GROUP 4 - HOUNDS

Brief History
It is generally accepted that this breed came to prominence in Germany where they were used by foresters and noblemen to hunt rabbits and small game. This variety was bred to go into small places that the larger variety could not.

Dachshunds are an unusual breed in that there are three different coats: Long, Wire and Smooth, and two sizes: Standard and Miniature – making six varieties, each developed for a specific hunting purpose mainly depending on the type of terrain encountered in their district of origin.

They hunt their prey both above and below the ground.

Average Life Span
When considering a dog please realise that you are taking it on for its lifetime.

The average life span is 10 to 20 years.

Temperament
Intelligent, courageous, good tempered and determined. The varieties differ a little in temperament. For sheer hardiness and independence, it is hard to fault the Wire Haired Dachshund.

General Breed Description
The Dachshund is historically a hunting breed which has retained a keen hunting instinct that is quickly brought to the surface at the sight of a rabbit or fox, and the Wire Haired varieties excel here and are regarded as the superior hunters of the three coat varieties. However, like all Dachshunds, they are remarkably versatile, being equally happy at home as a house pet gettiing on very well with other pets. This makes them an ideal companion for town or country.

The distinctive wire coat with beard and bushy eyebrows give this coat variety a unique look.

All colours are permitted but white is restricted to a small spot on the chest.

Coat and Care Requirements
Dachshund are strong, hardy and easy to care for. All three coat varieties require marginal attention, the wire coat is short and harsh to touch, and the breed is characterised by a beard and bushy eyebrows, which gives the Wire his characteristic appearance. There is only one correct coat and that is a close fitting, harsh, double coat showing the sheen and gloss of good health and fitness. There is an undercoat, and on the legs and the chest there should be a close double coat. The goatee beard and eye brows act as protectors, but they must not be so abundant as to become a hindrance by obscuring the vision. A correct coat requires little attention for grooming, just a weekly brushing and combing. Dachshunds get bored hanging around the yard and are enthusiastic eaters, so either ensure regular exercise or cut down on food. They are quite happy to spend their life on your favourite chair, but for the dog’s wellbeing, regular exercise is recommended.

Size
Standard Dachshunds weigh 9 to12kgs (20 to 26lbs).

Miniature Dachshunds ideally weigh under 5kgs (11lbs).

Health
All breeds have individual health issues. When speaking to breeders it is recommended you enquire about breed’s health and what health testing the breeder does. All Dachshund varieties have a couple of hereditary health problems and responsible breeders will be engaged in eliminating known issues in the gene pool including Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD), Progressive Retinal Atrophy (ATP) and Lafora’s Disease.

Suitability
All varieties of Dachshund are ideal family pets and are excellent with other pets.

In Conclusion
Now you know a little more about this breed. If you have decided this is the dog for you and wish to investigate further, please contact the Breed Club or Dogs Victoria. They will be able to give you information about available puppies and also suggest dog events where you can see the breed and speak to breeders. In this way you will gain a better perspective of the breed and its needs. With any breed of dog, it is important to research and determine suitability for your lifestyle before committing to a puppy which will be a part of your family for many years to come.

Whilst many breeds are recommended for families, it is imperative that when children are with dogs they are supervised at all times. Basic obedience training is a vital part of dog ownership.

Dogs Victoria is about the responsible ownership of all dogs and in particular the preservation of pure breeds.

Link to Dogs Australia Breed Standard https://dogsaustralia.org.au/breed/detail/114