Dachshund (pronounced DAK sund) originated in Germany, during the 18th and 19th centuries, to hunt badgers. In fact, Dachshund means, 'badger dog' in German. Their unique size and shape made them the perfect hunting dog. Their small legs allowed them to burrow into the ground and their narrow bodies made it easy for them to capture prey. There are three varieties of Dachshund, Standard, which reaches an average height of 14-18 inches and average weight of 20 pounds; Dwarf, with an average height up to 14 inches and weight of 9 pounds; and rabbit, reaching an average height of only 12 inches and weight up to 8 pounds. Dachshund coats also come in three varieties, shorthaired, wire-haired and longhaired.

The shorthaired and wire-haired Dachshunds require little care while the longhaired Dachshund does require more brushing. The coats come in a wide variety of colors as well. Bred for their fearlessness and boldness during the hunt, many Dachshunds display these characteristics. Described as curious and mischievous, they are not always easy to train and can sometimes be stubborn. Due to this personality trait, they are not always the best family pet, and should be watched carefully when around young children. Dachshunds are better with older children who can understand how to approach dogs carefully.

Dachshunds are temperamental and can be easily irritable. They do fairly well with other pets, but have been known to be jealous. Dachshunds are very active dogs that have a lot of stamina and will chase prey for a surprisingly long period of time. They can be rash when chasing prey and therefore caution should be exercised if the Dachshund is allowed to run off leash. In spite of their high energy levels, Dachshunds do well in all living situations, as long as they are exercised at least once a day. Dachshunds are prone to health problems, due largely to their unique shape.

In spite of their high energy levels, they can easily become overweight, so it is important not to overfeed them. Dachshunds usually have the most trouble with their spinal column because of the length of the spinal column and the shortness of the rib cage. Obesity will worsen the problem, as it will create more strain on the back. Most Dachshunds should be discouraged from jumping and climbing stairs in order to lessen the risk of injury. Dachshunds are also prone to heart troubles, diabetes, and urinary tract diseases. There is a website that has great information on Dachshunds and most other breeds of dogs. It has details that pertain to a dog breeds health, grooming, living conditions, best food choices and more, the website is called: Dog And Cat Facts, and can be found at this url:

http://www.dogandcatfacts.com

By Robert W. Benjamin

Copyright © 2006

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The Dachshund is good with older children as long as she has been socialized with them. She may not do well with cats and other pets as she was originally bred to hunt. She likes to be indoors and does not like harsh climates. She needs to be exercised regularly to avoid gaining weight as this can be hard on her back. She is a popular dog and it is generally believed that the long hair variety may be better with children. As a reminder, never leave a young child unsupervised with a puppy or dog.

*Approximate Adult Size. There are actually three sizes of the Dachshund, the normal, miniature and toy. The approximate adult size (two years old or older) of the normal Dachshund is 14 to 18 inches to the withers (highest point of the shoulder) and about 20 pounds. The miniature Dachshund runs about 14 inches to the withers and 9 pounds. The toy Dachshund runs about 12 inches to the withers and 8 pounds in weight.

*Special Health Considerations. Most dog breeds have certain inherited health problems associated with that specific breed and the Dachshund is no exception. Be on the look out for skin problems, genetic eye diseases, heart disease, Dachshund paralysis (spinal disc problems), diabetes and urinary tract problems. Also, as a precaution, their body length precludes them from jumping from heights to protect their back as does letting them become overweight. This disease list is an informative guideline only. Other diseases may also be significant threats, please contact your veterinarian for a complete list.

She should visit the veterinarian several times in the first year for shots, boosters and check up. Then, as an adult, she should visit the veterinarian yearly for shots and check up. As she gets older, six years and on, she should visit the veterinarian twice a year for check ups and shots. Remember; avoid feeding your dog sweets.

*Grooming. The Dachshund has two coat varieties, smooth and rough. The smooth variety has a short coat that is shiny and not too long. The rough coat or long hair variety has a glistening, sleek, slightly waving hair. The long haired version needs grooming almost daily but the short haired needs grooming about weekly. Brushing will help her maintain a clean and healthy coat and help you keep a closer eye on her health and strengthen your emotional bond with her.

Her teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing removes the accumulation of plaque and tartar which can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease. Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, loss of teeth, bad breath and other serious disease.

Her toenails may need to be examined for growth and clipped regularly. The toenails of the rear feet grow slower than the toenails of the front feet. Generally a guillotine type trimmer is the best for this chore and competent instructions to accomplish this can be found on the net.

*Life Span. The Dachshund can live between 12 and 14 years with proper nutrition, medical care and excellent living conditions.

*History. The Dachshund comes from Germany. Their history goes back to the 16 century. They were bred from hunting dogs to hunt rabbits and badgers, and other small animals. They were first registered by the American Kennel Association in 1885. Dachs is German for Badger.

Some Registries: *Dachshund Breed Club *UKC United Kennel Club *NKC National Kennel Club *CKC Continental Kennel Club *APRI Americas Pet Registry Inc. *AKC American Kennel Club *FCI Federation Cynologique Internationale *NZKC New Zealand Kennel Club *KCGB = Kennel Club of Great Britain *ANKC = Australian National Kennel Club *ACR = American Canine Registry

Litter Size: 3 to 4 Dachshund puppies

Category: Hound.

Terms To Describe: Courageous, lively, clever, proud, tenacious, clown, happy, fun loving, cheerful

*SPECIAL GOOD POINTS Good watch dog. High intelligence. Likes to play. Low dog odor.

*SPECIAL BAD POINTS Poor guard dog. Can be a loud barker. Can be difficult to train. Like to dig.

*Other Names Known By: Teckel

*Every dog is an individual so not everything in this information may be correct for your dog. This information is meant as a good faith guideline only.
About the Author

Mitch Endick is a short article writer for the popular pet site: http://www.petpages.com. He provides informative advice on all pets including dogs, puppies, cats, fish, reptiles, birds, ferrets, rabbits, mice and even pet bugs. Petpages.com also has an extensive pet classified ads section.