| The Dachshund is a dog breed within the hound family | | | | only makes it worse, but many believe spinal problems |
| and is known for its short legs and elongated body. | | | | in Dachshunds is mainly genetic. To prevent spinal |
| The German name "Dachshund" literally translates as | | | | problems, they should not walk up or down stairs |
| "badger dog". Dachshunds were first used to hunt and | | | | quickly or jump. Carrying Dachshunds in the proper |
| chase badgers. In the United States, they are | | | | manner is also a way to prevent spinal issues. |
| sometimes called "wiener dogs" or "hot dogs" due to | | | | Treatments do exist though, as there is physical |
| their shape.Dachshunds weigh from 16 to 32 pounds, | | | | therapy, massage, acupuncture, arthritis medication and |
| though Miniature Dachshunds usually weigh less than 11 | | | | more.Although some believe Dachshunds may have |
| pounds. "Tweenie" refers to the group that falls | | | | originated in Ancient Egypt, modern Dachshunds have |
| between 10 and 15 pounds. Dachshunds are only 9 | | | | come from European breeders who have mixed |
| inches tall, though they are longer than they are tall. | | | | English, French and German terriers and hounds. |
| Dachshunds are known for their loose skin, crooked | | | | Dachshunds were popular pets for royalty in Europe, |
| legs and outward chest. Dachshunds were designed | | | | although the original Dachshunds were larger and |
| like this so they would be able to go through tight | | | | weighed around 35 pounds. They were used not only |
| spaces while hunting. They also have a long tail, which | | | | for hunting badgers, but for large game such as |
| is used by hunters to pull Dachshunds out of the hole | | | | wolverines as well.Dachshunds have been considered |
| once the prey is caught. There are three different | | | | a symbol of Germany. Unfortunately, in United States |
| types of coats that Dachshunds have: longhaired, | | | | and England in World War I, some Dachshunds were |
| wirehaired and smooth. Dachshunds also vary a lot in | | | | killed on the streets because of what they symbolized. |
| color. Most are red or black & tan. However, they can | | | | Dachshunds were used in political cartoons to ridicule |
| vary from cream to blue to fawn.Dachshunds are | | | | Germany, but fortunately this association has |
| playful dogs that are very loyal. They are known to | | | | ended.Dachshunds make great watchdogs, as they |
| chase birds and smaller animals with determination. | | | | are attentive and bark when they need to. They get |
| Dachshunds can be difficult to train, as many are | | | | along well enough with other animals and should be |
| stubborn. Dachshunds are clever and are usually not | | | | groomed regularly as their ears must be cleaned and |
| shy at all. Dachshunds seem to not know or care | | | | their nails trimmed.Dachshunds are now quite popular |
| about their own small size. They are also recognized | | | | pets in the United States, as they have been about the |
| for their complex facial expressions and deep | | | | 5th most popular dog breed in the last ten years. |
| eyes.Unfortunately, they are prone to spinal problems | | | | Dachshunds are especially popular for owners who |
| because of their unique shape. Obesity in Dachshunds | | | | live in apartments. |