Dachshunds come in all shapes and sizes, but there are two main types of Dachshunds: smooth and wirehaired. You may also hear the term “longhaired,” which is not a different variety but refers to the long coat. Here is a description of the various types and how to tell them apart.
The Smooth Dachshund
Smooth Dachshunds are short-coupled, muscular, and well-balanced. It has short hair and comes in three colors – chocolate, black & tan, or red. The red may also be called “badger” or “fawn.” His ears are most commonly cropped (cut) but can also be left natural (“straight”). His eyes are round and dark. The smooth-haired Dachshund has a low-set tail, which is usually carried between the hocks. The AKC does not recognize the smooth-haired Dachshund.
The Smooth Dachshund is a quick learner and responds well to training. He’s loyal and independent but is also affectionate and will bond with his family. He enjoys being around people and other dogs but will do best in a household where he doesn’t have to be an only dog.
The Wirehaired Dachshund
The wirehaired Dachshund is a friendly and lively dog with a dense coat that can be difficult to groom. The American Kennel Club does not recognize it.
The Wirehaired Dachshund can be stubborn and may not be as willing to listen to commands as the Smooth. Playful and rambunctious, he does best with a family that understands the Dachshund’s nature and isn’t looking for a dog that will sit calmly at their feet all day. He’s affectionate with his family but can be reserved around strangers.
The Longhaired Dachshund
The Longhaired Dachshund is an excellent watchdog but can be suspicious of strangers. This Dachshund needs plenty of exercises because he is a hunting dog at heart (that’s why they hunt!) He doesn’t do well left alone for long periods since he loves to be with his family.
Its medium-length coat comes in any color, including chocolate, black & tan, red, and gray. The Longhaired Doxie has ears that are most commonly cropped (cut) but can also be left natural (“straight”). His eyes are round and dark. He has a low-set tail that is usually carried between the hocks. The longhaired Dachshund is lively, affectionate, intelligent, and mischievous, and it requires more grooming. The AKC doesn’t recognize the longhaired Dachshund.
Three Different Dachshund Sizes
Although the standard Dachshund is about 16-inch long, there are three different sizes: wiener, miniature, and standard.
Weiner Dog
Weiner Dog is a popular breed of dog. The “wiener dog” was created for the fast-food chain Oscar Mayer. The company wanted to make a hot dog-shaped treat for children in 1948 and started their version of a hot dog breed.
The Dachshund is native to Germany and was bred as a badger burrow hunter. It is believed that they were produced as far back as the Roman Empire in Germany and other countries around the Mediterranean. The term Dachs means badger in German, and Hund means dog in German. The original “wiener dog” was created primarily for hunting purposes, which later became companions for many families. Dachshunds are now popular pets that are rarely used for tracking purposes.
The average height of most standard Wiener dogs is about 13-16 inches tall at the shoulder, but this can vary depending on their breeding history. The breed is known for its long necks and bodies and short legs. The dogs’ tails are usually curled, and the ears are hanging.
Their coloration varies from Brown to Black, Red to tan markings, and Piebald markings where white replaces the dark color. Some have a coat with black-tipped hairs that give a ‘ticked’ appearance.
Standard Dachshund
The Standard Dachshund is a dog breed created by breeding German Dachshunds for around 100 years. Its long body and short legs characterize it. They are usually red, black and tan, or gray. They make excellent hunting dogs as they are swift. They live to be about 14 years old and are also brilliant and loyal. They are nearly 16-inches long. The smaller versions of this canine have longer legs and bodies, producing a taller stance than usual (approximately two feet high). Standard dachshunds weigh up to 33 pounds. They were bred as scent hounds for hunting badgers or smaller prey such as rabbits or foxes.
Miniature Dachshund
The Miniature Dachshund is a smaller version of the Standard Dachshund. It has the same characteristics, except it is much smaller. Although they are smaller and weigh less, they are just as brave as their larger counterparts. They measure about 15-inch long and weigh up to 25 pounds; 1 inch shorter, but almost 5 pounds heavier than a standard dachshund. Although miniature dachshunds may be smaller in size, they are still a full-blooded breed of the same race as the standard ones.
What are the different types of sausage dogs?
Most people have heard of the two most common types of sausage dogs, what’s called a Dachshund and what’s called a French Bulldog. If you’ve ever visited these sites, it’s a very true statement that you’ve read. However, the number of other types of sausage dogs is much larger than you’d think.
I’m not counting the smaller ones. The smaller sausage dog breeds are still classified as Dachshunds, but some may be French Bulldogs, or they could also be mixed breed dogs which are generally called designer dogs. The breeds I’m talking about are usually medium to large in stature with their unique characteristics and appearances.
Here are nine kinds of sausage dogs that you probably didn’t know existed;
1. Miniature Dachshund
With various colors and markings, the Miniature Dachshund comes in an assortment of sizes from less than 9 pounds up to 15 or more pounds.
2. Standard Dachshund
The Standard Dachshund is generally very small in stature, but they can also be more extensive but not as large as what’s called a “giant” in size.
