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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.

a brown dachshund puppy laying in the grass

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
a close up of a black and tan dachshund

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.

wire haired dachshund on a walk

Exercise Requirements

Standard:      up to one hour per day 

Miniature:    up to 30 minutes per day

a black and tan dachshund looking up at his owner

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
a brown dachshund laying on a bed

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.

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