training these dogs may be, it is not impossible.


• You will need patience and consistency in order to properly train this breed.


• Show this dog that you are the leader of the house.


• Remember that any small dog breed can develop small dog syndrome if not properly trained.

Grooming

• This breed is mild in regards to shedding.


• The three separate coat variations of these dogs all require separate grooming:


1. Long-haired should be brushed (use a soft bristle brush) at least once a day. Prior to brushing, use a comb and go through the body of the dog. This will help untangle any mats or knots.


2. Short-haired may not even need to be brushed. If preferred, you can simply wipe down this small dog with a warm damp cloth. If you do plan on brushing your short-haired Dachshunds, use a soft bristle brush and gently go over the body.


3. Wire-haired are a bit more high maintenance than the other two coat variations. They require brushing and combing daily due to the tendency of their coat to form mats and knots. It is wise to consult with a professional groomer when attempting to groom this small dog. In addition, they should be professionally groomed at least twice a year.

History

• Dachshunds were first discovered in Germany during the 16th century.


• They are believed to have traces of German, French and English hounds as well as terriers in their blood-lines.


• Seemingly, these small legged dogs were good for hunting burrowing type animals such as rabbits, foxes, otters and even badgers.


• For a period of time, this breed was kept by royalty in parts of Europe.


• The Dachshund was recognized by the AKC in 1885.

Pictures & Video