Description: There are three varieties of Dachshunds: short-haired, long-haired and the wired-haired. With each of these varieties there are three sizes. (See Height and Weight.) The Dachshund is an elongated, vigorous, muscular dog with short legs. It carries itself proudly and has an intelligent expression. It has an elongated head and a slight convex skull,a long muzzle, arched and protruding eyebrows, , robust jaws with non-pendent lips, and a pincers or scissors bite with extremely strong canine teeth. Dachshunds usually have 42 teeth. Its eyes are oval, dark red or brown-black with an energetic and friendly expression. Its ears are mobile and hanging long on its cheeks. Its body should have a strong protruding sternum and a moderately retracted abdomen. Its tail is carried in line with its back. The short-haired Dachshund's coat should be shiny, sleek and uniform. Solid-colored Dachshunds may be tan or yellow. Bi-color Dachshunds may be brown, deep black, or gray with areas of bright chestnut. There are also speckle-streaked, or harlequin varieties.
Dachshunds are good for apartment living. They are fairly active indoors and will do okay without a yard. Long-haired require combing and brushings at least every other day; wire-haired need professional trimming twice a year, and smooth-haired require regular rubdown with a damp cloth. This breed is an average shedder. They have a life expectancy of about 14 years.
Size: Standard: Height 14-18 inches (35-45cm.); Weight-16 to 20 pounds (9kg.) Miniature (dwarf): Height up to 14 inches (35cm.); Weight 9 to 11 pounds (4kg.) Toy (rabbit): Height Up to 12 inches (30cm.); Weight 8 pounds (3.5kg.)
Temperament: Full of energy and affectionate; proud and bold. Tenacious. Can be willful and clownish. Curious and mischievous, they are very clever and may attempt to train the owner rather than allow the opposite. Devoted to his family, some fanciers feel the long-haired variety is calmer than the other two types. The wire-haired variety is more outgoing and clown-like. All are slightly difficult to train. Dachshunds are good dogs to travel with. They are best with older, considerate children and are moderately protective. These little dogs like to bark although the longhaired don't seem to be such barkers, and are compulsive diggers. They are generally okay with other pets, however, they can be jealous, and irritable. These are active dogs with surprising stamina and they love a regular walk or session of play.The dachshund is a lovable breed and will steal your heart.
