Dachshund

Dachshunds are a unique and beloved dog breed known for their long bodies, short legs, and lively personalities. Often referred to as "sausage dogs," they are cherished for their affectionate and loyal nature.

Table of Contents

• What are the pros and cons of owning a Dachshund?
• Brief History of the Dachshund
• Are there different types of Dachshund?
• How big do Dachshunds get?
• How much exercise does a Dachshund need?
• How energetic is a Dachshund?
• Are Dachshunds easy to train?
• How much do Dachshunds shed?
• How often should I groom a Dachshund?
• Do Dachshunds bark excessively?
• Are Dachshunds good with children?
• What is the temperament of Dachshunds?
• How do Dachshunds get along with other pets?
• Can Dachshunds live in apartments?
• How does the Dachshund cope with being left alone?
• What are the common health problems in Dachshunds?
• What is the lifespan of Dachshunds?
• How much does a Dachshund cost to keep each month?
• How intelligent is a Dachshund?
• Are Dachshunds sociable?
• What are common behavioural traits in Dachshunds?
• What is the best diet for a Dachshund?
• Who is an ideal owner for a Dachshund?
• Recommended Treats & Chews for Dachshunds

What are the pros and cons of owning a Dachshund?

Pros

• Affectionate and Loyal: Dachshunds are incredibly affectionate dogs that form strong bonds with their owners and families.
• Intelligent and Quick Learners: These dogs are smart and can learn new commands and tricks easily, often eager to please their owners.
• Fun-Loving and Playful: Dachshunds have a playful, spirited personality and love engaging in games with their humans.
• Natural Clowns: Dachshunds can be comical and entertaining, often showing a goofy side that endears them to their families.
• Energetic and Feisty: Dachshunds are full of energy and thrive when mentally and physically stimulated.
• Low Maintenance: In terms of grooming and general care, Dachshunds are relatively easy to look after.

Cons

• Not Ideal for First-Time Owners: Dachshunds have a strong will and independent streak, making them a bit challenging for inexperienced dog owners.
• Housetraining Can Be Difficult: Due to their stubborn nature, Dachshunds can be more challenging to housetrain compared to some other breeds.
• Stubborn Tendencies: Dachshunds can be wilful and may require patience and consistency during training.
• Care Required for Puppies: Due to their long backs and short legs, Dachshund puppies should not be allowed to jump on or off furniture, as this can cause injury to their spine or joints.
• Prone to Weight Gain: Without sufficient daily exercise, Dachshunds can easily gain weight, which can exacerbate back problems.
• Can Be Wilful During Training: While intelligent, Dachshunds can also be wilful, requiring consistent and positive training methods to ensure success.
• Potential for Over-Protectiveness: Without proper socialisation from a young age, Dachshunds can become over-protective of their family.
• Excessive Barking: If not trained early to manage barking, Dachshunds can become frequent barkers.
• Health Concerns: Dachshunds are prone to various health issues, particularly back problems, which can result in high vet bills, making pet insurance essential for Dachshund owners.

Brief History of the Dachshund

The Dachshund, whose name means "badger dog" in German, was originally bred in Germany during the 15th century. Their primary purpose was to hunt badgers, with their long, low bodies enabling them to follow badgers into their burrows. Over the years, the breed was further refined for its hunting capabilities, and different sizes and coat types were developed to help them track a range of animals, including rabbits and foxes.

Dachshunds were prized for their courage, determination, and independent nature. By the 19th century, they gained popularity as pets, not just hunters. Today, while some Dachshunds may still be used in hunting, they are primarily known as companions and family pets, loved for their playful, curious, and often stubborn personalities.

Are there different types of Dachshund?

How big do Dachshunds get?

The size of a Dachshund depends on whether it’s a Standard or Miniature:

• Standard Dachshunds typically weigh between 7.5-14 kg and stand around 20 to 22 cm (8 to 9 inches) tall at the shoulder.
• Miniature Dachshunds weigh 4.5-5 kg and are shorter, standing at 13 to 18 cm (5 to 7 inches).

