Dachshunds are a unique and lovable breed that have so much to offer. But what makes these dogs special? Let’s take a look at the top 10 ‘Need to Know’ facts about dachshunds that will help you learn all about this breed.
If you have been charmed by a dachshund and want to know more about this breed then you are in the right place! In this article, we will give you an overview of what makes dachshunds so special, their history and traits, types and coat colours, health issues to be aware of and much more. You will find everything you need to know so you can decide if a dachshund is the dog for you.
Don’t forget to download our printable guide summarising all 10 ‘Need to Know’ facts about dachshunds. You can find it at the bottom of this article.
10 ‘Need To Know’ Facts About Dachshunds – Table Of Content:
Fact #1: The Dachshund breed has a colourful history
Fact #2: The name Dachshund comes from the German language
Fact #3: Dachshunds can have three types of coat
Fact #4: Dachshunds come in three different sizes
Fact #5: The dachshund coats come in a variety of colours and patterns
Fact #6: Dachshunds are very loyal but stubborn pets
Fact #7: Dachshunds like to bark!
Fact #8: Dachshunds love to get comfy
Fact #9: Dachshunds can suffer from some genetic health issues
Fact #10: Dachshunds can live between 12 to 16 years
Fact #1: The Dachshund breed has a colourful history
The Dachshund is a distinct breed with a long and colourful history. Originating from Germany in the 1600s, these small hound dogs were bred with a perfect combination of genes that enabled them to detect and hunt badger and other small animals with speed and agility.
Many believe that Dachshund was first bred by crossing a small terrier with a pinscher and as time went on, these two breeds were refined to create the Dachshund. The Dachshund breed was also intentionally bred to have long bodies, short legs and a long snout so that they could fit into the narrow burrows of their prey.
Eventually, the breed gained the admiration of European royalty and the aristocrats, who in turn bred them to perfection. These days, the Dachshund remains a beloved breed thanks to its unique size, lovable personality and charming appearance.
Fact #2: The name Dachshund comes from the German language
The name Dachshund is derived from two German words – “Dachs” meaning badger and “Hund” meaning dog.
Some popular dachshund nicknames are sausage dogs, wiener dogs, hot dogs, doxies, and dachsies. Some of these nicknames are down to the breed’s fun-loving and cheeky nature, like doxies and dachsies, while others play on the breed’s unique appearance as a long, low-riding dog, such as sausage dogs and wiener dogs.
Fact #3: Dachshunds can have three types of coat
When it comes to dachshund coats, there are three distinct types:
– short haired (smooth coat)
– long haired
– wire haired
Smooth haired dachshunds
The short haired dachshund is instantly recognizable by its sleek and shiny coat. These doxies have short hair that is very soft to the touch. They are also very low maintenance when it comes to grooming needs. They only require an occasional brushing to keep their coat in tip-top shape.
Long haired dachshunds
The long haired dachshunds, as the name suggests, have longer, luxurious, soft hair that requires more frequent brushing and grooming to keep it neat and tidy. The long haired dachshunds also often need more protection from the elements because their fur can be prone to tangling and matting.
Wire haired dachshunds
The wire haired dachshunds have a coat that is double layered with a softer undercoat and a coarser and wiry outer coat. Their distinctive features are their furry beard and eyebrows that give them their alert expression. Their coat also requires more frequent brushing and grooming.
Fact #4: Dachshunds come in three different sizes
When talking about dachshunds, there are three different size varieties that you can choose from:
– standard size – the largest of the three, measuring between 16 and 32 pounds and typically ranging in size from 8 to 9 inches in height (universally recognised)
– miniature size – the second smallest in size, usually weighing up to 11 pounds and measuring between 5 and 6 inches in height (universally recognised)
– kaninchen size (German for ‘rabbit’) – the smallest variety, usually weighing less than 9 pounds and measuring between 4 and 5 inches in height (not recognised in UK, US and Canada)
You may have also heard the term ‘toy’ or ‘teacup’ dachshund, which is often used in US to describe very small dachshunds. However, this is not a breed standard size.
Fact #5: The dachshund coats come in a variety of colours and patterns
The doxies’ adorable coats come in a variety of eye-catching colours and patterns, some of which are universally recognised whilst the others are more common (or approved) only in certain countries.
Dachshund coat – standard breed colours:
These are the seven basic coat colours natural to duchshunds. Any other colour varient you may see in dachshunds will be a genetic modification to these natural colours.
– chocolate and tan
– chocolate and cream
– black and tan
– black and cream
– cream
– red
– wild boar – wire haired dachshunds only
Dachshund coat – non standard breed colours:
These colours are called ‘dilute’ and are achieved by breeding a recessive gene that dilutes the natural cholocate or black coat colour. Although these colours have recently become very popular, sausage dogs of these colours may suffer from several heath issues, mainly colour dilution alopecia, skin infections and skin cancer.
