A Comprehensive Guide to the Dachshund.

Meet the Dachshund.

Dachshunds are a truly distinctive dog breed, instantly recognisable with their charming long bodies and adorable short legs.

These delightful little dogs bring immense personality to their charming frames, making them beloved companions for dog enthusiasts worldwide!

These dogs have a fascinating history and unique personalities, making them truly remarkable companions you'll cherish!

This guide explores the origins of the Dachshund, their temperament, care needs, and what makes them a great family pet.

Short-haired Dachund

A Brief History of the Dachshund

While the breed is commonly associated with Germany, some theories suggest its roots stretch back to Ancient Egypt.

Engravings from this bygone era depict short-legged hunting dogs strikingly similar in appearance to the Dachshund we know today.

These illustrations may imply a far older lineage for the breed than previously thought.

However, the official origin of the Dachshund can be traced back to Germany in the 15th Century.

The name "Dachshund" means "badger dog" in German, reflecting their original purpose: hunting badgers.

The Standard Dachshund, with its keen sense of smell and its long, low body, could dig into badger dens and flush out prey.

It's important to note that the Dachshund breed was originally larger than today's standard variety, weighing between 31lb (16kg) and 40lb (18kg).

A Different Look

Dachshunds are unique dogs that look different from many others.

They come in three types of fur:

• Smooth

• Wire

• Long-coated.

Each type has its own special history and traits.

The Dachshund also come in two sizes, each designed for a specific hunting task.

The Standard Dachshund for Burrowing after Badgers and Foxes, and the Miniature Dachshund for Rabbits.

Expert Digger.

This breed was developed for its courage, tenacity, and ability to work underground.

The Dachshund's front paws are notably paddle-shaped, an adaptation that aids in digging.

This feature was particularly beneficial when undertaking the 'extreme' digging required for hunting badgers, rabbits, and other underground mammals.

Complementing this, the breed's deep chest expands, giving them the lung capacity needed for hunting in subterranean conditions.

Despite their small size, Dachshunds still have a strong hunting instinct and a bold personality that reflects their working dog heritage.

Dachshund Courage

Their lineage has endowed them with an impressive degree of courage.

Enabling them to square off against larger, fiercer opponents without intimidation.

This boldness manifests even in encounters with much larger dogs.

Illustrating the indomitable spirit of this small but mighty breed.

A German Favourite

The Dachshund's strong association with Germany led to its selection as the first official mascot of the 1972 Summer Olympics in Munich.

The mascot's name was Waldi, a testament to the breed's popularity and symbolic representation of its homeland.

One of the most noteworthy advocates of the Dachshund breed was Queen Victoria.

The British Queen loved dogs very much, and she found Dachshunds, with their unique look, especially charming.

Because of her love for this breed, she brought several Dachshunds to Britain, introducing them to many people.

This critical event helped make Dachshunds popular in the United Kingdom.

America Loves Dachshunds

In the United States, Dachshunds have a history of hunting prairie dogs and tracking deer, reflecting their innate tenacity.

A characteristic passed down from their ancestors, who hunted fierce and tenacious badgers.

They have retained this hunting instinct through the centuries.

The breed is still being used for hunting, especially in Europe, to this day.

Modern Dachshunds, despite their domestication, often exhibit ancestral behaviours, including furious digging or attempts to pursue prey.

National Dachshund Racing

In contemporary America, the Dachshund has found a new arena to showcase its agility and tenacity: competitive sports.

Events such as the Wiener Nationals and the National Dachshund Racing Championships sponsored by Wiener Schnitzel attract numerous adoring fans.

Beyond the excitement of the race, these events celebrate the breed's enduring charm and athleticism.

In North America, the Dachshund mainly leads a life of domestic comfort, often found snuggling up in family homes.

Its unique charm and friendliness have made it one of the most popular breeds registered with the American Kennel Club (AKC).

Popularity

In addition to the Dachshund's illustrious history and versatile abilities, the breed has also been in the spotlight for its undeniable charm.

Take, for instance, Robin, a miniature long-haired Dachshund, who not only melts hearts with his cuteness but has also earned prestigious accolades.

Robin, accompanied by his devoted owner Roy Wood, was crowned the Best of Breed Winner at the renowned Crufts dog show on 12th March 2023.

