DACHSHUND

Dachshunds mean scent-hound dogs selectively bred to hunt badgers along with other tunneling rabbits, foxes, and animals. Hunters also used groups of Dachshunds to trail-wild boars. Nowadays, their versatility helps make them outstanding family pets.

History

The dachshunds originated from Germany, being hunting dogs. Although their beginnings might be traced to the fifteenth century, the breed’s growth actually started in the seventeenth century in Germany. Dachshunds were taken to the USA in 1885. The American Kennel Club then identified the breed; however, their popularity enhanced in the nineteen-thirties and nineteen forties. To avoid them from becoming ostracized in the Second World War, they were momentarily known as badger dogs in the USA. They are very popular dogs today.

Physical Appearance

Dachshunds have short, muscular legs and long backs, explaining the unflattering nicknames hot dog or sausage hound. They have long/droopy ears, tail-carried in line with the back, and a long muzzle. The dachshund’s coat might be shades of black, chocolate, grey, red, or white. Their height is about 8-9 inches (standard), five to six inches (miniature), and they weigh almost sixteen to thirty-two pounds (standard), and around eleven pounds (miniature).

Life Expectancy of Dachshunds

The Dachshunds have an average life span of twelve to sixteen years.

Temperament          

Dachshunds are smart, faithful, and brave. These small dogs have sizeable barrel chests, which give them strength when hunting – a feature that might also result in a lot of running and barking. Dachshunds are entirely dedicated to their keepers and make very faithful companions.

Susceptible Diseases of Dachshunds

Just like other dog breeds, Dachshunds are susceptible to particular health problems like:

• Intervertebral disc illness
• Intestinal problems
• Periodontal diseases
• Cushing’s disease

Care and Grooming

Dachshunds are moderate shedders, clean, and have a slight body smell. The breed’s proper grooming needs can vary with the three coat types. Smooth-coated Dachshunds are fairly clean, requiring a minor wipe using a hand towel. Long-haired Dachshunds might require much more regular brushing, according to the size of the coat. The Wire-haired coat might be plucked repeatedly yearly to maintain the best look; however, beyond that, it is very simple to maintain grooming. It requires the periodic cutting of the eyebrows and beard and brushing a few times weekly. All Dachshunds must have their nails cut monthly.