Dachshund Information
Easily recognizable for their short, long bodies, the Dachshund is a friendly, fun breed that loves to sniff around for new smells. It can be miniature or standard in size and comes in three coat varieties – Smooth, Wirehaired, or Longhaired. The breed is traditionally viewed as a symbol of Germany.
Curious and friendly with just the right amount of spunk, the Dachshund is one of the most popular dog breeds today. They don't always do well with children or other pets, so proceed with caution if you have an active home.
Dachshund History
The exact origins of the Dachshund are unknown, as estimates range from the breed being around since the 15th - 18th century. What is known is that the current breed comes from German breeders and includes elements of German, French, and English hounds and terriers.
Dachshunds have been a popular breed in royal courts throughout Europe. They were famously owned by Queen Victoria, who loved the breed.
Dachshunds were bred to hunt badgers and also used for hunting rabbits and foxes. They were also used in packs to hunt wild boars and wolverines. These original Dachshunds were larger than the modern breed we see today.
Dachshund Training & Temperament
Dachshunds are intelligent but can be stubborn. This can make training a challenge, so it's best to take it slow and easy. They do want affection, and positive reinforcement can help. They have a hunting instinct and may become focused on something other than you and be difficult to refocus.
They tend to bark and may need training to lessen the amount they do. In addition, they aren't naturally warm to strangers, so it's essential to socialize them at a young age.
Dachshund Exercise
Dachshunds don't need much exercise; however, to stay healthy, they need some walks. A couple of medium-length daily walks should be sufficient to keep them strong and healthy.
Dachshund Grooming
Dachshunds have three types of coats that will change your grooming experience: smooth, long, and wire. The smooth-coated is easy to deal with. Longhaired will require brushing. Wirehaired requires some trimming. Their nails should be trimmed monthly & their ears cleaned to prevent infections.
Dachshund Health
Dachshunds are generally a healthy breed. However, they need some exercise to keep them strong and prevent injuries. Their weight should also be watched to avoid issues. Avoid too much jumping or running stairs to prevent back injuries.