This victory serves as a shining testament to the Dachshund's enduring appeal and versatility, solidifying the breed's standing in the world of canine competitions.

Temperament and Characteristics

The Dachshund is a small dog with a big personality.

They are known for being brave and a bit stubborn.

Many people find these actions funny, cute and very charming.

And it's because of these traits that many people around the world love Dachshunds.

However, their stubbornness can sometimes make training quite a challenge.

Interestingly, a Dachshund's body language often gives off certain impressions.

Either that they are oblivious to, or do not care about, their diminutive size.

They carry the heart and spirit of a big dog.

Which makes them the quintessential embodiment of the phrase "big dog in a small dog's body."

Moreover, they're known for their courageous nature.

Despite their size, Dachshunds won't hesitate to take on animals much larger than themselves.

Underscoring their fearless spirit and tenacity.

As a breed, Dachshunds are incredibly devoted.

They form deep and lasting bonds with their human families, and their fierce loyalty is unmatched.

They tend to be alert and make good watchdogs, often barking to alert their owners of strangers.

But don't be fooled by their loud bark – it's not all bark and no bite.

What To Expect as an Adult Dog

The Dachshund's unique physique, while adding to its charm, also makes it prone to specific health issues.

They are particularly susceptible to disc problems due to their elongated backs, making these dogs unsuitable for homes with many steps.

You should also take precautions to prevent them from jumping on and off furniture, as doing this can put undue strain on their backs.

It's also essential to maintain their weight within a healthy range to avoid additional pressure on their spine.

They generally interact well with children, provided they are treated kindly.

Dachshunds adapt well to apartment living if they get enough exercise.

They thrive in homes that provide plenty of attention and mental stimulation.

Differences Between Short-Haired, Long-Haired, and Wire-Haired Dachshunds

Dachshunds come in three coat types, each with unique traits:

• Short-haired Dachshunds have smooth, shiny coats that are easy to groom.

  They tend to be the most active and energetic of the three types.

• Long-haired Dachshunds have silky, flowing coats that require more grooming to prevent mats.

They are often calmer and more gentle.

• Wire-haired Dachshunds have a dense, rough coat with a distinctive beard and eyebrows.

Their coat protects them in rough terrain and requires

hand-stripping or trimming.

Are Dachshunds Good Family Pets?

• Dachshunds And Children.

Dachshunds can make excellent family pets when properly socialised.

They usually get along well with children, especially if children are taught to handle them gently.

Their playful nature makes them fun companions, but their small size means they need supervision to prevent rough play.

However, owners need to recognise their dog's body language.

Dachshunds, like any breed, can experience stress, and understanding their signals can help prevent situations from escalating.

Always supervise your Dachshund when they're interacting with children and vulnerable adults to ensure the safety and comfort of all parties.

Supervision not only promotes a harmonious relationship but also reinforces trust and companionship between your Dachshund and family.

• Dachshunds and Other Pets

On the whole, if your Dachshund has been well-socialised from a tender age, they should generally coexist peacefully with other dogs.

However, it's important to note that Dachshunds possess a high prey drive and are fond of chasing.

As such, it's not advisable to keep them with smaller pets, as their instinctual drive may overtake their training.

Regarding cats, a Dachshund might get along well with a feline that they have grown up with.

Always watch your Dachshund when they are with other animals.

Watching interactions helps keep all pets safe and happy.

• Home Alone and Boredom

Dachshunds are a breed that thrives on attention and companionship, and they do not take well to being left alone.

Boredom leads to a range of behavioural issues that manifest in various forms of destructiveness.

Whether it's chewing on furniture, digging in the garden, or incessant barking.

A bored Dachshund will find ways to ease its loneliness or frustration.

Interestingly, this is a common Dachshund behaviour issue.

Many Dachshunds tend to react negatively when their owners leave the house.

In fact, in a survey, Dachshunds ranked high for destructiveness when left alone.

• Barking

It is also worth mentioning that some Dachshunds are prone to excessive barking.

They might bark at passing pedestrians, or other animals, or simply out of frustration.

This vocal expression could be another way for them to vent their frustration or to entertain themselves in your absence.

