The Dachshund

Pronounced, DAHK_SUND (click to hear the proper pronunciation), this short-legged, long-bodied dog from the hound family originated in Germany. Dachshund, in Germany, literally means “badger dog” from (der) Dachs, badger, and (der) Hund, dog. Common nicknames are, Doxie, Dackel or Teckel, wiener dog/hotdog, sausage dog, or Worshond.

Appearance and Size
Dachshunds come in three sizes:

Coat and Color
Dachshunds come in three coat varieties:

     1. Smooth
     2. Long-haired
     3. Wire-haired

Dachshunds have a wide range of coloration. The most dominant colors and patterns are red and black-and-tan. However, Dachshunds coat colors can range from cream, blue, wild boar, chocolate brown, fawn, brindle, piebald, to a lighter “boar” red. The reds can range from coppers to deep rusts, with somewhat common black hairs peppered along the back, tail, face, and ear edges, lending much character and an almost burnished appearance; this is often desirable and is referred to among breeders and enthusiasts as a “stag” or an “overlay.” Often considered handsome, the solid black and solid chocolate-brown Dachshunds are considered nonstandard, meaning; this color is disqualified from conformance competitions in the U.S. and Canada. Additionally, according to the Conformation judges of the DCA (Dachshund Club of America) and the AKC (American Kennel Club), they assert that the Piebald pattern is a nonstandard and have voted to dismiss this pattern from competition.

Light-colored Dachshunds usually sport light grey, light hazel, green or blue eyes, rather than the various shades of brown. They can also have eyes of two different colors; in rare cases, such as the double-dappled coloration (called merle in other dog breeds), Dachshunds can have a blue and brown eye. Color aside; this eye condition has led to double-dapple coats being disfavored among breeders and owners.

Temperament
Dachshunds are playful, fun dogs, known for their propensity to chase small animals, squirrels, lizards, birds, tennis balls, and dig holes in the garden with great tenacity and ferocity. Many Dachshunds are strong-headed or stubborn, making them a challenge to train (although I had Miss Molly house-trained at 12 weeks old!). They have a terrier-like bark, making Dachshunds good watchdogs. Their owners know Dachshunds for their devotion and loyalty. However, if left alone many Dachshunds will whine until they have companionship. Some Dachshunds are prone to separation anxiety and may chew objects in the house to relieve stress. 

The American Kennel Club’s breed standards for the Dachshund temperament is, “the Dachshund is clever, lively and courageous to the point of rashness, persevering in above and below ground work, with all the senses well-developed.” Their temperament and body language give the impression that they do not care about their relatively small and comical stature. Indulged Dachshunds may become snappy. Fanciers of the breed often say that “Dachshunds are big dogs in small packages.”

The Dachshund’s temperament may vary from dog to dog, but most Dachshunds do not like unfamiliar people, and will growl or bark in response. Most Dachshunds are energetic, and if bored, may become destructive. If raised improperly, Dachshunds can become aggressive or fearful. They require a caring owner that understands their need to have entertainment and exercise. Some may not be good with children, and they may bite an unfamiliar child.

Health
Dachshunds are known to have IVDD (Intervertebral Disk Disease), due in part to an extremely long spinal column and short rib cage. The risk of developing IVDD or other back injuries can be obesity, which places greater strain on the vertebrae. In order to prevent injury, it is recommended that Dachshunds be discouraged from jumping and taking stairs (easier said than done especially if you live in a two-story apartment or home!). Some veterinarians say that slow stair climbing is unlikely to lead to injury. And then there are others who say that climbing stairs (slowly) regularly may actually be less prone to IVDD, probably because the exercise helps to keep them fitter and healthier, and positive correlations were found between physically fit dogs and a lower incidence of IVDD.