The Impish and Energetic Dachshund

Dachshunds have been extremely popular family pets for decades, and have been employed as hunting dogs for centuries. The image of a Dachshund-like dog was found in a tomb in Egypt. While this time period dates from the Middle Kingdom in the second millennium B.C., there is no absolute proof that this is the Dachshund's ancestry. However, looking the image, it seems likely this dog with extremely short legs and a very long back was indeed our darling Dachshund's forerunner. For a long time the dwarfed and crooked legs were considered an advantage for slipping into fox and rabbit burrows. Eventually, it was realized that these twisted legs were more of a hindrance, and fortunately for the little dogs a change was made in the breeding.

What about that stubbornness people often attribute to the Dachshund? This may have been a trait that was helpful in hunting. A relentless drive was a necessity during the hunt. So when you encounter this strong will in your Dachshund, be patient, and remember it is bred into your dog.

The wirehaired and longhaired varieties of Dachshunds were bred in later on. Many of us have enjoyed the silky pleasure of petting a longhaired Dachshund. The standard can be as large as sixteen pounds and more, and in Germany, the tiny Rabbit Dachshund can be found with chest sizes smaller than twelve inches around.

Bold and intelligent, a healthy Dachshund will take on the task of training its owner with great enthusiasm. This willfulness can be an advantage if you respect your dog and give her some of the accoutrements of independence. Create a special spot for your Dachshund in the car, and she will take to it easily as her "command central." Do the same at home, making a special bed for her where she can see the family activities, as well as a specific spot in the room where she sleeps. These dogs respond especially well to this consistent routine, and they seem to feel that you understand their needs when these things are handled with respect and care.

The same respect will win you the dog's lifelong affection when applied to training. Very intelligent dogs such as the Dachshund respond extremely well to praise. They know when they have done their best, and your enthusiastic praise will be reflected in their posture and attitude - as well as their willingness to learn the next assignment! A good command to use when you want to let your weiner dog know that she has done something wrong is the word "Phooey!" pronounced loudly and firmly. If necessary, you can reinforce this with clapping your hands, but be sure not to clap when you praise. When you use a consistent word and tone with your dog, you do not need to be sarcastic or use a mean tone. She will easily understand this training command without emotional overtones. Listen closely to your Dachshund, too, and learn to understand her way of communicating with you. The intelligent, soulful eyes may melt your heart, so watch out for how your dog is training you. Remember that this is a reciprocal relationship. You do want to understand what your dog is trying to communicate. Putting some energy into those communications will pay off for many enjoyable years to come.