Dachshund:

With its long body and short limbs, the signature look of the dashing dachshund may be small but there’s a lot to love. In fact, there are three varieties of this breed which relate to three colors, three sizes, and three different types of hair. For instance the smooth coat is the most common though the long coat is also easily recognized. The last type of hair is the wire-haired which is typically not associated with the dachshund since people are accustomed to associating it with the smooth or long coat. With a keen sense of smell and a wicked sense of affection, this breed is active, fun, smart, and indeed charismatic.

Although it has short limbs this dog is particularly agile except it may not do well on too many steps in the home. With origins to the hound family, this breed generates from German where its translated name equates to badger dog. Its unique stature was originally bred to chase badgers and other forest-like creatures. In fact, the purpose of the mini dachshund was originated to hunt rabbits. Also people may affectionately refer to it by its unofficial nickname, the hot dog or the wiener dog, an adult dachshund may weigh from twenty to twenty-eight pounds and the miniature usually tops the scale under eleven pounds.

Their coats are typically red or black and red as well as chocolate brown, cream, and blue. In fact, more than one color may be prevalent however it’s not uncommon to see solid black and solid chocolate dachshunds. Interestingly enough, when the dachshund has a lighter colored coat their eyes may actually be hazel, green, or blue instead of the standard color of brown within this breed. Plus, each eye may be a different color such as having one blue and one brown eye.

While they’re unique appearance and playful temperament make them a great pet, are known to be stubborn. This makes them difficult to train however they’re extremely loyal and somewhat dependent. They yearn for companionship and don’t like left being alone for long periods of time. Interestingly enough, this breed’s nature may vary intensely from dog to dog. For instance, some dogs may have abundant energy while others may lack this energy. It’s important to raise this breed properly since dachschunds – whether they’re lonely or bored – may become destructive, aggressive, or fearful. For this reason, this breed in particular has high needs to be met as it relates to keeping them occupied, reciprocating with companionship (i.e., spending a lot of time with it), and a lot of exercise.

Due to its short limbs and long body, this dog is prone to being overweight. It must have adequate exercise because the health ramifications are worse for obese dachshunds than they are for other breeds. For instance, the excess weight will have a greater impact on its vertebrae. Plus, stair climbing as well as jumping may lead to injury. The spinal problems can get quite severe and may result in treatment which combines crate confinement and anti-inflammatory medicine.