Critter Sitter's "Dog of the Day" - Dachshund

Dachshund

Alternative Names: teckel

Country of Origin: Germany

History: It is believed that the dachshund is a cousin of the basset hound and may go as far back as the sixteenth century. It is probably crossed with terriers. The breed was developed to hunt badgers and is still used as a hunting dog, as well as a companion. It became popular in the U.S. during the 1930s and 1940s.

Physical Description: The dachshund is a compact, muscular dog with a long body and short legs. It has a wedge-shaped head, long drop ears, a deep chest, and a long tail. There are two sizes, miniature and standard, and three coat varieties, smooth, long-haired, and wire-haired. The coat is short and smooth, long and silky with feathers, or long and wiry with bristly facial hair. It may be red or cream, or black, chocolate, blue, or fawn, with tan points. There is also a salt and pepper coloring called wild boar and a number of patterns, including dapple, brindle, and piebald.

Height (Standard): No standard available

Weight (Standard): 16 to 32 pounds

Height (Miniature): No standard available

Weight (Miniature): Under 11 pounds

Temperament: This is a friendly, good-natured, and fun-loving dog. It is intelligent, playful, and affectionate.

Activity Level: Moderate to high

Best Owner: The dachshund is adaptable to many living situations, including city or rural life. The miniature is an ideal apartment dog.

Special Needs: Grooming

Possible Health Concerns: Bloat, epilepsy, hypothyroidism, intervertebral disc disease