In essence, a Dachshund is not just a pet; they are a family member who desires engagement and interaction.

Therefore, it is crucial to ensure they are adequately stimulated and cared for, even when you're not present.

If not, your adorable little companion might turn into an industrious little destructor in pursuit of entertainment.

Who Makes a Good Owner for a Dachshund?

Ideal Dachshund owners are people who:

• Have time for daily exercise and play

• Can provide consistent training and boundaries

• Are patient with their independent streak

• Understand the breed's health needs and potential back issues

  
  

Appearance and Size

Dachshunds are small dogs with a distinctive elongated body and short muscular legs.

They have long backs, dolichocephalic (long-faced), naturally floppy ears and short, bowed legs.

Which earned them the less flattering yet affectionate nicknames of "Sausage Dog", "Hot Dog", or "Wieners".

Their physical appearance makes them special and easy to recognise.

They have a long snout, which gives them a thoughtful and attentive look.

Their long, floppy ears not only make them look cute but also help keep their inner ear clean by blocking dirt and debris.

Finally, their tail, which is carried straight like their back, helps keep their long body balanced.

All three varieties of Dachshunds — the Smooth, the Wire, and the Long-coated — come in two sizes: Standard and Miniature.

Their coats come in a variety of colours: -

• Black and Tan

• Blue and Tan

• Brindle

• Chocolate and Tan

• Cream

• Dapple (Chocolate Dapple/Red Dapple)

• Fawn and Tan

• Piebals

• Red

• Sable

• Wild Boar

Their size varies slightly by type:

• Standard-Height: 20 to 27cm at the shoulder

• Standard-Weight: 9 to 12 Kg (20 to 26 lbs)

• Miniature-Height: 13 to 18 cm at the shoulder

• Miniature-Weight: 4.5 to 5 kg (10 to 11 lbs)

Expectations:

• Exercise Requirements:- 30-60 minutes daily, split into 2 sessions

• Energy Level: – Very energetic

• Life Expectancy: – 12-15 yrs.

• Tendency to Drool: – Low

• Tendency to Snore: – Low

• Tendency to Bark: – High

• Tendency to Dig: – High

• Social/Attention Needs: – High

• Overall Grooming Needs:- High to Low depending on the coat

Club Recognition:

AKC:- Classification: Hound

RKC:- Classification: Scent Hounds

A Wire-haired Dachshund

Grooming Routine

Depending on their type, Dachshunds can be high- or low-maintenance when it comes to grooming.

• Short-haired: Weekly brushing to remove loose hair.

• Long-haired: Brushing several times a week to prevent tangles and mats, and to remove any debris they may have collected during their walks.

• Wire-haired: Wire Dachshunds require weekly grooming.

  Use a bristle brush and a wide-toothed metal comb for this purpose.

  Giving special attention to the longer hairs on their legs and their beard to prevent and address tangles.

  Wire - haired Dachshunds are unique in that they have a double coat and do not moult like other Dachshunds.

  Their coat comprises a longer, harsh top coat underpinned by a dense undercoat.

  Two to three times a year, the long, dead top coat needs to be stripped to allow a fresh top coat to grow.

  This task can be undertaken by a professional groomer if preferred.

It's important to note that, irrespective of the type of Dachshund, they will shed throughout the year.

Regular vacuuming of your home and its bed will help keep this shedding manageable.

• Bathing Your Dachshund.

It does not matter what type of coat your Dachshund has.

Whether it's short, long, or wired, a general rule is to bathe them approximately once every three months.

This three-month rule applies to all variations of the Dachshund breed.

 If you bathe your Dachshund too often, their coat will be stripped of its natural oils, leading to dryness and possible skin irritation.

On the other hand, too infrequent baths can leave your Dachshund with a dirty coat and potential skin issues.

Therefore, maintaining a quarterly bathing schedule helps keep your Dachshund clean and healthy, and preserves the natural Luster and health of their unique coat.

Dachshunds Require Regular:

• Eye cleaning to prevent discharge buildup

• Ear cleaning to avoid infections, especially since their ears are floppy

• Nail trimming every few weeks to keep nails short and healthy

  When you cut your dog's nails, make sure to trim them just above the "Quick."

  The Quick is the soft part inside the nail that contains nerves and blood vessels.

