Everything You Need To Know About Sausage Dogs
Dachshunds or sausage dogs, as they are famously called, are one of the most sought-after breeds due to their silly antics and adorable personality. In the past, these scent hound dogs were bred as hunting dogs. With time, these tiny creatures were adopted as a valuable family member and companion dogs. If you have ever considered getting a Dachshund, you must know certain aspects and characteristics before deciding to adopt one. Taking on the responsibility without acknowledging or fulfilling your dog’s needs and requirements is not recommended.
Read on to find out everything you should know about these adorable sausage dogs.
Physical Characteristics
Dachshunds are tiny dogs with long bodies that resemble a sausage, which is why they are also known as ‘wiener dogs’ or ‘badger dogs’ in German. Both male and female dogs of this breed weigh from 9 to 32 lbs. They usually possess flat, straight, and hard coats with color variations of brown, black, gray or fawn, brindle, and wild boar. Dachshunds are one of the rare breeds that come in 15 different color variations, three sizes, and three types of coats. Their natural floppy ears when paired with their short, bowed legs give them a peculiar look. The most popular Dachshund dog type in America is the one with a smooth coat.
Personality Traits
These tiny dogs are known for their strong sense of smell and sniffing power. In fact, their belly and nose can be attributed to their hunting trait. Despite being small in size, these dogs bark loudly and are often hyperactive. As mentioned, dogs of this breed are ingrained with a need to hunt. As soon as they get idle, you will find them digging holes in your yard. They dig like there’s no tomorrow and their energy is contagious. In the end, they like to cover themselves in the mud pile and hide in the burrows. Dachshunds are intelligent dogs but can be extremely stubborn at times.
Health and Exercise Needs
While most dogs are prone to certain health conditions, Dachshunds, in particular, are prone to injuries due to their low-slung spines and long bodies. If your dog is hyperactive and often jumps from one place to another, they may be subjected to herniated discs in extreme cases. Around 25 percent of Doxies are affected by IVDD or intervertebral disc disease, most of which need to undergo surgery. Older Dachshunds may need wheeled carts to keep their backs straight. Other health conditions include diabetes, skin disorders, epilepsy, and eye conditions. Just like other dogs, Dachshunds need to undergo daily physical activity of some sort to maintain their weight. Around 20 to 40 minutes of exercise a day is sufficient.
Food and Nutrition Needs
Needless to say, you must feed a balanced diet that fulfills the nutritional needs of your Dachshund. Even though dogs of this breed love to eat, feeding them is a hassle as they never feel full. The pet experts from WoofBarkGrowl.co.uk recommend controlling the portion sizes to keep them from overeating. Some new pet owners fail to monitor their diet and portion control, which is why they often end up being overweight. The recommended food intake for a senior Dachshund is ¾ cup 2 times a day.
Training and Social Skills
Compared to other breeds, Dachshunds are a bit difficult to train as they are fidgety and hyperactive. However, by establishing a proper training schedule and incorporating positive reinforcement training, you can turn your dog into a calm and obedient companion. The idea is to keep training simple and make it fun. Introduce treats and incorporate games into your training schedule. Divide the training sessions into short intervals to avoid boredom. Develop socializing skills by introducing your Dachshund to other dogs at a young age. At the same time, introduce your pup to your friends, family, and strangers too.
Grooming Needs
Dachshunds are low maintenance dogs and do not need special attention when it comes to grooming. However, if you do notice your dog’s coat getting dull in color and texture, you must wash, brush, and trim their hair. If you are a new pet owner, you can also take your dog to a professional groomer and learn the right way to do it at home. Regular baths, nail trimming, and ear cleaning must be a regular part of their grooming session.
If you are planning to get a dog but are confused about the breed, a sausage dog is an ideal choice. These tiny dogs are a delight to have around in your house and a companion in your life. Pay attention to their diet, exercise, and training needs to keep them happy and healthy.
