Understanding Dachshunds:

Housebreaking:
Dachshunds are notorious for being hard-headed in this department. Crate training is recommended, but it may take a while before
you see success. Many dachshunds also HATE going outside in the rain, so that sometimes results in accidents in the house.

Barking:
Dachshunds can be big barkers. Many will bark at their own shadow! This makes a GREAT watch dog, though! No stranger in their
right mind would enter a house full of barking dachshunds!

Health:
Dachshunds are generally healthy dogs. They can be prone to back troubles, though, and treatment may be very expensive. Care
should be given to protect their backs- including weight maintenance, and keeping them from jumping and climbing stairs.
Dachshunds also have "pleading eyes" at supper time, which can lead to weight gain.

Attitude
Dachshunds have been bred for hundreds of years to be hunters. The younger ones tend to be tenacious and can be rash and
stubborn. Some dachshunds are not suited for children, though that's not always the case. You'll have to work with the foster parent
of the dachshund you may be interested in to be sure he/she is good with children. Some dachshunds also see cats and other small
animals as prey, and may act accordingly.
Dachshunds are the most loyal pets. They love their owners and demand their due companionship. They certainly are not suited as
"yard dogs" and must be the kings and queens of their domain.

Grooming:
Dachshund, especially smooth coats, require little grooming, other than an occasional bath after a good digging in the garden! Wires
and long hairs require a bit more grooming, but not too much. Brushing and baths are a bit more common. Wires require clippering of
their hair, though show-wires must be hand-stripped to keep their coats coarse. Nails must always be kept short to help keep back
issues at a minimum.

Energy:
Most dachshunds have energy that lasts all day long. They need regular walks, ball playing, even a digging box so they can do what
they were bred to do! As dachshunds age, they tend to slow down and become couch-potatoes. They might still enjoy a good game of
tug of war, though!

Intelligence:
Dachshunds are stubborn, yes, but they are one of the smartest breeds out there. Dachshunds have been successful in agility,
obedience, tracking, and earth dog competitions. It's been shown that dachshunds who have a "job" to do, aren't as tenacious at
home. It is highly recommended that new owners look into obedience, tracking and earth dog classes. This helps with issues he
may have at home and will build confidence in shy dogs.




Keep in mind that this is a generalization of our breed. As with any breed, there are
exceptions to the rule and you should contact the foster home of the dog you are
interested in to see if he/she will fit into your family.