The Dachshund is an icon. Whether you call him a “Wiener Dog,” a “Sausage Dog,” or a “Doxie,” he is instantly recognizable. With his long body, short legs, and flappy ears, he looks like a cartoon character come to life. But make no mistake: this comical shape was designed for a serious purpose. The Dachshund is not a toy; he is a hunting machine built to battle badgers underground.

He is a dog of contradictions. He is stubborn yet devoted, brave yet affectionate, and deeply dignified despite looking ridiculous in a hot dog costume. He possesses a “big dog bark” and a fearless attitude that belies his size. Once you own a Dachshund, you will understand why their owners are so fanatical. As the saying goes, “Dachshunds are like potato chips; you can’t have just one.”

History and Origin: The Badger Dog

The name “Dachshund” is German for “Badger Dog” (Dachs = badger, Hund = dog). Developed in Germany over 300 years ago, the breed was created to hunt the badger, a vicious and dangerous subterranean predator.

• Form Follows Function: Every part of the Dachshund is engineered for this job.
  • Long Body: To fit inside narrow underground tunnels.
  • Short Legs: To keep him low to the ground and allow him to dig efficiently.
  • Deep Chest: To providing ample lung capacity for stamina while underground in low-oxygen environments.
  • Loud Bark: To allow the human hunter to locate the dog beneath the earth.
  • Courage: It takes immense bravery for a 20-pound dog to face a 25-pound badger in a dark hole.

Miniatures and Varieties

Originally, Dachshunds were larger (30-40 lbs). Over time, hunters bred smaller versions to hunt rabbits and foxes. The Miniature Dachshund was developed to pursue smaller prey into smaller holes. The three coat varieties also had specific purposes:

• Smooth: The original badger hunter.
• Longhaired: Likely crossed with spaniels to hunt in colder conditions.
• Wirehaired: Likely crossed with terriers to provide protection against briars and thorns in thick underbrush.

Physical Characteristics: The Sausage Shape

The Dachshund is low to the ground, long in body, and short of leg, with robust muscular development.

Sizes

• Standard: 16 to 32 pounds (7–14 kg).
• Miniature: 11 pounds (5 kg) and under at 12 months of age.
• “Tweenie”: An unofficial term for Dachshunds that fall between the two sizes (11-16 lbs).

Coat Varieties and Colors

1. Smooth (Short-haired): The coat is short, shiny, and smooth.
2. Longhaired: The coat is sleek and wavy, with “feathers” on the legs, ears, and tail.
3. Wirehaired: The coat is rough, thick, and hard, with a distinctive beard and eyebrows.

Colors: Red (ranging from cream to rusty red) is the most common, followed by Black and Tan. Other patterns include Chocolate, Dapple (merle), Brindle, and Piebald.

Temperament and Personality

Dachshunds are famous for their personality. They are not dogs that disappear into the background.

The Napoleon Complex

They have no idea they are small. A Dachshund will defend his territory against a Great Dane or a delivery truck. They are excellent watchdogs with a bark that sounds like it belongs to a much larger dog.

The Stubborn Streak

Because they were bred to work independently underground (where they couldn’t see or hear their handler), they are independent thinkers. If you tell a Dachshund to “Sit,” he might think about it, check his schedule, and then maybe do it if there’s a treat involved.

The Coat Influence

Many breeders believe temperament varies by coat type:

• Smooths: Often the most “one-person” dogs, attached to a single owner.
• Longhairs: Tend to be the sweetest and calmest (spaniel influence).
• Wirehairs: Often the most energetic, clownish, and “terrier-like” (terrier influence).

The Cuddler

They are burrowers by nature. This translates to domestic life as a dog that must sleep under the covers. They are fiercely loyal and affectionate with their family, often following you from room to room.

Training and Exercise Needs

Exercise: Moderate but Necessary

A Dachshund is not a lazy dog. He needs exercise to keep his back strong and his weight down.

• Daily Needs: Two 20-minute walks a day are ideal. They love to sniff (it’s their job), so “sniff walks” are mentally tiring for them.
• No Jumping: This is the golden rule. You must not let them jump on or off furniture. The impact can rupture a disc in their back. Use ramps or stairs for the sofa and bed.

Training: The Challenge

• Housebreaking: Dachshunds are notoriously difficult to housebreak. They hate wet grass and cold weather. If it is raining, they will look at you like you are insane for suggesting they go outside. Patience, a covered area, and a strict routine are essential.
• Recall: Generally poor. If they catch a scent, their ears turn off. Keep them on a leash.

Health and Lifespan: The Back Issue

Dachshunds are generally a long-lived breed, often reaching 12 to 16 years. However, their unique shape comes with a major health risk.

• Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD): This is the most serious issue. Because of their long spine, Dachshunds are prone to ruptured discs, which can cause severe pain or paralysis. About 25% of Dachshunds will have back problems in their lifetime. Keeping them lean and preventing them from jumping is the best prevention.
• Obesity: Extra weight puts massive strain on the back. You must be strict with food. A fat Dachshund is a ticking time bomb for spinal injury.
• Dental Disease: Crowded teeth in their long jaws require daily brushing.
• Epilepsy: Can occur in the breed.
• PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy): A genetic eye condition causing blindness, especially in Miniatures.

Grooming and Care

• Smooth: The easiest. Wipe them down with a damp cloth or a hound glove.
• Longhaired: Needs brushing 2-3 times a week to prevent mats, especially behind the ears and under the legs.
• Wirehaired: Needs to be “stripped” (hand-plucked) a few times a year to maintain the correct wiry texture. If you clip them, the coat becomes soft.
• Nails: Keep them short to help the foot stay compact.
• Ears: The drop ears trap moisture and need weekly cleaning.

Is a Dachshund Right for You?

The Dachshund is a delightful, demanding, and devoted companion.

Yes, if:

• You want a dog with personality plus. He will make you laugh every day.
• You live in an apartment. He is a great size for city living.
• You are patient. You can handle stubbornness and potty training challenges.
• You want a cuddle buddy. He will keep your feet warm in bed.

No, if:

• You have a home with many stairs. It is hard on their backs.
• You want an obedient soldier. He is a free thinker.
• You want a silent dog. He likes to bark at squirrels, leaves, and air.
• You are not prepared for potential veterinary costs. Back surgery can be expensive.

If you are ready to be owned by a dog who thinks he is the Emperor of the World, the Dachshund is the breed for you. He is a brave hunter in a small package, a stubborn mule, and a loving baby all rolled into one long, low, lovable sausage.