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Dachshund Dog Breed

Int. Champion Extraordinary Esprit Kalokagathia Fai
Photo courtesy of Anamsunamon Breeder of International Champion Longhaired Dachshunds, Czech Republic
The Dachshund is also called Dackel or Teckel, the Normalgrosse Teckel, Dachslein or Smooth-haired Standard Dachshund to distinguish it from the Miniature version. Its original task was to go to earth to attack badgers and other burrowing animals. Its German name means Badger Dog and functionally this is a terrier, not a hound. In personality, the breed is clever, mischievous, energetic, affectionate, good-tempered and trainable.
The Dachshund whether classed as Standard or Miniature sized, is a small dog to have in the house and is full of character. These small dogs do have a need to be amused and should be given plenty of room to exercise and run, either away from home or in the garden. The Dachshund comes in three varieties of coat: Smooth, Wirehaired and Longhaired and is bred in two sizes, standard and miniature. Care should be taken with diet to ensure good steady growth without allowing them to become overweight.
This breed tends towards digging, chewing and barking. Those who think these traits might be a problem for them, should consider another. Doxies are very territorial and make excellent watch-dogs. Intelligent, curious, and independent, they are also fiercely loyal to a full family (not just one person) and are perfect companions.

Int. Champion Kisjeszeni Rommy
Photo courtesy of Onyx Moravia Breeder of International Champions Miniature Dachshunds Czech Republic
Dachshund Breed Outline
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Country of Origin: | Germany |
| FCI Classification: | Group 4 - Dachshunds |
| Utilization: |
Hunting dog above and below ground |
| AKC Classification: |
Hound Group |
| Personality: | Friendly by nature, neither nervous nor aggressive, with even temperament. Passionate, persevering and fast hunting dog with an excellent nose. |
| Size: | Small |
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Height: | 7-10 inches at shoulders |
| Colors: |
Solid red of various shades; black with tan spots and black nose and nails; chocolate with tan spots and brown nose. In addition to a variety of colors, Dachshunds can also have patterns. The dapple pattern is characterized by lighter markings in contrast with the darker base color. A "double" dapple is one in which different amounts of white coloring occur over the body in addition to the dapple pattern. |
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Other Names: | Daxie, Dachsie, Doxie, Sausage Dog |
| Average Litter Size: | 4 |
| Life Span: | 10-15 years |
| Grooming Requirements: |
The longhaired Dachshunds need to be combed once a week, the smooth and wirehaired coat varieties need weekly brushing. |
| Shedding: | Little. Smooth and wirehaired coat Dachshunds shed more than longhaired. |
| Social skills: |
If properly socialized, they get along with other animals, but can be scrappy toward other dogs. They do very well in pairs. Many of them have a very strong prey drive and will chase cats. |
| Suitability for Children: | Daxies are generally good with children if brought up with them and treated with respect. If you have young children, the standard Dachshund is your best choice. It will be better able to cope with active youngsters than the more delicate miniature. A bold, outgoing dog will also be happy in a rough and tumble play, noise and excitement that goes with children and their friends. |
| Exercise Needs: | Daxies need 20-40 minutes walk daily, preferably twice a day. This will keep them in good shape and prevent obesity in older pets. It is a good idea to keep Dachshunds away from large steps or furniture until they are fully developed and even then this should not be encouraged as the back is liable to injury by over stretching muscles because of its length. |
| Train Ability: | Being notorious for their difficulty to house train, they can be very stubborn and need early obedience training. |
| Health & Behavioral Issues: |
Most important:
Acanthosis nigricans
Intervertebral disk disease
Other disorders seen in this breed:
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