1. Dachshund The right companion for you? http://girlfromthenorthcountry.files.wordpress.com/2007/11/dachshund.jpg
2. Learning Objectives Define the meaning of the German word “dachshund” Identify the origins of the dachshund breed Classify the various types of dachshunds based on size, coat, and coloring Formulate a simple plan for avoiding a common health problem in dachshunds Determine if a dachshund is the right breed for your temperament and lifestyle
3. Dachshund: German for “Badger Dog” http://judykaydachshunds.com/badger.jpg http://publicdomainclip-art.blogspot.com/2008/07/dachshund-or-badger-dog.html
4. Three basic coat types Wire haired Long haired Smooth American Kennel Club, 2007
5. Standard vs. Miniature Standard long-haired black & tan (left) 16-32 pounds Miniature long-haired black & tan (right) Under 11 pounds www.dachshund-owner-guide.com
6. Coat Patterns Black & Tan Dapple short-haired Red Brindle long-haired Photo by Fenchurch! Photo by the unquietlibrarian
During this module you will learn more about the dachshund breed and will answer the question “Is a dachushund the right companion for me?
Reviewing the material in the module will help you meet these learning objectives. The objectives are also posted separately on Moodle.
As the name might suggest, the dachshund classified as a hound. Thedachshund breed originated in Germany where they were bred to hunt badgers. Many of the personality traits and physical characteristics of dachshunds relate back to this original purpose. Their long muscular bodies are perfect for pursuing prey down a burrow. The aggressive nature that was important when cornering prey such as a badger is perhaps less desirable when the dachshund encounters a large dog while you are on your morning walk.
One way that dachshunds are categorized is based on the length and texture of their coat- wire haired, smooth, and longhaired.
Dachshunds are also classified as miniature or standard based on their weight. The standard is size originally bred for badger hunting with a weight of between 16 and 32 pounds. Miniatures are less than 11 pounds with an inbetween category referred to as “tweenie”.
Dachshunds can be further categorized based on the color and pattern of their coats. Shown here are examples of a black and tan dapple short hair and a red brindle long hair. Check out the link on your Moodle site to see the amazing variety of possibilities.
Common to many pure bred dogs is an unfortunate tendency to various health problems. Dachshunds love to eat which can lead to obesity related issues. Lumbar disc disease is an all too common problem in dachshunds due to their long backs. An overweight dachshund is more prone to suffer from lumbar disc problems that can lead to pain and disability and in the most severe cases, paralysis.
Dachshunds can be wonderful companions. However, they are not the right breed for everyone. Please review the material in this module to help you decide if a dachshund is the right dog for your lifestyle and temperament.