Friday, February 19, 2010

Article From SubmitYOURArticle.com: Dachshund Dog Breed Profile

Description: The Dachshund has three different
sizes: the standard weighs approximately 20
pounds, the miniature weighs 10 pounds, and the
toy comes in at about 8 pounds. The height of
the Dachshund varies between 5 and 10 . Three
coat types also occur in this dog: the
smooth-haired, the wire-haired, and the
long-haired. The coats of Dachshunds are
generally found to be black and tan or red,
although there are many other color variations.
The Dachshund is well known for its long body and
short legs. The breed has a long, narrow muzzle
and long, floppy ears. These are muscular and
energetic dogs. Dachshunds are also called the
Wiener Dog or Sausage Dog and are called the
Teckel in Germany.

History: As mummified dogs very similar to the
Dachshund have been found, it is possible that
its origins go back to ancient Egypt. However,
today's Dachshund is more easily traced to
breeders in Germany. Using hounds and terriers,
these breeders produced a hunting dog
recognizable as a Dachshund by the early 17th
century. The short legs allowed the dog to
follow game into underground dens. The dog was
used not only to hunt badgers and rabbits below
ground, but also as pack dogs to hunt wild boar.

Temperament: Because the smooth-haired Dachshund
was bred with other dogs to obtain the various
coats, there are behavioral differences between
the three types of Dachshund. The smooth-haired
Dachshund is a confident, lively, and dominant
dog. It has a reputation of being a barker. The
introduction of Spaniel blood has caused the
long-haired Dachshund to possess a gentler
disposition. To form the wire-haired Dachshund,
breeders used the Dandie Dinmont and Schnauzer.
This is also a dominant dog, although more
tranquil and quieter than the foundation stock.
Dachshunds are affectionate dogs that enjoy being
with the family. They are good with children,
especially older ones. It should be remembered
that these dogs have strong hunting instincts and
care should be observed as regards cats and other
small pets.

Health Issues: Considering the length of the
Dachshund's back, it is no surprise that this is
the biggest health problem with this breed.
Trouble with spinal discs will be worsened if the
dog becomes obese, so it is imperative to
maintain a proper weight. Dachshunds can also
suffer from heart disease, diabetes, epilepsy,
and thyroid problems. Some of the color
variations also experience hearing and vision
disorders.

Grooming: The smooth-haired Dachshund is the
easiest to groom, and an occasional brushing is
all that is necessary. The long-haired dog, of
course, will require more care to keep the coat
tangle free. A twice yearly stripping is
required for the wire-haired Dachshund. As
excess hair can sometimes grow between the toe
and foot pads, the owner should clip this as
necessary.

Living Conditions: The Dachshund, while
originally a hunting dog, is now used mostly as a
companion. As such, it is best kept in the house
with the family. Dachshunds are perfectly happy
living in an apartment and do not require a yard.
However, Dachshunds do need a long walk every
day for their physical and mental health.


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For more information on the Dachshund, Training
and Puppies for sale visit the page below.

http://ezinearticles.com/?Dachshund-Dog-Breed&id=3
767492


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