JAck Russell Terrier

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.

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Dogs require regular grooming to keep their nails in trim and their coats healthy. Which technique you use for your Doxie depends on which of the three main types you have.

Smooth-Coat

A Smooth-Coat Dachshund is the classic, short-haired type you have seen in a hundred films and ads. Requiring little more than a regular bathing and brushing, their coats are easy to care for. “Regular” varies with the dog’s environment and age.

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Younger dogs may need baths as often as once per week, though once a month is fine when they stay out of dirt and bushes. If they live in rougher circumstances, be sure to keep their coats clean and brushed regurlarly. “Regularly” means a minimum of twice per week, and as necessary. Remove any plant material as soon as they are done playing.

A wire slicker is fine for grooming, but be careful. All dogs are durable, but it is important not to scrape the skin. That can lead to hot spots that the dog will make worse by chewing and licking. Since Doxies are a high-energy, assertive breed, extra caution is needed.

Wire-Hair

The wirey hair on the muzzle, chest and legs of this variety gives them the name. It also gives them a need for extra grooming care.More frequent baths and more regular brushing will be called for in their case.Brushing will take longer as well.

Like the terriers they resemble, the stiff coat is actually in two layers.Get the undercoat with a slicker and use a regular brush for the top layer. Remember, too, that they will shed more.A shampoo to help control shedding may be necessary in some cases. In most cases, be prepared for seasonal changes as they naturally adjust to the change in weather by shedding more.

Cut any excess hair off the muzzle to avoid it dragging on the ground. Cutting behind the rear legs will also be necessary once it reaches a length that leads to mats.Regular brushing up to twice a week is good enough.

Long-Hair

As the name suggests, this type has long, wavy hair. Since Doxies are low to the ground, more regular trimming will be needed, along with more frequent bathing. Matting is especially common in this variety, but can be avoided with brushing every other day, especially behind the ears.When mats form, trim them gradually until you have removed enought to work out the mat with a brush and fingers.

A shampoo that contains conditioner works well with this type.Be sure not to over-bathe them, though, which can lead to scaly, dried skin. Regular, gentle brushing will help, since it smooths natural oils over the skin and under the coat.

Nail Trimming

All types need to have their nails trimmed often, usually weekly. The normal technique is okay. Get a good pair of guillotine scissors and hold each foot firmly, looking for the quick. Cut away from the quick to avoid accidents, which are more likely in the Doxie’s case because of their feisty nature.

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They are a naturally feisty breed.Bred to hunt badgers, they had to be tough and inventive.  But that assertive nature should not be allowed to turn against you.You must be the alpha dog.

Each dog will deviate in degree, of course.There are submissive ones though fewer than other breeds, on average.  Some will try to insist on having their own way at all times, much like most terriers.But training can adjust their behavior, especially if you start when they are young and stay consistent.

Zero tolerance should be the rule for all aggressive conduct, whether toward a family member, you, or strange people and animals.Gnawing the leash during training is one mild manifestation.

Discourage it by stepping on the leash close to the dog’s head.  Then with the other foot, slowly pull the leash down to the ground closer and closer to the collar.Take care not to stress their neck, as Doxies are inclined to spinal problems.When they have released the lead, praise them lavishly.

To discourage excess barking or biting or snapping a squirt bottle comes in handy.Give your dog a little squirt against the muzzle when he shows this behavior.  Avoid the eyes.That startles your dog and it is unpleasing besides.  Repeat, if necessary, but avoid making it a contest of wills.That only tends to make it seem to the dog that you are a competitor.  Firm consistency is preferred to counter-aggression.

If your Doxie continues, isolate your dog and be prepared for some barking.Like spoiled young children, a dog will sometimes try to whine or bark its way out of punishment.Offer your dog rugged chew toys and allow him to work out the aggression on those while he’s in the “time out” box.

Follow this negative reinforcement with some positive reinforcement.Look for illustrations of good behavior and praise it profusely.Use a modest number of treats if necessary.The point is to help the dog see for itself the different end result of its own conduct in terms of your response.Dachshunds are smart.With persistence, they will learn.

For instance, one may become assertive during fetch by refusing to give up the ball.Try to discern between genuine willfulness and a simple desire to play a different game, tug.  Make the difference clear by using a rope for tug, which they love.

It is necessary to tread a fine line, though, because tug can lead to encouraging aggression.Exercising them a little harder than you would a more playful or tranquil dog will help.Aggression is partly caused by the frustration of repressed energy with no positive outlet.

A friend can be a big help here.Heave the ball to a partner several feet away, along the ground.When the Doxie gives chase, make sure the partner is the first to get the ball.Repeat the exercise a few times, then allow your Dachshund to win.

With patience and a little creativity, you can direct your Dachshund’s aggression into more positive directions.

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Vaccines are an essential tool in keeping your Doxie healthy, but a few do carry some risk of allergic reaction.  Knowing which are vital and which are optional can help improve your odds of doing good without doing harm.

- Rabies

Rabies vaccine is among the most important for your Dachshund, as it is for any dog.Even though the disease is much less common today, the consequences of getting it are still so drastic – often fatal – that most vets still recommend it.

