If you are looking for a cute, small-sized watchdog that is easily adaptable and quite playful, the Dachshund might just be the right solution for you.
Origin
On the other hand, the American Kennel Club states the dachshund wasn’t bred until the 15th century.
Nevertheless, the standard size Dachshund was bred to scent and chase off the badgers and other burrow-dwelling animals, whereas the miniature dachshund’s purpose was to hunt smaller prey such as rabbits.
Description
These funny looking pooches are long-bodied and muscular, with short and stubby legs. Its front paws are unusually large and paddle-shaped, so they can easily take care of some extreme digging actions.
Long coated dachshunds have a silky coat and short featherings on legs and ears. They come in three coat varieties: smooth coat (short hair), long hair, and wire-hair, while the colors patterns are pretty wide – single-colored, single-colored with spots, single-colored with tan points plus any pattern, etc.
As for their temperament, Dachshunds are playful, but stubborn, making their training somewhat of a challenge.
Pros
- cheerful & playful
- adaptable
- excellent watchdog
- adaptable
Cons
- stubborn
- susceptible to intervertebral disk disease
- prone to patellar luxation (kneecap dislodging)
Should I adopt/buy a Dachshund?
If you are in the need of a small-sized watchdog, and have the nerves and time to properly train this ball of fur, the Dachshund is the breed for you.