Dachshund

Health Problems

• Dachshunds are prone to spinal disc problems, also known as Dachshund paralysis. This is due to their very long spinal columns and very short rib cages. Dogs with this problem can become completely paralyzed. For this reason, it\’s important that your dog be trained early on not to jump, as jumping puts additional pressure on the spine. You should also be taught how to hold your dog properly, as improper handling can lead to back problems, too. Some veterinarians caution against Dachshunds using stairs, though most feel that it does not pose a problem for the dog to use stairs, as long as they are walking instead of running. Researchers are finding that the occurrence and severity of these spinal disc problems are hereditary in large part, so it\’s important to inquire about such problems from your breeder.

• They are also prone to heart disease, urinary tract problems and diabetes. This dog can become inactive as they age, which makes them prone to obesity. This disease causes the same problems in dogs as in humans, shortening their life expectancy and making them more prone to heart disease, joint problems and diabetes. Being overweight also puts additional strain on their backs.
  

  Long Haired Dachshund

• Dappled Dachshunds are prone to deafness and blindness. For this reason, they are very rare, as most breeders refuse to breed this pattern.

• Whenever you purchase a puppy, it’s important to purchase from a reputable breeder. Reputable breeders will work hard to breed out deficiencies by not breeding any dog that has shown signs of genetic or health problems. Breeders that are not reputable, however, will breed any dog, and are more likely to replicate genetic problems in their puppies. Before you purchase a puppy, ask questions about the lineage of the puppy.

Grooming

• Longhaired Dachshunds require daily brushing to keep them free of mats and tangles. Short haired versions will require weekly brushing and wire haired varieties need to be trimmed at least twice a year. This breed is an average shedder; rubbing them down occasionally with a damp towel will help keep the hair at bay.

Exercise

• These dogs do need exercise. As young dogs, they are typically quite active, but can get lazy as they get older. So, it\’s important that you provide them enough opportunities to exercise to keep them strong and prevent obesity. Since this dog is small, games of fetch in the house may be enough to get them proper exercise. However, they will also enjoy a walk with you and can get a good amount of exercise this way. Because of their short legs, they are not considered good running companions.

• Dachshunds are very popular breeds for competition. In fact, the Weiner Nationals are extremely popular Dachshund races. In addition, many Dachshunds participate in earth dog trials, competitions for dogs to track and locate artificial bait or caged live mice. Because this breed is a scent hound, they also often compete in scent tracking events. The Dachshund Club of America holds a national scent tracking championship each year for the best trackers in this breed.

Training

• The Dachshund requires firm and consistent training, but once trained, they are a great companion dog and extremely loyal. From an early age, they must understand that you are the “alpha dog”, as they can be quite stubborn and resist training.

• Dachshunds require socialization at an early age, to prevent them from being wary of human strangers and fearful. They should also be taught early on about inappropriate barking and taught not to jump, since this can be dangerous for their spines.

• Crate training works well for housebreaking the Dachshund. Because this breed can be stubborn, and because their accidents are easy to miss due to their size, it\’s important to be very persistent in house breaking them. If they have an accident that goes unnoticed, they will believe that going to the bathroom in the house is acceptable, and the habit will be nearly impossible to break. Keeping your puppy in his crate unless you are actively interacting with him will help ensure that there are no accidents. Puppies should not be allowed to roam the house unsupervised until they are consistently house trained.

• It’s wise to leave your Dachshund in his crate when you leave the house even after he’s house trained, since they are prone to destruction when bored. After a period of time, you will know your dog well and will know whether or not it’s safe to allow him to roam the house when you’re away.