How to Select a Dachshund

The dachshund, whose name means "badger dog" in German, originated in Germany. Bred to hunt, this loyal and brave dog prefers to be with its family and will grow lonely very quickly if left in the backyard.

Things You'll Need

  • Bark Control Collars W/videos
  • Dental Kits (for Dogs)
  • Dog Beds
  • Dog Brushes
  • Dog Dishes
  • Dog Flea/tick Control Medication
  • Dog Food
  • Dog Leashes
  • Dog Shampoo
  • Dog Training Aids
  • Nail Clippers For Dogs
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Instructions

    • 1

      Reconsider getting a dachshund if you have small children in the house. Dachshunds can quickly lose their patience with children and will snap or bite. However, they are usually friendly with other pets.

    • 2

      Know that dachshunds are not overly active indoors and will do fine living inside. They don't require a backyard to play in but do need daily exercise.

    • 3

      Keep in mind that this dog loves to bark and does so loudly, making it a great watchdog. Just don't expect it to protect you from unwanted intruders.

    • 4

      Look at a dachshund's features when choosing yours. The dachshund is sharp and confident in its presence. The body, which lies low to the ground, should be solid and muscular. This breed comes in two sizes (standard and miniature), with three types of coats (smooth, wirehaired and longhaired) in a variety of colors.

    • 5

      Understand that dachshunds are prone to certain health conditions such as ruptured or slipped spinal disks, heart disease and obesity. Talk to a breeder or whoever you get your dog from to find out what type of screening they've done for these health problems.

    • 6

      Check out potential breeders very carefully, being sure to ask if they are members of breed clubs, specialty clubs or obedience clubs. Affiliation with a club means you can check their references to make sure that they don't run a puppy mill and that they screen for health problems before they breed.

    • 7

      Realize that miniature dachshunds will grow to 14 inches and weigh between 10 and 11 lbs. Standard dachshunds will grow between 14 and 18 inches and weigh between 18 and 20 lbs.

    • 8

      Expect a dachshund to live between 12 and 15 years.

    • 9

      Note that you'll probably pay between $300 and $1,500 for a purebred dachshund.