3. Large Munsterlander
Also known as the Large German Longhaired Pointer, this sausage dog is a medium to large-sized breed that’s typically dark brown with white markings.
4. Large Dachshund
This breed is also known as the German Longhaired Pointer. It’s very similar to the Large Munsterlander except much more muscular in its appearance.
5. Standard Wirehaired Dachshund
As the name indicates, this sausage dog has a wirehair coat with a wire-like texture with various colors and markings. These dogs can be anywhere from less than 9 pounds up to 15 or more pounds but generally average around 12 to 15 pounds in size.
6. Smooth Dachshund
These sausage dogs have a short coat that appears to be smooth except that it’s not all that smooth.
7. Schnauzer Dachshund Mix
These sausage dogs combine both Schnauzer and Dachshund traits in their appearance and characteristics. The large Munsterlander is an example of Dachshund’s breed, the Large Wirehaired Dachshund.
8. Miniature Fox Dachshund
The Miniature Fox Doxie comes in an assortment of sizes, colors, and markings, but they generally average around 5 to 20 pounds.
9. Standard Mini Fox Dachshund
These are a smaller version of the Miniature Fox Dachshund with an average weight of fewer than 20 pounds.
These are just nine breeds out of the many different types of sausage dogs that may be out there. If you’re looking for a new dog to add to your life, you might want to consider one of these great little creatures.
Dachshund
Dachshunds are the best dog, they are a type of dog with a long body and short legs. This breed is generally classified as one of the smallest dogs, although still more significant than most rodents. Doxies are often thought to look similar to ferrets, which has led to them being called a weasel-dog hybrid. Although they are long and short-legged, they are considered a hound dog breed. Some examples of the different colors of Dachshunds include red, black and tan, brown and tan, chocolate and cream, black and cream, or even piebald.
Dachshunds were bred to hunt badgers in European countries such as Germany. In this country, they are also known as badger dogs due to their hunting history. The name “dachshund” means “badger hound” in German. They were bred to be long-legged, as this would allow them to reach into the badger’s hole for the animal. They used their muscular hind end and short stubby tail for digging. Their long body allowed them to get into narrow spaces where the badger may not have been able to go. Although they have a formidable appearance, they can be reasonably small dogs and easily fit into a purse or backpack.
Dachshunds are naturally robust, active hunting dogs; however, they are also friendly and good-natured around children and other pets. Doxies are loyal family dogs who enjoy spending time with their families, but they also discover time to sleep or play by themselves.
Dachshund – History of the Breed
Hans Mollenhauer, the Dachshund’s original breeder, was a tax collector in the small town of Apolda in southwest Germany. In the early 16th century, he developed a keen interest in dogs and began breeding German hounds. His short-legged dogs’ preference eventually led him to produce a breed known as the Dachshund, an elongated canine with short legs and a long body. The tax collector was fond of taking his dogs along on his tax collecting rounds, and the dachshunds were quite capable of burrowing down into rabbit burrows after the furry little animals that lived there. The dachshunds proved useful at ridding rabbity invaders’ towns that some towns gave their official blessing. By 1650 they were referred to as “rabbit hounds” (dachas in German). The breeding of long-bodied, short-legged dogs eventually spread throughout the world.
At first, in Germany, the dachshunds were mainly kept as pets in homes where they were valued for their vermin eradicating abilities. However, by World War I (1914 – 1918), they had become famous as hunters and were taken into the German military. In civilian life, they also competed with great success in competitions designed to compare them with other hunting breeds. They continued to use hunters and wild game owners preserve into World War II (1939 – 1945).
Dachshund – Appearance
This breed is of medium size and stocky build with short legs and a long body. Its feet are round with little nails, and the tail is carried low. The head is long and well-muscled, with dark round eyes, a sleek muzzle, and powerful jaws. The coat is smooth, short, hard (with an oily sheen), and comes in various colors: red dapple (red with black or tan markings), cream (with red or tan markings), black-and-tan (with red or tan markings), and solid black. There are also piebald dachshunds with white spots on their bodies. The smooth Dachshund is the only one recognized by the American Kennel Club. The longhaired Dachshund is not recognized by the AKC but does have its national breed club. Longhaired dachshunds are also recognized by the United Kennel Club and have a different standard from smooth-haired dachshunds.
Dachshunds measure 10 to 16 inches (25 to 41 cm) in height and weigh between 12 and 18 pounds (5.5 and 8 kg). The short-haired variety weighs about 13 pounds (6 kg), while the longhaired type weighs roughly around 17 pounds (7 kg). Males tend to be slightly larger than females.
Dachshund – Temperament
The Dachshund is temperament lively, energetic, and daring. It makes a good companion dog for older people and active families with older children who will play with it enough to wear it out. It can also do well in an apartment if it gets lots of exercise.
Dachshunds are devoted companions and affectionate with the people they know. They are distrustful of strangers and bark at them fiercely. They are bold little dogs and aren’t timid about letting their owners know if they feel threatened. They are known to open doors and go after rabbits, squirrels, mice, and other small animals that cross their path.
