Dog Breeds: The Dachshund

  Posted on July 15, 2013  by Joy of Living  No comments

The Dachshund is one of the most popular dog breeds in the world. The Dachshund comes in both miniature and standard sizes and three coat varieties (Smooth, Wire and Longhaired) within each size.

Although they are now primarily family pets, Dachshunds were originally bred to hunt and kill badgers and other animals. The Dachshund originated in the early 1600s in Germany. They were bred with a low, narrow body so they could dig underground and squeeze through the opening to go after badgers. The large, paddle-shaped paws of the Dachshund make them efficient diggers for digging holes to find their prey. Because of their excellent noses, Dachshunds were used to hunt rabbit and fox.

Dachshunds come in two size variations: Miniature and standard. Standard Dachshunds weigh between 16-32 pounds as an adult, adult mini Dachshunds 11 pounds.

Both sizes of Dachshunds come in three coat varieties: Smooth, Wire and Longhaired.

The coat for the Smooth Dachshund is short. Dogs may be red, cream, and black, chocolate, wild boar, gray (blue) and fawn (Isabella) with tan or cream markings. They may also be dappled, brindled or sable on red.

Wire-haired Dachshunds feature a tight, short thick wirehaired outer coat. There is a finer, softer undercoat with an overall grizzled effect.

Longhaired Dachshunds have sleek, often wavy long hair.

Dachshunds today make lovable, playful, friendly pets, but can be a little stubborn and hard to train. They tend to be very devoted and loyal to their families but may be a little aloof with strangers. They are generally good with children and can adapt to many different living situations.

The Dachshund is generally a very long-lived breed but may have problems related to their spine because they have a long spinal column in relation to the rest of their body. If you are interested in getting a Dachshund you should talk to the breeder about any health problems in the parents and relatives of the puppy or dog you are considering.

If you do get a Dachshund you should be aware that he will probably like to dig. You may have to guard your flower beds and be ready to fill in holes in the rest of your yard. You can solve the problem by providing your Dachshund with his own sand box so he has a place of his own to dig.

The Dachshund is a clever, lively and courageous dog . He may not do much badger hunting now, but he will entertain your children, keep your couch warm, or greet you at the door and make you feel good.

 

Photo Source:  Istockphoto.com