Diluting the black coats results in blue/grey colour, whilst diluting the chocolate coats gives dachshunds a more ‘fawn like’ look called Isabella/fawn/lilac.
– blue and tan
– blue and cream
– Isabella and tan
– Isabella and cream
To find out more about the breed standard and non-breed-standard colours in UK and US, visit the UK Kennel Club or the American Kennel Club. Not only, you will find tons of valuable information about the different colour varients, but you will also discover which colours and patterns are more common in standard size vs miniature size doxies.
Dachshund coat patterns:
– dapple (universally recognised)
– double dapple – it is not ethical to breed double dapple dachshunds as they are often born with serious medical issues such as blindness, deafness, missing eyes and ears
– brindle (universally recognised)
– sable (universally recognised)
– piebald
10 ‘Need To Know’ Facts About Dachshunds – Watch This On YouTube:
Fact #6: Dachshunds are very loyal but stubborn pets
Sausage dogs are fiercely loyal and incredibly affectionate but sometimes referred to as needy by their owners. They are also determined and eager to learn, though they can be stubborn and sometimes challenging to train. Dachshunds are full of personality, often acting as clowns and sometimes easily distracted. With proper socialization and boundaries, dachshunds can make wonderful pets. They require lots of love and attention and need to be well trained and exercised. With the right commitment and training, they can become great companions.
Fact #7: Dachshunds like to bark!
Dachshunds are vocal creatures and, as such, they can often be heard barking pretty loudly. Depending on the type of bark, it’s possible to make out if your dachshund is excited, playing, or scared. Sometimes it can be quite annoying when they bark too much but their barks are part of their character. Just remember that dachshunds can be trained when to bark and when not to so don’t be put off by this trait. It’s part of their personality, after all.
Fact #8: Dachshunds love to get comfy
Dachshunds love the feeling of being all cosy with their favourite blanket and having an owner nearby for a few pets and cuddles. Whether it’s a warm summer day or a chilly winter night, dachshunds are sure to be seen bundled up in their favourite snuggly blanket, ready to relax and have a nap.
Fact #9: Dachshunds can suffer from some genetic health issues
Dachshunds are for the most part a hardy breed of dog, though they can suffer from certain genetic issues. Of particular concern is their long, slender spine which is vulnerable to intervertebral disc disease (IVDD). This can cause back pain and paralysis so it’s important to look out for signs of distress, such as a sudden limping, refusal to jump or walk, sensitivity to touch on their backs.
About 20 to 25% of dachshunds will develop this injury and it can be worsened by obesity, jumping, using the stairs, rough handling or intense exercise, which place greater strain on their backs. It is highly recommended to use stair gates and ramps in your home to avoid placing unnecessary strain on your doxie’s back.
Other common issues may include joint and eye problems, obesity, seizures and skin conditions (especially so in dilutes). It is therefore important to keep an eye out for any signs that may require a trip to the vet. Regular vet check-ups are also key to ensuring your doxie remains in top condition.
Related article: Do Dachshunds Have Any Health Problems?
Fact #10: Dachshunds can live between 12 to 16 years
When it comes to average lifespan for dachshunds, many factors come into play. Factors like nutrition and health care all have an impact on a dog’s longevity. On average, dachshunds can live between 12 to 16 years, although some can live a little longer. To ensure that your dog can live their longest and healthiest life, regular vet visits, a good diet and plenty of exercise are all important elements. With proper care, your dachshund can be a part of your life for years to come.
10 ‘Need To Know’ Facts About Dachshunds – Conclusion
The dachshund is a unique and lovable breed, full of personality and surprises. It is a loyal, courageous and faithful companion that can bring immense joy and warmth to any home. If you are considering bringing one into your life, remember to do your research, understand their needs and provide the best possible care. Owning a dachshund can be a truly rewarding experience.
10 ‘Need To Know’ Facts About Dachshunds – Free Printable Guide
Our resources don’t end with this article. If you are looking for an easy way to quickly access the key information, then you will want to download our free printable guide to 10 ‘Need to Know’ Facts About Dachshunds. It provides a concise overview of all 10 facts and is ideal for keeping on-hand or sharing with others.
10 ‘Need To Know’ Facts About Dachshunds – Let Us Know What You Think!
Which out of the 10 ‘Need to Know’ Facts About Dachshunds have you found the most surprising? Please let us know in the comments below.
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Join our ‘Dachshund Buddies’ Facebook community dedicated to all things dachshund! It is a great way to connect with other dachshund owners and enthusiasts, who are always there to help each other. You will find plenty of interesting conversations and valuable tips, tricks and advice to help you care for your loving doxie.
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