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 upon 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 from 10 to 20 years.

Temperament
Intelligent, courageous, good tempered and determined. The varieties differ a little in temperament.

The long haired varieties are full of character, quick in action, faithful when properly brought up, and very obedient.  All the senses are well developed. They have the reputation of being extraordinarily intelligent.

General Breed Description

The Long Haired’s build and temperament suit hunting quarry both above and below the ground; his eagerness, keen sight and hearing and his sonorous bark make him especially suitable for tracking. In these respects, this breed compares very favourably with any other variety as they have retained a keen hunting instinct that is quickly brought to the surface at the sight of a rabbit or fox. The thick soft hair protects him against thorns, enables him to endure both cold and heat and is rain-proof. The long haired Dachshund can therefore be used in many different ways by the sportsman. However, he is a remarkably versatile breed and equally adaptable as a house pet, being happy to spend his life on your favourite chair. He also gets on excellently with other pets so is an ideal companion for both town and country.

All colours are permitted but white is restricted to a small spot on the chest. The usual colours are black, black and tan, chocolate and red and may be dappled.

Coat and Care Requirements
Dachshund are strong, hardy and easy to care for. The long coat is the most glamorous of the three with long feathering giving an appearance of elegance for those who prefer a glamorous coated animal.  The coat of this variety should be soft, straight or slightly waved and shining. It should be longer under the neck, the underparts of the body, the outer side of the ear and behind the legs. It should reach its greatest length on the tail where it should form a flag. Due to the length of coat it does require a good weekly brush to keep in good condition. Dachshunds get bored hanging around the yard and are enthusiastic eaters, so either ensure regular exercise or cut down on food. For the dog’s wellbeing, regular exercise is recommended.

Size
Standard Dachshunds weigh 9 to 12kgs (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) and Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA).

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