The Dachshund is a well-known breed of hunting dogs with short legs. Its representatives are characterized by a cheerful disposition, endurance and mobility. During hunting, walks and even at home, dachshunds behave like an eternally running motor. They want to be everywhere and everywhere. Being aware of what is going on around them is the meaning of any dachshund's life.

Due to their small size, these dogs are perfect for living in a city apartment. They are quite independent, intelligent and observant pets. And if you add to these qualities amazingly keen sense of smell - you get the perfect hunter.

Modern representatives of the breed first appeared in Germany. Small tireless dogs pursued and drove game, and it was impossible to hide from them even in a narrow hole.

Nowadays, dachshunds still help hunters, but they are even more appreciated as energetic and cheerful companion dogs.

History of the breed

Images of dogs similar to modern dachshunds are found on ancient Egyptian papyrus. The ancestors of the breed are considered to be low hounds. From them dachshunds inherited the talents of hunters and sharp mind.

Nowadays there are several varieties of dachshunds depending on the type of hair: long-haired, stiff-haired and short-haired. In addition, dachshunds are divided by chest circumference into standard (from 35 cm), dwarf (30 35 cm) and rabbit (up to 30 cm).

The breed was originally bred for hunting badgers, raccoons and foxes. Sometimes dachshunds are used to hunt waterfowl, wild boars and even bears. When it comes to large predators, the owner mainly relies on the pet's keen sense of smell. The dachshund gives timely warning of an approaching beast.

The breed is traditionally considered a German breed, although it has long been common in many European countries. During World War I, these favorites of Emperor Wilhelm II even got into caricatures. At that time, they were depicted as a symbol of Germany.

During World War II, the number of dachshunds was greatly reduced, but their numbers were restored at the end of the war.

Character

Dachshunds are first of all hunting dogs and then companions. It is a true happiness for a pet to accompany its owner when hunting badgers, foxes and other burrowing animals. Courageous and self-confident dachshunds perfectly track and drive game. Sometimes their bold behavior even borders on recklessness. After all, all dachshunds are naturally venturesome and very curious. They are able to pursue prey on any terrain. Once in the hole, the dogs fight without the help of the owner. They are used to relying only on their own strength, hence their innate independence.

At home, dachshunds are very affectionate and friendly pets that never run out of energy. They quickly become attached to their owners and get along well even with small children.

Dachshunds are eager to establish a subtle emotional contact with their owner. They just need it, so dogs get worried if a person ignores them. Suffering from loneliness, the pet can become moody or even aggressive, only if the owner paid attention to him.

Compact representatives of this breed are ideal for traveling. They are quite unpretentious in care and are always happy to see the world around them. Dachshunds can be taken not only on trips, but also on long hikes.

Little stubborn

Dachshunds are quite difficult to train. They are independent dogs that like to be stubborn, so it can be difficult to get them to do what their owners want.

How to care

Long-haired Dachshunds are brushed, while smooth-haired Dachshunds use a special mitten.

Dachshunds need to have their claws carefully trimmed as they get older.

By the way

Usually dachshunds get along well with other pets, but if you give them little attention, they can become jealous and behave aggressively.