Their long, low bodies are their most defining physical feature, which is both an advantage and a potential health concern due to their susceptibility to back issues.

How much exercise does a Dachshunds need?

Despite their small size, Dachshunds are surprisingly energetic and need 30 to 60 minutes of exercise per day. They enjoy walks, playtime in the garden, and activities that engage their hunting instincts, such as games of fetch or puzzle toys.

It's essential to balance their need for activity with care for their back. Avoid activities that involve jumping or climbing, as these can strain their spine and lead to injuries, such as intervertebral disc disease (IVDD).

How energetic is a Dachshund?

Dachshunds are relatively energetic dogs, especially during their younger years. They have bursts of enthusiasm and love to play, dig, and explore, often acting fearlessly despite their small size. While they do enjoy plenty of activity, they also love relaxing on the couch with their owners, making them well-balanced companions.

As they age, Dachshunds may slow down a bit, but regular exercise is still necessary to prevent weight gain and maintain their overall health.

Are Dachshunds easy to train?

Dachshunds are intelligent but can also be stubborn, which may make training a bit challenging, especially for first-time dog owners. Their independent nature, a trait developed from their history as hunting dogs, means they can sometimes be headstrong and easily distracted.

Consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement are crucial when training a Dachshund. They respond well to treats and praise, but sessions should be kept short and engaging to hold their interest.

How much do Dachshunds shed?

The amount of shedding depends on the Dachshund’s coat type:

• Smooth-Haired Dachshunds shed the least and are low-maintenance in terms of grooming.
• Long-Haired Dachshunds shed more, particularly during seasonal changes, and require more regular grooming to manage their coat.
• Wire-Haired Dachshunds also shed, though their coarse coat may trap loose hairs, reducing visible shedding but necessitating regular brushing to remove dead hairs.

How often should I groom a Dachshund?

The frequency of grooming depends on the coat type:

• Smooth-Haired Dachshunds need brushing once a week to remove loose hair and maintain coat health.
• Long-Haired Dachshunds should be brushed several times a week to prevent tangles and mats. Their coat may also need trimming around the ears, paws, and tail.
• Wire-Haired Dachshunds need weekly brushing and occasional hand-stripping to remove dead hairs from their rough coat. They may also need their beard and eyebrows trimmed.

All Dachshunds, regardless of coat type, require regular ear cleaning, nail trimming, and dental care.

Do Dachshunds bark excessively?

Yes, Dachshunds are known to be vocal. Their strong hunting instincts make them alert dogs who bark to communicate and protect their territory. They may bark at strangers, noises, or even out of boredom.

Training can help reduce excessive barking, but it's essential to understand that barking is a natural trait of the breed. Providing enough mental and physical stimulation can help manage their vocal tendencies.

Are Dachshunds good with children?

Dachshunds can be good with children, particularly when they are raised together and the dog is socialised from a young age. Their playful and affectionate nature makes them great companions for older children. However, because of their small size and fragile backs, it's important to teach children how to interact with them gently to avoid injury.

Very young children may unintentionally be too rough with Dachshunds, so supervision is always recommended.

What is the temperament of Dachshunds?

Dachshunds are known for their bold, curious, and lively temperament. They are often described as fearless, displaying a confidence that can make them seem much larger than their small size suggests. Despite their bravery, they are also affectionate and loyal, forming strong bonds with their families.

They can be stubborn at times, which can make training challenging, but their intelligence and eagerness to please make them endearing companions. They are protective of their homes and families, often acting as little watchdogs. 

 

How do Dachshunds get along with other pets?

Dachshunds can get along well with other pets, particularly if they are socialised from a young age. However, their hunting instincts may make them prone to chasing smaller animals, such as cats or rabbits. Careful introductions and supervision are important to ensure harmony between pets.

Dachshunds typically enjoy the company of other dogs, especially if they are of similar size or temperament, though they can be territorial with unfamiliar animals.

Can Dachshunds live in apartments?

Yes, Dachshunds are well-suited to apartment living due to their small size and moderate exercise needs. However, they are energetic dogs that need daily walks and mental stimulation to prevent boredom. It’s also important to manage their barking, which can become an issue in close quarters like an apartment.

