You’ll also need to learn to outsmart them just like having a slightly difficult but sweet child. In this article, you’ll learn everything you need to know about dachshunds and why they’re the perfect family dog.

Never mind that they may pull out your flowers or try to run around with your shoelace in their mouth; they just want to help. If you’re an apartment dweller whether single or a family, you should be considering these lovingly loyal breeds. They are ranked 12th most popular by the American Kennel Club.

Each one is totally committed to this adorable and confident dog breed. The dachshund is a short-legged, long-bodied, hound-type dog breed. They may be smooth-haired, wire-haired, or long-haired. The standard-size dachshund was developed to scent, chase, and flush out badgers and other burrow-dwelling animals, while the miniature dachshund was bred to hunt smaller prey such as rabbits.

Dachshund puppies will have long snouts with tightly stretched lips. They have a broad and powerful chest that houses large lungs and links with their abdomen, seemingly upheld by their wide, firmly planted front legs. They are also muscular, with strong hind legs.

The dachshund is one breed with three varieties: smooth coat, wirehaired and long haired. The wirehaired dachshund is the least common in US. Each coat has a specific color attributed to it but all dachshunds can have a variety of colors.

According to the Dachshund Club of America a plain white coat is completely unacceptable, the only plain colors can be red, black and tan.

For them to be considered miniature Dachshund they must weigh not more than 11 pounds or grow no higher than 6 inches at maturity. Your dachshund should not weigh more than 32 pounds. This is the absolute limit, as they cannot afford to be obese because of their low and long backs.

Although they might have a mind of their own and completely ignore you and your commands which makes them stubborn and difficult to train, they are so loving, cute, can be very attentive. They always want to snuggle with you, which is what makes them so endearing despite their stubborn nature.

The dachshund’s personality and temperament can differ slightly based on their coat. The wirehaired dachshund can be very mischievous and are troublemakers. The long-haired dachshund is a bit more serene and elegant, while the smooth coat dachshund is right in the middle, they are moderately elegant and moderately mischievous.

Some miniature dachshunds can be shy or introverted and that’s not a good thing, it doesn’t show proper breeding and socialization. With their big personality, dachshunds are not shy by nature.

Dachshunds like to dig and their wide paddle like paws are made perfectly for that. If they don’t have a yard to dig in, they’ll burrow in your blankets. They don’t like strangers and can get very aggressive and bark at them. But they are great with children in their family.

Leaving your dachshund alone too frequently and for long periods of time will make them antsy and they might experience separation anxiety. With proper care, dachshunds are expected to live for 12-16 years.

Feeding/nutrition:

Do not allow your dachshund to become overweight. Not just because of the health implications but also because of their long backs; being overweight can lead to ruptured discs.

Give them only good quality dog food designed to enhance growth and balance nutrition. Try to ignore their pleading and whining for scraps and as much as you can. Also, take into consideration their strong sense of smell and don’t let them get into the trash and eat stuff.

Grooming:

Dachshunds do not shed excessively; they are actually quite clean and don’t smell. Although, their needs vary based on coat.

• The smooth haired dachshunds are the easiest, just wipe them down with a towel.
• For the long-haired ones, you might need to brush frequently depending on how thick their coat is.
• The wirehaired dachshund just needs plucking and trimming twice a year.

  Other than these, nothing quite exceptional, just nail trimming, dental health and occasional trimming of beard and eyebrows.

Care and exercise

This breed may look small but they need regular exercise to stay fit and build strong muscles. You should always be conscious of their back and watch any exercise that would put strain on it; no jumping down suddenly from heights or running up and down stairs. You should also teach your kids to always hold the dog horizontally.

When going up or down the stairs with your Dachshund puppy please pick him or her up to prevent any injuries. Use ramps in your place leading to the couch or bed to avoid any jumping.

Training

You’ll need to be patient and consistent with the Dachshund breed; they are intelligent, independent and stubborn so training them can pose a challenge but they love rewards. Remember, this doesn’t always have to be a treat.

They are sensitive and thrive better with positivity. When their strong sense of smell and determination leads them to follow a trail remember to not raise your voice even if at that moment you are not their top priority. As with all breeds, training should start early to help them become well adjusted.

Most of the health problems this breed might develop are mostly due to genetics. Adequate research on the parents and siblings of your desired dog and appropriate precautions is best.

Brushing your dog's teeth does not negate the need for vet cleanings. Brushing your dog's teeth will not get under the gums or between the teeth, which also need to be cleaned even if the teeth themselves are kept very clean.

How do you get a Dachshund puppy?

All you have to do is look for a reputable breeder or adopt from a shelter. The dachshund club of America is a good place to start as they recommend that various health tests be carried out before you can get your hands on one.

If you’d like to know more about caring for your dachshund, sign up to our Pet Blog. You’ll learn more on your dachshund adventure.