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Adventurous and inquisitive, Dachshunds — also known as ‘sausage dogs’ — were initially bred as hunting dogs, but today they are popular household pets.
The origin of the Dachshund breed is an interesting one. First bred in 17th-century Germany, Dachshunds were created for the sole purpose of hunting small prey. Their paddle-shaped legs were perfect for digging down into burrows, while their deep lungs helped them work for longer underground.
In German, the word ‘Dachshund’ literally translates to ‘Badger dog’ – a continual reminder of this magnificent breed’s history.
Small Dog
Adult weight
Up to 9kg
Average life expectancy
12-14 years
A great family dog
Needs lots of training
Suitable for small homes
The Dachshund’s long back and short legs make them more vulnerable to injury, so it’s important that they get regular exercise to strengthen their joints and that their movements are monitored carefully to avoid any potentially strenuous activity or incidents.
Many Dachshunds live the lifestyle of an indoor dog, which can make them more susceptible to digestive sensitivities and particularly odorous stools.
Like many small dogs, Dachshunds are also exposed to oral and dental sensitivities if left unsupported, such as plaque build-up and tartar formation. Their sensitive teeth and jaws need a lot of
protection.
To keep Dachshunds strong and healthy, they need a well-balanced diet that’s packed with essential nutrients, such as:
A dog’s nutritional needs change throughout
their life – a Dachshund puppy’s needs are different from those of an adult or
ageing Dachshund.
ROYAL CANIN® Dachshund diets are
specifically designed to support the nutritional needs of Dachshunds and to
help keep your dog healthy at every stage of life, from puppyhood,
through adulthood.
The Dachshund breed generally has a friendly, balanced temperament. Their enthusiasm, perseverance and alertness are retrospective of their days as hunting dogs.
Dachshunds by nature don’t tend to be particularly nervous or aggressive. In fact, they are often described as having friendly dispositions and strong personalities.
Dachshunds have an unusual body type, with a low body, short legs and an elongated yet compact build.
Elongated, low to the ground, compact and muscular.
Long and straight with no kinks.
Tapered and elongated, but not pointed.
Long-to-moderate in length, rounded and set high.
Slightly arched, long and broad.
A dapple Dachshund is a Dachshund with a unique “dapple” pattern on its coat. The word ‘dapple’ means spotted or rounded patches – hence dapple Dachshund. Essentially, these dappled patches are the result of a genetic mutation – but an attractive one!
The average
weight for an adult Dachshund of either gender is approximately 9kg.
Dachshunds have their distinctive long back from birth, but they grow quickly, so it’s
important that they get the right nutrition to help support their spine, bones and joints. What’s more, Dachshund puppies’ natural defences need extra nutritional support while their immune systems are still developing.
ROYAL CANIN® Dachshund Puppy is a complete, balanced and nutritious diet that’s
specially crafted to support the unique needs and sensitivities of Dachshund pups.
The average expected life span for dogs of the Dachshund breed is around 12-14 years.
Dachshunds grow pretty fast, reaching their adult size at about 10 months of age, though they may continue to fill out slightly for a little while after.
Absolutely! Giving your Dachshund a mixture of wet and dry food means they will reap the benefits of both food types. You don’t have to mix both the wet and dry food in the bowl together, you can give your dog one pouch of ROYAL CANIN® Dachshund in Loaf and adapt your dry food ratio according to the on-pack feeding guide.
Dachshunds are rarely shy and simply love being the centre of attention!
Dachshunds bond very closely with their owners but tend to prefer the company of Dachshunds and other small breeds when it comes to interacting with other dogs.
Dachshunds love to be out and about exploring the world. They’re full of energy but try not to let them jump too much as it can be bad for their backs.
A Dachshund’s grooming needs depend largely on what type of Dachshund they are. While standard wire-haired Dachshunds don’t shed much at all, long-haired Dachshunds shed a little more frequently. When grooming a Dachshund, it’s best to use a soft-bristled brush.
Hunters by nature, Dachshunds love digging games and sniffing out tasty treats. They are also smart little characters, so brain-training games and toys are usually well-received.
Dachshunds, being small dogs with vulnerable spines, face an increased health risk if they are above their ideal weight. Try taking pieces of kibble from their daily meal allowance to use as treats.
At Maltby’s, we offer a wide range of high-quality Royal Canin wet and dry dog food, specifically formulated to suit your beloved companion’s needs.
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