The Dachshund Breed
Owners love their dogs.With Dachshunds that devotion reaches new heights. The reasons aren’t hard to understand.They are special in many ways.
The German translation “badger dog” shows just one of those ways.Bred in the early 1600s to hunt those ferocious little animals, the Doxie became ferocious himself. That assertive and fearless attitude remains today.
That feisty nature can be a good thing or a bad one.
Dogs that are independent can make great companions, since that also makes them playful and exploratory.It provides the dog with a willingness to try new things and lots of energy.It also means that extra patience and skill are required to train them.Dachshunds are more inclined than many other breeds to strive for alpha status in the household.Reminding them that the human is superior may require a long struggle.
That training has to be appropriate to the breed’s mental and physical attributes.
They weigh between 10-30 pounds and are 9 inches high at the shoulder.Toy varieties are quite a bit smaller, often only 5 inches high and under 8 lbs.They have an average lifespan of between 14-17 years.
They are much more prone to spinal problems than other breeds due to their long bodies and short legs. Rough handling can cause serious problems.
Screaming won’t work because they are assertive.At best that produces a fearful dog, at worst, they can become aggressive and hostile in response.Dachshunds may look at their trainer as an enemy badger.Owners should be prepared due to barking being more common in Dachshunds, too.
They make for excellent companions and pets with the right approach.
There are three basic varieties – Long-Hairs, Wire-Coats, and Smooth-Coats.The difference goes beyond the type of fur they sport.The personalities of the three varieties tend to follow a pattern, as well.
Smooth-haired Dachshunds more often attach themselves to a single family member.While they will tolerate other humans, they tend to be wary and stand-offish of other animals. The Wire-haired is usually more playful and outgoing.Long-haired Dachshunds tend to be a little more placid.Though, like any Doxie, they are up for a game of fetch whenever the opportunity presents itself.
Apart from spinal problems, Doxies less often suffer from diseases that are more prevalent in other breeds. Diabetes, abdominal cancers and other diseases are possible but much less common in Doxies. Urinary tract problems (such as stones) can occur, but they are more likely in special varieties such as Double Dapples and those with blue eyes.These types tend to have more hearing and eye problems, too.
Raising any dog is a challenge, if they are to be happy and healthy. But Dachshund owners commonly report that the rewards in their case are especially large.They are highly affectionate and very loyal. The people who live with them tend to return the favor.
Dachshund supplies and gifts can be found at Ony-Dachshunds.com
