Dachshund (Sausage Dog), the Intelligent Short-Legged Hunting Dog

The Dachshund, also known as the Sausage Dog, is a German hunting breed with a long body, short legs, and comes in three coat types: smooth-haired, long-haired, and wire-haired.

The Dachshund is a hunting dog originating from Germany. This breed has a very unique appearance, featuring a long body, short legs, large round eyes, and long floppy ears. They are intelligent, energetic, and sometimes a bit stubborn. In this article, dog breed provides detailed information about this adorable dog. Let’s dive in to see if this cute pet is the right choice for you!

Where Does the Dachshund Come From?

The Dachshund is a hunting dog originating from Germany.

Also known as the Dachshund, the Sausage Dog is a German hunting breed. In German, "Dachshund" means "badger dog." They were originally bred for hunting badgers and foxes, which were considered harmful to crops in Germany.

In the 18th and 19th centuries, Dachshunds became popular in Germany and England, largely due to Queen Victoria’s admiration for the breed. Thanks to their friendly and intelligent nature, along with their unique appearance, these small dogs soon became beloved family pets.

In 1885, the American Kennel Club (AKC) officially recognized the Dachshund as an official breed, and it gradually gained popularity in the United States.

Dachshunds are classified into three main types:

• Smooth-haired Dachshund: The purebred standard.
• Long-haired Dachshund: A result of crossbreeding between purebred Dachshunds and German Spaniels.
• Wire-haired Dachshund: A mix of purebred Dachshunds, Schnauzers, and Dandie Dinmont Terriers.

The Unique Appearance of the Dachshund

Appearance of the Dachshund

The Dachshund has a very distinctive appearance, with a long body and short legs, originally bred for hunting foxes and badgers in underground burrows. Let’s take a closer look at the physical characteristics of this unique breed:

• Height: 13 - 25 cm
• Weight: 4 - 15 kg
• Body: Long, low to the ground, with short legs
• Head: Slim and elongated, with a pointed snout
• Eyes: Oval-shaped, dark brown
• Ears: Large, long, and floppy
• Coat types: Three variations—smooth, long-haired, and wire-haired
• Coat colors: Red, black and tan, cream, dapple, brindle
• Tail: Straight, tapering to a point
• Lifespan: 12 - 16 years

Personality of the Dachshund

Dachshunds Love to Run and Play

The Dachshund (Sausage Dog) is an incredibly intelligent, affectionate, and clever breed. Let’s explore some of their most notable personality traits.

Smart and Quick-Witted

Dachshunds are highly intelligent and can easily understand commands from their owners. However, they sometimes pretend not to hear you and ignore instructions.

Love to Dig and Hunt

As natural hunting dogs, Dachshunds enjoy chasing prey. They will instinctively run after mice, birds, or any moving toys. They can spend hours digging in the yard, hoping to uncover their “prey.”

Loud and Frequent Barkers

Dachshunds love to bark, and their barks are surprisingly loud for their size. They will bark at strangers or any unusual noises. While they make good watchdogs, early training is essential to prevent excessive barking.

Stubborn and Headstrong

Dachshunds can be quite stubborn and sometimes difficult to train. They prefer to do things their own way and may even try to "train" their owners instead!

How to Properly Care for a Dachshund

Proper Care for a Healthy Dachshund

Due to their unique body structure, Dachshunds require special care to grow strong and avoid health issues. If you're unsure how to care for them properly, follow these guidelines.

Maintain a Balanced Diet

Dachshunds are prone to obesity, so they need a healthy diet. Here’s a recommended breakdown of their food intake:

• Protein (50%): Chicken, beef, pork, liver, heart, etc.
• Carbohydrates (20-30%): Sweet potatoes, rice, brown rice, bread, oatmeal, etc.
• Fats (10%): Fish oil, olive oil.
• Vegetables & Fruits (20%): Carrots, broccoli, kale, etc.

If you don’t have time to prepare fresh meals, consider high-quality kibble that provides balanced nutrition while saving time.

Important Notes:

• Avoid overly salty, spicy, hot, or greasy foods.
• Limit sugary foods, chocolate, and small bones.
• Under 3 months old: Feed 4 soft meals per day (such as porridge).
• 3-6 months old: Feed 3 meals per day.
• Over 6 months old: Feed 2 meals per day.

