Basic Information To Know About The Dachshund

The Dachshund (whose name means "badger dog" in German and is often affectionately nicknamed the "sausage dog") is a hound dog known for their famous elongated body and features a sable, chocolate, black and tan or chocolate and tan coat in shorthaired, wire haired and longhaired varieties. The breed comes in standard and miniature sizes and has origins dating back to the 18th century where they were first bred for the main purpose of hunting badgers.

A few of their most recognizable features include their comical appearance, playfulness, affection with their owner and often stubborn temperament - which help make the Dachshund among the most popular companion breeds in the United States.

The Dachshund was originally created in Germany during the 18th century and was bred for the purpose of scenting and flushing badgers out of their burrows. Their actual origins are largely unknown and their heritage is thought to include breeds such as the German Shorthaired Pointer and Pinscher crossed with bloodhounds like the Bracke, Bruno Jura Hound or St. Hubert Hound - though other theories suggest they are a descendant of the Basset Hound. All that is known for certain is that the shorthaired Dachshund appeared before any other varieties.

Dachshunds are classed as a small-sized dog. The recommended standard size for the Dachshund male and female is 8-11 inches high from paw to shoulder and a weight of 16-32 pounds, whereas the recommended size for miniature Dachshunds is 5-7 inches high from paw to shoulder with a weight of under 11 pounds.

The Dachshund is well-known for their bold, curious and independent temperament. They can be wary of strangers, but their small size can make them unsuitable as a guard dog.

The Dachshund is also known to be fairly intelligent - ranking 49th compared to other dogs based on their ability to learn obedience commands. They are also known to be quite fragile with small children - making them not the best choice as a family pet. The Dachshund is quite compatible with other dogs but will not usually get along with smaller animals like birds or rabbits due to their prey instinct - for this reason it's very important they are kept on the leash when out and about or otherwise they may see something and be inclined to give chase.

The Dachshund doesn't need a yard to run around in, so they can be highly suitable for apartment living if they are exercised enough.

The Dachshund enjoys activities such as chasing after a ball and play sessions in the park or other safe areas. They have a medium to high level of energy and need to be given daily exercise in the form of moderate daily walks while on the leash to prevent destructive behavior problems as well as excessive weight gain.

The Dachshund can make the perfect dog for a family with older children, seniors, apartment dwellers and allergy sufferers in the case of the shorthaired variety. They are suitable for anyone who is willing to commit to a regular amount of grooming and take time to give them early socialization and patient obedience training as well as take them for moderate daily walks and give a good amount of companionship and attention.

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