Dachshund
Type: Scenthound; Origin of Germany.
Height: Standard- 8-9 inches; Miniature- 5-6 inches.
Weight: 16-32 lbs.
Coat: Smooth-haired- Dense, short and smooth.
Long-haired- Soft and straight, and only slightly wavy.
Wire-haired- Short, straight and harsh with a ling undercoat.
Description: Sporty and devoted, Dachshunds makes an excellent family dog. Despite their small size they make a good watch dog with a surprisingly loud bark. Dachshunds may be slightly aggressive to strangers. Given the nickname the " Weiner dog " they are low to the ground, long in body and short of leg with robust muscular development. There are six varieties of Dachshunds; smooth-haired, wire-haired and long-haired. Each come in two sizes; Standard and Miniature. The smooth-haired Dachshund is the original strain, the wire-haired and the long-haired were attained by crossing the smooth-haired with other breeds such as spaniels, pinschers and Dandie Dinmont Terriers. Dachshunds are an intelligent and lively breed who will need firm training to prevent disobedience. They have a strong desire to hunt, dig, track and follow small animals underground. Although independent, Dachshunds still crave the attention and belonging that the family offers. They are friendly, good-natured and affectionate, as well as playful, fun-loving and intelligent.
Special Needs: Grooming, socialization.
Life Span: 12-14 years.