Description
A bold and courageous breed, the Dachshund likes to be with people who are home a lot and have lots of energy.
The Dachshund is generally good with children but the children must be taught how to respect and behave towards the dog. It is very intelligent and tends to have a mind of it's own but can be trained to obedience.
They mature at around 18 months and commonly life to 12+ years. Can live in either a flat or house but if there is a garden, it must be secure or the Dachshund will go off hunting.
Exercise
The Dachshund is a very active breed and will walk 2-5 miles a day if able.
Training
In training a puppy to the lead, never let it pull, and if it shows an inclination to drag along the ground, take the collar (a light narrow one) and lead off, and return it to its box for that day. Many small pups do not take kindly to a collar, consequently one must only put this on for a short while daily. The next step is to attach a light lead and induce the puppy to follow. Again this may be difficult, if so, attach a length of string to the collar and from time to time take this lightly in the hand and call the puppy to you. The determined puppy may take many weeks to move with one, but on no account must the owner lose patience and scold the pup; rather stop trying for that day. These first steps in lead training should be in the garden.
The day will come when the pup is ready to go out amongst the traffic, and it is often the wisest plan to carry the puppy for a short distance merely to let it see and hear the cars. Anything as small as a Dachshund can be very intimidated by the rush of the passing traffic. Having gained the pup's confidence, induce it to tae a short walk, possibly ten minutes daily, gradually increasing as and when it seems willing. No puppy should be taken for walks till quite four and half to five months, and then only short distances, say half a mile daily.
As the puppy grows it may well be necessary for the owner to scold it, but on no occasion should it be thrashed. The breed being extraordinary sensitive, severe punishment or a blow could permanently cow or sour the pupil's temperament. The puppy will, or should be, relying upon its owner for food and affection, so all that is necessary will be an admonition by the tone of voice.
A youngster who is destined for the show ring, must have experience of all manner of sounds, and of the crowds such as can be found in Woolworth's. Car riding can upset some, so this should be gradually introduced. If there is sickness, the vet will supply the correct treatment. In the ring a raw puppy who is used to all manner of strange sounds and surfaces which it has walked on, and who has been given the chance to meet strangers, and be handled by them, will make the very best of its chances during the short while it is under the judicial eyes. A shy puppy, no matter how correct in construction, is unable to catch the judge's eye. The judge of the day can only place the exhibits who are not only well-made but also have the ability to show this with gay deportment.
Care
The coat needs stripping at least twice a year or, to keep it looking tidy, a little each week. It can be stripped by using a hand grooming comb. Clipping is not recommended.