Dachshund is one of the most interesting and amazing hunting dogs. The small stature and elongated body make this dog an ideal hunter. Even a large fighting dog will envy the power of the dachshund's fangs, as well as dexterous paws. It is safe to say that these dogs are extremely popular all over the world, but the most widespread are in Germany. Let's talk in detail about what kind of animal this is - dachshund. Description of the breed, reviews of dog breeders and much more we will consider in this article.
History of occurrence
Today it is difficult to say exactly when this breed was discovered. However, according to some reports, it is believed that a dachshund was bred in Egypt. The description of the breed on paper is first found in German. Having crossed German, French, and also English dogs, it was possible to bring out a purebred dachshund. Translated from German, dachshund means “badger dog”. The fact is that at first the breed was used exclusively for hunting badgers. There are currently three varieties of dachshunds: standard, dwarf, and rabbit. In addition, dogs are classified according to the length of their coat: long-haired, short-haired and coarse-haired. The dachshund, the breed description of which was first made in the 1700s, was initially slightly larger. But for breeding purposes, small specimens were always selected that would be suitable for burrowing. Few people would think that the dachshund is suitable not only for hunting badgers and hares - it was often released for boar and even wolverine.
Standard rate: breed description
The dog's paws are very short, but quite powerful. The body is elongated, and the weight is quite large for such a size. Despite the length, the paws are not clumsy and well balanced, so the dachshund runs fast and does not experience any difficulties during the hunt. The head of the dog is somewhat elongated, as evidenced by a flat skull. All individuals have a rather long, but at the same time strong neck, which harmoniously passes into the shoulders. Scissors bite, number of teeth - 42. By the way, dachshund fangs are very strong and strong. It is noteworthy that the length of the ears of dachshunds developed deliberately. This is due to the fact that during hunting in holes they were heavily polluted and various kinds of diseases appeared. Well, now let's talk about how smart dachshunds are, as well as what kind of behavior is inherent in them.
Intelligence and character
It doesn’t matter what class of animal, whether it’s a mini-dachshund (we will discuss the description of the breed below) or standard, they behave in approximately the same way. All dogs are very active, smart, and also sociable. However, changes are possible depending on the individual. Despite its small size, the dachshund is practically not afraid of anything. It can rush to the enemy, the size of which is many times larger. In addition, a large amount of energy makes dogs of this breed almost ideal hunters. But any dachshund, hunting or just domestic, loves attention. If you do not devote time to games, then soon the animal will become more aggressive. If you want a less angry dog, a mini-dachshund is an ideal choice. A description of the breed is given below. I must say, this animal has several interesting features.
Dwarf breed
Such a dog is usually no higher than 21 centimeters in height and weighs no more than 4 kilograms. The color of the mini-dachshund is very diverse: from shades of red to brown with white spots on its paws. For the rest, these are all the same friendly family pets. Many do not recommend letting the animal off the leash. This is due to the fact that such dogs are very fond of hunting small animals or birds. They are often addicted and run very far from home.
Rabbit dachshund: description of the breed, character
The need for this breed appeared around the 19th century, when burrowing gained great popularity. The albino ferrets had to be replaced by someone, and they brought out of the mini-dachshund a rabbit, which was usually used to hunt rabbits and hares. But later the breed became almost completely decorative and was not used for other purposes. Despite the fact that these animals are not used as workers, any dog breeder will be able to develop hunting skills if desired. It should be noted that the rabbit dachshund possesses the most harmonious physique. The description of the breed is not significantly different from that inherent in larger dachshunds. This is the same playful, intelligent dog that loves its owner very much.
Wool cover
As already noted, all dachshunds are usually classified according to the length of the coat.
Smooth-haired individuals have a short and smooth cover. With proper care, the coat should shine. Experts say that it should not be too thick and long. The tail of the dog is covered with a short coat and tapers towards the end.
What is a wire-haired dachshund? Description of the breed should begin with the fact that such a dog has a hard, as well as a homogeneous coarse coat. At the same time, the undercoat is slightly softer than that of a smooth-haired dachshund. These representatives are notable for the fact that they have eyebrows and a beard, making them easy to distinguish among others.
Long haired dachshunds have smooth wavy hair. The maximum length of the cover reaches on the chest, as well as under the neck and in the lower body of the dog. However, it is worth paying attention to the fact that the cover should not be equally long throughout the body, in addition, excessive undulation to speak of the marriage of an individual. Among all the varieties described above, these dachshunds have the thickest and longest cover.
Health problems
This breed of dog, like, in fact, any other, has a tendency to certain diseases. So, due to the long length, a disease of the spinal discs can develop, which can lead to complete paralysis of the animal. Back problems are most often hereditary, so this issue must be resolved with the breeder. Each dachshund, the description of the breed, the nature of which we considered, can become obese with age. To prevent this from happening, it is necessary to keep the animal in good shape, constantly letting it run, play plenty of games, etc.
There are also colorful dachshunds. They most often become blind. For this reason, it is very difficult to buy a motley dachshund, because breeders refuse to breed them.
Dog lessons and the development of the necessary qualities
No need to say once again that dachshunds are very active animals. This is especially true for young individuals. But if you do not pay due attention, then any dog with age will become lazy and obese. To maintain a healthy shape and appearance, you often need to play and perform some exercises with your pet. For example, outdoor games catching up or hide and seek. In addition, do not forget to take the animal for a walk. For example, the dwarf dachshund, the breed description of which we gave above, often takes part in various competitions. Racing is quite often arranged, which has a beneficial effect on the physical and emotional state of the animal.
Dog reviews
Almost all dog breeders claim that this breed of dog does not need special care. The timely vaccination, combed with a brush wool will be the key to success. In addition, it is advisable to cut the claws periodically. Do not forget that the dachshund must be kept at home. According to the dog breeders, since the pet is very compact, with proper training it does not bring any inconvenience. Reviews from most owners indicate that they are very kind and playful animals. Dachshund will be a good friend for a child, because it is friendly to children of any age.
Finally
If you want a friendly, active pet, then your choice is the dachshund. Description of the breed, reviews we reviewed. When buying from a breeder, pay attention to all the qualities of the dog.