The Dog Blog

Dog owners love their dogs. With Doxies that devotion reaches new heights.The reasons are not hard to understand.They are special in many ways.

For our recommended dog training guide for Dachshunds, visit Dachshund Training.

The German translation “badger dog” shows just one of those ways.Bred in the early 1600s to hunt those ferocious little animals, the Doxie became ferocious himself.  That assertive and fearless attitude remains today.

That feisty nature can be a positive or negative.

Dogs that are independent can make great companions, since that also makes them playful and exploratory.It gives the dog lots of energy and a willingness to try new things.It also means that skill and extra patience are required to train them.They 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.

That training has to be appropriate to the breed’s mental and physical attributes.

They weigh between 10-30 lbs and are 9 inches high at the shoulder.  Toy varieties are quite a bit smaller, often under 8 lbs and only 5 inches high.  Their lifespan is between 14-17 years, on average.

They are much more prone to spinal problems than other breeds due to their short legs and long bodies.  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.Dachshunds may look at their trainer as an enemy badger.  Barking is more common in Doxies, too, so owners should be prepared.

They make for excellent companions and pets with the right approach.

There are three basic varieties – Long-Hairs, Wire-Coats, and Smooth-Coats.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 one person in the family.  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 Dachshund, they are up for a game of fetch whenever the opportunity presents itself.

Apart from spinal problems, Doxies 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 Dachshunds.  Urinary tract problems (such as stones) 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 any dog can be a challenge, if they are to be happy and healthy. But Doxie owners commonly report that the rewards in their case are especially large.  Dachshunds are highly affectionate and very loyal. The people they live with tend to return the favor.

Dachshund supplies and gifts can be found at Ony-Dachshunds.com

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