Dachshunds are a very popular dog breed in the UK. These stubborn sausage shaped, short legged pups love to play. Let me tell you why these little dogs could be the perfect dog to join your family.
History Of Dachshunds
Dachshunds originally come from Germany. When translated ‘Dach’ means badger and ‘hund’ means dog. This is because they were originally bred to hunt animals that live in underground burrows like badgers.
The shape of their front paws makes digging easy and their deep chest provides increased lung capacity so makes them ideal for hunting under ground.
This breed is still used for hunting to this day but they have also become a popular pet. Dachshund owners love this breed and regularly organise meet ups around the UK where you can find fields of sausage dogs playings. The Dachshund Club is just one company who organises puppy parties in the park. Check it out!
Choosing A Dachshund Puppy
Dachshund puppies are widely available across the country and can be found in a variety of colours and coat types.
When choosing a puppy make sure you meet the parents. Any reputable breeder will be happy for you to do this. Puppies should always be seen with their mothers and littermates to prove they are bred in a happy and loving home. This also allows you to find more out about the personality and temperament of the pups mother which could help you understand how your puppy may behave as it grows up.
Ask your breeder questions too so you can be confident in the dog you are going to bring home. Questions like:
- How long have you they breed Dachshunds?
- Has the puppy had any vaccinations?
- Have they been tested for any known hereditary issues?
- What can you tell me about my puppies parents? Is their any important things I need to know to take care of them properly?
By the time any puppy is ready to be rehomed, from 8 weeks, they should have already had a health check performed by a vet. Their breeded may have also given treatment for worms, fleas aswell as giving them their first vaccination. Make sure you ask about this before you bring your puppy home.
Teaching social skills and regular dog training is needed for all dogs so make sure you have time to do this. These are key in the first 12 months of a puppy’s life. This will help keep unwanted doggy behaviour at bay.
Health Guide
Dachshunds are generally a healthy breed of dog and can live a long healthy life as long as long as they are well exercised, fed a good diet and kept at the right weight.
As they are a small small do that is low to the ground they can be prone to back issues as they grow. Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) is unfortunately a very common health problem. This must be treated quickly as it can lead to complete and permanent paralysis of all four legs.
Symptoms of this include:
- Trouble walking
- Limping
- Holding head/neck down
- Dragging paws
This could be a sign of IVDD or other orthopaedic issues such as floating knee cap. If you see your dog behaviour change in any way get in touch with your vet immediately.
Dachshund Coat & Colours Types
Dachshunds can have 3 different coat types.
- Short-haired
- Long-haired
- Wire-haired
Short-haired Dachshunds
Short-haired dachshunds have a smooth, dense and shiny coat that requires little maintenance. To keep they coat healthy and loose hairs under control all you will need to do is give them a good brush once a week. Most common colours for short-hairs are Black & Tan, Red, Chocolate/Tan and Dapple.
Long-haired Dachshunds
Long-haired dachshunds have a soft and straight coat . Often seen with a feathering on their bellies, ears, behind their legs and tail. They do require regular grooming. Most common colours for long hairs are Black & Tan, Red, Chocolate/Tan and Silver Dapple.
Wire-haired Dachshunds
Wire-haired dachshunds have a short, wiry top coat with a dense undercoat that covers their whole body. They have a wiry beard on their chin and bushy eyebrows. Their coat will need stripping twice a year. Wire-haired dachshunds are classed a very low shedding so are ideal for people with dog hair allergies. Most common colours are Brindle & Red, Chocolate/Tan and Dapple.
How Much Should I Feed My Sausage Dog?
Dachshunds need to be fed a specific amount of calories per day depending on their age and size. They only need to eat 1/4 to 1/3 of a cup of dry food twice a day to keep them healthy.
Dachshunds can be big eaters and will quite easily over eat if you let them. High protein, low carb diets are the ideal choice for these and all all dogs.
Remember all dogs are different so the amount you feed your dog is dog specific. Keeping a close eye on your dog’s weight is the perfect way to make sure you are feeding them the right amount of food. If in doubt you can alway ask a vet.
Top Personality Traits
Dachshunds are generally a good tempered breed that are confident and outgoing. Their lively and clever personality make them a fun addition to your home. Good dog training including lots of socialisation is important for these head strong little dogs.
It is said that personalities can be dependent on the type of dachshund you have.
- Wire-haired dogs are the most extroverted and active of the 3.
- Long-haired dogs are the most laid-back.
- Short-haired dogs are more of a “one person” or “one family” dogs.
One thing they all have in common is Dachshunds like to bark. Teaching them from a puppy what is acceptable behaviour and what is not will ensure they don’t turn into an adult dog that barks excessively.