The Dachshund.

The Dachshund is a Scent Hound and still used to this day for both tracking wounded game such as deer, and for going to ground after badgers or rabbits. Dachshunds were selectively bred to have elongated bodies and short legs which were ideal for going to ground and burrowing into tight spaces after prey.  A clear understanding of their origin and the original job they were bred to do, not only explains their physical appearance, but also the specific breed traits, many of which they still retain to this day, and why they may behave in the way they do.

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In Germany there are three sizes: standard, miniature and Kaninchen (rabbit dog) which is defined by measuring the circumference of the chest.  In the UK they are two sizes: standard and miniature with three coat types within each variety: smooth haired, long haired and wire haired.

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For any Dachshund owner, it is essential to understand the breed traits that have been selectively bred into the breed over many years and that these traits are not something that can simply be trained out of them.  The Dachshund is more likely to bark, chase and dig than some other breeds that were bred for different purposes, which may be frustrating for some owners however, these innate behaviours can be managed by allowing the dog safe outlets for their natural behaviours.  As a qualified and experienced behaviourist, this is one of the many areas I can guide and support you.​​