DACHSHUND
Breed Group: Scent Hound
For full breed standards, visit UK Kennel Club (various entries) or American Kennel Club
Average height: varies considerably for mini to standard lines
Average Weight: varies considerably for mini to standard lines
Coat Length: Smooth, Long and Wire-Haired
Life Span: 12 - 16 years
Colours: Solid red or cream, two-coloured to include black, chocolate, wild boar, grey, fawn, dappled, piebal or sable.
HISTORY
Dachshunds were originally bred to be tough hunting companions that could work where larger dogs could not. Their long shape was intended to give them a 'spring-loaded' effect: they still had the weight of a much larger dog to give them a powerful bite with weight and force backing it.
Dachshunds were created in 17th century Germany. They were originally used for hunting wild boar and bear, blood tracking, and going to ground after large and fierce prey such as badgers. Because of their low height, they could move more easily through dense brush. They could also attack their prey from lower down, presenting less of a target for bears' deadly bites and paw strikes, and dodging under the lethal tusks of wild boar. Because they retained the weight of a much larger dog, their bite was still fierce, and their unique shape made them effective at an 'alligator roll' bite and hold – they would bite, grip fiercely, and fling their bodies around sideways enabling them to take down and immobilize much larger game than you might expect.
They are still used as blood trackers to this day. Blood tracking dogs are specially trained to track game that is wounded but not killed in the hunt. Contemporary dachshunds are the preferred blood-tracking breed in the US and Canada. Plus, their short, dense bodies served well for den-dwelling prey like badgers, which gave them their name, 'Dachs' for badger, and 'Hund' is dog in German.
Dachshunds also have powerful, broad feet which make them excellent diggers, and their strong jaws help them grab and tear roots and other obstacles out of the way. The larger, original version was so good at go-to-ground hunting that miniature Dachshunds were developed for hunting rabbits.
Dachshunds were created from a mix of pointers, bloodhounds, and basset hounds. Then, terriers were mixed in. The smooth coat was probably the original variation and was primarily bred for badger hunting. Terriers were mixed in in increasing amounts to create the wirecoat, which gave them an even more brash temperament. The long haired variety was created by mixing in spaniels, to specialize in rabbit hunting, and accordingly has a softer, sweeter temperament.
L.E.G.S.
Using the L.E.G.S.® model, our breed descriptions offer insights into typical behavior based on Genetics, Learning, Environment, and Self.
Knowing the sort of 'job' a breed was created for can offer valuable insights into the type of life dogs of that breed would most enjoy. But bear in mind, they are all individuals, treat the following as an indication of breed tendencies – not a prediction.
Shedding
minimal <> considerable
Grooming
minimal <> likely to need professional grooming
Barking
relatively quiet <> very vocal
Predatory behaviour around other pets/livestock
low<>high
Response to strangers
happy to greet everyone <> very wary
Affectionate with family
not at all<>very cuddly
Playful
serious<>very playful
Focus on handler (bond)
independent thinker<>very biddable
Excitable/Impulsive
very calm<>easily aroused
Motivated
laid back<>obsessive
Easy to care for
suitable for inexperienced<>challenging
Exercise needs
minimal<>hours daily
Off-lead exercise needs
happy on lead<>needs plenty of freedom
Enrichment needs
basic<>needs challenges
WHY YOU'LL FALL IN LOVE WITH YOUR DACHSHUND
They're funny, clever and endearing and utterly devoted to their family
They have a spunky personality, courageous and adventurous and generally up for fun
They will happily follow you everywhere, spend hours curled up on your lap and entertain you with silly games.
WHY THEY MAY BE HARD TO LIVE WITH
Their bark! While confident and relaxed Daxies can be relatively quiet, these dogs have been bred for their bark
Some can find the BIG world a worrying place
They can become possessive, obsessive and overly 'protective' of their human
YOUR DACHSHUND PUPPY HIGHLIGHTS
Please socialize your Dachshund puppy well as they can become very suspicious of strangers and very 'protective' of their people as they mature. They also tend towards over-bonding, so be sure you introduce alone time in a healthy and proactive way. You may want to also practice overnight stays away from you, with a dog sitter or in a boarding facility, so that they learn this is safe early on.
YOU MAY NEED PROFESSIONAL HELP WITH:
- Not getting along with strangers and other dogs
- Alarm barking
- Separation anxiety
- Destructiveness
YOUR RELATIONSHIP SURVIVAL KEY
Learning: While they may be thought of as 'stubborn', Dachshunds are actually great training dogs. With the right motivation (usually food), you can have lots of fun learning new skills together.
Environment: Creating calm indoor spaces that allow them to get quality rest will help with overall emotional wellbeing. White noise, frosting on windows, and a warm snuggle spot can help them settle. They love to climb and jump which isn't ideal for their long backs, so avoid this by putting up ramps to beds and furniture they're allowed on.
Genetics: These dogs love to use their nose and their paws. Creating digging pits and offering plenty of opportunities for scentwork will fulfil their needs.
Self: Keeping your Dachshund slim with regular exercise and play with other dogs, plus a good quality diet will help them to stay physically well.
UPBRINGING
Balance is key for these dogs. Ensure they have plenty of time to reduce the stress they may experience out in the world with quality rest and sniffing opportunities. Take socialisation nice and slowly – don't forcing interactions and give plenty of positive rewards around new things. While it can be tempting to take these smaller guys everywhere with you, be mindful to help them learn to feel comfortable at home alone.
LIFESTYLE
These dogs are very versatile and can fit in well with most lifestyles, assuming you've provided them with the exercise and stimulation they need – and include some 'dog time'.
INTERESTS & HOBBIES
Running, chasing, sniffing, and digging! Plus a good deal of snuggling up in warm places.
EDUCATION
With the right motivation (usually a tasty treat or a squeaky ball) these dogs are able to learn a multitude of skills. You have to teach them to be civilized with other dogs and humans and that they can be ok if they aren't with you. Appreciate the pretty intense hunting dog they were bred to be and make sure that intelligent, persistent side of them is properly channelled.
