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OPC
{ Dachshund }
Biography//
KC Group: hound
Size: small
Good with children?: seek breeder advice
Exercise requirement: moderate
Good guard dogs?: would bark
Moulting level: low
Grooming: little
Jogging partner: no
Dachshund translates from German as "badger hound", a clear indication of its original role, hence its short stature and narrow body. Its distinctive shape has earned it the common nickname of 'sausage dog'. The Dachshund comes in three different varieties, longhaired, smooth haired and wire haired and each of these is also present as a miniature making six distinct variants of the wonderful Dachshund.
Character//
A tenacious hunter, the Breed Standard describes them as "courageous to the point of rashness". Dachshunds have maintained much of their hunting instinct so letting them off the lead in open spaces can be risky. The Dachshund requires a good deal of training in order to keep them polite. They are stubborn and reserved toward strangers but will develop close bonds with their owner, an ideal companion breed.
Size//
The ideal weight for a Dachshund is between 9-12kg or 4.5-5kg for a miniature. They should measure a height of 20-28cm and less than 20cm for a miniature. The Breed Standard states that dogs "which appear thin and undernourished should be severely penalised" when taken into the show ring.
Health//
Obviously with their shape Dachshunds are especially prone to back complaints. Skin and heart conditions have also been reported to be present in the breed.
Special Care//
Due to their shape Dachshunds can cause themselves harm through climbing stairs and jumping off furniture, it may be best to carry them up and down especially whilst still a puppy. Being over-weight can also cause back problems.
Remember! All breed profiles are general and every dog is an individual.