Pet MRC

Dachshund Breed Information
 

 
Dachshund
 
Dachshund’s are New York City’s 3rd favorite dog. They are the most popular breed in Japan, and are in the top ten in San Francisco and Seattle. They make lovable, playful companions and are clever and lively. Dachshund’s are an ideal pet for many homes, including those with children.

The Dachshund, meaning "badger dog" in German, was first bred in the early 1600s in Germany. The goal was to create a fearless, elongated dog that could dig the earth from a badger burrow and fight to the death with the vicious badgers. They have a friendly personality and keen sense of smell. Known for their long and low bodies, they are bred with three coat varieties: (1) Smooth, (2) Long, and (3) Wirehaired, and is shown in two sizes: standard and miniature.

Genetically, the Dachshund breed has a long body with short legs. This type of anatomy can create unusual stresses on their vertebrae disks which can lead to back or spinal cord problems especially in older pets. Another medical condition found in Dachshunds is Atlantoaxial Subluxation, an intervertebrae disc problem, which can be result in mobility problems requiring a pet wheelchair or cart.
 
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