Dachshund
The Dachshund is a short-legged hunting dog bred to go to ground. It comes in standard, miniature and rabbit sizes, with smooth, long or wire coats.
Breed at a glance
- Weight
- 4–12 kg
- Height at withers
- 20–27 cm
- Lifespan
- 12–16 years
- Origin
- Germany
- Energy
- Shedding
- With kids
- Apartment-friendly
- Trainability
Temperament
Dachshunds are brave, clever and very stubborn: they know the command but obey only if they agree. They bark loudly for their size and may dig — it's hunting instinct. They're attached to the family and can be jealous. Training takes patience, treats and praise.
Care and exercise
It needs an hour of walking a day: Dachshunds are more active than they look. Smooth coats just need a wipe, long coats a brush twice a week, wire coats hand-stripping at the groomer. Keep it lean and don't let it jump off the sofa or run up and down stairs — that protects the back.
Health
The main risk is intervertebral disc disease: with that long back it affects about one Dachshund in four. If your dog suddenly yelps, hunches or drags its legs, see a vet urgently. Obesity, dental problems and eye diseases also occur.
This is a general description: an individual pet's temperament and health depend on its parents, upbringing and care. Ask your vet about your own pet's health.
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