Dachshunds, also known as wiener dogs, are a small breed of dog that originated in Germany. They are known for their long, sausage-like bodies and short legs, which make them unique and adorable. However, before adopting this cute little breed, it pays to be aware of any Dachshund pros and cons.
But before we delve into any pros and cons, let’s look at how you can actually say the name, Dachshund? The correct pronunciation of Dachshund is “dax-hoond” in English.
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Dachshund Mix Breeds
You might in fact be considering getting one of the many Dachshund mix breeds. So, the pros and cons listed in this article will depend on which is the stronger breed in your mix. Some of the most popular mixes are:
- Dachshund-Chihuahua mix (Chiweenie)
- Dachshund-Beagle mix (Doxle)
- Dachshund-Poodle mix (Doxiepoo)
- Dachshund-Jack Russell Terrier mix (Jackshund)
- Dachshund-Cocker Spaniel mix (Doxiepoo)
- Dachshund-Yorkshire Terrier mix (Dorkie)
- Dachshund-Labrador Retriever mix (Dachsador)
- Dachshund-Golden Retriever mix (Golden Dox)
- Dachshund-Pomeranian mix (Dameranian)
- Dachshund-Shih Tzu mix (Doxie-Tzu)
It’s important to note that the temperament and appearance of a Dachshund mix breed can vary greatly depending on the other breed making up the mix.
Pros of Owning a Dachshund
1. The Dachshund Temperament
Dachshunds are known for their spunky, curious, and playful temperament. They are often described as lively, affectionate, and entertaining dogs.
Overall, Dachshunds are fun-loving, but they require early socialization and consistent training to help manage their strong personality traits. If this is done, then you can have a delightful companion on your hands.
2. Loyal Companions
One of the biggest pros of owning a Dachshund is the loyalty and affection coming your way. Dachshunds are known for being devoted to their family and are often described as “velcro dogs” because they love to be close to their humans.
This is one breed that is always eager to please. These dogs crave attention and affection and will follow their owners around the house, always wanting to be close. This trait makes them great companions for people who want a dog that will always be by their side.
3. Intelligent and Trainable
Dachshunds are intelligent dogs that can be easy to train, provided their owners are persistent and patient. Doxies are quick learners and respond well to positive reinforcement techniques.
They are also adaptable to different training methods, so owners can choose the approach that works best for their particular dog. With consistent training, Dachshunds can learn a variety of commands and tricks.
4. Great Watchdogs
Despite their small size, Dachshunds make excellent watchdogs. They are naturally protective of their owners and will bark to warn them of any potential danger.
They are also very alert and will notice any unusual activity in their environment. This makes them ideal for people who want a dog that can help to make them feel safer.
5. Adaptable to Different Living Conditions
One of the biggest pros of owning a Dachshund is their compact size.
Dachshunds are adaptable to different living environments, making them suitable for a variety of homes, whether it be a small unit or a house with a yard. They are perfect in an apartment, for example, and do not require a lot of space to run around.
They are also good with children, making them a great addition to any family.
It is also quite easy to travel with a Dachshund, making this dog a great companion for those who love to take their pets on adventures.
6. Can Mix With Other Family Pets
Dachshunds can get along well with cats if they are socialized properly from a young age. However, it is important to supervise their interactions and ensure that the cat is not in danger of being harmed by the Dachshund’s natural hunting instincts.
As discussed in the next section, some Dachshunds may have a strong prey drive and may chase or even attack cats, so it’s important to introduce them slowly and carefully, and to always supervise their interactions. Additionally, it’s important to train your Dachshund to obey basic commands, such as “leave it” or “come,” to ensure that you can control their behavior around cats.
Quality German Engineering – Dachshund Lover Wiener Dog T-Shirt
Cons of Owning a Dachshund
Now that we have seen a number of reasons why Dachshunds are such a popular breed of dog, let’s examine any downsides to ownership so you can make an educated decision.
Owning a Dachshund can indeed come with its own set of challenges and drawbacks, each of which should be considered before bringing one into your home.
1. Health Issues in the Dachshund Breed
One con of owning a Dachshund is the possibility of a number of health issues. So, let’s look at some of the more common health problems that Dachshunds can face:
a) Dachshunds Can Experience Back Problems
Due to their long bodies, Dachshunds are prone to spinal injuries and disc problems, which can lead to costly medical bills and even paralysis.
Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) is a common condition that affects Dachshunds. This condition occurs when the discs between the vertebrae in the spine degenerate and become herniated, which can have serious ramifications.
Additionally, their small size and fragile bones make them more susceptible to injuries from falls or rough play.
Owners should take care to prevent their Dachshunds from jumping from high surfaces or engaging in activities that put stress on their backs.
b) Obesity Risks Among Dachshunds
Dachshunds are also at risk of obesity, which can lead to a variety of health problems. Obesity can cause joint problems, heart disease, and diabetes, among other conditions.
Owners should feed their Dachshunds a healthy diet and ensure they get enough exercise to maintain a healthy weight.
c) Dachshund Dental Problems
Dachshunds are also prone to dental problems, such as periodontal disease and tooth decay.
Now, this issue is not unique to this breed. Many dog owners complain of high dental costs towards the end of their pet’s life. Owners of all breeds, and especially of Dachshunds, should clean their pet’s teeth regularly and provide them with dental chews or toys to help keep their teeth clean.
2. Behavioral Challenges in Owning a Dachshund
a) Stubbornness
We mentioned before that this breed is definitely trainable. However, Dachshunds are known for their stubbornness, and this can sometimes make training a challenge.
They were originally bred to hunt badgers, which required them to be independent thinkers and make decisions on their own. They have a strong prey drive, which means they may chase small animals.
They also have a strong will and are not easily swayed. This, along with their hunting background, can make training a challenge, especially for first-time dog owners. It is important to be patient and consistent with training, as well as to use positive reinforcement methods.
b) Barking Tendencies
Dachshunds are also known for their barking tendencies. They are alert dogs and can bark at any perceived threat or even just out of boredom. This can be a problem for owners who live in apartments or have close neighbors.
It is important to train your Dachshund to control barking, using positive reinforcement methods.
c) Separation Anxiety
Dachshunds are also prone to separation anxiety and may become destructive if left alone for long periods of time. As mentioned, they are loyal dogs and can become very attached to their owners. When left alone for extended periods of time, they can become anxious and exhibit destructive behavior, such as chewing on furniture or digging. It is important to gradually acclimate your Dachshund to being alone, using positive reinforcement methods and providing him with toys and other distractions.
Considering Dachshund Pros and Cons, Is a Doxie for You?
Now that we have reviewed the more common Dachshund pros and cons, you can be in a better position to decide if this is the breed for you.
Looking back at this list of Dachshund pros and cons, as we have seen that Dachshunds can be prone to several health issues, including back problems, obesity, and dental problems. Owners should take steps to prevent these conditions and provide their Dachshunds with proper care to ensure they live a healthy life.
The life expectancy of a Dachshund typically ranges from 12 to 16 years. However, this can vary depending on factors such as genetics, diet, exercise, and overall health. It’s important to provide your Dachshund with proper care, including regular veterinary check-ups, a healthy diet, and plenty of exercise to help ensure a long and healthy life.
And it pays to know that Dachshunds do shed, but the amount of shedding can vary depending on the individual dog’s coat type. Smooth-coated Dachshunds typically shed less than long-haired or wire-haired Dachshunds.
However, all Dachshunds require regular grooming to help manage shedding and keep their coat healthy and shiny. Regular brushing and occasional baths can help to minimize shedding and keep your Dachshund’s coat looking its best.
As we have seen, Dachshunds can present behavioral challenges for their owners, including stubbornness, barking tendencies, and separation anxiety.
However, with patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement methods, these challenges can be overcome.
Owning a Dachshund comes with many benefits. If you speak to any Dachshund owner, I’m sure they will convince you that the positives far outweigh any negatives.
Overall, owning a Dachshund can be a rewarding experience for those who are willing to put in the time and effort to train and care for them properly. They are loyal companions, intelligent and trainable (with patience), great watchdogs, and adaptable to different living conditions. With proper care and training, Dachshunds can make wonderful pets for anyone looking for a loving and devoted companion.
The Dachshund Handbook: For Standard & Miniature Dachshunds (Canine Handbooks)