Dachshunds, or Teckels, originated in Germany over 600 years ago, where they were bred to hunt badgers and other small animals that hid in burrows. Their name comes from "dachs," which means badger in German, and "hund," which means dog, thus "badger dog," reflecting their role in hunting this species.
Dachshunds became a popular companion breed due to their loyal and brave personality. Their long-bodied appearance affectionately earned them the nickname "Sausage Dog," resembling a sausage.
The Dachshund originated from appropriate crosses between burrowing dogs and badger-hunting dogs. These crosses include:
Terriers: Short-legged terriers were believed to be crossed with larger hunting dogs to produce a medium-sized dog with short legs and a long body, ideal for hunting in burrows. (Terrier comes from the word "terra," meaning earth.)
Braque-type dogs: Hunting dogs like the German Pointer were crossed to enhance the tracking and scenting abilities of the Dachshund.
Basset Hound: Some believe that Basset Hounds may have also contributed to the development of the Dachshund, particularly in their physical structure, including short legs and a long body, resulting in "Bassetism," a condition notable in breeds like Basset Hounds and Dachshunds.
Dachshunds are small but sturdy dogs with a long body and short legs. Their physical characteristics include long, floppy ears, a coat that can be short, long, or wirehaired, and a variety of colors and patterns, such as black and tan, red, and chocolate.
Why Were Dachshunds Bred?
Reasons for Breeding:
Scent Tracking: Dachshunds have an excellent sense of smell, allowing them to track prey underground.
Badger Hunting: They were specifically bred to hunt badgers, using their long bodies to enter burrows and drive out prey.
Durability in Tough Terrains: Their short, strong legs enable them to move effectively in challenging and narrow terrains.
Persistence and Endurance: Dachshunds are known for their tenacity and bravery, which allows them to pursue prey without giving up.
Cooperation with Hunters: They were trained to work as a team with hunters, providing vocal signals to indicate the presence of prey.
Solo Hunting: Besides working in a team, Dachshunds can hunt alone, displaying great independence and determination.
Distinctive Physical Features
Dachshunds have a distinctive appearance that makes them look always alert and energetic. Their main physical features include:
Expressive Eyes: Dachshunds have large, expressive eyes that reflect their curiosity and intelligence.
Long, Drooping Ears: Their long ears help trap and direct scents towards their nose.
Long Body: Their long, low body is ideal for moving through burrows and underground tunnels.
Short, Strong Legs: Short, muscular legs allow them to dig and move with agility in confined spaces.
Personality traits and Temperament
Dachshunds are brave, loyal, and playful dogs. Despite their small size, they have a big personality and are not shy about showing their character. They are affectionate with their family and can be protective, making them good watchdogs. However, they can also be stubborn and headstrong, which can present challenges in training.
Care and Training
Caring for a Dachshund requires attention to their coat, health, and overall well-being. Key aspects to consider include:
Coat Care: Short-haired Dachshunds need weekly brushing, while long-haired or wirehaired ones require more frequent brushing to prevent tangles.
Ear Cleaning: Due to their long ears, it's crucial to keep them clean to avoid infections.
Regular Exercise: Dachshunds need daily exercise to stay fit and prevent obesity, which can affect their long, prone-to-problems back.
Training: They can be stubborn, so training should be consistent and patient. Using positive reinforcement and making training fun can help maintain their interest.
Dental Care: Regularly brushing their teeth helps prevent dental diseases.
Types of Dachshund Colors
Black and tan
Red
Chocolate and tan
Cream
Dapple (spotted, merle, or harlequin)
Brindle
Blue and tan
Isabella and tan
Wild Boar
Common Diseases in Dachshunds:
Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) Intervertebral Disc Disease is a common condition in Dachshunds due to their long spine and short legs. The intervertebral discs can degenerate and herniate, causing pain and, in severe cases, paralysis.
Obesity Obesity is a frequent problem in Dachshunds, especially if they do not get enough exercise or are overfed. Obesity can exacerbate back problems and other health conditions.
Dental Diseases Dachshunds are prone to dental diseases such as periodontal disease. Plaque and tartar buildup can cause infections and tooth loss.
Patellar Luxation Patellar luxation is a condition where the kneecap moves out of its normal position. It can cause limping and pain, and in severe cases, may require surgery.
Skin Problems Dachshunds, especially those with long or wire-haired coats, can be prone to skin problems such as allergies, infections, and dermatitis.
Epilepsy Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that causes seizures. It is a condition that can be managed with medication but requires diagnosis and veterinary follow-up.
Cushing's Disease Cushing's disease is caused by the excessive production of cortisol. Symptoms include weight gain, lethargy, and changes in the skin and coat.
Hypothyroidism Hypothyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones. It can cause lethargy, weight gain, and skin problems.
Urinary Stones Dachshunds can be susceptible to forming urinary stones, which can cause pain and difficulty urinating.
