Breed History:

Don’t be distracted by this little structure and friendly face – the dachshund breed has long been a violent hunter. This seeking dog was first seen in Germany. Although its origins can be traced back to the 15th century, the development of the dog began in Germany in the 17th century. The Dach refers to badger and the hund refers to dog.

The Dachshund was first developed in two sizes. In the past, the standard size continued to hunt badgers and wild boar, while the miniatures chased foxes and hares. In Germany, there is also a medium-sized Dachshund. Its slender, long body, along with a courageous and smart personality, may breed an alarming opponent for foxes, hares, and badgers. 

The breed arrived in America as early as 1885 and it was recognised by the AKC, but it gained fame in the 1930s and 1940s. Also known as wiener races, the Dachshund is famous in some locations for amusement. 

Size – Small

Life Expectancy: 12 to 16 years

Breed Appearance: 

A well-developed Dachshund has a muscular and long body and short stubby legs. Its deep chest offers enough space for lung capacity and heart development. Smooth dachshunds typically feature shiny, short coats with a variety of patterns and colours, ranging from cream or solid red, merle with light and dark colour, black and tan, brindle with dark stripes and a lighter base, etc. The longhaired variation comes with a shiny, sleek, probably wavy coat that's under the body, neck, and behind the ears and longer on the ears. While the wirehaired variety features a thick, short, and hard top coat that has a wiry texture. 

Breed Type - Family/guard:

Being a friendly and playful dog breed, Dachshunds make great pets for a novice pet lover. However, since these dogs do not get along well with cats and other dogs, it is important to learn to socialise.  In essence, the Dachshund can be a good family pet, but this is not always the case.

They probably love being your only puppy. Additionally, it may be difficult for this breed to live indoors with small children as they tend to have very rough behaviour and may bite. Like other dog breeds, they should not be left unsupervised with small children.

Noticeable and energetic with a deep, booming voice, Dachshunds will eventually bark the alarm at friends and guests at the sight of them. Regardless of their size, the Dachshund tends to be quite alert and protective, making it an excellent watchdog.

Training:

Although the Dachshund is loved for its courageous and intelligent personality, it can tend to be protective, guarded, and protective. Most dachshunds are popular for their tendency to bark; they do best with obedience and positive reinforcement training. 

Use toys, special treats, and plenty of praise to encourage your dog. Since the breed likes to receive and give affection, they do well with treat-based training. Remember that reprimands or harsh commands can sensitise your Dachshund. Also, keep their training sessions quick and short.

If your pet becomes distracted by smells or sounds and loses patience during training, it is advisable to take a short break and resume their training later. Since Dachshunds have a strong nose, they respond well to scent-based games. Try playing hide and seek with rewards to get their attention and provide them with mental stimulation.

Health & Care:

While considered a healthy dog breed, the dachshund can develop certain health conditions, such as Intervertebral disc disease, Diabetes mellitus, Gastric dilatation-volvulus, Epilepsy, etc. If not properly exercised and fed, your dog can develop severe health problems. Not all Dachshunds will suffer from serious health conditions, but it is important to pay attention to all these common conditions when choosing this breed.

Additionally, dachshunds are susceptible to obesity, leading to severe back issues. It's useful following for the breed to follow a strict diet and daily exercise.  Even if they are small, dachshunds require regular exercise to build powerful muscles to protect and support their backs and stay fit. You will need to be determined, and you may wish to utilise crate training.

Living Conditions:

Considered an adaptable breed, the Dachshund can make an ideal pet for the home, especially if there are not too many stairs. Although powerful and energetic, the breed remains completely content inside, as long as its owner is nearby and requires ample play. 

Their small size makes them perfect for the elderly and apartment dwellers. Note: Since dachshunds are tenacious, having evolved as working hunting dogs, they may have this trait to bother you at home.

Exercise:

Dachshunds are extremely prone to obesity. It is advisable to give your dog regular daily walks of at least 15 minutes, along with playtime and fun activities such as puzzle toys, earth dogs, nose work, scent tracking, and interactive feeders. You should also pay attention to avoiding overfeeding your pet. 

Grooming:

Depending on their hair coat, the grooming requirements of the dachshund breed vary. While the long-haired varieties require regular brushing but do not require professional grooming, the smooth variety has a higher amount of hair shedding, so they require frequent grooming. Most Dachshunds should be bathed as little as needed.

Additionally, regular, timely nail trimming should be performed to prevent problems associated with the dog's claws. Their floppy ears also require care to keep away from mites and infections. To maintain oral hygiene, it is recommended to brush the dog's teeth two or three times a week.

Advantages:

• Loyal, affectionate, and forms strong bonds with owners

• Playful and entertaining personality

• Compact size – ideal for apartments and small homes

• Alert and vocal – makes a good little watchdog

• Low grooming needs, especially smooth-coated variety

• Comes in three coat types and two sizes (standard and miniature)

• Generally good with respectful children

Disadvantages:

• Prone to back problems (IVDD) due to long spine

• Can be stubborn and independent – training requires patience

• Strong prey drive – may chase small animals

• Barks frequently if not properly trained

• Needs careful handling – no rough play or stairs

• It can be difficult to housebreak

• May become possessive or jealous if not socialised early