Congratulations on Your New Dachshund!
Congratulations on your new Dachshund puppy! The Dachshund Club of America wants to help you and your new puppy to make a great start by providing some basic information. Some experts think that the Dachshund dates back to antiquity and was depicted in Egyptian Relief's. While that may be true, it is widely accepted that the Germans were largely responsible for the development of the dog we know today. Some type of field spaniel and a terrier were likely bred to the smooth to produce the long coat and the wire coat. Their unique shape was developed to search for their quarry, the badger. "Dachshund" Trans¬lated means "Badger Hound." Hunters of that day used the Dachshund to keep the number of badgers in check while today's hunters use the Dachshund in a variety of settings. His hunting spirit and good nose, loud tongue and distinctive build make him suitable for below¬ground work and for beating the bush. His keen nose gives him an advantage over many other breeds for trailing. Today, Dachshunds can be seen in many AKC sanctioned activities, such as Earthdog, Agility, Tracking, Obedience, Field Trials and Conformation. In addition, some are involved in pet therapy work while others have been trained as drug sniffing dogs by the police.
General Appearance
According to the standard, "The Dachshund is low to the ground, long in body and short of leg with robust muscles and elastic, pliable skin." The Dachshund is bred in two sizes, which are defined by weight. The standard Dachshund ranges in weight from 16-32 pounds and the miniature Dachshund weighs 11 pounds and under. In addition, he is bred in three coat varieties, the smooth (short hair), the long hair (long, silky coat), and the wire (a dense wiry coat). His small to medium size makes him particularly suited for small yards and apartment living.
The Dachshund is clever, lively and courageous. He is affectionate and loving to his family. The Dachshund craves being the center of all family activities, and he is not a dog well suited to being an outside pet. The Dachshund is protective of his environment and may bark when he senses a potential threat.
Very Important
All dogs require proper nutrition, a clean environment, routine veterinary care with immunization and dental care to maintain optimal health. This will facilitate a long, healthy life. All new pups should receive a thor¬ough exam by your vet within seventy-two (72) hours of purchase. Monthly heartworm prevention is required in many areas.
Your breeder will likely recommend a type of dog food or you can seek the advice of your vet. Be aware that dog food labels may recommend an amount that is more than necessary to maintain a fit and healthy Dachshund. Be wary of over feeding and giving too many treats. An overweight Dachshund is prone to many of the same problems experienced by overweight humans, such as diabetes, joint problems, decreased stamina and possibly, problems with the back.
Your Dachshund should never be allowed to run free. A fenced yard will provide your Dachshund with a safe place to exercise and will prevent injuries such as being struck by a car. In addition, it will reduce the likelihood of his being a nuisance in your community. Remember, your Dachshund should never run free unless involved in hunting or some similar activity.
Grooming
Dachshunds are generally very clean dogs with little to no body odor. Minimal grooming requirements to maintain the Dachshund include clipping the nails, cleaning the inside of the ears, bathing when neces¬sary and removing tartar from the teeth at least twice yearly, when indicated. Wirehaired and longhaired Dachshunds may require professional grooming with frequent brushing of the coat.
Crate Training
Dogs are by nature den animals and contrary to the belief that crates are "jails," they provide your Dachshund with a sense of safety and security. Crates also foster peace of mind for you when you are away, knowing that your Dachshund is safe. In addition, it can be an important adjunct to the housebreaking reg¬imen. Most dogs don't want to soil their own bed.
Introduce your Dachshund to the crate gradually and make the inside appealing and comfortable. Provide soft bedding and toys for your puppy. Treats can be used to encourage your Dachshund to enter the crate and should be given as rewards for every successful training period. Gradually increase the time your Dachshund remains in the crate. Release your Dachshund only when he is quiet and reward him.
The Dachshund Club of America strongly recom¬mends that you spay or neuter your Dachshund. Many responsible breeders require this by selling pet Dachshunds with spay/neuter contracts. There are many reasons for this recommendation. Neutered ani¬mals are healthier and generally live longer lives. In addition, there is a concern in the United States about over population with unwanted animals, resulting in the euthanasia of countless dogs.
Doxies: The in's & out's
DACHSHUNDS.
Dachshunds Nap Corner!!!!!ZzZzZzZzZ
R.J.
MONICA
