Owners love their dogs.But with Doxies that devotion reaches new heights. The reasons aren’t hard to understand. Dachshunds are special in many ways.
Translation from the German “badger dog” shows just one of those ways. Bred in the early 1600s to hunt those ferocious little animals, the Dachshund became ferocious himself.That fearless and assertive attitude remains today.
That feisty nature can be a negative or positive.
Dogs that are independent can make great companions, being as that also makes them exploratory and playful.It gives the dog lots of energy and a willingness to try new things.It also means that extra patience and skill are required to train them. The breed is more inclined than many to strive for alpha status in the household.Reminding them that the human is alpha may require a long struggle.
That training has to be appropriate to the breed’s mental and physical attributes.
Doxies are 9 inches high at the shoulder and weigh between 10-30 lbs. Toy varieties are quite a bit smaller, often under 8 lbs and only 5 inches high.They have an average lifespan of between 14-17 years.
Doxies are much more prone to spinal problems than other breeds due to their long bodies and short legs. Rough handling can cause serious problems.
At the same time, because they are assertive, simply screaming won’t work. At best that produces a fearful dog, at worst, they can become hostile and aggressive in response. They may look at their trainer as an enemy badger.Owners should be prepared due to barking being more common in Dachshunds, too.
With the right approach, though, they make for excellent pets and companions.
There are three basic varieties - Smooth-Coats, Wire-Coats, and Long-Hairs.But the difference goes beyond the type of fur they have.The personalities of the three varieties tend to follow a pattern, as well.
Smooth-haired Dachshunds more often attach themselves to a single family member. While they will tolerate other humans, they tend to be stand-offish and wary of other animals. The Wire-haired is usually more playful and outgoing. Long-haired Doxies tend to be a little more placid.Like any Dachshund, they are up for a game of fetch whenever the opportunity exists.
Apart from spinal problems, Doxies less often suffer from diseases that are more prevalent in other breeds.Abdominal cancers, diabetes and other diseases are possible but much less common in Doxies. Urinary tract problems (such as stones) can occur, but they are more likely in special varieties such as Double Dapples and those with blue eyes.This variety tends to have more hearing and eye problems, too.
Raising any dog can be a challenge, if they are to be healthy and happy.Doxie owners commonly report that the rewards in their case are especially large.Doxies are highly affectionate and very loyal.The people they live with tend to return the favor.
Dachshund supplies and gifts can be found at Ony-Dachshunds.com
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