Dachshund (standard Long-haired)

Origins and History

The Dachshund originated in Germany in the 15th‑16th centuries as a hunting companion for badgers, otters and other burrowing game. The long‑haired variety was refined in the 19th century to work in dense underbrush, and was formally recognized by the Kennel Club of Germany (VDH) in 1895 and later by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1885. The breed was entered in the first dog shows in the late 1800s and has remained a member of the Hound Group worldwide.

General Characteristics

• Compact, muscular body with a deep chest and short, sturdy limbs.
• Intelligent, bold, and independent; a strong prey drive combined with a friendly disposition toward families.
• Originally bred to flush and pursue game in tunnels; today excels in earthdog trials and companion roles.

Note: Information provided reflects current breed standards and general health data; individual dogs may vary.

Physical Specifications

• Height at withers: Males 8–9 inches (20–23 cm); Females 7–8 inches (18–20 cm) – as specified by the AKC and FCI.
• Weight: Males 16–32 lb (7–14 kg); Females 11–20 lb (5–9 kg) – proportional to height and bone structure.

Coat and Color

• Long‑haired coat is silky, flat to slightly wavy, with feathering on the ears, tail, and legs; should lie close to the body without harshness.
• Accepted colors and patterns: solid red, solid black and tan, solid chocolate, solid cream, solid dapple, solid wild boar, solid black, solid chocolate, solid red, solid cream; also dapple, brindle, and merle patterns are permitted when the base color conforms to the solid standards.

Temperament Considerations

Dachshunds are courageous and curious, which can translate into stubbornness during training. Their strong scent drive may cause them to become distracted by small animals.

Training Essentials

• Early, consistent socialization with people, children, and other pets to mitigate territorial tendencies.
• Daily moderate exercise (30–45 minutes) to satisfy stamina without over‑stress­ing the back.
• Positive‑reinforcement methods work best; avoid harsh corrections that may trigger fear or aggression.
• Focus on recall and “stay” commands to manage off‑lead hunting instincts.

Daily Grooming

• Brush 2–3 times per week with a slicker brush or pin brush to prevent matting and remove loose hair.
• Bath as needed (typically every 6–8 weeks) using a mild dog shampoo; over‑bathing can dry the skin.
• Trim nails regularly; keep ear canals clean and dry to prevent otitis externa; brush teeth several times a week or provide dental chews.

Show Preparation

• Begin a full coat trim 7–10 days before the show to achieve the ideal length and feathering.
• Bathe 48 hours prior to the ring, allowing the coat to dry completely before applying a light finishing spray.
• Clip nails to a uniform length; present the dog with a balanced, level stance and a clean, well‑conditioned coat.

Common Health Issues

• Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) – a hereditary condition affecting the elongated spine; risk increased by obesity and excessive jumping.
• Obesity – can exacerbate back problems and joint stress.
• Dental overcrowding – prone to tartar buildup and periodontal disease.
• Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) and cataracts – documented in the breed by veterinary ophthalmologists.

General Care

• Provide low‑impact exercise (short walks, controlled play) and avoid stairs or high‑jump activities.
• Maintain a balanced diet calibrated to the dog's ideal weight; use weight‑control formulas if needed.
• Lifespan typically 12–16 years with proper care and regular veterinary check‑ups.