What is the purpose of those little Dachsie legs?

 

 

 

 

 

In Germany badgers are ‘dachs’ and the hound ‘hund’ bred to catch the badger is naturally the ‘dachshund’. He is a scent hound who was also apt at catching other animals that burrow such as foxes and rabbits. He usually grows to around 23cm tall. Short legs allow him better access to burrows and confined spaces whilst his muscular body provides strength.

Though some varieties have wirehair or longhair, it is usually the smooth shorthair you will see. A short coat means he is not well suited to cold weather but he is reported to be great with kids and adapts well to apartment living. He has a high prey drive as well as a high play drive. The longer coat variety has a touch of spaniel heritage.

Sometimes the dachshund is referred to by other names such as a doxie or sausage dog. As far as this fella is concerned there’s no ‘snag’… if there’s fun to be had, he’s up for it. Loyal and comical clowns, these guys and girls know how to raise the roof but can be independent thinkers due to their terrier streak. They require moderate exercise but their tunneling instinct may result in them helping you dig holes in the garden without invitation.

Please don’t encourage them to launch their bodies from the couch or other high places, as their proportions make their spine susceptible to injury. As with any breed, socialization from an early age is recommended.

Leah & Angela O’Meara

Hound Dog Day Care (Specialists in Dog Minding & Dog Boarding, Pet Sitting Brisbane & Doggy Day Care Brisbane)