About miniature, long-haired Dachshunds

To qualify as a miniature Dachshund, the weight must be 11 pounds or less at 12 months of age. The longhaired Dachshund has wavy hair under the neck and forechest, the underside of the body, the ears, and behind the legs. The coat gives the dog an elegant appearance. The long tail forms a veritable flag.

      

Dachshunds were bred in Germany more than 300 years ago to hunt badgers (Dachs means badger and hund means dog). They were bred so the snout precedes their feet when they go into underground tunnels after badgers with their fierce teeth and strong jaws ready to attack. Other species of dogs would go in feet first and the badger would eat the paws causing the dog to withdraw as a wounded animal.

Even though Dachshunds were bred to be fierce hunters, their temperament is sweet and loving. They are clever, lively and courageous to the point of rashness, persevering in above and below ground work with all of their well-developed senses. Dachshunds are naturally free from “doggy” odor. They make wonderful companions. Consider buying a male puppy. If they are neutered before they learn to hike their leg, they will not mark or claim their territory.

Dachshunds are great with kids, great ball players, and protectors of their realm.