All About Wiener Dogs

Wiener dogs are a beloved breed for many reasons.

They come in two main varieties: Dachshund and Hot Dog (also known as Miniature Longhaired Dachshund).

Their long, narrow bodies were originally bred to hunt badgers and other burrowing animals.

Dachshunds can live up to 12-16 years with proper care and attention.

The wiener dog, also known as a dachshund, is a small-sized breed that originated in Germany.

Wiener dogs have three main coat types: smooth, wirehaired, and long-haired. They are bred to hunt badgers and other burrowing animals.

These little dogs were originally called "badger dogs" due to their purpose of catching badgers.

Worth a look: White Wiener Dog

The Dachshund was developed in Germany to be a dog who hunted close to the hunter, much like the Basset Hound in France.

They are descended from the German schweisshund, of which they are a shorter-legged version. The breed was also crossed with terrier and spaniel breeds to gain certain hunting qualities and coat types.

The Dachshund has been helping hunters and families since the Middle Ages, doing everything from tracking and going to ground for game to protecting the homestead.

The standard Dachshund was primarily bred as a tracker, and he was used to hunt badgers and wild boars. The miniature was largely bred down from the standard to hunt rabbits and go to ground.

Double-dapple dachshunds are prone to eye disease, blindness, or hearing problems. They were generally believed to have been introduced to the United States between 1879 and 1885.

The smooth Dachshund gave rise to both the long-haired and the wire-haired varieties.

The name dachshund is of German origin and means 'badger dog', from Dachs ('badger') and Hund ('dog, hound'). This unique name reflects the breed's original purpose as a hunting companion.

In Germany, these dogs are more commonly known by the short name Dackel or Teckel for working dogs. The pronunciation of dachshund varies in English, with some speakers getting it wrong and pronouncing it like 'dash hound'.

The wiener dog is a loving companion and can make an excellent watchdog due to its protective nature. They tend to be quite alert and will bark loudly when they sense something unusual.

Their exercise needs are moderate, so they require regular walks but don't need hours of intense physical activity. This makes them a great fit for city dwellers or those with limited outdoor space.

Here's a breakdown of the wiener dog's characteristics:

Their high energy level and playfulness make them great companions for active families, but their tendency to bark loudly means they might not be the best fit for noise-sensitive households.

Dachshunds are loving companions that can make great lapdogs and family dogs, despite their small size.

They tend to be protective and alert, making them excellent watchdogs, but they do bark loudly, which might disturb your neighbors if you live close by.

A dachshund's temperament is often described as lively, alert, comic, and kind. They're natural-born hunters with a strong prey drive, which can lead them to chase small animals like groundhogs in the backyard.

Dachshunds are great protectors of their family, but they can be stubborn and refuse commands, especially if chasing something they love to pursue.

Here's a breakdown of some key personality traits:

As you can see, dachshunds are intelligent and trainable, but they can be stubborn at times. They're rated as average working dogs with a persistent ability to follow trained commands 50% of the time or more.

Their intelligence is matched by their loyalty and love for their family. However, this loyalty can sometimes manifest as aggression towards strangers and other dogs.

It's essential to remember that dachshunds are small hunting dogs that will challenge larger dogs if they feel threatened or provoked. They're also prone to being snappy or obstinate if indulged too much.

Dachshunds come in three sizes: standard, miniature, and kaninchen (German for "rabbit").

The standard size is recognized almost universally, but the rabbit size is not recognized by clubs in the United States and the United Kingdom.

A full-grown standard dachshund typically weighs 7.5 to 14.5 kg (16 to 32 lb), while the miniature variety normally weighs less than 5.5 kg (12 lb).

The kaninchen weighs 3.5 to 5 kg (8 to 11 lb).

Dachshunds come in three coat types: smooth, longhair, and wirehair.

The most common dachshund colors are red and tan pointed, with a wide variety of patterns such as dapple, sable, brindle, and piebald also possible.

Smooth dachshunds have a short, shiny coat that's often solid red or cream-colored, while wirehaired dachshunds have a soft undercoat overlayed by a short, thick top coat with a wiry texture.

Dachshunds can be single-colored, tan pointed, or have various patterns like dapple and brindle.

Their front paws are disproportionately large and paddle-shaped, ideal for digging. Their skin is loose enough not to tear while tunneling in tight burrows.

Longhaired dachshunds have sleek, shiny hair that's longer on the ears and under the neck, body, and behind the legs.

The life span of a Dachshund is quite remarkable, averaging 12 to 14 years.

This relatively long lifespan means that with proper care and attention, your Dachshund can be a loyal companion for many happy years.

Dachshunds are surprisingly athletic and can be trained for various sports.

Some people train and enter their dachshunds to compete in dog racing events like the Wiener Nationals, which draw thousands of attendees.

These events, however, have raised concerns among some organizations, such as the Dachshund Club of America, who worry about potential injuries to dogs due to their predisposition to back problems.

Dachshunds also excel in earthdog trials, where they navigate tunnels with obstacles and artificial baits or live caged rats.