Von Willebrand Disease This is a hereditary disease that affects the blood's ability to clot. It can cause excessive bleeding and requires veterinary management.
Prolapse of the Third Eyelid Gland (Cherry Eye) The prolapse of the third eyelid gland, commonly known as "cherry eye," is a condition where the gland moves out of its normal position and protrudes from the eye. Surgery may be required to correct it.
Preventive Care
To minimize the risk of these diseases, it is important to:
Maintain a healthy weight: Provide a balanced diet and regular exercise.
Regular veterinary check-ups: Schedule periodic visits to the vet to detect and treat health problems early.
Dental hygiene: Brush their teeth regularly and get professional dental cleanings as needed.
Skin and coat care: Brush and bathe the dog according to its coat type and watch for any signs of skin problems.
How much does a Dachshund or teckel costs?
Below are the detailed tables with the approximate maintenance costs or prices for a Dachshund in the United States and Europe, including adoption costs, breeder costs, veterinary care, care supplies, food, grooming, vet visits, and pet insurance.
United States
Category | Approximate Cost | Frequency | Monthly Approximate Cost |
Adoption | $150 - $500 | One-time | N/A |
From Breeder | $800 - $2,000 | One-time | N/A |
Veterinary Care | |||
- Initial Vaccinations | $50 - $100 | One-time | N/A |
- Annual Vaccinations | $20 - $50 | Annual | $2 - $5 |
- Deworming | $10 - $30 | Quarterly | $3 - $10 |
- Regular Check-ups | $30 - $60 | Bi-annual | $5 - $10 |
Care Supplies | |||
- Toys | $10 - $30 | Annual | $1 - $3 |
- Bed and Blankets | $20 - $50 | Annual | $2 - $5 |
- Food/Water Bowls | $10 - $20 | Annual | $1 - $2 |
- Leash and Collar | $10 - $30 | Annual | $1 - $3 |
Food | |||
- Dry or Wet Food | $30 - $50 | Monthly | $30 - $50 |
Grooming | |||
- Haircut | $30 - $60 | Quarterly | $10 - $20 |
- Grooming Products | $10 - $20 | Quarterly | $3 - $7 |
Vet Visits | |||
- Emergencies/Specialist | $50 - $150 | Occasional | $5 - $15 |
Pet Insurance | $20 - $50 | Monthly | $20 - $50 |
Total Monthly Approximate Cost: $85 - $185 USD
Europe
Category | Approximate Cost | Frequency | Monthly Approximate Cost |
Adoption | €150 - €500 | One-time | N/A |
From Breeder | €800 - €2,000 | One-time | N/A |
Veterinary Care | |||
- Initial Vaccinations | €40 - €80 | One-time | N/A |
- Annual Vaccinations | €15 - €40 | Annual | €2 - €5 |
- Deworming | €10 - €30 | Quarterly | €3 - €10 |
- Regular Check-ups | €30 - €60 | Bi-annual | €5 - €10 |
Care Supplies | |||
- Toys | €10 - €30 | Annual | €1 - €3 |
- Bed and Blankets | €20 - €50 | Annual | €2 - €5 |
- Food/Water Bowls | €10 - €20 | Annual | €1 - €2 |
- Leash and Collar | €10 - €30 | Annual | €1 - €3 |
Food | |||
- Dry or Wet Food | €30 - €50 | Monthly | €30 - €50 |
Grooming | |||
- Haircut | €30 - €60 | Quarterly | €10 - €20 |
- Grooming Products | €10 - €20 | Quarterly | €3 - €7 |
Vet Visits | |||
- Emergencies/Specialist | €50 - €150 | Occasional | €5 - €15 |
Pet Insurance | €20 - €50 | Monthly | €20 - €50 |
Total Monthly Approximate Cost: €85 - €185
Additional Information:
Adoption/Purchase:
Adoption fees in the US typically range from $150 to $500, while from a breeder, costs can be between $800 and $2,000.
In Europe, adoption costs range from €150 to €500, and from a breeder, €800 to €2,000.
Veterinary Care:
Initial vaccinations are crucial to protect against common diseases.
Regular vaccinations, deworming, and check-ups are necessary for maintaining health.
Care Supplies:
Toys, bed, food/water bowls, leash, and collar are essential for daily well-being.
Food:
High-quality food is vital for the dog's nutrition and overall health.
Grooming:
Regular grooming, including haircuts and grooming products, helps maintain cleanliness and health.
Vet Visits:
Budgeting for emergencies or specialist visits is important for unexpected health issues.
Pet Insurance:
Pet insurance can cover unforeseen veterinary costs, providing financial security.
These costs are approximate and can vary based on location, specific needs of the dog, and individual preferences. It is advisable to consult local veterinarians and pet supply stores for more accurate budgeting.
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