Breed: Dachshund
Average Size: A full-grown standard dachshund averages 15 lb to 28 lb, the miniature variety normally weighs less than 11 lb.
Appearance: The size of a Dachshund varies between two subgroups; the Miniature Dachshund and Dachshund. They are long but with stubby legs. There are three types of coats which include long-haired, wire-haired and a short-haired version of the breed. Colors of the Dachshund fluctuate between black, red, brown and cream shades. There are two-toned dogs with black and tan being the most common as well as dappled (one color with tan areas) mottled and speckled patterns of coats. Most Dachshunds have brown eyes but blue, green or two different colored eyes are not uncommon.
Lifespan: Average 12-15 years old
Habitat: They are high energy and need exercise so a place to play and run is crucial.
Food: No special food needs
Temperament: Dachshunds tend to be proud and loyal to their masters. Dachshunds are playful, fun dogs that love to chase small animals, birds, and balls. Many Dachshunds are stubborn, making training a challenge. They have a loud bark, making them good watchdogs. Dachshunds are known for their devotion to their owners, though they can be standoffish towards strangers. Their temperament gives the impression that they do not care about their small size and can challenge larger dogs and animals. Proper socialization is suggested to keep them from being fearful or aggressive. Although some might say Dachshunds may not be the best pets for small children, if introduced properly to a child they can become loyal but if not they may be aggressive and bite especially a child that moves quickly around them.
Special Traits: Some dapples have problems with deafness and blindness. Long-haired dachshunds have a calmer, intelligent character inherited from the spaniel. Wire-hair doxies have much of the terrier's spunky personality. A bored dachshund will become destructive.
Other Important Info: The breed is known to have spinal problems, especially intervertebral disk disease, due to an extremely long spinal column and short rib cage. Obesity, jumping, rough handling, or intense exercise, can make it worse by placing greater strain on the vertebrae. Treatment consists of various combinations of crate confinement and courses of anti-inflammatory medications. Serious cases may require surgery to remove the troublesome disk contents. A new minimally invasive procedure developed at Oklahoma State University called percutaneous laser disk ablation will be used more frequently now. Other health problems include hereditary epilepsy, dental issues, Cushings disease, thyroid problems, and allergies. Eye conditions including cataracts, glaucoma, progressive retinal atrophy, corneal ulcers, nonucerative corneal disease, and sudden acquired retinal degeneration are common. Most of these problems are hereditary so breeders are working to correct them.
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