Everything you need to know about Dachshunds
General Dachshund Knowledge
Dachshunds, more commonly known as “Sausage Dogs” are originally from Germany where they were used to hunt badgers and rabbits as well as track animals. This is where the name comes from. “Dach” meaning badger and “Hund” meaning dog.
Dachshunds are a member of the Hound group of dogs. Hound dogs include dogs which were originally used for hunting and are considered trustworthy dogs.
There are three different types of Dachshund which can be identified using their coats:
- Smooth Haired
- Long Haired
- Wire Haired
As well as coat type, there are two different sizes:
- Standard
- Miniature
These are bold, curious little dogs who are very independent. They are loyal and become attached to their families. Dachshunds have a long body, short legs, a long muzzle and long, floppy ears. They are brave due to their history meaning they will often bark at larger animals than themselves. Their bark is surprisingly loud for their size due to a large lung size. Finally, they love to dig and may be difficult to train due to their stubborness and independence. However, with some patience and consistency, they can be trained and will be lovely family pets.
Basic Information
With the right health and care, Dachshunds can live for 12-15 years.
Average height:
- Standard: 20 – 27 cm
- Miniature: 13 – 18 cm
Average weight:
- Standard: 9 – 12 kg
- Miniature: 4 – 5 kg
Colours:
- Red
- Black and tan
- Tan
- Black
- Chocolate
- Wild boar
- Grey
- Fawn
Grooming Requirements
Smooth haired Dachshunds have a short coat which should only need grooming once a week.
However, both the long haired and the wire haired Dachshunds have a medium length coat and will need brushing several times a week. These longer coats may also require some trimming or stripping at the groomers.
Exercise Requirements
Standard: up to one hour per day
Miniature: up to 30 minutes per day
Tendencies
Tendency to drool : Low
Tendency to bark : High
Social & Attention needs: Moderate
Tendency to dig: High
Potential health problems
- Intervertebral Disc Disease
- Their long bodies make these dogs prone to spinal problems including this particular disease. This disease causes the discs in the spine to become abnormal and weaken which leads to the discs collapsing.
- Patella Lunation
- This is dislocation of the knee joint. Dachshunds are prone to this because of their very short legs compared to their body size
- Keratoconjunctivitis sicca
- Also known as dry eye
- This is where there is a decrease in the production of tears which eventually damages the surface of the eye
- Heart Disease
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy
- Tthe retina in the eye gradually deteriorates leading to blindness
- Obesity
- It’s very easy to overfeed these dogs so be careful with portion size
Remember to purchase your puppy from a responsible breeder or adopt one from your local rescue centre. Then make sure you enjoy your dog and have lots of fun!
Visit Kennel Club for more information on dogs, training and finding good breeders.
