If you are considering purchasing a dachshund for your family pet, or you are interested in breeding dachshunds, you should become as familiar as possible with this breed of dog and know how to choose a reputable breeder.
Dachshunds are a popular breed for a variety of reasons. They are typically very loyal dogs, and they have a great sense of adventure. Dachshunds were bred to be badger hunters, and for this reason, they love to follow the trail of small animals. You may find holes scattered all over your yard since dachshunds love to dig. These small dogs are also curious and brave, and these characteristics can sometimes get them in trouble. They can also be impetuous.
If you are considering purchasing a dachshund for your family pet, or you are interested in breeding dachshunds, you should become as familiar as possible with this breed of dog. Typically, dachshunds can be cautious around strangers, but once they have become a member of someone's family, they are extremely loyal. This loyalty can bring trouble, however, if you have an extremely aggressive dog.
If you are purchasing a dachshund simply to keep as a pet, you should have him or her neutered or spayed as soon as your veterinarian says your dog is old enough. Male dachshunds can sometimes become overly aggressive even with members of their own family, and while they typically adore children, their aggressiveness may cause them to snap at or bite a child.
Whether you are purchasing your dog for breeding purposes or simply as a pet, you need to be very cautious in checking out breeders. So-called puppy mills are often guilty of in-breeding simply because there are so many dogs at these kennels, and the owner may not keep accurate breeding records. Puppy mills can often produce dogs which have more aggressive and/or skittish natures since there is probably not a lot of social interaction between the puppies and the owners.
If you plan on breeding dachshunds, you should keep meticulous breeding records. You should also handle the puppies quite frequently, so that they are accustomed to being around people. If you have children of your own, encourage them to play with the puppies often.
Female dachshunds should not be bred more than once a year. You will need to plan on keeping your female put up at least every other time that she comes into heat. Males and females become quite adept at getting to each other when a female dog is in heat, so you will need to make sure that your pen is secure. Remember, dachshunds are expert diggers, and you will need to make sure that your dogs cannot dig under your pens.
Dachshunds can be short-haired or long-haired. Their coats can be one of several colors, including red, sable, cream, black and tan, gray and tan, or brindle. You will need to decide what type of dachshund you want to breed, buy your dogs from a reputable breeder, and breed responsibly. Obviously, long-haired dogs will require more extensive grooming than short-haired dogs, but long-haired dachshunds have often been found to have a more easy-going temperament.
Dachshunds can live from twelve to fifteen years if they are taken care of properly. The most common problems that afflict this breed typically deals with a dachshund's spine. Because their spines are so long, and their bodies are so low to the ground, dachshunds can have spinal disk problems. These problems can be exacerbated if a dog is overweight. As dachshunds grow older, they tend to gain weight and become lazier. This weight can stress their backs, so if you are a breeder or simply a dachshund owner, you will need to pay special attention to your dog's diet.
Dachshunds can also suffer from urinary tract infections, heart disease, and diabetes. If you are planning on paying a significant amount of money for a dachshund, you can ask the breeder for a certificate of health. Likewise, if you are planning on breeding dachshunds, you can generally sell your puppies at a higher price if you offer certificates of health to potential buyers.
