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Dachshund Dog Breed Facts
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Photo courtesy of Michelle McClain
www.freewebs.com/huskies4urlife/.
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Breed: Dachshund
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Also Called: Teckel (Miniature: Zwergteckel)
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Height: The Dachshund is about 6 inches tall for the miniature variety, 8 inches tall for the Standard variety.
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Weight: The Dachshund weighs between 16-32 lbs. for the Standard Dachshund, the Miniature Dachshund is under 11 lbs.
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Colors: The Dachshund can be any color except for white.
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Physical Appearance: The Dachshund is low to the ground, long in body and short of leg with robust muscular development, the skin is elastic and pliable without excessive wrinkling. Appearing neither crippled, awkward, nor cramped in his capacity for movement, the Dachshund is well-balanced with bold and confident head carriage and intelligent, alert facial expression. His hunting spirit, good nose, loud tongue and distinctive build make him well-suited for below-ground work and for beating the bush. His keen nose gives him an advantage over most other breeds for trailing.
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Temperament/Personality: The Dachshund is clever, lively and courageous to the point of rashness, persevering in above and below ground work, with all the senses well-developed.
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Care: The Dachshund is naturally free from "doggy" odor. They require minimal routine brushing to keep their coats healthy and in good condition. The longhaired and wirehaired Dachshunds may require extra grooming or help from a professional.
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Health Concerns/Problems:
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Training: The Dachshund is generally easy to train for the show ring, and many of them really enjoy showing. Must be socialized early to accept cats.
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Activity: The Dachshund needs regular exercise because they have a tendency to put on weight and become lazy. They also need care to control their diet because they will eat whatever is placed before them.
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Life Span: The Dachshund lives an average life of 12-14 years.
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Litter Size: The Dachshund has an average litter of 3-4 puppies.
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Country of Origin: The Dachshund originated in Germany.
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Brief History: Germany is recognized as the country of origin of the Dachshund. The breed's rootstock is thought to be a dwarf mutation of the taller hounds of the true German type. As early as the 17th century, the name "Dachshund" was applied to a breed type that encompassed smooth- and long-haired varieties. A third variety, the wirehair, was recognized in 1890. The name Dachshund is from "dachs," which means "badger," and "hund," which means "dog." Not only was the dog used to hunt badgers (as well as other small game), it's appearance was much like the badger's, being sturdy and short-legged.
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