Rabies vaccinations are usually given every year to puppies and every two to three years subsequently.The majority of the states require the vaccine and determine a specific schedule.That is being re-examined as research now reveals that immunization lasts three years or more.See your veterinarian for specific guidelines, but also seek a second or even third opinion and decide accordingly.

Serious side effects from the vaccination are rare, but may include swelling, hives, fever, or lethargy, along with decreased appetite.

- Canine Distemper

Distemper shots used to be routine.Although schedules have lengthened, they are still common today.Contemporary research shows that puppies given a sequence of shots will develop antibodies that last several years.First vaccinations should be given at approximately eight weeks.As with any vaccination, the schedule can vary from one part of the country to another, since prevalence and the associated risks of the disease vary geographically.  See your vet.

- Parvo

A vaccine to protect against the parvovirus is often combined with that for distemper, though it can be given separately.Bear in mind that “combo” shots represent a slightly greater risk of allergic reaction.Combinations also make determining the root of any problem more difficult.

In some dogs, the immune systems goes into “hyperdrive” and produces redness of the gums, swelling of the face and other symptoms.If a problem occurs, it commonly happens within an hour or less, so stay near your vet’s office after any vaccination.Observe your Dachshund attentively.Have Benadryl nearby and call your vet at the first sign of a reaction.

- Hepatitis

This shot helps protect against infectious canine hepatitis.Here again, the disease is not common and the vaccine carries a small chance of allergic reaction.Nevertheless, the disease is serious enough that owners will want to discuss the subject carefully with their veterinarian and seek a second opinion before deciding.Kidney infections are possible following the vaccination because modified live virus is used.

- Lepto

Shots to immunized against the leptospira bacteria used to be routine, and in many areas still are.This is another vaccine that may cause a reaction and offers only short-lived protection against the disease.Since the disease itself is uncommon, this vaccination is considered “non-core” by many vets today.

- Bordatella

The Bordatella organism causes a fairly common condition popurlarly known as “kennel cough”.  The name comes from the fact that the organism can be airborne and can spread when dogs are housed close together.It is not a serious ailment, but does necessitate treatment when it arises.

If your Dachshund does not come into contact with strange dogs this vaccine is probably not necessary.Exceptions are in areas where the disease has gone unchecked, or when you intend to go on vacation and board your Dachshund.

Summary

Vaccines are a low-risk, outstanding way to protect your Dachshund against a wide array of diseases.But “low-risk” doesn’t mean “no risk” and what was once a customary habit has become a more thoughtful exercise, thanks to improved research.

Apprehension about vaccines is erroneous.However, the risk of disease is not zero, either.Nevertheless, careful consideration of the benefits and risks will help maximize your dog’s health.

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Like any breed, Dachshunds are at risk for an abundance of diseases and conditions.  But because of their long bodies and short legs they are most at risk for spinal problems.One of the most common forms is a condition called IVDD (Intervertebral Disk Disease), which is an umbrella term for an abundance of problems.

Vertebrae are the hard bones that make up the spinal column support.They envelop the spinal cord and are separated by soft tissue called intervertebral discs, which provide a cushion between the bones.IVDD threatens a Doxie’s health in many different ways.

Excessive leaping and other forms of back stress can cause a rupture of one or more discs, usually toward the rear.  IVDD and other back problems occur most frequently by age four but can happen earlier, sometimes as young as two.Simple age can cause the disc to reduce its fluid level, making it less pliant.That also increases the chances of herniation or rupture.Frequently the spinal column becomes more brittle.

A number of serious possibilities exist if that occurs.

As a portion of the spine loses vital support, the spinal cord can be put in danger.If compression happens, paralysis is not far behind.Constriction of spinal fluid can have comparable effect.Loss of circulation leads to nerve death, because the nerves are cut off from necessary nutrition.

Look for any instance of inability to lift the rear end off the ground or lowering near the tail.Other signs include loss of bladder control or weakness in the rear legs.

In these extreme incidents, medical care – usually surgery – within 24 hours is critical.If left untreated, the result is commonly permanent disability.

Even in less serious cases back pain is present.It can be difficult to identify when a dog is in pain but symptoms include difficulty walking up stairs, lethargy and similar signs in an otherwise active dog.

Treatment with corticosteroids (such as Prednisone) is occasionally recommended but entails risks.  Apart from the usual risks of long-term steriod use, it is possible to overdo care.  Lessening pain is desirable, but if it is eliminated the dog can become too active again, leading to more injury.Adequan injections can help promote disc healing.

Whether treated with steroids or just Rimadyl, it is advantageous to cage your Dachshund or otherwise keep him calm, reducing physical activity.Given their assertive and active nature that is difficult, but it is essential.

Don’t allow the dog to stand on its hind legs, which compresses the spine.  Don’t allow the dog to jump down stairs.Yard games should be restricted until the dog has completely healed.Also, always support the whole length of the spine when picking up your Dachshund.

With the right kind of care many Dachshunds recover completely to lead active, normal, healthy lives.But formal diagnosis as early as possible is essential to improve the odds.

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