DACHSHUND

Background : Hound group. Originated in Germany for hunting badgers.

Life Expectancy : Up to 16 years.

Coat Type : Three types : short and dense; long, silky hair with fine undercoat; hard, wiry outercoat with fine undercoat. Moderate shedder.

Grooming Requirements : Varies from daily to weekly brushing. Professional grooming required for wirehair and longhair.

Size : Two sizes. Miniature, up to 5 kg at one year of age. Standard, from 7-15 kg.

Exercise Needs : Three walks totaling 45 minutes per day. Adjusts well to any living conditions.

Temperament : Moderate to high energy level. Clever, lively, courageous, bold. Independent and stubborn. Good with other pets and older. Considerate children, reserved with strangers. Quite barky. Excellent
watchdog.

Health Problems : Prone to spinal disc problems (Dachshund paralysis) and can develop heart disease, urinary tract problems, and diabetes. Dachshunds have a tendency to become overweight and lazy. This is a serious health risk, putting added strain on the back.

Living Conditions : Good for apartment living. They are fairly active indoors and will do okay without a yard.