Providing plenty of toys, puzzle feeders, and interactive games can help keep them entertained in smaller living spaces.

How does the Dachshund cope with being left alone?

Dachshunds are very people-oriented and can suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for long periods. They may become bored or anxious, leading to destructive behaviours such as chewing or excessive barking.

If you need to leave your Dachshund alone, it's essential to gradually acclimatise them to being on their own. Providing toys, chews, and a comfortable space can help ease their anxiety. Hiring a dog walker or having a friend check in on them during the day may also be beneficial.

What are the common health problems in Dachshunds?

Due to their long bodies and short legs, Dachshunds are prone to several health issues, particularly related to their spine. Common health problems include:

• Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD): A condition that affects the spine and can cause pain, paralysis, or difficulty moving. This is a significant risk for Dachshunds and requires careful management.
• Hip Dysplasia: While more common in larger breeds, some Dachshunds may develop hip problems.
• Obesity: Dachshunds are prone to weight gain, which can exacerbate other health issues, especially IVDD.
• Eye Conditions: Including cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), which can lead to blindness.
• Dental Issues: Due to their small mouths, Dachshunds are susceptible to dental problems, so regular dental care is essential.

What is the lifespan of Dachshunds?

The average lifespan of a Dachshund is 12 to 16 years, though some may live even longer with proper care. Providing a healthy diet, regular exercise, and routine veterinary check-ups can help ensure your Dachshund lives a long and happy life.

How much does a Dachshund cost to keep each month?

The monthly cost of keeping a Dachshund can range between £50 to £100, depending on factors such as food, grooming, veterinary care, and pet insurance. Dachshunds are prone to certain health issues, so it’s advisable to budget for potential medical expenses.

How intelligent is a Dachshund?

Dachshunds are highly intelligent but can be independent and stubborn, which sometimes makes them seem less trainable. They are quick learners but may choose to follow their own instincts rather than obey commands, especially if they pick up a scent or see something that triggers their hunting instincts.

Their intelligence means they do well with puzzle toys and training sessions that engage their mind. However, they need consistency and patience from their owners.

Are Dachshunds sociable?

Dachshunds are generally sociable dogs that enjoy the company of their family members. They can be friendly with strangers, though some may be a bit aloof or cautious at first. They often have strong bonds with their families and love to be the centre of attention.

What are common behavioural traits in Dachshunds?

Some common behavioural traits in Dachshunds include:

• Stubbornness: While intelligent, they can be headstrong, often following their own instincts.
• Boldness: Dachshunds are fearless and confident, often taking on challenges bigger than themselves.
• Digging: As natural burrowers, Dachshunds love to dig, a trait that comes from their hunting heritage.
• Barking: They are vocal and may bark at unfamiliar sounds or people.

What is the best diet for a Dachshund?

A balanced diet is essential for a Dachshund, focusing on high-quality protein, healthy fats, and the appropriate amount of carbohydrates. Dachshunds can be prone to weight gain, so portion control and monitoring treats are vital to their health.

Who is an ideal owner for a Dachshund?

The ideal owner for a Dachshund is someone who understands the breed’s unique temperament and is willing to invest time in training and socialisation. Dachshunds do best in homes where they are not left alone for long periods and where they can get adequate exercise and mental stimulation.

They are well-suited to both families and single owners, as long as they receive enough attention, training, and love. They are not ideal for very young children due to their delicate backs and need for careful handling.

Recommended Treats & Chews for Dachshunds

• Fish Jerky Mini Bites: Ideal for teeth cleaning due to their small size and abrasive texture, these treats are a perfect, natural alternative to dental chews.
• Rabbit Ears with Fur: Tasty chew which has three benefits: anal gland health, natural worming properties and a natural dental floss to keep teeth clean.
• Lamb Ears: Chewy and reasonably long lasting but not so big as to overwhelm a small mouth. Low in fat which reduces any potential weight gain.

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With Wags and Woofs,

Laura, Dolly, Reggie & Bear