Be careful not to cut this part, as it can hurt your dog and cause bleeding.

Are you uncertain about how to properly trim your dog's nails?

Or are you attempting it for the first time?

If so, seek advice from a Veterinarian or take your dog to see a professional dog groomer.

They can provide a demonstration on the safe and correct way to maintain your Dachshund's nails.

Which will ensure your pet's comfort and health.

• Dental Care:

Your Dachshund typically has all its adult teeth by about 6 months of age.

Then it is important to start incorporating dental care into your pet's grooming routine.

Brushing the teeth with a small soft toothbrush at least once a week is recommended.

Always use a toothpaste designed for dogs, often called "Doggy Toothpaste."

Using only Doggie Toothpaste is essential because human toothpaste can be very harmful to dogs if swallowed.

So be sure to use a safe, specially formulated product for your canine companion.

Regularly brushing your dog's teeth reduces plaque buildup and promotes overall dental health, helping prevent periodontal disease and bad breath.

Along with regular brushing, dental chews can also help maintain your dog's oral hygiene.

• Flea Prevention

Even the most immaculate homes can occasionally encounter a flea infestation.

Regular grooming is fundamental to controlling this problem.

Regular grooming helps you spot and address potential infestations early.

If you do experience a flea problem, it's advisable to buy treatment from your Vet.

Buying from a Vet ensures you're using a safe and effective product.

If your dog keeps scratching even after being treated for parasites, it might indicate an allergy.

Continuous scratching after treatment may indicate another problem that needs attention.

It's important to talk to your Vet about this to find out the best way to help your dog.

Socialisation

Socialising your Dachshund from a young age with people, dogs, and different experiences is crucial.

Early socialisation helps reduce barking and fearfulness, ensuring they mature into cheerful, charming adults.

Dachshunds are at their happiest when they can spend time with people and have fun playing different games.

Training

Dachshunds are known for their stubborn and independent nature, which can make them a unique challenge to train.

Patience, consistency, and positive, reward-based training methods are the key to successful learning sessions with these distinctive dogs.

Regular daily walks and interactive playtime are also vital components of their routine.

Neglecting these activities may lead to loneliness and boredom, which can trigger unwanted behaviours such as excessive barking.

It is invaluable to start training Dachshunds early, using methods that reward good behaviour.

Clear boundaries need to be established and upheld consistently.

Be prepared for a journey of patience with these feisty little friends.

Due to their strong prey drive and sense of smell, they can easily get distracted and may lose interest in training sessions.

It's essential to keep sessions engaging and rewarding to maintain their focus and interest.

Getting distracted can make them a bit tricky for people who are new to having dogs.

Because of this, they are usually a better fit for owners with more experience who know how to care for their special needs and behaviours.

If you find yourself needing additional support in training your Dachshund, consider looking into enrolling in an accredited training course.

You may be able to find a course suitable for you to do in our affiliated shop, on this website under Canine Principles Dog Courses.

These professional courses can provide you with valuable insights and techniques.

Guiding you in fostering a disciplined and well-behaved companion.

Exercise

Standard-sized Dachshunds require at least 1 hour of daily physical activity.

If you are the owner of a miniature Dachshund, a half-hour exercise routine should suffice.

Ideally, these routines should include a couple of walks each day.

One of which should be slightly longer to allow ample time for sniffing a favourite pastime for these scent-driven dogs.

Off-lead playtime in a secure area is also beneficial, as it allows them to run and explore freely.

Regular exercise is crucial for Dachshunds.

However, because of their long backs, they should avoid activities that involve jumping from heights or excessive stair climbing to protect their spine.

Games and Activities :

• Puzzle toys

• Hide and seek

• Scent tracking games

• Basic obedience training sessions

• Fetch

• Chase The Prey

• Agility Training

• Retrievals

• Tug Games

  
  

These activities keep Dachshunds engaged and reduce boredom-related behaviours.

While it's crucial to ensure your Dachshund gets enough exercise, you should take it easy, especially while they are still growing.

However, due to their unique physical structure, characterised by shorter legs and longer backs, they're prone to overexertion.

Therefore, they potentially sustain injuries while their bones are still developing.

