In this new blog post, we’re putting the spotlight on the Dachshund. A Dachshund’s personality can be described as courageous, alert, spirited, and highly intelligent. They learn quickly but sometimes make a conscious choice not to do something. Dachshunds form strong bonds with their families and can be protective of their home, often signaling this with a bark.
Original purpose
Dachshunds were bred to hunt badgers and foxes both above and below ground, which explains their courageous nature. Despite their small size, the breed does not view itself as small. They possess high energy levels and therefore require daily exercise and mental stimulation.
The different types of dachshunds
Dachshunds come in various types based on coat and size. Regarding their coats, we can distinguish between smooth-haired, wire-haired, and long-haired dachshunds.
- The smooth-haired dachshund has a short, sleek coat and is often considered the most strong-willed and the type with the strongest hunting instinct.
- The wire-haired dachshund has a wiry coat and is often viewed as the clown of the group.
- The long-haired dachshund has a softer, longer coat and usually has a somewhat gentler temperament, though this can vary from dog to dog.
In terms of size, dachshunds can be further categorized into the standard dachshund (weighing 9 to 12 kg), the miniature dachshund (weighing 4 to 6 kg), and the Kaninchen (rabbit) dachshund (weighing 3 to 4 kg).
Sensitive back
Because Dachshunds have relatively long backs, preventing back problems is important. Try to avoid letting them climb stairs or jump off furniture, such as the sofa. Preventing excess weight is also crucial in this regard, as the extra weight can increase pressure on the spine.
Important exercises for a Dachshund
One important exercise for a Dachshund during training is the “come” command. Due to their hunting instinct, Dachshunds are easily led by their noses. Consistency is key during training, as they like to test boundaries; therefore, clarity and predictability are essential. Since this working breed also has high energy levels, providing mental stimulation is important—consider scent games, a “sniff walk,” or a tracking and/or detection course.
