General information about the dachshund
dachshund
The origins of the Dachshund (Dachshund, Teckel) can be found in Germany. He was bred as a hunting dog. That's why self-confidence and endurance were bred into this dog breed. These characteristics are particularly in demand because the dachshund was used to hunt in underground animal burrows due to its size. Self-confidence, decisiveness and, of course, perseverance are required there. In addition, as a “lone fighter” he needs fearlessness. Taken together, these characteristics sometimes make the Dachshund stubborn, which should be taken into account when training and keeping dogs.
This can become a problem, especially if the dog is not challenged enough by hunting. But there are enough examples where the dachshund sticks up for its owner through thick and thin through consistent and loving dog training and is good to have as a pleasant family dog. However, he likes to retain his distrust of strangers.
In addition to his hunting abilities, he can be used as a guard and protection dog. The qualities already mentioned, such as fearlessness, courage and persistence, are excellent qualities for this mission.
Families with children report from practice that the dachshund can get along very well with children. In this case, you should always offer the dog a place to retreat (e.g. a basket or blanket), which is also taboo for the children. Getting the dog used to the family situation as early as possible is an advantage.
You can't tell by looking at the dachshund: although he is relatively small, he is grateful for long walks. Keeping them in an apartment is possible without any problems if they are given enough daily exercise. But be careful: Stairs are poisonous for the dachshund due to its long spine. You shouldn't be afraid to carry your dog. This doesn't just apply to the young or old dachshund, but is appropriate for every age. Anyone who has ever seen a dachshund suffering from a herniated disc knows the value of this advice.
You should also be careful when it comes to dog food for your dachshund. A fairly slim dog is a really healthy dog. He thanks the consistent food rationing tailored to the dog with a long and healthy life.
In the FCI system, the dachshund has its own group. Only the variants are differentiated there: FCI standard: No. 148, Group 4, Section 1
Body structure and appearance of the dachshund
For dog breeds, the size is usually indicated by the height at the withers. This is the point at which the neck elevation begins.
For dachshunds, however, the size given is the chest circumference. For the Dachshund (Teckel) this is over 35 cm, for the Miniature Dachshund (Dwarf Teckel) it is 30-35 cm and for the even more delicate Rabbit Dachshund (Rabbit Teckel) it is under 30cm. Dachshunds should not weigh more than 9 kg according to the breed standard.
The physique according to FCI is elongated, muscular and with short, powerful legs.
The short-haired dachshund has a firm, smooth coat. The long-haired dachshund's coat is soft and shiny and is longest on the tail. The hair on the head is as short as that of other dachshund breeds.
The star among the dachshunds is the wire-haired dachshund, which has a short, wiry coat with a dense undercoat.
The coat colors are as follows:
Short-haired dachshund: black tan and red, rarely tabby or chocolate brown
Long-haired dachshund: black, brown, rusty brown, red, red-yellow, yellow
Wire-haired Dachshund: wild-colored
Grooming is uncomplicated for all dachshund breeds.
History and origin of the Dachshund
Records show that dog breeds similar to Dachshunds have existed in Germany since the Middle Ages. In pictures from the 16th century, dogs are often seen in action hunting in fox and badger dens.
In the middle of the 19th century, a breed standard was defined and in 1888 the German Teckelklub 1888 eV, which still exists today, was founded
Breeding the Dachshund
Breeding dachshund dogs can be the crowning achievement in a dog owner's life. .de recommends that dog owners find out more about dog breeding in advance in a good dog book. Especially in the world of dog books there is a wealth of experience that you should take advantage of.