Judy Taylor
The proverbial dachshund look still fascinates dog lovers. But do you know the hard facts about the clever four-legged hunter?
#1 The ancestry of the Dachshund
The ancestors of today's dachshund dogs were probably Celtic hounds who went hunting with their owners 2000 years ago. In the Middle Ages, the breeding of dachshunds, also known as Teckels, became more and more popular in Germany. The small dogs were used to drive foxes and badgers out of their dens while hunting. That is why they are still called dachshunds today. Their floppy ears kept out dust and dirt when digging, and their strong legs were well-suited for digging into burrows.
In 1879, the breed characteristics of the dachshund were defined for the first time in Germany. The German Dachshund Club was founded the following year. In the 20th century, the dog breed spread internationally, but it is still considered "typically German". The dachshund was the mascot of the 1972 Olympic Games in Munich. Its popularity has waned noticeably due to competition from other small dog breeds. However, many enthusiasts still value him today – not only as a loyal companion on the hunt but also as a self-confident dog with an unmistakable look in his eyes.
#2 Dachshund breeding
There have been international standards for dachshund breeding since 1925. If you are interested in such a dog, then you should first look around at the relevant dog associations and clubs. Reputable providers can be recommended to you by the German Teckel Club e.V., for example. Such a breeder also knows that the dachshund carries the FCI number 148 in the group of dachshunds. Among the puppies bred black, many suffer from diseases or bring social problems with them. It is, therefore, worthwhile to trust professional breeders here. They also make sure that the mother dog does not pass on any of the following problems:
Typical diseases of the dachshund:
rheumatic complaints
Ossifications on the barrels
herniated discs
Age-related difficulties such as joint pain, dull coat, listlessness, and lack of appetite
#3 The temperament of a Dachshund
Today the dachshund is less likely to be found hunting than in the living room at home. But what characteristics has he retained from his ancestors?
intelligence
A fine nose makes this clever dog stand out. He not only finds the badger's den but also knows exactly how to wrap you around his finger.
endurance
The dachshund is not only nimble for its short legs, but it also lasts a long time. He not only likes to dig up long leads but is also very persistent in his goals.
temperament
Dachshunds do not lack self-confidence. Therefore, you should start socializing with other dogs early on to avoid later conflicts. A large four-legged friend is no obstacle for the dachshund. This former loner, who could not be prevented from building a badger, also requires a lot of consistency in his upbringing. But then you have a very balanced dog at home.
work pathos
As long as hunting and search work is involved, the dachshund is there. Even earlier, however, it was not his task to face the fight with the wild animal. That is why dachshunds are not listed dogs even today, even if some specimens appear aggressive due to poor upbringing. In truth, these dogs love to obey.
friendliness
The dachshund is very friendly and has even been said to have been injured as he just wouldn't stop wagging his tail. He is almost never afraid, but respect is a question of training.
