Overview
The Dachshund was bred in Germany to go to ground after badgers, and the stubborn, fearless streak that needed is still very much in the dog. In the UK you will mostly meet Miniatures, smooth, long-haired or wire-haired, with the occasional Standard. All of them think they are much bigger than they are.
They are affectionate with their people and suspicious of everyone else, which makes them vocal on a walk. The long spine is the physical thing to respect: no jumping on and off furniture, benches or vehicle seats, and a harness rather than a collar.
Exercise and walking needs
Forty-five minutes a day across two walks suits most adults, and a Dachshund will do more than that if the sniffing is good. They are tougher than they look and enjoy a real walk, but they are not built for long runs or steep steps.
Keep young dogs off jumps entirely and lift them in and out of the van. Older or overweight dogs are at more risk of back trouble, so steady, flat walks with plenty of nose time are the aim.
On the walk
- Recall: Unreliable once a scent takes over. Most Dachshunds are best on a lead or a long line outside an enclosed area.
- Pulling: Surprisingly determined for the size. Always use a harness: the neck and spine should never take the strain.
- Other dogs: Bold and often noisy, especially towards bigger dogs. It is mostly bluster, but manage the introductions so nobody gets hurt.
- Digging: If there is a hole, it will be investigated and improved. Watch for the dog disappearing into a bank or under a hedge.
- Cold and wet: Smooth-coated Minis feel the cold and hate rain. Many owners send a coat; use it.
Tips for professional walkers
- Lift the dog in and out of the vehicle every time, even if it looks keen to jump.
- Walk on a harness and a lead that is not a retractable; a sudden stop at full stretch is bad for the back.
- Expect barking at other dogs and people and stay calm; reacting makes it worse.
- Plan routes with lots to sniff and few steps or steep slopes.
- Check the belly and chest for mud and grit after a wet walk; they are very close to the ground.
What to ask the owner
- Any history of back problems, and does the vet have any rules about stairs, jumping or weight?
- How does the dog react to other dogs and strangers, and what works to settle it?
- Should the dog wear a coat in cold or wet weather?
- Is the dog reliable off the lead anywhere, or should it stay on a line?