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Dachshunds are both adorable and sociable. While their large ears are undoubtedly adorable, they are not entirely natural. Breeders desired large, floppy ears on their Weiner dogs to prevent grass and other debris from being trapped in the inner ear while the pup was hunting.
Due to their short legs as well as long bodies, they are one of the most easily recognized breeds. However, there is still much to learn about dachshunds. If you currently own a Doxie, or even if you enjoy the breed, it’s time to put your knowledge to the test with some of these facts.
Eye color
Although light-colored dachshunds may have amber, light brown, or green eyes, kennel club regulations specify that the deeper the eye color, the better. Due to the dapple gene’s impact on eye pigment development, dapple and double dapple dachshunds may exhibit multi-colored “wall” eyes with completely blue, or patched irises. A “wall” eye is acceptable under DCA criteria but is considered unattractive under AKC standards.
Dachshunds make for great watchdogs
Although they are little, these popular canines are frequently used as efficient security dogs. They have a “big dog” bark for a tiny dog and are extremely alert.
They will be the first to raise the alarm to an intruder. That’s why they need early socializing in order to be accepting of other pets and strangers.
The average lifespan of the Dachshund
Despite the possibility of recurring health concerns such as epilepsy, intervertebral disc disease, patellar luxation, back difficulties, and IVDD (Intervertebral Disk Disease), Dachshund puppies are known to live significantly longer than puppies from other dog breeds.
How long does a dachshund live?
On average, owners can expect their beloved friends to live an average of 12 to 16 years.
Dachshund coat, colors, and standards
There are two types of dachshunds, according to the AKC( American Kennel Club): standard dachshunds and small dachshunds.
There are 3 different types of coats:
Dachshunds having sleek coats (smooth coats), dachshunds having wirehaired coats, and dachshunds with longhaired coats.
The Wirehaired Dachshund is the least prevalent of the Dachshund species and was only recently introduced to breed standards.
Additionally, there are 15 distinct colors and six distinct marking styles.
All dachshunds have a single, unique self-color. Dapple, double dapple, brindle, sable, and piebald are the colors found in dachshunds.
The Doxies reputation questioned
Germany frequently employed native-bred Dachshunds for propaganda purposes during World War II. This resulted in a dramatic drop in popularity with the United States.
To help preserve the breed in the United States, the AKC temporarily renamed the dogs as “liberty pups.” Their reputation subsequently recovered, and they are still one of the country’s most popular canines.
In an article published by Wikipedia, John F. Kennedy acquired a Doxie puppy in 1937 while touring Europe. Their dog was named ‘Dunker’, however, Dunker stayed begging in Germany as Kennedy started to struggle with allergies caused by the dog.
Exercise and playtime
Try playing hide and seek with your Doxie!
This may sound crazy, but your pup will love to play hide and seek. According to the PDSA, The Dachshund was bred to hunt. Engaging the Doxie in sports that appeal to his or her hunting instincts will help keep the youngster intellectually and physically fit.
Hide and seek is a game that may be played both indoors and outdoors. (NOTE: When considering outside play with the Doxie, caution is advised. When released, the dog may flee.
When playing Hide & Seek outside, it may be prudent to do it in an enclosed location.) The Dachshund is a very clever breed and also has a superb sense of smell. Your item may be a chew toy, shoe, or tennis ball. The Doxie will pick up on the game after a few repetitions. Indeed, they may discover your object’s hiding place and begin a game with you!
More fun for your Doxie
As is the case with other dogs, the Dachshund enjoys a game of fetch. A tennis ball is an ideal size for your little dynamo.
Begin this game in your home’s hallway. Encourage your puppy to chase the ball. When the dog retrieves the ball, command them to return to you. Extend gratitude to the dog for returning. Make progress using the command “Give.” Give the dog a reward when it drops the ball into your hand. Repeat as needed.
Dachshund races
Doxies racing began in Australia in the 1970s. Nowadays, Doxie races are held only for recreational purposes.
Although the breed is not intended for speed, these competitions are frequently used to raise funds for animal welfare charities. The most renowned race is the San Diego Wienerschnitzel Wiener Nationals.
Even though these events are popular, the Dachshund Club of America discourages “wiener racing” because many Greyhound tracks utilize them to attract big audiences and because the DCA is concerned that such races might cause back injuries to Dachshunds.
Summary
Dachshunds have a lively and brave reputation, but what they really want is to snuggle with their owners.