Dachshunds have a high prey drive, so they may not be a good match for households with pet rodents or other small animals.

Regular brushing is essential to prevent matting and tangling of your longhaired Dachshund's fine fur. This should be done at least once a week.

The smooth-coated dachshunds are very low maintenance, requiring little more than a wipe-down with a towel or a quick brushing once a week.

Dachshunds are adaptable and can thrive in nearly any home, but they do require some special considerations.

To prevent obesity, your dachshund should get regular exercise, with daily walks being a must. A couple of 10-minute walks per day at the minimum, plus some playtime like playing fetch, will keep them happy and healthy.

Twice-daily walks up to half a mile each are sufficient for this breed, but be aware that they don't do well in cold weather, so a coat is necessary when going outside for extended periods. This small-framed pup can get injured easily if it jumps too much, especially if its weight isn't healthy.

Dachshunds may require special accommodations like steps or a ramp up to furniture to mitigate jumping, and they are loud, especially when left alone for too long. Their bark is piercing and can be heard from afar!

To keep your dachshund safe and happy, ensure the yard is fully fenced-in and reinforced along the base if you have one, as they love to dig and trail scents.

For more insights, see: How to Keep Gnats off Dogs?

Dachshunds are relatively low-maintenance when it comes to grooming.

All three coat varieties - smooth, longhaired, and wirehaired - are low-shedding, which is a plus for many owners. However, they're not considered hypoallergenic breeds, so if you have allergies, this might be something to consider.

Smooth-coated dachshunds require minimal grooming, just a quick wipe-down with a towel or a weekly brushing. Longhaired doxies need more frequent brushing, especially around possible matting areas. Wirehaired dachshunds are the highest-maintenance, needing weekly brushing and occasional trimming of their beard and eyebrows.

Regardless of coat type, regular brushing is an excellent time to check for things like coat sheen, nail length, ear health, and dental hygiene. Make sure to inspect your dachshund's ears regularly, as their floppy shape can lead to infections if not properly cared for.

The longhaired Dachshund's fine fur can knot and mat if not brushed regularly, so daily brushing is a must. The smooth coat is the easiest to care for, requiring just a quick going-over with a hound glove or soft brush.

Suggestion: What Were You Just Doing with the Dog?

Dachshunds are naturally prone to develop obesity if not properly fed and exercised.

The amount of food needed will depend on your dachshund's size, activity level, age, and other factors.

Be sure to provide high-quality food and monitor your dog's intake and weight to prevent obesity. This is crucial for maintaining a healthy weight and preventing serious back problems in this long breed.

Take action early if you notice your dog is getting overweight and talk to your veterinarian about the appropriate feeding schedule, type of food, and amount to keep your dog at a healthy weight.

If you're considering bringing a wiener dog into your life, adopting is definitely an option to consider.

You can expect to pay between $500 to $1,500 for a Dachshund puppy from a reputable breeder, but keep in mind that some breeders may prioritize looks over health issues. Researching the breeder and the specific characteristics of the dog you're interested in can help ensure you find a healthy pup.

If adoption isn't right for you, or if you want to try out life with a Dachshund before committing, foster care is an excellent way to go. You can contact reputable organizations like the Dachshund Club of America, All American Dachshund Rescue, and Dachshund Rescue of North America to learn more about the process.

Here are some reputable organizations to consider for adoption or fostering:

As a prospective dog owner, choosing the right breed is a crucial decision that can impact your life and the life of your new furry friend.

The first step is to decide why you want to get a dog in the first place. Do you want a companion, a workout buddy, or a family pet? Understanding your motivations will help you choose a breed that fits your lifestyle and needs.

Finding a responsible breeder is essential to ensure you're getting a healthy puppy from a reputable source. Look for breeders who prioritize the welfare of their dogs and are transparent about health clearances and temperament testing.

If you're interested in dog sports, such as agility or obedience training, you'll want to choose a breed that excels in these areas. Some breeds are naturally more athletic and trainable than others.

Of course, if you're looking for a puppy, there's no shortage of adorable options available! All puppies require patience, love, and attention as they grow into happy and healthy adult dogs.

Here are some popular reasons why people get dogs:

Remember, getting started in dog sports or finding the perfect puppy is just the beginning – owning a dog requires a lifelong commitment to care and love.

Adopting a pet can be just as rewarding as buying one from a breeder. You can expect to pay between $500 to $1,500 for a Dachshund puppy.

If you're interested in adopting a Dachshund, there are reputable organizations that can guide you through the process. These include the Dachshund Club of America, All American Dachshund Rescue, and Dachshund Rescue of North America.

Curious to learn more? Check out: Canaan Dog Adoption

Keep in mind that some breeders may prioritize looks over health issues, which can be unethical and potentially hazardous for the dog. Researching a rare color or marking doesn't necessarily guarantee a healthy dog.

If you're not sure if adopting a Dachshund is right for you, consider trying foster care to test the waters. This can give you a trial run of what it's like to have a Dachshund in your home without making a long-term commitment.

Here are some reputable organizations that can help with adoption: