Dachshund

Dachsunds UK

Dachshund is a German Breed of dogs that were originally employed to hunt badgers. In fact, Dash means badger in German. It has a long body and is very short almost touching the ground. Its utility as a hunter dog was also used in hunts for rabbits, foxes, and even wild Boars. Though you call it a hound, it is, in fact, a stubborn terrier.

Dachshund History

It was introduced in America in the 19th century. The Dachshund was very popular until the World War One, but lost its popularity on political aspersions, because it was a German dog. However, lost popularity was soon regained after the second World War. Today, it is the most popular dog in America because of its small size and the fact that it needs only little exercise.

Dachshund Size

Three are three varieties of Dachshund.- short, long and wire haired. They come in two sizes; standard size 14 to 18 inches, weighing 11 pounds or more and the miniature measuring about 14 inches and weighing up to 11 pounds.

The color of the coat can also vary from dark black to cream to multi colored brindle or dappled. The present day Dachshund is smaller than the original breed which weighed about 30 – 40 pounds.

Dachshund Nature

In general, the dog is very playful and friendly, but it is never happy in the company of strangers. They are very difficult to train because they will refuse to be trained. However, the sound of their bark is comparatively loud for the size. They have a good sense of smell, and can track a human scent as is amply proven at Earth dog Trail competition, where dogs are timed when they purse a prey down man made tunnels.

What To Feed The Dachshund

These dogs are gluttons, and so, overfeeding would lead to weight gain and also to health issues like spine, heart, and blood sugar problems. It is best to give them home made food. They stop puppy kibbles and graduate onto adult food when they are one year old. These dogs do not like a change of food. They like to eat the same food for many years. Their food should be rich in proteins laced with enough Vitamins and minerals and amino acids.

If you want to treat the Dachshund, instead of giving him some dog biscuits, try giving him a carrot, and see how he will love it.

Dachshund Care

You should take good care of the Dachshund because it is prone to spine disc problems. Great care is to be taken to ensure that they do not fall off the furniture. When you pick up your Dachshund, be sure to support both his front and back ends.