They are perfect for small children if raised with them from puppyhood. Although it hardly kills vermin nowadays, the Dachshund can inadvertently hurt a child by biting too hard or jumping up in play. Likely, the Dachshund would not intentionally attack a child, but it needs supervision when handling children.
Dachshund – Living Conditions
Dachshunds belong to the hound family and require little attention. However, it is not an ideal breed for apartment dwellers or people who work long hours or are gone all day. Although it will do fine without a yard as long as it gets sufficient exercise (20 to 30 minutes daily), it enjoys being outdoors and will go after any small animal that crosses its path. It also loves digging in flower beds, making it unsuitable for the average person with a garden.
Dachshunds are excellent watchdogs and will sound the alarm at the slightest sign of rodents, birds, or other small animals in the house. They also bark when strangers approach the home. Thus they are even better choices for city dwellers than for suburbanites with large lots; however, they can live in either situation with an acceptable amount of barking (not a loud constant nuisance). Although their barking can be controlled by training, it is impossible to eliminate it. Dachshunds shed an average amount. Brushing once a week will remove loose hair and prevent mats from forming. Like all hound dogs, they do drool a bit when they’re awake.
Dachshund – Training
The Dachshund is intelligent and obeys the first command 95% of the time. However, training is a frustrating activity because of its stubbornness. Dachshunds never give up trying to accomplish what they have set their minds on, and they will try the same maneuver over and over again if it didn’t work before. So it’s essential to be patient when training your dog and not get too frustrated when it seems like nothing is working.
This breed needs lots of exercise every day. You can accomplish this by taking it for a walk, playing with it in the yard or with toys, throwing balls or Frisbee for it to fetch, etc. Dachshunds have high energy levels and need to expend it or become destructive and noisy.
Dachshunds learn commands better when a reward is involved, such as praise, play, or a treat. They don’t always respond right away, but once they realize that obeying gets them what they want, they will be more responsive. Dachshunds are also very sensitive to reprimands – yelling at them or hitting them in the least bit will only make them afraid of you. They do best with positive training methods.
The Dachshund is intelligent and obedient but has lots of stubbornness, making training difficult sometimes. The rewards of being a dachshund owner are well worth the effort, though!
Dachshund – Health Problems
These breeds have an average life expectancy between 12-15 years. It has a life span of 15 to 17 years if it’s taken care of properly. This breed has to deal with various health issues like:
- Diabetes
- Heatstroke
- Hypoglycemia
- Heart Disease
- Back Problems
- Intervertebral Disk Disease
Other health concerns that affect the Dachshund include ulcers, epilepsy, dwarfism (missing or underdeveloped limbs), patellar luxation (knee dislocation), and skeletal disorders. The dachshund breed is very prone to obesity. Therefore, owners must get the dog in shape, feed it a proper diet, and exercise is enough. Otherwise, it will develop extra weight, which could cause a myriad of health problems.
Dachshunds have short legs and long backs. It causes some challenges that can lead to health problems if the dog isn’t taken care of properly. Its conformation is prone to back pain and disc disease if it doesn’t get enough exercise and ideally should not be bred as there are several inherited conditions associated with this breed gene pool. This breed is also more susceptible to overheating because of its short nose, preventing proper air circulation around the body.
Characteristics of An Adult Dachshund
An adult Dachshund is usually between 10 and 12 inches tall. They are very muscular, exhibiting an athletic build. Their short-haired coat is typically a mix of black, brown, and red, although some individuals have long hair. The short hair features distinctive color markings, usually in black spots on a darker coat or tan stripes against a lighter base. They have long faces and big eyes, with a perpetual look of being surprised. Their ears are enormous and can be floppy or perked, depending on the type of Dachshund. Their tails curl up over their backs when they are excited or alert.
Dachshunds were first made recognized by royal standards during the German empire in the nineteenth century. By then, they had already been domesticated and used as hunting dogs in Germany and France for over 2,000 years.
What is the rarest dachshund color?
The rarest color of Dachshund is black and tan. Only a few breeders breed for this color in the United States. The chocolate and tan Dachshund colors are also very rare in that particular combination of colors, not mistaken for the typical brown Dachshund. Red Dachshunds are also very rare.
- Tan Dachshunds come in three different coats: red, black, and tan.
- Black Dachshunds come in two distinct coats: chocolate and black.
All other colors are relatively common.
There are many misconceptions or rumors about the rarest colors of Dachshunds, but brown is not the rarest. Brown is considered a “non-factored” color achieved by breeding a red dog with a chocolate dog. That will result in both red and brown puppies running around. Black and tan are recorded in the AKC standard as just one color called “black.” Chocolate is also another color recorded as only one, called “chocolate.”
What is the most common dachshund color?
The most common color of Dachshund is the red and cream.
Dachshunds come in a variety of different colors and patterns. There are three different varieties: long-haired, smooth-haired, and wire-haired. These varieties have two primary colors:
- Red/cream or gray/blue, or cream in one breed
- Black/tan or black/chocolate in another
- Brown/rust or brown/liver in a third
All these are acceptable colors and patterns.
