Dachshunds are referred to as big dogs in small packages. They tend to have large personalities packed into their small bodies. Dachshunds are members of hound family. A Dachshund is traditionally used as a symbol of Germany although the breed likely developed in France like most other Hound breeds. A Dachshund named Waldi was the official Mascot of the 1972 Olympic Games.

Dachshund History

The breed’s name comes from the German for “Badger Dog”. Dachshunds got their unique shape and size from years of breeding. Dachshunds were bred to find and chase badgers and other animals that lived underground so they needed a unique shape in order to fit into the badgers’ underground burrows. Dachshunds usually have short, easy to care for coats although long haired Dachshunds need routine coat care. A full-grown standard Dachshund averages 16 to 28 pounds but the miniature Dachshund typically weighs less than 11 lb. Miniature dachshunds are also called Doxies.

Dachshund Temperament

Dachshunds are not great dogs for everyone. Dachshund dogs are extremely intelligent but require a lot of human interaction and attention. Very playful, clever and courageous, a mini Dachshund can be a great companion. But if a Dachshund is left alone too long it can become destructive or bad-tempered. They need a lot of mental stimulation and exercise and can become depressed or aggressive if they don’t get it. Miniature Dachshund puppies and Dachshund puppies will often whine when left alone. Even though they are easily trainable, they can be disobedient and willful.

Buying A Dachshund

Once you’ve decided to purchase a Dachshund puppy you should do some research on the Internet to find a reliable breeder. Don’t buy the first Dachshund you find for sale. A reliable Dachshund breeder will let you come to their puppy farm and look around. You can play with all the puppies, meet their parents, and find the right Dachshund puppy for you. Not all Dachshund breeders are reliable, so try to get referrals from other Dachshund owners in your community in order to minimize the risk of buying from a disreputable breeder. Purebred Dachshund puppies are expensive. The best way to make sure you are not being taken advantage of is to ask for references. A good breeder won’t mind if you contact their previous customers to find out if they are happy with their dogs. You can also find Dachshund breeder reviews and ratings online which can help you decide where to buy your Dachshund.