Breed of the Week II

This week I thought I'd showcase one of the most popular breeds around- Dachshunds!

From the CKC website:

Physical Dimensions:
Miniature: Approx. 8 inches (20 cm) tall at the shoulders, 20 inches (50 cm) long, nose to rump and 6 inches (15 cm) wide.
Standard: 30-40% larger than the Miniature.
Wirehaired: Slightly higher off the ground than the Smooth and Longhaired.

Weight:
Miniature: The ideal weight is 10 lb (4.5 kg).
Standard: Over 11 lbs (5 kg)

Color:
COLOUR
All types/sizes may be one-coloured, two-coloured, dappled or striped.

Dachshunds, also known as Dackels or Teckels, were developed in Germany and used to hunt badger and fox since the Middle Ages. The original Dachshund was the Standard Smooth. The name "dachshund" means "badger dog" in German. Dachshunds work in packs and are strong and fearless when sent underground to rout out the ferocious badger. These short-legged dogs were well recognised and known as one of the most versatile and useful breeds for hunting both below and above ground.

They come in two sizes, and three coat varieties.

The Miniature Dachshunds were bred to hunt the rabbits that destroyed farmers' crops. These little dogs must be small enough to slip down rabbit holes and, in their native Germany, they are classifed according to girth, not weight.

The Dachshund is clever, lively, fearless, persistent and outgoing. With his fun-filled outlook, he is an affectionate and wonderful family companion.

The Dachshund's lively and active personality make him an ideal participant in several dog sports and activities, such as Obedience, Agility, Tracking, Earth Dog Trials, Field Work, and Hunting.

You can find more information about the breed on the Club Website

--------------

We are lucky enough to have a whole bunch of Dachsies attend daycare. They are great little daycare dogs and are generally quite playful and active. Dachshunds are feisty enough to even play with the big dogs on occasion! The Dachshunds that we have at the daycare range from busy and wild to laid back couch potatoes! And some fall in between.

Because of their size and activity level they make great family pets, but it is important to socialise them young with people, dogs and cats so that they remain friendly and outgoing. Also, as with all long, short dogs they are prone to back/disc problems. Keeping a Dachsie thin is the key to a long life!

As mentioned in the breed standard above Dachsies come in all coat colors and variety. Here are a just a few that come to daycare.


Maggie is Mini, Longhair with a dapple coloring. She is the princess. :o)

Cooper is also a mini and a longhair but is a black and tan

Buddy is a mini longhair too! He is quite unique in his coloring.

Pip is an old girl, a red Mini Smooth. She has faded with age, and her face is getting whiter and whiter.

These two handsome devils are Max and Otto. They are both Mini Smooths.

and we couldn't post about Dachshunds without mentioning Perkins. Perkins is a mini smooth who rules the roost from his perch on the sofa. :o)