Dachshund
The brave little 'sausage dog'.
The Dachshund is a small hound with a long body, short legs and a huge personality. Bred to hunt underground, it is bold, clever and devoted, and it comes in smooth, long and wire coats.
Great points
- Big personality in a small body
- Long lifespan
- Loyal and entertaining companion
- Comes in three coat types
Things to consider
- Prone to serious back problems
- Stubborn and tricky to house-train
- Can be a barker and a digger
- Wary of strangers without socialising
The story
Bred in Germany to dig into badger setts, the name means badger dog, the Dachshund packed the heart and bark of a big hunting hound into a low, fearless, unmistakable body.
Training
Dachshunds are clever but stubborn, so patient, positive training and early socialisation pay off. House-training in particular takes time and consistency.
Grooming
Grooming depends on the coat. Smooth coats need just a weekly brush, while long and wire coats need more frequent brushing and occasional trimming.
Food & diet
Roughly 0.5 to 1.5 cups a day depending on size. Keeping them lean is critical, since extra weight strains the long back.
Exercise
Moderate flat walks and play. Avoid high jumps and rough stairs to spare the long back.
Health to watch
Disc disease (IVDD) is the big risk, along with obesity, dental problems and luxating patella.
Fun fact. The Dachshund is the only breed recognised in both a standard and a miniature size, and in three different coat types.
