The Dachshund is a small, energetic, and adorable dog breed originating from Germany, known for its captivating personality and variety of coat textures and colors, short legs, droopy ears, and broad chest.
Affectionately called the doxie, sausage dog, hotdog, or wiener dog, this cute small-sized breed definitely leaves a lasting impression.
The Dachshund is bred in standard or miniature size, but the characteristics of this breed are similar for both.
Group: Hound
Height: 7.9 to 9.1 inches (standard); 5.1 to 5.9 inches (miniature)
Weight: 15.4 to 33.1 pounds (standard); up to 11 pounds (miniature)
Coat: Varieties include smooth, longhaired, and wirehaired.
Coat Color: Colors include (but are not limited to) black, brown, fawn, cream, blue, chocolate, and red with various markings such as dapple, bicolor, brindle, and sable.
Average Lifespan: 12 to 16 years
Temperament: Intelligent, playful, stubborn, devoted, lively, independent, courageous
Hypoallergenic: No
Origin: Germany
Dachshund Characteristics
The Dachshund, known for its distinctive appearance and lively personality, is a beloved dog breed cherished by many.
Dachshunds are characterized by their elongated bodies, short legs, and droopy ears. They come in three coat varieties: smooth, longhaired, and wirehaired. With a broad chest and expressive eyes, they have an unmistakable look that captures hearts.
These dogs are known for their intelligence, playfulness, and stubbornness. They are devoted companions with a lively disposition. Dachshunds can be affectionate towards their families but may exhibit aloofness towards strangers. Their courageous nature makes them excellent watchdogs.
While Dachshunds can make wonderful family pets, they may not be the best choice for households with young children due to their sensitive backs and propensity to be territorial. Supervision is essential when interacting with smaller children to prevent accidental injuries.
Overall, Dachshunds are affectionate, loyal, and spirited companions that bring joy and laughter to their families with their unique personalities and undeniable charm.
Dachshund History
The Dachshund originated in Germany as a hunting dog. Although its origins can be traced back to the 15th century, the development of the breed truly began in the 17th century in Germany.
Called dachshunds, which translates as “badger dogs,” these short dogs hunted precisely that – badgers. Their stature, determination, and independence were ideal for digging, entering tunnels, and, of course, battling badgers. Their droopy ears helped keep dirt and debris out when digging.
Further development of the breed created two size varieties. Historically, the standard size continued to hunt badgers as well as wild boar, while the miniature pursued hares and foxes. There are also medium-sized Dachshunds in Germany.
Dachshund races, known as “wiener races,” are popular in some places for fun.
Dachshund Care
Dachshunds are tenacious, which was good in hunting dogs, but this trait can bother you at home. Dachshunds have a strong hunting instinct, so they may not be a good option for a home that includes pet rodents or other small animals.
They generally get along with other Dachshunds, but they tend to want to be the dominant dog in a multi-pet household. The propensity to dig can result in damage to your potted plants and garden. Keep this in mind and provide alternative activities for your pet.
Exercise
Dachshunds are naturally prone to developing obesity. To prevent weight gain, your Dachshund should exercise regularly.
Daily walks are recommended, with at least two 10-minute walks per day, plus some playtime, like fetching a ball. But proper nutrition is also crucial, and you should ensure you’re not overfeeding.
Grooming
The grooming needs of Dachshunds depend on the type of coat. The long-haired variety requires daily brushing but generally doesn’t need professional grooming.
Smooth-coated Dachshunds have a higher shedding rate than other varieties. All Dachshunds should be bathed as needed (often if there are skin issues).
Be sure to trim nails regularly to prevent problems with the feet. Those droopy ears also need attention to stay clean and monitor signs of infection or mites.
Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing your dog’s teeth a few times a week.
Training
Although loved for their bold personality, Dachshunds can tend to be stubborn, protective, and defensive.
Many Dachshunds are also known for their tendency to bark. Proper obedience training can turn these potential issues into beneficial qualities.
Dachshunds can be challenging to train to do their business in the right place. You’ll need to be persistent and may want to use a crate. Be prepared with puppy pads and cleaning products.
Problemas de Saúde Comuns
Common Health Problems
Responsible breeders seek to maintain the highest breed standards set by kennel clubs like the AKC. Dogs bred to these standards are less likely to inherit health conditions. However, some hereditary health problems can occur in the breed. Here are some conditions to be aware of:
- Intervertebral Disc Disease: You’ll need to be careful to protect your Dachshund’s back. Up to 25% of Dachshunds have intervertebral disc disease, which can result in the deterioration of vertebral discs and susceptibility to bulges when under strain or injury to the back.
- Diabetes Mellitus: This is a common but manageable chronic disease found in younger and older dogs who have an abnormal response to insulin. Excessive thirst and weight loss are two early symptoms.
- Epilepsy: This brain disease causes seizures in dogs. There are no known causes for this disease.
- Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus: Commonly known as bloat, this emergency care issue typically occurs in larger breeds, but Dachshunds have large chests that put them at risk for this problem as well. The stomach cavity becomes trapped with gas or air that the dog can’t expel.
- Acanthosis Nigricans: Portions of the dog’s skin may become darkened and thickened. This condition can be caused by allergies or hormones and can be controlled.
Feeding and Nutrition
The amount of food needed will depend on your dog’s size, activity level, age, and other factors. Be sure to provide high-quality food and monitor your dog’s intake and weight.
Take early steps if you notice your dog is becoming overweight, and talk to your vet about the appropriate feeding schedule, type of food, and amount to keep your dog at a healthy weight. This will help your dog reach its natural average lifespan.
Where to Adopt or Buy a Dachshund
Before acquiring a Dachshund, talk to other owners, research reputable breeders, and fan groups to better understand the breed.
Find a responsible breeder who provides detailed information and ensures a safe environment for the puppies.
Puppy prices range from €500 to €1200, depending on lineage and availability. Be sure to choose a breeder committed to the welfare of the dogs, such as those listed by the Dachshund Club of America.
You can also check these rescues in the US:
Breed Overview
- Dachshunds can be stubborn
- Predisposition to Back Problems
- Some Dachshunds tend to be excessive vocalizers
- Need for Proper Exercise