Owners love their dogs.But with Doxies that devotion reaches new heights. The reasons aren’t hard to understand. Dachshunds are special in many ways.
The German translation “badger dog” shows just one of those ways. Bred in the early 1600s to hunt those ferocious little animals, the Dachshund became ferocious himself.That fearless and assertive attitude remains today.
That feisty nature can be a negative or positive.
Dogs that are independent can make great companions, since that also makes them exploratory and playful. It provides the dog with lots of energy and a willingness to try new things.It also means that training them requires skill and extra patience.Dachshunds are more inclined than many other breeds to strive for alpha status in the household. Reminding them that the human is boss may require a long struggle.
But that training has to be appropriate to the breed’s mental and physical attributes.
Dachshunds weigh between 10-30 pounds and are 9 inches high at the shoulder.Toy varieties are quite a bit smaller, often under 8 pounds and only 5 inches high.Their average lifespan is between 14-17 years.
Doxies are much more prone to spinal problems than other breeds due to their long bodies and short legs. Rough handling can cause serious problems.
At the same time simply screaming won’t work because they are assertive.At best that produces a fearful dog, at worst, they can become aggressive and hostile in response. They may look at their trainer as an enemy badger.Owners should be prepared due to barking being more common in Dachshunds, too.
They make for excellent pets and companions with the right approach.
There are three basic varieties – Wire-Coats, Smooth-Coats, and Long-Hairs.The difference goes beyond the type of fur they have. The personalities of the three types tend to follow a pattern, as well.
Smooth-haired Dachshunds more often attach themselves to a single family member. While they will tolerate other humans, they tend to be stand-offish and wary of other animals. The Wire-haired is usually more playful and outgoing. Long-haired Doxies tend to be a little more placid.Though, like any Doxie, they are up for a game of fetch whenever the opportunity exists.
Apart from spinal problems, Dachshunds less often suffer from diseases that are more prevalent in other breeds.Diabetes, abdominal cancers and other diseases are possible but much less common in this breed.Stones or urinary tract problems can occur, but they are more likely in special varieties such as Double Dapples and those with blue eyes.This variety tends to have more eye and hearing problems, too.
Raising a healthy and happy dog is a challenge.But Doxie owners commonly report that the rewards in their case are especially large.They are highly affectionate and very loyal.People who live with them tend to return the favor.
Dachshund supplies and gifts can be found at Ony-Dachshunds.com