Maridachs

Dachshunds are wonderful companion dogs and adapt to most households.  They come in three coats and two sizes, so there is truly a Dachshund for everyone.  

Smooth or short haired dachshunds are what most people think of first.  Smooth dachshunds are active and alert.  They do not like the cold weather and here in MN they require extra protection for walks in the winter.

Long Haired Dachshunds are the calmest most gentle of the three varieties.  They have a coat similar to a Golden Retriever, not like a Yorkie.  This means they will shed, but will not need a haircut as their coat will only grow to a certain length.  Many people like the longer coat as the longer softer hairs vacuum up more easily then the short bristly hairs of the smooths.

Wire Hairs are the most comical and feisty of the three varieties.  Their coat will require some grooming to keep it looking neat.  They do not shed much if at all, but with that will require 3-4 trips a year to the groomers to keep them looking their best.

All dachshunds can be stubborn and they have an excellent memory.  If someone offends them or is mean to them or their family they will remember and hold a grudge!  Most are very food motivated.  Positive training works well with these dogs.  Males tend to make the best pets for families as they are more social with a variety of people and family members.  A female dog can easily make herself the house 'princess' and have a favorite person.  She may not let others pet or play with her and may become a nuisance by barking when people come to visit or even nipping ankles to drive people out of "her" home!

Be cautious when purchasing a Dachshund or any other dog.  There are may people breeding dogs who are just trying to make a quick buck.  Sadly as dachshunds are small and sturdy they are popular with Puppy Mills.

Puppy Mills will not typically use AKC registration any longer.  AKC inspects breeders using their registry to ensure the dogs have proper housing and that a breeder is keeping accurate records  and not falsifying them.  Beware of anyone selling CKC, APRI or ACA registered dogs.

An ethical breeder will do his or her best to produce a pup that meets the breed standard in both type and temperament.  A dachshund with good breed type is built to ensure proper health.  For instance if a dachshund has splayed feet that turn out, it will affect his whole body.  His shoulder structure will be off causing his back to develop a curve.  He will be more likely to develop arthritis or back problems then a dog bred for proper structure.