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What is a Dachshund?

Kissy and Doodles The Dachshund
A small dog, big on personality

Though the dachshund has an interesting history behind its origins, its character is just as interesting. Originally bred in Germany to hunt badgers, the dachshund today is now known as also being a perfect companion in the close quarters of apartment living. And, with the additional bonus of having nine varieties of the breed to choose from, there's sure to be a dachshund to appeal to everyone.

The dachshund comes in three sizes, with three types of coat for each size:

Size:
Standard
Miniature
Kaninchen
Coat:
Smooth
Long-haired
Wire-haired

It is the long-haired dachshund, however, which is believed by many to be most glamorous. Her thick, waterproof coat serves well to protect against thorns and brambles, and is troublesome in neither the heat of summer nor the cold of winter. It should be noted that, as with all animals with longer fur, regular grooming is required. A few moments of attention every couple days, but no more than a week apart, more than adequately prevents a tangled, unhappy dachshund.

The dachshund also has a well-rounded personality. Most notable is its territorialism, which makes them excellent little protectors. Their bark, certainly, is bigger than their size, and in fact they have many qualities of a big dog, but in a small package. As protective as they are, their affection, too, runs deep. They do especially well with children, given their cheerful demeanor. It is better to pair a dachshund with an older child who will not play rough games with her, to avoid the risk of back injuries. Such injuries are also caused by jumping big distances, i.e. off of a high object, or even out of a car. Dachshunds are also obedient, faithful, and highly intelligent. They are delightfully easy to train in many circumstances.

If you are seeking a dog with a sense of humor, who will make a devoted companion, then the dachshund is certainly the breed for you.