The Low Down on Dachshunds
Nine Varieties – One dog, three coats, three sizes.
The dachshund is quite intelligent, but he does have a mind of his own. He responds well to training, although his innate stubborn streak may sometimes exhibit itself. If you want a challenge – train your Dachshund for obedience work.
A Dachshund is a splendid choice for young children. He is dedicated and protective, as well as affectionate and playful. His size, cleanliness and lack of doggy odour are characteristics that please the lady of the house.
Dachshunds are alert watchdogs. Once they know it is expected, they will loudly proclaim the approach of a stranger. The Dachshund is easy to love, but he gives much more than he receives. He is courageous to the point of rashness. His delightful antics will provide you with hours of pleasure.
Without any doubt, the Dachshund of any variety will be a clever, playful and lively addition to your household.
If you want to be owned by your dog – buy a Dachshund.
General Information
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Dachshunds come in two sizes – Standard, Miniature, and Rabbit and three coats – Smooth Haired, Long Haired and Wire Haired. The smooth coat is short, sleek and easy to care for. The long coat is the most glamorous and requires regular grooming. This involves brushing the coat weekly, and trimming the feet at regular intervals. The wire coat is short, compact and harsh to touch and a regular visit to a grooming salon will ensure the dog always looks his best
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Dachshunds come in a variety of colours. The most common are Red, that can vary from a pale cream through to a dark shaded mahogany and Black and Tan. Sometimes breeders have Chocolate or Dappled puppies for sale. Wires can have a brindle coat.
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Reputable breeders do not sell puppies under 8 weeks of age, and in most cases, until the puppies are over 10 weeks. Puppies should have been regularly wormed, be registered with the Dogs NSW, have received their first immunisation, and be microchipped. The Veterinarian thoroughly checks out the puppy when these procedures are done. The new owner must ensure that immunisation boosters are administered when they fall due, and that their puppy is wormed every three months.
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The cost of puppies varies between varieties but expect to pay between $3000.00 – $4,000.00 +.
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A Dachshund’s lifespan averages between 10-20 years. Regular exercise is a must. Dachshunds become bored hanging around the yard and are enthusiastic eaters. They are quite happy to spend their life on your favourite chair, so for the dog’s well-being exercise is recommended.
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Diet can vary. Some breeders recommend fresh meat plus good quality dry food. When you buy your puppy, be sure to ask the breeder about the diet regime. As a guide, miniatures could cost around $20 a week to feed, and standards around $30.
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As a general guide to a Dachshund’s temperament, Smooths firmly believe they should run the household. Longs have wonderful natures and Wires are extroverts who love to be around people and enjoy life. A word of caution – if you want a dog that will be put out into a yard and ignored – a Dachshund is not for you.
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Whilst a Dachshund is only a small dog, it is very hardy. Because of its long body, in relation to its height, some Dachshunds could suffer from a prolapsed disc. This problem is most likely to occur between the ages of 5 and 7 years. The importance of regular exercise, and not allowing the dog to become overweight, cannot be ignored. Your breeder will be able to advise you of ways to reduce the risk of this potential problem.
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Puppy or older dog? The Dachshund Club of NSW runs a Rescue Service that finds homes for older dogs. Owners may have died, moved, or experienced changing circumstances. Sometimes breeders place older de-sexed dogs into pet homes. Dachshunds are adaptable and quickly settle into new homes.