The Dachshund: Discover This Breed With Us
The Dachshund always pulls a lot of smiles, but few people know that his real name is Teckel, and that his character can be even more bewitching than it already seems.
The reality is that it is very difficult not to sympathize with the Dachshunds. It is easy to be enchanted by their short legs, their little elongated body and their dangling ears. The fascination collected by this breed is easily found in the large quantity of specimens that fill homes all over the world.
The peculiarity of the temperament and the great learning ability of these little dogs are characteristics that should not be underestimated. For this reason, when deciding to get a Dachshund, there are some things that are better to know.
What is the history of the Dachshund?
Dachshunds are called by different names all over the world. Two of these are considered the official ones: Dachshund or Teckel.
For this dog there is a huge variety of colors, sizes, coexistence of fur and appearance. A breed that can even boast a club of supporters made up of owners and flatterers of Dachshunds.
Thanks to their powerful sense of smell, starting from the 15th century they began to accompany German hunters, with the task of following and tracking down prey. At that time they were called badger dogs or diggers, and descended from the Brachetti Tedeschi (the first German hounds).
Later, they were crossed with small Terrier dogs, and from that cross they took on the form they are known today. They inherited their hunting skills and impetus from Terriers, and from hounds their elongated morphology and speed.
This is so far the most established theory on the birth of this dog breed. Still, it’s not the only theory that exists. In fact, sculptures have been found representing an ancient Egyptian pharaoh, depicted in the company of his dog, an animal in appearance very similar to the Dachshund.
Regardless of the century and language, these little animals have always been remembered for their courage and loyalty.
What are the main characteristics of a Dachshund?
One cannot fail to mention the morphology that generates so much sympathy. But the physical characteristics of a Dachshund are not limited to their typical low and elongated body. Like all breeds, the Dachshund has a specific aesthetic parameter.
A female Dachshund normally measures between 20 and 22 cm in height, with a weight of between 5 and 14 kg. The male follows the same specifications.
When it comes to Dachshunds, the average size of male and female specimens varies from 12 to 15 cm in height, and from 0.5 to 5 kg in weight.
The Dachshund is characterized by its elongated body and very short legs. These dogs have a low center of gravity, dangling ears, and a muzzle almost level with the ground due to their short stature. They have a very active personality, they are animals full of initiative and curious. As puppies, they hardly remain calm.
Their snouts are so close to the ground that no smell escapes their powerful sense of smell. This coupled with dangling ears, great ease in picking up speed and exploring different types of terrain.
The easiest Dachshund to find
The short-haired and German Dachshund is the most common variety. Its character is in all respects the same as that of the Terrier. These are brave, curious and active dogs. He loves going out and playing outdoors, running and exercising, digging and hunting, sniffing and looking for bones and toys.
A Dachshund is usually the center of affection within a home. He needs the cuddles of his master and constantly demands them. However, they are intelligent and very independent dogs, not suitable for a sedentary life.
Their small size and playful demeanor make them excellent companions for children, as well as ideal pets.
Long-haired dachshunds, on the other hand, look less like terriers. They are more tame, they bark little and are not endowed with a great hunting instinct. In the case of Dachshunds, shyness and an independent character prevail.
How to take care of a Dachshund?
The Shorthaired Dachshund is extremely sociable, learners quickly and is very obedient. His coat does not need too much care, a simple regular hygiene will suffice.
The long-haired version, on the other hand, needs to be combed 2 to 3 times a week, in addition to the normal hygiene routine.
All Dachshunds need a lot of exercise to consume energy and avoid overweight problems.
