Dachshunds

Dachshunds

Breed: Dachshund
Temperament: loves company, loyal
Cost: $300
Lifespan: 12-14 years
Recommended for: families
Maintenance: low- medium

Most families have owned a Dachshund, or sausage dog, sometime, somewhere. They were the canine accessory of the 1960s, and with six varieties to choose from, there was always one to suit!

Appearance

The Dachshund's distinctive long, low shape is due to being purpose-bred to tear down burrows after badgers last century in its country of origin, Germany. Dachs is said to be the German word for badger, and hund is dog or hound.

There are two sizes, standard, which is 25-28cm (10-11") and miniature which is 20cm (8"). There are three coat varieties, the smooth, the long, and the wire, which when combined with the two sizes accommodates the six types. There is a wide range of colours available in either solids, or lesser-known dapples (or merles).

Temperament

Dachshunds are generally full of personality and outgoing, but can and do think for themselves which may be seen as stubbornness. They are excellent watchdogs and will defend themselves if threatened. They should be watched around small children as they can be easily hurt and may retaliate. Individuals which are indulged may become snappy.

Health

The extreme short legs of the dachshund are caused by a dominant gene which produces a condition known as chondrodysplasia; this is where the cartiledge of the growth plates grows at a slow rate and can weaken the backbone. This means the long spine might be vulnerable to back problems especially if the dog is obese, frequently uses stairs or is allowed to jump down from chairs or lounges.

Breeding

The gene that causes dappling in dachshunds is the same as that in merle collies or merle Australian shepherds. This means if you mate two dappled ones together 25 per cent of the babies could have serious hearing or eye problems or could be semi blind. Responsible breeders should never mate dapple to dapple, only dapple to an ordinary dachshund. Some bitches have whelping problems, the miniatures are more at risk of caesarean deliveries. Litters consist of four to six puppies.

Housepet potential/ideal owner

The small, neat size of the Dachshund makes it an ideal housedog. It is frequently chosen by older people looking for a companion as well as a reliable watchdog. Smooth-coated dogs are easier to maintain, and all are cheap to feed. RSPCA National president, Dr Hugh Wirth does not recommend them for children.

Space and exercise

A daily walk for 30 minutes is ideal, and quite important for dogs which otherwise live indoors permanently. Yard size is unimportant.

Grooming

Smooth and wire-haired Dachshunds require minimal grooming and a wash when needed. Long-haired dogs should be brushed thoroughly twice a week to remove knots, burrs and grass seeds from the coat. Attention is needed under the ears and between the pads of the feet.

Training

Being a hound the Dachshund will think for itself and decide whether it wants to go along with the command. Once again, patience and perseverance will pay dividends.

For further information

QLD:
Dachshund Club of Qld
Sec: Mrs Joan Cross
Phone: (07) 3209 7321

VIC:
Dachshund Club of Vic
Puppy sales: Miss Amy Callaghan
Phone: (03) 9470 3829

TAS:
Tasmanian Canine Association
Phone: (03) 6272 9443

NT:
North Australian Canine Association
Phone: (08) 9884 3570

ACT:
ACT Canine Association
Phone: (02) 6241 4404

WA:
WA Dachshund Club
Sec: Mrs Betty Boers
Phone: (08) 0455 1148

NSW:
Dachshund Club of NSW
Rescue and Welfare Coordinator: Sue Serna
Phone: (02) 9823 3129

Copyright 1999 CTC Productions