Dachshund for sale

They have a long spine and short legs, which increases the risk of intervertebral disc disease. You can reduce the risk by keeping them slim, avoiding lots of stairs and high jumps, and supporting their back when lifting. Using ramps for furniture and choosing moderate, regular exercise instead of intense impact activities also helps. Even with good care, some individuals will still have back issues, so pet insurance and early vet checks are wise.

They are small but originally bred for hunting, so most have more energy than people expect. Typically they need a couple of brisk walks a day plus play and sniffing time, not just a quick trip to the yard. Mental exercise like scent games and training is just as important as physical activity. Over-exercising young puppies or forcing long runs can stress their joints and back, so balance is key.

They can be wonderful family companions, but they are not always the best match for very rough or noisy households. Many are affectionate and playful, yet they dislike being mishandled and may snap if a child pulls, squeezes, or ignores warning signals. Supervision and teaching children how to gently interact are essential. Families that respect their space and fragility usually do well with this breed.

They were bred to work independently underground, which means they like to make their own decisions. This can look like stubbornness, especially with recall and house training. Consistent rules, short upbeat sessions, and high value rewards generally work better than corrections. Many excel at training when the owner is patient, creative, and very consistent.

Many are naturally vocal watchdogs and will bark at noises, people passing, and other animals. Early training to teach a quiet cue and careful management of triggers can keep barking within reason. Boredom and lack of exercise make it worse, so mental enrichment is important. People in apartments or with close neighbors should plan to work on this from day one.

Smooths are usually lowest maintenance for grooming but still shed and need regular brushing. Longhaired dogs often have a slightly softer, sometimes calmer temperament and need frequent brushing to prevent mats. Wirehaireds tend to have a scruffier, terrier-like personality and need hand-stripping or clipping plus routine brushing. Individual lines and socialization matter more than coat, but coat type does give some general tendencies.

Their small size works well in apartments as long as their exercise and mental needs are met. The main challenges are barking and sensitivity to hallway noises. Good soundproofing, daily walks, and early training around door and window triggers are important. They should not be left alone for very long workdays without company or breaks.

Many live peacefully with cats and other dogs if raised together and introduced carefully. They do have a strong hunting instinct, so small pets such as rodents or rabbits are often unsafe around them. Even friendly individuals may chase if something runs. Secure enclosures and supervised interactions are essential if you have small animals in the home.

Smooth coats need weekly brushing, nail trims, ear cleaning, and the occasional bath. Longhaired and wirehaired types need more frequent brushing to prevent tangles, plus professional grooming or hand-stripping for some wires. All types are prone to dirty ears and dental issues, so ear care and tooth brushing are important. Regular grooming is also a good time to check for skin problems and lumps.

They often live 12 to 16 years, sometimes longer with good care. Besides back problems, common issues include obesity, dental disease, heart disease, and in some lines eye disorders and epilepsy. Keeping them lean, feeding an appropriate diet, and scheduling regular vet checks can catch many problems early. Choosing a responsible breeder who screens for hereditary conditions lowers the overall risk.