Are you considering getting a Dachshund? Or are you just interested in the breed? Well, this is the perfect place to start! This dachshund breed profile is a short summary of the Dachshund breed characteristics from their size to how much exercise they need.
Breed overview
Dachshunds were originally bred to go to ground after badgers or rabbits and track wounded game so are classed as a working breed. Since they were bred to go to ground they are a small breed but come in two sizes standard standing at 8”-9” to the withers weighing between 7 and 15 Kg, and miniature standing at 5”-6”to the withers weighing between 4 and 5 Kg. Both sizes with a lifespan of 12+ years. They have three coat types smooth, long and wirehaired meaning that grooming requirements will vary based on the coat type. The main breed standard colours are black and tan, brindle, chocolate and tan, chocolate dapple and tan, red, shaded red and silver dapple and tan. However, there are many more colour combinations.
Grooming
As I mentioned above Dachshunds come in three coat types smooth, long and wirehaired. This means that the grooming requirements will vary depending on coat type. Smooth haired require the least grooming and will need only the occasional brush (about once a week). Long haired require more grooming, brushing at least every other day, to prevent tangles and matting. Finally wirehaired dachshunds don’t need much regular grooming similar to the short hair. But need hand stripping a few times a year which can be difficult and takes a long time. Obviously, Dachshunds will also need to be bathed, have their nails trimmed and teeth cleaned regularly exactly the same as all other dogs.
Exercise
As Dachshunds are a working breed they need a reasonable amount of exercise, ideally 1 hour a day. Not only do they need physical exercise like walking or running but also mental stimulation. This can be done by training, which your Dachshund will love (even if they are a bit stubborn sometimes) or using puzzle toys.
Health
Generally, Dachshunds are quite healthy but due to their long spines and short legs they are prone to a few more health problems than your average dog. These include intervertebral disc disease, epilepsy, progressive retinal atrophy, GDV, cushings disease, diabetes mellitus and deafness. However, all good breeders have both parents genetically tested/screened for these problems. This means that when you buy a puppy you know it’s got a much smaller chance of developing these problems when its older.
Temperament
Dachshunds are a very good all-round family pet. As they are entertaining, fearless and cuddly. They are very intelligent, but their stubborn nature can make training a bit more challenging. So, keep training sessions short, fun and engaging! Dachshund temperament and personality also tends to vary depending on the coat type – with wirehairs tending to be troublemakers and long hairs being calmer.
So, overall Dachshunds are lively, clever and courageous! They are working dogs so need lots of exercise and mental stimulation. But they are well worth the effort. As long as you exercise them sufficiently you will have a goofy, loving and loyal friend.
P.S. You can shop all our Dachshund products here if this Dachshund breed profile has persuaded you to get one of these great dogs!
