These cute sausage dogs are curious, affectionate and playful and suit apartment living.
Pronounced ‘dak-sund’ and affectionately known as the sausage dog, this short-legged, long-bodied little guy is playful, curious, affectionate and brave. Strangers shouldn’t expect much love, as they tend to be reserved with unknown people but they are incredibly loyal and loving with their family. Boisterous little children and a Dachshund aren’t a great mix as your Dachshund can become impatient and aggressive towards them.
While their strong-will makes for a charming personality, it also makes house training difficult. With time and patience you will be rewarded with a wonderfully behaved dog. Check under the blankets before sitting down as Dachshunds love to burrow – if you love to garden, rethink a Dachshund as they have strong instincts to dig. Buy them their own blanket for a happy pet. Make sure to provide toys too as they like to chew, especially when stressed. They are loud barkers and whine when left alone for too long. Be firm and patient and your Dachshund will be a wonderful family companion.
Fun fact: A Dachshund named Waldi was the first
official Olympic mascot and starred in the 1972 Munich Games.
Don’t worry about upgrading to a house yet as your Dachshund is suitable for apartment living. A daily walk is ideal and they are fairly active when indoors. Their small stature means they are likely to be missed when walking, so be careful when out and about.
Dachshunds are prone to spinal injury and need to be prevented from jumping from chairs to lounges or climbing too many stairs from a young age. They exhibit three coat varieties: smooth coat (Shorthair), Longhair, and Wirehair. The Wirehaired variety require more effort than their smooth-hair siblings. Their coats need to be plucked (not clipped) by a groomer two to three times a year and their facial hair trimmed when needed, along with regular brushing.
Scheduled six monthly health check visits with your vet are important to ensure that your dog is healthy and happy throughout all life stages. Due to their elongated body, a common problem with Dachshunds is spinal issues. Together with your vet, you can determine a preventative health care program based on the individual needs of your canine companion.
Size
A Wirehaired Dachshund is a small-sized breed weighing between 4- 5kgs, with a height between 31-35cms.
Space
Dachshunds fair well in most spaces, provided they receive enough exercise.
Energy Levels
The equivalent of a gym-bunny, they love to run and play, but they also take time for plenty of rest. A daily walk and occasional game of fetch is all that’s required.
Difficulty of Training
They are highly intelligent, making them easy to train. However they have a dominant streak and house breaking may be difficult.
Family Suitability
They are great family pets, loyal companions and even make great watchdogs.
Compatibility with other Pets
Dachshunds love being the only pet.
Need for Company
The more time you can spend with your Dachshund, the better off your pet will be.
Hypoallergenic Dog Breed?
No
Coat and Grooming Needs
Grooming is not a demanding chore for a Dachshund. Just brush their coats weekly and pluck it twice a year. They have a short-medium coat, usually black with tan markings, but it can also be a solid reddish-brown colour.
Shedding
They shed moderately.
Tendency to Bark
Dachshunds love to talk, so expect some noise.