We Are Dachshunds
Dachshunds, often lovingly referred to as "Doxies," are a breed of dog known for their unique and charming appearance. With their long bodies, short legs, and endearing personalities, it's no wonder they have captured the hearts of pet owners across the globe. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the fascinating world of Dachshunds, exploring their history, characteristics, and care requirements, as well as some lesser-known facts about this captivating breed.
Origins and History of Dachshunds
The Dachshund breed traces its roots back to Germany, where they were initially bred for hunting badgers. The name "Dachshund" is derived from the German words "dachs" (badger) and "hund" (dog), reflecting their original purpose. These "badger dogs" were developed by German breeders who sought a smaller hunting companion capable of tracking and capturing small burrow-dwelling animals such as badgers, rabbits, and foxes. The first written reference to Dachshunds dates back to the 18th century, where they were described as "dachs kreiger" or "badger warriors."
Dachshunds are believed to have descended from the Saint Hubert Hound, incorporating various elements from German, French, and English hounds and terriers. The smooth-coated Dachshunds were the original breed, with the longhaired and wirehaired varieties emerging later through crossbreeding with other dog breeds.
The First Olympic Mascot
The 1972 Munich Olympic Games featured a colorful Dachshund named Waldi as its official mascot, marking the first time the Olympics had a mascot. In a fitting tribute to this beloved breed, the marathon route for that year was even designed in the shape of a Dachshund.
Dachshund Sizes and Coat Varieties
Dachshunds come in two distinct sizes: standard and miniature. Standard Dachshunds typically have a weight range of 16 to 32 pounds, while miniature Dachshunds weigh 12 pounds or less. In addition to size, there are three different coat types: smooth, longhaired, and wirehaired.
Smooth-Coated Dachshunds
The smooth-coated Dachshund was the original variety, characterized by a short, sleek coat. This coat type remains the most popular among the three.
Longhaired Dachshunds
Longhaired Dachshunds sport a silky, flowing coat, which is believed to have originated either through selective breeding or crossbreeding with small spaniels.
Wirehaired Dachshunds
Wirehaired Dachshunds have a distinctive, rough coat, which was developed in the 19th century through crossbreeding with hard-coated terriers or wirehaired pinschers. This coat type is the least common of the three.
Physical Attributes and Temperament
Dachshunds are known for their long backs, short muscular legs, and expressive faces. They also possess a deep barrel chest and large lung capacity, which contribute to their surprisingly loud bark for a small-sized dog. Their flap-down ears and curved tails were intentionally bred for their hunting prowess, with the ears serving to protect the ear canal from dirt and debris, and the curved tail aiding in visibility when digging.
Personality Traits
Dachshunds are lively, playful, and intelligent dogs, though they can be somewhat stubborn at times. They are fiercely loyal and often bond closely with a single person, making them excellent watchdogs but occasionally prone to jealousy and loneliness if not given adequate attention. Due to their hunting background, they may exhibit a high prey drive and a penchant for digging.
Some enthusiasts believe that a Dachshund's coat type can influence its personality, with longhaired Dachshunds being more mellow and wirehaired Dachshunds being more energetic and mischievous.
Grooming and Care
Dachshunds have moderate grooming needs, with the specific requirements varying depending on the coat type.
Smooth-Coated Dachshunds
Smooth-coated Dachshunds require occasional brushing with a soft-bristle brush to maintain their sleek coat.
Longhaired Dachshunds
Frequent brushing and combing with a stiff-bristled brush are necessary for longhaired Dachshunds to prevent matting, especially behind the ears and under the belly.
Wirehaired Dachshunds
Wirehaired Dachshunds need regular brushings with a short-napped wire-bristle brush and occasional coat stripping to remove excess hair when it becomes too thick.
Regardless of coat type, Dachshunds produce a unique hair fat that keeps them warm, so bathing should be limited to prevent stripping this natural protective layer. When bathing is necessary, ensure to use a shampoo formulated for dogs.
Training and Socialization
Dachshunds are intelligent dogs but can be somewhat stubborn, making consistent, patient training essential. They tend to learn quickly when motivated and supported, so incorporating treats and toys into training sessions can be beneficial. Keep training sessions short and engaging to maintain their focus.
Early socialization is crucial for Dachshunds, as they may display aggression towards strangers and other dogs if not properly acclimated.
Exercise Requirements
Dachshunds are energetic dogs that require 20 to 40 minutes of exercise per day to maintain their physical and mental health. A couple of half-mile walks daily, along with indoor play, should suffice for these small yet active canines. Be mindful of their long backs and avoid activities that may strain their spine, such as jumping on and off furniture.
Health Considerations
Dachshunds have a lifespan of 12 to 14 years, with some living even longer. Their most common health issues are related to their long backs, making them prone to intervertebral disk disease (IVDD) and other spinal problems. Obesity, rough play, and over-exercising can exacerbate these issues, so maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding activities that strain the spine are crucial for a Dachshund's well-being.
In addition to spinal concerns, Dachshunds are susceptible to patellar luxation, brittle bone disease, epilepsy, Cushing's Disease, and thyroid and autoimmune disorders. Regular veterinary check-ups and a proactive approach to health care can help detect and manage these conditions.
Famous Dachshund Owners and Pop Culture Presence
Dachshunds have earned a place in the hearts of many famous pet owners throughout history, including Queen Victoria, John F. Kennedy, Andy Warhol, and Pablo Picasso. Picasso's Dachshund, Lump, was even considered a significant source of inspiration for the artist.
In popular culture, Dachshunds have been used as mascots and featured in various films, television shows, and literature, solidifying their status as a beloved and iconic breed.
Final Thoughts
With their unique appearance, spirited personalities, and fascinating history, Dachshunds have cemented their place as a beloved breed for dog lovers worldwide. Understanding their specific care requirements and being mindful of their health concerns will ensure that these loyal companions thrive in their homes, providing endless love and joy to their families.
