With their cartoonish long bodies and disproportionately short legs, Dachshunds are one of the most distinctive and easily recognizable breeds in the world.

Short History of the Breed

Dachshunds were originally bred in Germany in the 18th and 19th centuries to hunt badgers. Their long trunks and short legs evolved in order to dig up the badger burrows, and their courageous bravado was necessary to fight vicious badgers to the death.

Dachshunds were introduced to the United States in the late 1800s and quickly became on of the Top 10 dogs in the country by the early 20th century. Due to their agreeable nature, charismatic antics, and unique proportions, they are still popular dogs today.

Physical Description & Size

Dachshunds are distinguished by their long trunks, short legs, slim, pointed tail, and angular snout. Looking at a Dachshund, it's easy to see why they are often compared to hot dogs.

There are two sizes of Dachshund, standard and miniature. Standard sizes are usually between 16 and 32 pounds, and miniature sizes are defined as 11 pounds or less in adulthood.

Dachshunds come in many colors, from solid red, cream, caramel, and black, to multiple combinations of those colors. The coat can be smooth, wire-haired, or long-haired.

Temperament

Dachshunds are typically energetic, brave, intelligent, and lively. Despite their diminutive size, they are strong and determined creatures that maintain many of their strong hunting instincts.

Dachshunds are good with children given that they are well-socialized as puppies. They are also smart dogs that are easily trainable. Persistence and patience are key when training any dog, particularly Dachshunds. Too bad they're so cute – it's tough to be stern when these playful and inquisitive cuties misbehave!

Dog Care (exercise, grooming, diet)

so cute
Dachshunds require a moderate amount of exercise. It's important to prevent a Dachshund from becoming overweight, because they are susceptible to back problems, and excess weight can cause all sorts of nasty back and joint issues. Many owners will use diet dog food or other specialty diets in order to keep their Dachshunds at an ideal weight.

They are average shedders, are relatively clean, and have very little doggy odor. Wirehaired and long-haired varieties require more grooming than short-haired dogs, but the grooming is usually minimal compared to other dogs. Most Dachshunds require regular brushing but need to be bathed infrequently (less than once a month). Dachshunds have been known to roll around in smelly things, however, which is a characteristic of their hunting instincts – they are trying to mask their scent so their prey won't smell it. If this is the case, a good bath might be just what your little guy needs.

Health Issues, Life Expectancy

Due to their long trunks and short legs, Dachshunds are prone to back and joint problems. Jumping, rough-housing, and mishandling should be avoided to prevent back injuries. Epilepsy, Cushing's Disease, eye problems, and diabetes can also afflict this breed, particularly in old age.

Back problems aside, Dachshunds are generally a hardy and long-lived breed, and they can live up to 16 years or more with proper care.

AKC Group

The Dachshund belongs to the AKC Hound group. Other dogs in this group include the Basset Hound, Greyhound, Whippet, and Beagle.

Additional Resources

• Dachshund - Online Community

• Dachshund Online Community - DogBreed.org
• Hot Dog Blog
• Train your Dachshund! Mighty Mite Small Dog Sports Forum