Regular Grooming & Hygiene

Dachshunds have short coats, making grooming relatively easy. However, here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Brush their coat 1-2 times per week.
• Bathe them 2-3 times per month with dog shampoo.
• Dry them thoroughly after bathing to prevent skin infections.
• Regularly clean their ears, teeth, and nails to prevent bacteria buildup.

Daily Exercise & Outdoor Time

Dachshunds love to run and play outdoors! Ensure they get 30 minutes to 1 hour of daily exercise. This keeps them physically fit and mentally happy.

Vaccinations & Regular Check-ups

Make sure your Dachshund gets all essential vaccines, including 5-in-1, rabies, distemper (care), and parvovirus shots. Consult a vet for the proper vaccination schedule.

Additionally, deworming and regular vet check-ups are crucial to maintaining their overall health.

Common Health Issues in Dachshunds

Dachshunds Are Prone to Obesity

Due to their long bodies and short legs, Dachshunds are susceptible to various health issues, including joint problems and obesity. Let’s explore some common diseases affecting this breed.

1. Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)

Dachshunds’ long backs place significant pressure on their spines, making them highly prone to IVDD.

• Causes: Genetic predisposition, excessive jumping, and overexertion.
• Symptoms: Limping, difficulty standing, reluctance to move, and even paralysis of the hind legs.
• Prevention: Limit stair climbing, ensure moderate exercise, and seek veterinary care if symptoms worsen.

2. Obesity

Dachshunds love to eat but are not always active, making them prone to obesity.

• Causes: Overeating, lack of exercise, and a high-carb diet.
• Symptoms: Overweight body, sluggish movement, and a large belly.
• Prevention: Maintain a balanced diet and ensure daily exercise.

3. Ear Infections

With their long, floppy ears, Dachshunds are vulnerable to ear infections caused by bacteria and parasites.

• Causes: Thick, drooping ears trap moisture and dirt, leading to bacterial growth.
• Symptoms: Foul-smelling ears, pus discharge, and frequent ear scratching.
• Prevention: Clean their ears at least once a week and dry them thoroughly after baths.

4. Skin Infections

Dachshunds can develop skin infections or allergies if not properly groomed.

• Causes: Poor hygiene, bacterial infections, or parasites.
• Symptoms: Itching, scratching, red rashes, and hair loss.
• Prevention: Bathe them 1-2 times per week and regularly check their skin for abnormalities.

5. Separation Anxiety

Dachshunds are affectionate and can become stressed when left alone for extended periods.

• Symptoms: Excessive barking, howling, scratching doors, destructive behavior, loss of appetite, and sadness.
• Prevention: Train them to be comfortable alone and spend quality time with them daily.

Is a Dachshund Right for You?

If you’re unsure whether a Dachshund is the right pet for you, consider the following:

✅ A Dachshund is ideal if you:

• Want a small, intelligent, and energetic dog.
• Have time for daily walks and playtime.
• Can tolerate barking and are patient with stubborn behavior.

❌ A Dachshund may not be suitable if:

• You have a busy lifestyle and limited time for pet care.
• You prefer a quiet dog that requires minimal training.

Dachshund Price Guide

Dachshunds are a popular breed in Vietnam, and their price varies based on origin and pedigree. Here’s a reference table:

Notes:

• Prices may vary depending on coat color, appearance, gender, and lineage.
• Verify the origin, vaccination records, and health status before purchasing.
• Avoid buying online without seeing the dog in person.
• Consult experts or experienced Dachshund owners for insights before making a decision.

Cute & Adorable Dachshund Photos

Now, enjoy some of the most beautiful and charming Dachshund pictures we’ve collected! These adorable pups will surely steal your heart.

Dachshund puppy photo.

Black Dachshund.

Image of white recreated puppy.

Long-Haired Dachshund Photos

With their adorable appearance and intelligent, lively nature, Dachshunds have become a beloved pet for many families.

We hope the information shared by dogbreed.wiki has helped you gain a deeper understanding of this breed, from their appearance and personality to proper care.

If you're interested in learning about other dog breeds, be sure to check out more articles in our Blog section!