Dachshund

Appearance

Dachshunds are a short-legged hound breed with an elongated body. They come in three varieties – Standard, Miniature and Kaninchen. They weigh between 9 to 32 pounds and stand between 5 to 9 inches tall. Coat color options include:

• Solid colors: Red, cream, black and tan, chocolate, cinnamon
• Piebald: Black and tan with white patches
• Dappled: Black or brown spotted coat

They have a sleek, muscular build with long snouts and erect ears. Their long body and short legs give them a “hotdog on legs” appearance.

Diet

Dachshunds have high protein requirements due to their muscle mass. They should be fed a high-quality diet formulated for small breed dogs. Puppies up to 1 year old should be fed 3-4 times a day. Adults can be fed 2 times a day. A balanced diet for a Dachshund should include:

• High-quality protein from meat or meat meal as the main source
• Healthy fats to meet their energy needs
• Carbohydrates from whole grains (not corn)
• Vitamins and minerals from a balanced mix of ingredients

All life stages should have meat as the first ingredient and at least 20% protein content.

Health

Some common health issues in Dachshunds include:

• Back problems: Dachshunds are prone to IVDD (Intervertebral Disc Disease) due to their long spine and short legs. Early detection and treatment are key.
• Eye diseases: Cataracts, glaucoma, and cherry eye are common in Dachshunds. Regular eye exams are recommended.
• Weight management: obesity can exacerbate back and joint problems. Proper diet and exercise are key.
• Diabetes: Some Dachshunds are prone to diabetes due to breeding. Blood sugar levels should be monitored.

To keep your Dachshund healthy, provide it with a balanced diet, regular exercise , and visits to the vet. Early detection and management of health issues can help your dog live a long and healthy life.

History

Dachshunds originated in Germany in the 1600s, bred to hunt badgers and other burrow-dwelling animals. They have very keen senses of smell and hearing that enable them to track prey into their dens. The breed became popular as companions in the Victorian era and were often given as gifts. After World War II, they gained even more popularity as family pets. Though small in stature, Dachshunds have a bold and courageous personality. They can make loving companions and guards for families when properly trained and socialized.