Dachshund

Overview

The Dachshund, famously known as the sausage dog, is unmistakable. But it’s not just a cute face and a long body; it is a tenacious hunter bred to enter burrows and face badgers. Today it is one of the most popular companion dogs for its fun and affectionate character.

Origin & History

Created in Germany hundreds of years ago, its elongated shape and short legs are not an accident: they are functional design for digging and entering narrow tunnels. “Dachshund” literally means “badger dog.”

Temperament & Personality

They are big dogs in small bodies.

• Bravery: Sometimes they forget their size and can challenge much larger dogs.
• Stubbornness: They have their own ideas about what to do. Training requires patience and positive reinforcement.
• Affectionate: They love to snuggle under blankets with their owners.

Physical Characteristics

There are three sizes (Standard, Miniature, and Rabbit/Kaninchen) and three coat types (Smooth, Wirehaired, and Longhaired).

• Body: Low, long, and compact. Powerful musculature.
• Head: Elongated with an alert and friendly expression.
• Lifespan: Very long-lived, often exceeding 15 years.

Puppy Stage

Dachshund puppies are adorable but notoriously difficult to potty train.

• Socialization: Important so they don’t become fearful or excessive barkers.
• Spine: From a young age, they (and the family) must be taught not to jump from sofas or beds, and to be picked up supporting their back well.

Adult Stage

• Exercise: They need to walk to keep their back muscles strong, but avoiding jumps and impacts.
• Scent: They love to track. Scent games tire them mentally more than running.

Health & Care

Their weak point is their back.

• IVDD (Intervertebral Disc Disease): It is critical to keep them at a healthy weight and avoid constant stair climbing or jumping.
• Obesity: They gain weight easily, which worsens back problems.

Needs & Routines

• Feeding: Strict control of portions.
• Grooming: Depends on the coat. Smooth is “wash and wear.” Wirehaired requires hand-stripping, and longhaired requires frequent brushing.
• Ramps: Installing ramps is recommended so they can get on the sofa or bed without jumping.