Originally developed in Germany to hunt and fight badgers, today, Dachshund puppies are one of the most popular household pets in the world, currently ranking at number 12. Find out why many are crazy over this breed called the “sausage dog.”

Breed Characteristics

The Dachshund comes in three varieties: shorthaired (smooth), wirehaired, and longhaired. Shorthaired Dachshunds have short and shiny coats, while wirehaired Dachshunds have wiry and rough coats. Longhaired Dachshunds have sleek and wavy coats.

This breed comes in different colours including black, chocolate, tan, cream, red, fawn, and blue. Common coat patterns include brindle, dapple, piebald, and sable.

Temperament

Intelligent, lively, and loyal are three words that best describe a Dachshund. It enjoys cuddling with its humans and is good with children if socialised at an early age. It also loves to play and will make a game out of almost anything.

A devoted canine, the Dachshund easily attaches to one person in the family and will even follow them wherever they go. This dog can also be protective of its owners and jealous when not given enough attention.

Size

Miniature Dachshunds weigh no more than five kilograms, while Standard Dachshunds weigh between seven to 14.5 kilograms.

Miniature Dachshunds usually have a height of 12 to 15 centimetres, while Standard Dachshunds typically stand from 20 to 23 centimetres high.

Grooming Needs

Dachshunds are generally low maintenance. Shorthaired Dachshunds do not require a lot of grooming and can be wiped with a damp cloth between baths. Wirehaired Dachshunds need to have their coats stripped at least twice annually, while longhaired Dachshunds need regular brushing to prevent mats from forming.

Health Issues

Dachshunds can live for as long as 12 to 16 years. While generally healthy, they are still prone to health complications such as the following:

• Cushing’s disease
• Gastric dilatation-volvulus
• Intervertebral disc disease
• Progressive retinal atrophy
• Canine diabetes mellitus
• Epilepsy
• Deafness

Feeding Requirements

Just like other breeds, the Dachshund should be fed high-quality food that provides ample protein, moderate fat, and limited carbohydrates. You can feed your pooch any dry, wet, raw, or home cooked food that is nutritious.

Dachshund puppies should be fed at least three times a day, while adults should be fed twice. Seniors should only be fed once daily.

Exercise

For a small dog, the Dachshund is energetic and likes to be mentally and physically stimulated. Two 10-minute walks a day is enough to keep this breed happy and healthy.

Training

Given that it is an intelligent breed, the Dachshund is a fast learner. However, because of its independent and stubborn nature, it can sometimes be a challenge to train. To make training much easier, it is recommended that you teach your dog obedience and socialisation as early as possible.

You may enrol your dog in a puppy kindergarten class or teach it yourself, keeping sessions simple and short. Remember to always include rewards and positive reinforcement in training. Avoid showing violence in any way.