Dachshund

About the Dachshund

The standard Dachshund is a bold, curious hound breed with a distinctive long body and short legs. Originating in Germany, they were bred to hunt badgers and rabbits, navigating underground burrows with their elongated shape. They come in three coat types — smooth, long-haired, and wire-haired — and a variety of colours.

Dachshunds are curious, brave, and lively. They have a strong independent streak and can be stubborn during training. Despite their small-to-medium size, they are bold and confident. They are loyal to their families and make excellent watchdogs. They can be wary of strangers and may bark at unfamiliar sounds.

Standard Dachshunds need around 45-60 minutes of exercise daily. They enjoy walks and exploring but should avoid activities that stress their spine, such as jumping or climbing steep stairs. Keep them on a lead when outdoors as they have a strong prey drive and will follow scent trails.

Grooming needs vary by coat type. Smooth-coated Dachshunds need minimal grooming. Long-haired varieties require regular brushing 2-3 times weekly. Wire-haired Dachshunds need hand-stripping several times a year. All types benefit from regular nail trimming and dental care.

Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) is the most significant health concern due to their elongated spine. Other issues include obesity, dental problems, epilepsy, and eye conditions. Keeping them at a healthy weight is crucial for spinal health. Breeders should screen for IVDD risk factors.

Maintain a lean body weight to reduce spinal strain. Use ramps for furniture and avoid letting them jump down from heights. Support their entire body when lifting. Provide moderate exercise on flat ground. Feed a controlled diet and resist overfeeding. Consistent, patient training is needed for this independent breed. Regular vet check-ups should include spinal assessments.

When buying a standard Dachshund, spinal health is the primary concern. Ask breeders about IVDD screening and their approach to reducing back problems. Both parents should be DNA-tested for PRA (cord1), and have current eye certificates. For wire-haired Dachshunds, lafora disease testing is essential. Choose puppies with moderate body proportions. Visit the breeder to see the parents move freely and ensure they are in good physical condition. The Dachshund Breed Council provides excellent guidance on health testing requirements.

Responsible Dachshund breeders follow the Dachshund Breed Council's health recommendations. Testing should include cord1 PRA (DNA test), lafora disease (wire-haired varieties), and annual eye examinations. They should be aware of IVDD risk and breed for moderate proportions. Ask about back problems in their lines and what percentage of their dogs have experienced disc issues. Good breeders educate new owners about preventing spinal injuries and maintaining a healthy weight.