GET TO KNOW THE DACHSHUND
The Dachshund is a unique and captivating breed, immediately recognizable by its long, low silhouette, which earned it the nickname "wiener dog." Originally bred in Germany to bravely hunt badgers (their name literally means "badger dog"), they are sturdy, intelligent hounds with a lively, comical and sometimes stubborn spirit. They come in two sizes (Standard and Miniature) and three coat varieties (Smooth, Longhaired, and Wirehaired), but all share the same defining characteristics: a bold, playful nature and an immense loyalty to their families.
DACHSHUND SUMMARY
Weight: 8 - 32 lbs
Size: Considered a small or miniature dog
Lifespan: 12-16 years
Exercise: Moderate
Temperament: Lively, Courageous, Clever
Trainability: Moderate
Grooming: Low to Moderate
WHAT TO ASK THE BREEDER
It’s important to ensure your breeder conducts thorough health screenings on the two dogs that were bred for the litter. Reputable breeders should perform genetic laboratory testing and also orthopedic evaluations. There’s no way to guarantee every puppy in every litter is 100% free from health problems, but responsible breeding practices greatly reduce the risk. Common health screenings that breeders should run are:
- Cardiac Evaluation (Auscultation or Echocardiogram by Cardiologist)
- Patellar Luxation
- Eye Exam
- Breed specific DNA panel
BRED FOR BADGER HUNTING
Originally bred in Germany to hunt badgers.
Their long bodies and short legs made them ideal for digging into badger dens and chasing out their quarry, hence their name, which means
"badger dog" in German.
3 COAT VARIETIES
Dachshunds come in three coat varieties: smooth, long-haired, and wire-haired. Each coat type has its own distinct texture and requires different grooming needs.
BRAVE & DETERMINED
Despite their small size, Dachshunds are known for their bravery and determination. They have a strong prey drive and are often fearless in the face of larger animals.
ICONIC SILHOUETTE
Dachshunds are instantly recognizable due to their unique silhouette, often described as "hot dog" or "wiener dog." Their long body and short legs have made them one of the most iconic and easily recognizable dog breeds in the world.
PLAYFUL & LOYAL
Dachshunds are playful, energetic dogs that enjoy interactive play and outdoor activities. They are also fiercely loyal to their owners and can be quite protective, making them excellent watchdogs despite their small size.
EXERCISE
Dachshunds have low to moderate exercise needs. Daily walks (20-30 minutes) and play sessions are ideal to keep them physically and mentally stimulated. Their elongated bodies make them prone to back issues, so activities involving jumping or strenuous exercise should be avoided. Providing opportunities to sniff and explore such as Barn Hunt, in line with their hunting instincts, keeps them happy and engaged.
GROOMING
Dachshunds come in three coat types—smooth, longhaired, and wirehaired—each with distinct grooming needs: Smooth-coated Dachshunds require minimal grooming, with occasional brushing to remove loose hair. Longhaired Dachshunds need more frequent brushing (2-3 times a week) to prevent tangles and matting. Wirehaired Dachshunds benefit from regular hand-stripping to maintain their coat texture. Routine care includes weekly nail trimming, ear cleaning, and regular dental hygiene, as Dachshunds are prone to dental issues.
TRAINING & SOCIALIZATION
Training a Dachshund can be challenging due to their independent nature. Positive reinforcement with treats and praise works best.
Early socialization is crucial to help them develop confidence and reduce tendencies toward barking or aggression. Introducing them to different people, environments, and other animals during puppyhood helps them become well-adjusted adult dogs.