A guide to all you need to know about this very popular dog breed. Learn how a Dachshund can enrich your life.
Dachshunds are one of the smallest dogs in the entire world. The breed was originally bred in Germany from much larger hunting dogs in an effort to create an animal that could hunt badgers. The beautiful dogs that resulted were called Dachshunds from the Germany meaning "badger-dog." Today these handsome, even-tempered companions consistently remain one of America's most popular breeds.
Dachshunds have elongated bodies that have led people to lovingly refer to them as hot dog dogs. A Dachshund's ears are usually long and floppy. Dachshunds are also noted for their short almost stubby legs and long snouts. The short legs do not interfere with the dog's gait. Indeed many Dachshunds move very gracefully.
The breed is currently divided into two sizes and three coats. Standard dachshunds can weigh up to twenty pounds and stand up to nine inches. Miniature dachshunds should not grow bigger than ten pounds. Both Miniature and Standard Dachshunds have three coat types: smooth, wirehaired and longhaired. Ideally the smooth coat should be shiny and thick without any stray hairs anywhere. The wirehaired coat should be short and rough. It should extend even to the dog's eyebrows which should also be bushy. The longhaired dachshund's coat should be sleek and soft. An owner should brush the longhaired dog's coat at least once a day to make sure it does not become knotted or tangled. An owner will not need to brush a wirehaired or short-haired Dachshund but even then an occasional bath is a good idea. Dachshunds come in many colors from red to black to grey and even white.
Because they are so compact they make an idea pet for any situation. If you have an apartment with limited space a Dachshund can be the perfect dog for you. They don't take up much physical space so they won't make the apartment seem smaller. Dachshunds are also terrific pets for someone who lacks the time or physical capacity to get much exercise. A quick and brisk daily walk is all it takes to make sure this breed stays in optimum shape. Puppies can be trained to use a litter pan so you may not even need to take a walk.
Not only are Dachshunds attractive and easy to care for, they are also generally pleasant and well behaved animals. Most Dachshunds have gentle personalities. They rarely bite. They also love to interact with people. It is not uncommon for a Dachshund to lick the fingers of passing strangers. It is also not uncommon for owners to find their dogs delightedly jumping onto an open and welcoming lap. Dachshunds are also very smart dogs. They can learn to follow lots of simple commands. Many will happily play with an owner for hours.
Dachshunds also get along well with children and other household pets. Their small size means that children can easily work with them without a parent worrying that their child will be injured. They are not especially territorial so an owner can keep other dogs and even a cat or a bird.
If you're in search of a dog that is loyal, easy to care for, well behaved and simply very beautiful you should consider adding one of these wonderful animals to your household.
