| AKC Group: | Hound |
| A.K.A.: | Hotdog Dog, Doxie, Wiener Dog |
| Functions: | Companion |
| Year of Origin: | 1600s |
| Country of Origin: | Germany |
| Life Span (yr): | 12 - 15 |
| Colors: | Chocolate, Black, Blue, Isabella, Red, Crème, Bi-colored, Tri-colored, Dapple,Piebald, Brindle |
| Height (Inch): | Standard: 14 - 18, Miniature: 12 - 14 |
| Weight (lb): | Standard: 16 - 32, Miniature: 8 - 11 |
| Size: | Medium |
| Hair Length: | Short |
| Energy: |  |
| Playfulness: | |
| Ease of Training: |  |
| Exercise Needed: |  |
| Self Protection: | |
| Grooming: | |
| Shedding: | |
| Watch Dog: | |
| Living Area: | |
Appearance:
The Dachshund is well-known for his long body and short legs. His head narrows until it finally reaches the tip of his darkly colored nose. His eyes are also dark in color. They are mid-sized and shaped like almonds. His expression is alert and agreeable; however, he always looks like he is ready to play. His eyebrows are well-defined and lend to his expression. The ears of the Dachshund are medium in length and rounded. They are typically situated towards the crown of his head. When he hears something that peaks his interest, his ears provide a framework to his face ever so cutely.
Temperament:
The Dachshund is an intelligent dog. He is a digger and a hunter by nature; so, he enjoys figuring out new ways to work the land around his home – sometimes to the surprise of the family gardener. He is never shy and, in fact, his curiosity makes him appear quite adventurous. The Dachshund is happy to be around his family and will tolerate children who he is used to; however, he may be snappy with children who are new to him. Socialization is key to the Dachshund – especially around other dogs and cats – as they can be jealous of other animals.
Health:
Because of the Dachshund’s long body and low set stature, he is susceptible to a painful condition called Intervertebral Disc Disease. By limiting unnecessary activities like jumping in excess and by preventing undue falls onto the back, the likelihood of Intervertebral Disc Disease can be reduced. In addition, the Dachshund’s weight should be closely monitored and managed. Obesity is one of the major factors that can lead to Intervertebral Disc Disease. Heart disease is also a common fatal condition that may occur, especially in older dogs. He may also face medical issues such as gastric torsion, diabetes, deafness, and epilepsy – although they are less common.
Maintenance:
The Dachshund must be groomed; however, how often and in what manner he is groomed depends on his kind of coat. If he has long hair, he must be brushed daily; otherwise, his coat will be prone to matting and tangling. If his coat is of the wire-haired variety, then he will need to be bathed only as needed, and brushed ever few weeks; however, he should be trimmed by a professional groomer a few times each year. And, those Dachshunds who are of the smooth-haired variety only need a quick wipe down with a towel that is damp with water and an occasional brushing to reduce shedding. His ears must also be kept clean, especially since they can easily breed mites, yeast, and bacteria. The Dachshund is playful, but is content to play inside where he can catch a rolling ball. Since obesity is an issue for the Dachshund, he should be taken for regular walks to keep his weight down.