Dachshund Dog

The unusual body structure of the Dachshund dog is tightly tied to its function – following the prey into narrow tunnels and drawing it from the dens. Badgers and other vermin were the common prey for the smooth-coated Dachshund. Everything in the Dachshund was designed according to the breed’s function. A low-swung body with a broad chest and short legs allowed these dogs digging through the tunnel and resting on the chest when necessary. If a Dachshund failed to get out of the den, the hunter could pull it out by its long tail. Long-coated Dachshunds were used for retrieving birds, as they could not fight underground. Wire-haired Dachshunds accompanied hunters in rough terrain and were used for flushing and retrieving the game.

Today, an average Dachshund dog is used as a pet rather than for its original purpose. The exaggerated appearance of the breed, though of no use, is still preserved by the breed standard. The other reason for the growing popularity of the Dachshund is its personality. Like all hounds, these dogs are intelligent, independent, hardy, courageous, and bold. They are a pleasure to own for active families.

A Dachshund dog is not the right pet for a novice owner. It needs a master who can be a pack leader and will not allow a Dachshund to take over and manipulate. Consistent and firm training is a key to a well behaved and obedient companion. Dachshund puppies are playful and cute, but when they grow up untrained and not given basic socialization, they become unpredictable. Most behavior problems associated with Dachshunds resulted from ignorance of the owners and lack of time to spend with the dog.

Dachshunds are low maintenance dogs. They are good for apartment living and don’t need much grooming. Long-coats and wire-haired varieties need regular brushing and occasional professional trimming, but smooth-coats need only regular rubdown with a soft damp cloth to be clean and neat-looking. Because of a long low-swung body, the Dachshund is prone to spinal disk problems. Overfeeding a Dachshund dog is very dangerous, as it puts excessive strain on its bones.