Avoid Overstimulation

There are numerous games and activities to engage your dog, both indoors and outdoors.

So it's vital to ensure the play isn't overly aggressive or overstimulating.

Enjoyable interactions with your dog not only enrich both of your lives but also foster a strong bond.

However, it's essential to be mindful of your pet's energy levels and mood during playtime.

Always aim to conclude your play sessions on a positive note, while you're both still enjoying yourselves.

This approach leaves your dog looking forward to their next play session.

Rather than feeling exhausted and discouraged.

Remember that the goal is to create a fun and stimulating environment for your dog, not to overwhelm them.

Common Health Conditions

Dachshunds are usually healthy dogs, but they can develop some health problems.

The most common are:

• Heart Disease

• Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD)

• Obesity, which increases the strain on their back

• Dental problems

• Eye conditions like cataracts

  
  

Food and Nutrition

Feeding depends on life stages:

Feeding your Dachshund a balanced diet full of essential nutrients is crucial.

It's important not to feed Dachshunds too much food because they can easily become overweight.

Overfeeding can lead to other health complications.

When it comes to choosing the best dog food for your Dachshund, keep its unique breed traits in mind.

Dachshunds are small dogs.

A small-breed dog food or a weight-management formula helps them maintain their ideal body condition.

Are you caring for a Dachshund puppy?

If so, remember that puppies of all breeds require specific nutritional needs during their first year.

Opt for a formula that contains DHA to nourish brain and vision development.

It will also need antioxidants to support its developing immune system and help it mature into a healthy adult dog.

Your Dachshund's diet will change as they age.

A complete and balanced diet is vital for dogs to maintain a healthy weight.

Your Vet or a competent Veterinary nurse can guide you on the appropriate quantity of food your Dachshund should consume.

Feeding your Dashchund a high-quality, commercially available, complete dog food should suffice.

Partitioning their daily ration into two meals is advisable.

If you provide your Dachshund with occasional treats or use treats for training, include them in their overall daily intake.

Treats should not account for more than 10% of their daily caloric intake, as this could disrupt their balanced diet.

Aim to feed your dog at consistent periods each day as they appreciate routine.

Always ensure to observe a gap between their meals and exercise periods.

Key points for feeding your Dachshund:

• Puppies:  Nourish your puppy with high-quality food packed with protein and essential nutrients to promote healthy growth.

• Adults: Balanced diet with controlled calories to avoid weight gain.

• Seniors: Food formulated for joint health and lower calories to match reduced activity.

  
  

Avoid overfeeding and provide measured portions to keep your Dachshund fit.

Preventing Health Issues

To reduce health risks:

• Keep your Dachshund at a healthy weight, feed it a balanced diet, and exercise it regularly.

• Use ramps or steps to avoid jumping injuries

• Keep up with vaccinations and parasite control

• Schedule regular Vet visits to detect any issues early.

A Reputable Breeder

If you are looking for a Dachshund puppy, please opt for a Kennel Club Assured Breeder, or a Breeder you know is Reputable.

A Kennel Club Assured Breeder is required to meet additional standards that can be beneficial for your puppy's health.

These breeders are committed to maintaining high breeding standards that prioritise the health and well-being of their puppies.

Final Thoughts

Dachshunds have unique personalities and playful attitudes, which can make them great companions for people who are ready to care for them.

Despite potential health issues associated with this breed, it is generally considered healthy and long-lived.

As a result, you must remain aware of the risks associated with overfeeding and insufficient exercise.

The Dachshund is a dog that loves companionship and can develop stress-related issues when left alone.

The Dachshund is an excellent choice for those seeking a loyal canine companion.

Their compact size makes them particularly well-suited for people living in apartments or smaller living spaces.

Additionally, their charming personalities often endear them to families, making them valued members of the household.

Because of a Dachshund's independent streak, fearlessness, and prey drive, they are not well-suited to novice owners.

Before buying, ensure the puppy's parents have undergone the necessary health screenings.

Health screening the parents of the puppies can significantly decrease the likelihood that your puppy will be affected by certain heritable conditions.

If you are looking for a devoted companion with plenty of character and charisma, the Dachshund should be at the top of your list.

Getting a Dachshund can be a great experience.

They will give you lots of love and be your friend for many years.